ASYST TECHNOLOGIE - Ein klarer Kauf ! - 500 Beiträge pro Seite

[LongTermTom]

ASYST TECHNOLOGIE (WKN:890407) hat sich auf die Herstellung
von Reinraeumen spezialisiert.
Die Reinraeume von ASYST sind inzwischen Standard.

Besonders investitionswillig sind derzeit die asiatischen
(japanischen) Chiphersteller, welche die Haelfte der
Umsaetze von $150 Mio ausmachen.

Eine besonders optimistische Einstellung herrscht im Hause
MERRILL LYNCH, die ein KZ von $128 vorhersehen.
Analyst BAER STEARNS sieht ein KZ vonn 100$.
Auf Basis der Gewinnschaetzungen fuer 2001 ergibt sich
ein KGV von 12,5 !

Der HSI raet daher dringend zum Kauf.

Good Trades wuenscht
LTT

[LongTermTom]

Den Thread nochmal nach oben, fuer alle die in den
Standard-Ausruester fuer die Halbleiterindustrie
investieren wollen.

[LongTermTom]

Ich bin gestern zu 46,5 eingestiegen.
Heute bei 51E in F.
Bin ich der einzige im Board der eine Mark riskiert hat ?

Der sich fragende
LTT

[LongTermTom]

56E

[LongTermTom]

Wednesday March 8, 6:31 am Eastern Time

Company Press Release

Asyst Technologies Receives
Multimillion-Dollar Order From Silterra

FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 8, 2000--Asyst Technologies, Inc.
(Nasdaq:ASYT - news) today announced that it has received a multimillion-dollar order from
Silterra Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. for its fab-wide automation solution. The order includes Asyst`s
SMIF-LPT(TM) line of products, 200 mm SMIF-Pods(TM), minienvironments,
SMART-Tags(TM), wafer sorters and a FluoroTrac® auto-ID system. Silterra intends to
initially use the products -- to be installed at Silterra`s manufacturing facility in Kulim,
Malaysia in July -- in the production of 0.25- and 0.18-micron CMOS digital and
mixed-signal processors.

Silterra`s Vice President of Operations K.C. Ang cited his past eight years of experience in
working with Asyst SMIF products while starting up three new fabs in Southeast Asia as a
key factor in choosing Asyst for this order. ``Asyst`s advanced wafer isolation and material
handling and tracking technologies are critical in optimizing our yields and improving our
overall equipment efficiency. At Silterra, these products will help provide the backbone for
our manufacturing philosophy, which is vital to the success of this new fab. Silterra is looking
to experienced equipment suppliers and technology leaders like Asyst to provide solutions
that help eliminate problems on the fab floor, such as wafer contamination and mishandling,
and ensure we meet our goal of achieving a target capacity of thirty thousand 200 mm wafers
per month by 2002.``

``This order marks a significant step for Asyst in entering the Malaysian market, and is
indicative of the global demand for Asyst factory automation solutions,`` stated Mihir Parikh,
Asyst`s chairman and chief executive officer. ``Malaysia is a new growing center of
semiconductor fabrication, with two new fabs expected to be fully operational by the end of
this year. We intend to open a field service office in Kulim that will allow Asyst to provide
Silterra with the same level of on-site local support, which we believe has been successful in
other parts of the Asia-Pacific region.``

Except for statements of historical fact, the statements in this press release are
forward-looking. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could
cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include, but
are not limited to, general economic conditions, semiconductor industry cycles, risks
associated with the acceptance of new products and product capabilities and other factors
more fully detailed in the Company`s recent S-3 Registration Statement.

About Silterra Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.: Founded in December of 1997, Silterra Malaysia Sdn.
Bhd. is a full-service semiconductor manufacturing provider that offers customers
leading-edge process technologies. Silterra`s factory will be operational in Q4 2000, ramping
to 30,000 eight-inch wafers per month by 2002. Silterra will have immediate access to LSI
Logic`s capacity on the licensed technologies to qualify and develop customers. Silterra is
headquartered in Kulim, Malaysia, with sales and marketing office in Sunnyvale, California.

About Asyst: Asyst Technologies, Inc. is the leading provider of SMIF-based
minienvironment and manufacturing automation systems that enable semiconductor
manufacturers to protect customers` valued assets throughout the manufacturing process while
increasing manufacturing productivity. Asyst offers a broad range of 200 mm and 300 mm
products that enable the Company to provide semiconductor manufacturers and OEMs
automated manufacturing solutions for the transfer of wafers and information between the
process equipment and the fab line. Asyst`s homepage is http://www.asyst.com.

