A series of shocking news about price hikes continues to unfold, as we now receive official "warnings" from GPU AIB partners about the situation. On the official PowerColor subreddit, a representative noted that Holiday 2025 discounts are about to commence, but also claimed that prices will rise in 2026, urging gamers to buy before the increase. While this could be a marketing tactic, the recurring theme of warnings is becoming more prominent in the supply chain. Previously, we reported that DRAM prices have risen significantly— 171.8% year-over-year —driving costs to new levels for this essential component found in every GPU, smartphone, PC, and console.

South Korean memory giants, such as Samsung and SK Hynix, are currently unable to fulfill all orders, completing only 70% of them. Smaller OEMs and channel distributors have been informed to expect only 35-40% fulfillment through the first quarter of 2026. Even some larger AIBs, like PowerColor, may face shortages in DRAM supply, potentially leaving their GPUs without installed DRAM modules. This situation not only delays their planned product rollouts but also jeopardizes their expected revenue streams if it persists. They are faced with the choice of either gambling on the spot market for a significant markup or leaving their production lines idle. Additionally, the shortage could ultimately increase the price of GPUs that are shipped, as they now contain a rarer commodity—DRAM.