Global semiconductor sales to drop 4% in 2005

The semiconductor industry is expected to decline by 4% in terms of worldwide sales in 2005 over 2004, according to Pacific Crest Securities. Capital spending in the IC industry is also expected to decline by 12% in 2005. Overall, the IC industry is expected to hit $205 bln in terms of sales in 2005, down 4% from $213.6 bln in 2004. In 2004, the IC market is projected to grow by 28.5%.