WASHINGTON – Global semiconductor sales were $27.06 billion in October, up 7.2% year-over-year, and up 0.8% sequentially, says the Semiconductor Industry Association. October marked the eighth consecutive month of growth in sales and the industry’s first-ever month above $27 billion in sales, the firm says.

SAN JOSE -- Semiconductor fabrication equipment spending will decline about 9% to about $32.5 billion in 2013 as third-quarter demand fell more than expected. 2014 sales are expected to rebound in a big way, however.