Economic Environment

In this tumultuous and unprecedented economy, a translation of the key levers impacting our economy from a credible source of information is the anchor you need in the storm. Matt Chanoff, Quarterly Forum Chief Economist offers his view in a Financial Crisis Monitor to provide the electronics industry a synthesized view of the various federal policies, banking status, fiscal stimulus plans. We are delighted to provide Quarterly Forum members an advance view of this valuable report monthly. You can look forward to the next edition soon. Click here to request a copy if you are not a member.

Electronics Supply Chain Predictions 2009

Our annual study reveals the Top 10 Trends for the global electronics supply chain within 2009 providing a practical outlook to the challenging year ahead. Get the predictions first, anticipate and plan for the likely events which will shape our industry sector. Douglas Kent, global supply chain expert serving as Chairman of the Supply Chain Council’s European Leadership team, faculty at University of Monaco and France's ESC Lille - School of Management as well as President of eKNOWtion, a supply chain consultancy will deliver the results of the study and his predictions for 2009 at the February Forum in Atlanta. The full report will be available on line to members In early March.

Outsourcing

Quarterly Forum expects electronics outsourcing to grow at a slight premium to underlying TAM, as OEMs attempt to reduce their asset balances. However, contract manufacturers are not immune from problems facing their customers. In segments that are already very highly outsourced, such as some parts of the telecommunications and computer markets, outsourcing will contract. Also, some segments, such as automotive electronics, will face disorderly contractions and bankruptcies that may have a negative effect on outsourcing. See most recent webinar update on the outsourcing projections for our industry.