We're back!

The Semiconductor Industry Association just reported that semiconductor sales rose 17% quarter on quarter. That is great news as semiconductors are a bell weather for downstream sales in the high tech industry.  The ordering lead times on semiconductors (sometimes as much as 3-4 months) mean that buyers are planning for growth.

Another good sign is the widely reported uptick in clean-tech investing in the second quarter.  Although early stage investing continues to be the best bet until economic visibility improves. Companies raising B & C rounds will still find it tough.  Funds from the US stimulus should also start flowing in this half of the year.

Bottom Line: Looks like tech is coming back, and green-tech will be a strong sector. But don't pop the champagne corks just yet - you will still need to conserve cash as we struggle out of this.