Title: Explainer: Why is there a global chip shortage and why should you care? | Reuters
Headings: Explainer: Why is there a global chip shortage and why should you care?
Explainer: Why is there a global chip shortage and why should you care?
CARS
ASIAN SQUEEZE
WHAT’S BEING DONE ABOUT IT?

Content: Explainer: Why is there a global chip shortage and why should you care? | Reuters
Explainer: Why is there a global chip shortage and why should you care? By Reuters Staff
4 Min Read
(This March 31 story refiles for typo in paragraph 6)
FILE PHOTO: RAM memory chips are seen in this illustration photo June 21, 2017. REUTERS/Thomas White/Illustration
(Reuters) - From delayed car deliveries to a supply shortfall in home appliances to costlier smartphones, businesses and consumers across the globe are facing the brunt of an unprecedented shortage in semiconductor microchips. The shortage stems from a confluence of factors as carmakers, which shut plants during the COVID-19 pandemic last year, compete against the sprawling consumer electronics industry for chip supplies. Consumers have stocked up on laptops, gaming consoles and other electronic products during the pandemic, leading to tighter inventory. They also bought more cars than industry officials expected last spring, further straining supplies.