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Ultra-Wealthy Families Double Down on Chip Stocks Despite Middle East Tensions

High-net-worth investors significantly increased semiconductor exposure in the first quarter of 2026 despite geopolitical pressures from the Iran conflict affecting data center economics.

Appaloosa Management raised its Micron Technology stake by 11% to become the firm's second-largest holding at $562 million. The firm boosted Taiwan Semiconductor by 18% to $448.6 million and established a $179 million position in Sandisk.

Duquesne Family Office opened new positions in Sandisk and Broadcom valued at $24 million and $161 million respectively. Soros Fund Management increased its Nvidia holding by 61% to $187 million.

These moves have already generated substantial returns. Sandisk and Micron shares surged approximately 50% and 60% respectively over the past month. Taiwan Semiconductor and Broadcom gained roughly 19% and 35% since last quarter. Several family offices also raised energy exposure as oil prices climbed amid Middle East volatility.