Note to Editors: SMIF-LPT, SMIF-Pod and SMART-Tag are trademarks of Asyst
Technologies, Inc. FluoroTrac is a registered trademark of Asyst Technologies, Inc.

http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/000308/ca_asyst_p_1.html

LTT

[LongTermTom]

Thursday March 9, 4:02 pm Eastern Time

Company Press Release

Asyst Technologies Receives
Multimillion-Dollar Order From 1st
Silicon Kuching Office Planned

FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 9, 2000--Asyst Technologies, Inc.
(Nasdaq:ASYT - news) today announced that it has received a multimillion-dollar order from
1st Silicon (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. for its fab-wide automation solution at the new 200mm
operation in Kuching, Malaysia.

The order includes Asyst`s SMIF-LPT(TM) line of products, minienvironments,
SMART-Traveler`s System(TM) for automated lot ID, and SMART Storage System(TM).
Asyst`s products are intended for 1st Silicon`s wafer production, starting with 0.25 micron
digital and mixed-signal CMOS technologies followed by 0.18 micron and below. The
projected date of installation at the 90,000-square-foot cleanroom is May 2000.

Commenting on the order, 1st Silicon`s Chief Executive Officer Claudio Loddo cited Asyst`s
technology, experience and excellent support system as key factors in choosing Asyst as 1st
Silicon enters the highly competitive foundry market. ``Overall operation efficiency,
productivity, yields, and quality is imperative to 1st Silicon`s success in foundry services. We
believe that Asyst`s advanced wafer isolation, and material handling and tracking technologies
will provide us the most advantageous means of achieving these goals.``

Loddo further noted, ``1st Silicon sought a technology leader like Asyst to provide solutions
for efficient fab floor operation and manufacturing quality. We are confident that Asyst`s
technologies and support will help to ensure the processing integrity at our new fab.``

``We are gratified by 1st Silicon`s decision to utilize Asyst`s factory automation solutions for
its initial fab,`` commented Mihir Parikh, Asyst`s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.
``Malaysia is clearly a new and growing center for semiconductor fabrication, and this order
marks an important step for Asyst as we continue to gain momentum and capitalize upon this
strategic region.``

Dr. Parikh noted that in line with the company`s commitment to the success of 1st Silicon and
in an effort to provide their fab with on-site local support, Asyst intends to open a field
service office in Kuching.

Except for statements of historical fact, the statements in this press release are
forward-looking. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could
cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include, but
are not limited to, general economic conditions, semiconductor industry cycles, risks
associated with the acceptance of new products and product capabilities and other factors
more fully detailed in the Company`s recent S-3 Registration Statement.

About 1st Silicon (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.: 1st Silicon is a dedicated semiconductor foundry
founded in 1998 by the Malaysian State of Sarawak. 1st Silicon`s 200mm wafer fab with an
ultimate capacity of 30K wafers per month will be operational in Q3 2000. The facility will
commence production with 0.25 micron digital and mixed signal CMOS technology, followed
by 0.18 micron and below. SHARP Corporation is 1st Silicon`s technology partner as well as
first customer. The company is headquartered in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, with an office
in San Jose, Calif. Homepage: www.1stsilicon.com

About Asyst: Asyst Technologies, Inc. is the leading provider of SMIF-based
minienvironment and manufacturing automation systems that enable semiconductor
manufacturers to protect customers` valued assets throughout the manufacturing process while
increasing manufacturing productivity. Asyst offers a broad range of 200 mm and 300 mm
products that enable the Company to provide semiconductor manufacturers and OEMs
automated manufacturing solutions for the transfer of wafers and information between the
process equipment and the fab line. Asyst`s homepage is http://www.asyst.com

Note to Editors: SMIF-LPT, SMIF-Pod and SMART-Tag are trademarks of Asyst
Technologies, Inc.

http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/000309/ca_asyst_p_1.html

LTT

[minni]

hallo, ich bin auch durch die HSI Empfehlung drauf aufmerksam geworden
und die Aktie hat mich sehr überzeugt. Bin allerdings in USA einge-
stiegen, weil hier kaum Umsatz da ist. Der Chart ist astrein und
die Gewinnschätzungen ebenfalls. Ich denke man kann sich ASYT ohne
Bedenken ins Depot legen und ein Jahr vergessen.
Grüsse minni

[LongTermTom]

Na da sind es ja schonmal 2.

