Survey: IC execs upbeat about 2011

SAN JOSE, Calif. - Despite a lull in the market, semiconductor executives are generally optimistic about 2011, according to a global survey conducted by KPMG LLP, the U.S. audit, tax and advisory firm.  

However, 53 percent of respondents anticipate the semiconductor cycle will peak within the next 12 months, according to KPMG’s survey of 118 senior semiconductor executives.

According to the KPMG survey, conducted in collaboration with the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA), ''78 percent of semiconductor executives expect that revenue will grow by more than 5 percent next year, a sign of resiliency, as 87 percent of 2009 respondents projected similar revenue increases. In looking at the jobs picture, 29 percent of the respondents predict workforce growth of greater than 5 percent, compared to 23 percent in 2009 and 17 percent in 2008 - reflecting increased confidence in the resilient semiconductor industry.''

“Our findings show an industry that expects moderate growth next year, which is extraordinary in the context of an uneven global economic recovery,” said Gary Matuszak, KPMG global chair for the Information, Communication and Entertainment practice, in a statement.

“The continuing demand for electronic products ranging from tablets to smartphones, and an increased demand for technology integration in automobiles will buoy semiconductor manufacturers as the economy fluctuates,'' he added.

“The executives’ confidence also appears to be fueled by recovering economies in a couple of key regions,” said Ron Steger, partner in charge of KPMG Global Semiconductor Practice. “China still is viewed as most important for semiconductor product growth, but more executives also foresee the U.S. and European economies recovering and having important roles in industry growth.”