ARLINGTON, VA – The monthly order index compiled by the Electronic Components, Assemblies & Materials Association (ECA) began the fourth quarter on an up note, as October numbers continued the strong performance that began in July.
 
"We're seeing almost the exact opposite of what we witnessed last year at this time," Bob Willis said in a press release. "In 2004, the end of summer marked a downturn; this year, the order index took a big jump in July and the upward momentum has continued."
 
"CARTS Asia and CARTS Europe [recent ECA events] showed that the industry is in a good place now," says Willis. "Nobody is predicting a boom, but strong worldwide growth is expected, with a few normal regional fluctuations."