Super Micro Shares Plunge on Chip Smuggling Charges

Super Micro shares dropped sharply after U.S. prosecutors charged three people linked to the company, including its co-founder, over an alleged scheme to smuggle AI technology to China.

Although the company itself was not named as a defendant, the case has raised serious concerns among investors about legal, reputational and commercial risks. Super Micro said it cooperated with investigators, placed the employees involved on leave and ended ties with a contractor connected to the matter.

According to U.S. authorities, the accused helped move billions of dollars worth of American AI server technology through third countries before the products were allegedly redirected into China. The case comes amid strict U.S. export controls designed to limit China’s access to advanced semiconductor and AI infrastructure.

The market reaction reflects broader fears that customers may reconsider supplier relationships and that the company could face increased scrutiny. Analysts also noted that rival server makers could benefit if buyers seek alternatives.

The development adds fresh pressure on Super Micro, which had already faced volatility tied to margin concerns and previous market criticism despite strong demand linked to the AI boom.

Iran-Linked Hackers Restore Website After US Domain Seizure

A website linked to an Iranian government-associated hacking group has resurfaced just one day after U.S. authorities seized several of its domains, highlighting ongoing challenges in disrupting cyber threat actors.

The U.S. Department of Justice said it had seized four domains connected to the “Handala Hack Team,” which it linked to Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security. The group had previously claimed responsibility for a cyberattack on a U.S. medical device company earlier in March.

Despite the takedown, the group quickly restored its online presence, stating that the action was an attempt by U.S. authorities to silence it. Analysts say such rapid recovery is common, as state-linked cyber units frequently re-establish operations using new domains or platforms.

The incident underscores the resilience of cyber threat actors and the limitations of domain seizures as a long-term deterrent. Experts note that these groups often maintain multiple backup channels, allowing them to resume activities with minimal disruption.

The case also highlights growing tensions in cyber operations, where government-linked hacking groups continue to play a role in both digital espionage and psychological operations.

Tesla Explores Major China Solar Equipment Deal

Tesla is in talks to buy about $2.9 billion worth of solar manufacturing equipment from Chinese suppliers as it pushes to build a large-scale solar production base in the United States.

The discussions involve equipment for making solar panels and cells, with Chinese firms seen as key candidates because of their strong position in global solar machinery. Some of the equipment may require export approval from Chinese authorities before shipment.

The reported move supports Elon Musk’s goal of building 100 gigawatts of solar manufacturing capacity in the U.S. by the end of 2028. Most of that capacity is expected to support Tesla’s own energy needs, while part of it could also be used for SpaceX-related operations.

The potential order also highlights the complexity of reducing U.S. dependence on China, as American clean energy expansion still relies heavily on Chinese industrial equipment. Even with tariffs in place on many solar imports, manufacturing machinery remains difficult to source elsewhere at scale.

If completed, the deal would represent a major boost for Chinese solar equipment makers while strengthening Tesla’s position in U.S. solar manufacturing during a period of rising electricity demand driven by data centers and industrial growth.