Microchip Sector Bottoms Out; Likely to Recover in 2002, AFI Says
December 20, 2001 (SEOUL) -- The world semiconductor market will end one of the most severe recessions it has experienced, as it has bottomed out, and will likely see a slow but steady recovery, according to a forecast released by Advanced Forcasting Inc. (AFI).
The U.S.-based market research company was the only company that suggested a fall in the chip sector at the end of 2000, in contrast with other market research companies which had forecasted continuous growth.
In the report, "IC Recovery Index," AFI said the semiconductor market bottomed out in October and is on the road to recovery, but due to the recession, the progress will be slow.
Despite negative news, including the announcement by Applied Materials Inc., the world's biggest semiconductor equipment manufacturer, that it will cut 1,700 jobs, AFI stated that it has received positive feedback from customers regarding the market recovery.
(Maeil Business Newspaper, Korea) |
