SAN FRANCISCO –
North American CIOs predicted IT budgets would grow 6.9% over the next 12 months,
down from 8.6% in March, according to a June poll by Deutsche Bank and CIO
magazine. Spending projections were up in most categories but were down for data networking, storage systems and e-business applications.
TEMPE, AZ -- Economic activity in the manufacturing sector grew in June for the 37th consecutive month, while the overall economy grew for the 56th consecutive month, according to the monthly ISM survey of manufacturing executives.
The PMI indicates that the manufacturing economy grew in June for
the 37th consecutive month as it registered 53.8%, a decrease of
0.6 percentage point when compared to May's reading of 54.4%. A
reading above 50% indicates that the manufacturing economy is
generally expanding; below 50% indicates that it is generally
contracting.
The report was issued today by the Institute for Supply Management.
A PMI over 42%, over a period of time, generally
indicates an expansion of the overall economy. The June PMI indicates
that both the overall economy and the manufacturing sector are growing.
Year to date, the average PMI (55.4%) corresponds to a 4.6% increase in real GDP. The annualized June rate of 53.8% corresponds to a 4% increase in real GDP, said chairman Norbert J. Ore.
"Manufacturing growth continued in June, and although the rate of growth slowed slightly, renewed strength in June's new orders index provides encouragement for the third quarter. The sector is benefiting from the weaker dollar and business investment. While energy and raw material prices are still a concern, our members indicate that they are coping with the challenges, and generally see their businesses in a continuing growth mode."
The industries reporting growth in June included Industrial and Commercial Equipment and Computers, and Electronic Components and Equipment.
SAN JOSE – Worldwide sales of semiconductors grew 9.4% in May, the SIA reported today. Sales rose 0.7% sequentially, reaching $19.7 billion, on continued demands for new cellphones and other consumer electronics.
“Worldwide sales of semiconductors in May continued to reflect generally favorable worldwide economic conditions,” said SIA president George Scalise. “As consumer products drive an increasing proportion of microchip sales, the growth of the semiconductor industry more closely reflects overall economic growth."