Samsung Electronics is set to hold a board meeting on Friday to discuss a new plan to return money to shareholders, according to a person familiar with the matter.The package could be worth more than $70 billion, as the company benefits from strong earnings driven by growing demand for artificial intelligence chips.The board is expected to discuss options such as special dividends, share buybacks and the cancellation of treasury shares.South Korean media have reported that the package could exceed 100 trillion won ($72 billion), although Samsung has not confirmed the figure or the details of the plan.Key Highlights Samsung board to discuss potential $70 billion shareholder return package Samsung considers special dividends and buybacks amid AI chip boom Samsung may boost shareholder payouts as semiconductor profits surgeStrong AI Chip Demand Lifts Samsung’s ProfitsSamsung's semiconductor business has benefited from the sharp rise in demand for chips used in AI systems. The company recorded a major increase in chip operating profit in the second quarter, showing how strongly the AI boom has improved its financial performance.Samsung's shares have also risen about 300% over the past year. However, the stock has pulled back from a record high reached in June as investors remain concerned about how long the current AI investment boom can continue.Under its existing 2024-2026 shareholder return policy, Samsung has committed to returning 50% of its free cash flow to investors. The proposed package could increase the amount of money shareholders receive.SK Hynix Deal Adds Pressure on SamsungThe announcement comes shortly after rival chipmaker SK Hynix unveiled a major shareholder return plan. The company said it would buy back and cancel 40 trillion won ($28.6 billion) worth of its own shares.SK Hynix also plans to return more than half of its free cash flow generated between 2025 and 2027 to shareholders. The move has raised expectations that Samsung may also increase its payouts.Investors will be watching closely to see whether Samsung chooses special dividends, share repurchases or a combination of both. The decision could influence how investors view the company's capital allocation strategy.Samsung Faces a Balance Between Returns and InvestmentWhile investors are pushing for higher returns, Samsung still needs to spend heavily on semiconductor manufacturing and new technologies. The company is competing for a larger share of the fast-growing AI chip market and will need significant investment to keep pace with rivals.Samsung and SK Hynix are expected to have combined net cash of around $263 billion by the end of the year, based on LSEG data and Reuters calculations. Their strong cash positions give both companies room to reward shareholders while continuing to invest in their businesses.Also Raed: China & Indonesia Ministers to Discuss Security, Trade and InvestmentFriday's board meeting could give investors a clearer picture of how Samsung plans to use its growing cash reserves. A large shareholder payout would also signal that the company is willing to share more of the gains from the current semiconductor boom with investors.