Mature Markets

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Quantum expands plastics recovery as North American growth strategy takes shape

Canada-based Quantum Lifecycle Partners has launched an advanced plastics separation system designed to recover higher-quality polymers from end-of-life electronics, a move that reflects downstream processing investment alongside a wider shift in the company’s operating model.

Secondary Market: Intel boosts margins by selling what it used to scrap

Intel’s Q1 non-GAAP gross margin came in at 41%, roughly 650 basis points above the company’s own guidance. Management attributed the beat to a combination of higher volumes, favorable mix, pricing, and better 18A yields. According to industry analyst Ben Bajarin, who posted on X following the earnings call, part of the lift came from yield salvage: selling marginal silicon, much of it edge-die that would normally be binned out or scrapped rather than shipped into a usable SKU. Intel is now capturing revenue from silicon that would previously have been written down or held in reserve.

ERI enters Japan through joint venture with Itochu

US-based electronics recycler and IT asset disposition (ITAD) provider ERI has formed a 50-50 joint venture with Itochu Corporation to launch operations in Japan, the companies announced March 24.

Auditors warn EU may fall short on critical metals

EU auditors are warning that Europe is unlikely to secure enough critical raw materials by 2030, because import diversification is stalling, domestic mining is slow and costly, and recycling of key materials like rare earths is still negligible. In a new report they...