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Market News

ANAHEIM, CA – Multi-Fineline Electronix Inc. (MFLEX) reported record first-quarter net sales jumped 17.6% from last year to $216.6 million, on increased sales to two key customers.

COKATO, MN – Innovex Inc. reported first-quarter revenue fell 34.1% from last year to $13.7 million, on lower demand for Flat Panel Display (FPD) and Actuator Flex Circuit (AFC) products.

EL SEGUNDO, CA – Worldwide Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS) sales are expected to soar to 56.3 million in 2013, a CAGR of 26.6%, from 17.3 million in 2008.

LOS ALTOS, CA – Consumer electronics output will drop 6.4% in 2009 on a lack of compelling new products coupled with the dismal economic environment, says Henderson Ventures.

This after rising an anemic 1.7% in 2008, Henderson says.

Excess inventories from the 2008 Christmas selling season will also be a drag on sales. Cellphones and computers will be exceptions, adds the firm. Also, game consoles are likely to achieve a gain of 10% this year.

Global vehicle production fell 3% in 2008. US output plummeted 19.8% and West European production was down 10.3%. Even though electronics content is steadily rising in cars and trucks, cost containment is a major issue among auto OEMs, says Henderson. Consequently, automotive electronics output managed only a thin 0.4% increase in 2008, versus a 10.1% surge in 2007.

This year, the combination of slumping vehicle demand and even more intense price pressure will drive down automotive electronics production 5.7%, but an accelerating industry recovery will take growth rates to 8.7% in 2010 and 12.3% in 2011, as vehicle obsolescence and pent up demand lift industry prospects, according to the firm.

BANNOCKBURN, IL – December PWB shipments fell 14.5% year-over-year and bookings slid 21.1%.

For the month, rigid shipments fell 14.2% and bookings dropped 24.5% from 2007. Flex shipments dropped 17.1% and orders rose 23.8%.

NEW YORK – L-3 Communications Holdings Inc. reported fourth-quarter revenues climbed 5.4% to $4.01 billion, compared to $3.81 billion in 2007. Year-over-year, revenue grew 7% to $14.9 billion.