Macronix International saw third-quarter 2010 net sales increase 11% sequentially to NT$8.16 billion (US$256.9 million), which came in line with its guidance of NT$8-8.2 billion, according to data released by the company. Gross margin for the quarter reached 58%, higher than its estimate of 51-52%.
Sales of Macronix' ROM products increased 97% sequentially in the third quarter with unit shipments up 70%, the company revealed. The segment accounted for 39% of Macronix' total revenues in the quarter.
However, Macronix saw third-quarter sales of its NOR flash products decline 16% on quarter with unit shipments down 26% sequentially. NOR flash contributed 52% of the company's sales in the third quarter.
Macronix said products fabricated at 75nm and more-advanced processes collectively accounted for 35% of its third-quarter revenues, while the combined sales ratio of 0.15-, 0.13- and 0.10-micron nodes was 60%. Capacity utilization rate grew to 103% in the third quarter from 101% in the second.
Macronix generated net profits of NT$2.76 billion in the third quarter, up 21% on quarter and 22% on year. The earnings translated into an EPS of NT$0.83.
Looking forward, Macronix expects fourth-quarter revenues to be between NT$5.8 billion and NT$6 billion, with a 51-52% gross margin. Utilization rate should remain above 90%, according to the company.