A continuing resurgence in demand for large-sized LCD panels, the glass for which is manufactured using platinum/rhodium equipment, will see shipments rise to 370 million units by the end of 2007, it has been predicted.

The figures indicate the ongoing recovery of the large-sized LCD market, which began in the second quarter of this year, according to market research company iSuppli.

This, coupled with price rises every month during the third quarter, is expected to result in strong results for manufacturers - with revenue set to rise by 17 per cent compared with the preceding period, iSuppli predicts.

Sweta Dash, Director of LCD and Projection Research for iSuppli, said: "iSuppli estimates that revenue rose to $16.7 billion in Q2, up from $13.4 billion in the first.

"Despite an anticipated softening in demand growth in Q4, with the strong Q3 results we expect, large-sized LCD panel revenue for all of 2007 to rise by more than 27 per cent to $68.7 billion, up from $53.9 billion in 2006."

The price rises seen during the period have been attributed to demand from all major application markets, combined with a shortage of supply during the third quarter due to customers placing orders for the holiday season earlier than they have done in the past.

Source:

Large LCD panels expect big numbers in Q3, 23/10/07
http://www.eetasia.com/ART_8800484856_480700_NT_4a2ffc23.HTM?1000013807&8800484856&click_from=1000013807,8620774991,2007

LCD panel firms face tough conditions, 10/10/07
http://www.platinum.matthey.com/media_room/1192006809.html

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