Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is expected to maintain its profitability, or fall to its breakeven point, for the first quarter of 2009, according to market observers, which rate better-than-expected performance of the chipmaker.

TSMC earlier reported unaudited consolidated revenues of NT$39.5 billion (US$1.17 billion), 3.95% higher than its originally-projected NT$38 billion. The observers said the foundry will see its utilization rebound throughout the third quarter of this year, as regular orders have resumed due to a warming up of demand.