A stunning rise of 5.23% has boosted the Redux Global ICT 100 Index (R-100) to a second consecutive all-time high. The R-100 closed at 1180.79 on 31 October. compared to its previous best-ever monthly high of 1122.09 on 29 July.

In EMEA, 29 stocks showed gains with nine in decline and two unchanged. The net result was the biggest month-on-month increase in 2006, at a formidable 5.8%.

As with most months of substantial growth, the Americas led the way. Just four stocks ended down with the remainder in positive territory. Those 36 gainers led to a 6.1% rise in the region: that’s the best since August.

Asia-Pacific also weighed in with a 2.2% increase. This despite the fact six of eight decliners were in Japan. Elsewhere, 12 stocks advanced and one was unchanged.

Not since December 2004 has the R-100 registered more than three consecutive months of growth. With luck that may be matched next month.
Jim Chalmers