Iran war sparks helium supply concerns for South Korea chip sector, Nikkei reports; Strait of Hormuz shutdown constrains flow of key materials and LNG to Asia

The escalation in tensions over the Iran conflict is raising significant concerns over helium supply for South Korea's chip sector, highlighting the potential disruption in key materials and LNG flows to Asia due to a potential shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz. This situation could exacerbate supply chain issues and lead to increased costs for semiconductor-related sectors, along with upward pressure on energy prices, particularly in commodities like WTI and LNG.