Ich denke nach den guten News koennten die 100$ recht schnell
erreicht werden.Zumindest, wenn die neuen Auftraege noch nicht
im Resaerch beruecksichtigt sind.

Der Chart gefaellt mir auch gut und nachdem nach der kleinen
Konsolidierung das ATH geknackt wurde, sehe ich durchaus
Luft bis 70$ in der naechsten oder uebernaechsten Woche.

In meinem Userdepot habe ich den Wert leider erst bei
53E erstanden. :O

Hast Du ausser dem HSI noch andere Abo`s ?
Wenn ja, welche und wie bist Du damit zufrieden ?
Ich ueberlege mir zusaetzlich den GNI oder einen
Biotechbrief dazuzunehmen.

Gruss
LTT

[mw70]

Hallo Long Term John,
auch ich habe mir nach der Empfehlung des HSI Asyst zugelegt und das nicht zu knapp. Habe sie leider erst bei 53E bekommen und was noch schlimmer ist das die NASDAQ inklusive Asyst heftig zu brökeln beginnt. Werde aber auf alle Fälle daran festhalten denn ich denke beim nächsten Aufschwung wird es wieder steil bergauf gehen. Bei diesem KGV und den zukünftigen Entwicklungen in diesem Sektor denke ich werden wir nach einer Konsolidierung doch noch einigen Spaß an der Aktie haben. Leider war der Einstieg nicht zum besten Zeitpunkt aber die Gefahr einer stärkeren Korrektur war ja eigentlich abzusehen.
Solltest du neue News zu Asyst bekommen kannst du sie in diesen Thread stellen.
Viele Grüße Mirco

[LongTermTom]

Hi MW 70 !

Habe heute keine News gefunden, kann ja auch nicht
jeden Tag was neues geben....

Wenn man den Chart betrachtet, hatte sich der Kurs auch schon
sehr weit von der 38-Tagelinie entfernt.
Leider habe ich den Fehler gemacht, bei 60E meinen Einsatz
nicht wieder rauszuholen.
Da haette ich jetzt nochmal schoen billiger zurueckkaufen
koennen.

Hier mal der Chart.





cul
LTT

[LongTermTom]

Tuesday March 21, 12:05 pm Eastern Time

Asyst CEO comfortable with Q4 outlook

NEW YORK, March 21 (Reuters) - The chief executive of
semiconductor equipment maker Asyst Technologies Inc.
(NasdaqNM:ASYT - news) on Tuesday said he was comfortable
with Wall Street`s revenue and earnings expectations for the company`s fourth quarter.

Chairman and Chief Executive Mihir Parikh said the company has enjoyed sequential revenue
growth of 50 percent for the past three quarters, helped as semiconductor makers upgraded
their manufacturing equipment.

``We are very comfortable with the numbers that are out there on the street,`` Parikh told
Reuters in an interview at the SEMInvest conference in New York.

Parikh said revenue estimates for the fiscal 2000 fourth quarter, ending March 31, average
about $84 million, with some outlying estimates ranging as high as $90 million. The company
reported fiscal 2000 third-quarter revenues of $63.8 million, and fiscal 1999 fourth-quarter
revenues of $17.2 million.

The consensus earnings expectation is for a profit of 27 cents per share, according to research
firm First Call/Thomson Financial. A year ago it reported a loss of 16 cents per share.

In late-morning trading on Nasdaq, Asyst shares were down 9/16 at 51-1/2.

LTT

[LongTermTom]

Asyst seen as undervalued

Asyst Technology (ASYT: news, msgs), a maker of
automation systems used in chipmakers` clean rooms, is
one company that some feel warrants more attention. Ed
White, for one, an analysts for Lehman Brothers
believes the Fremont, Calif.-company is undervalued,
and said the company is in a high-growth mode. Chief
Executive Officer Mihir Parikh told
CBS.MarketWatch.com that its majority stake in a
Japanese robotics company called Mecs, a phased
acquisition that will be complete this month, should add
$75 million to $100 million to its revenue.

Parikh said the affects of the ownership will start to be
added to its coffers in its first quarter. White sees this
as a positive move for the company, because Japan, he
said, is a country that has been relatively slow to move
toward semiconductor industry growth.

Additionally, Parikh said the company`s model is to be
in the 20 percent profit line in the next few months, and
said it could happen sooner. The company will report
its fourth-quarter results in April.

http://cbs.marketwatch.com/archive/20000322/news/current/ren…



LTT

[LongTermTom]

Friday March 24, 8:00 am Eastern Time

Company Press Release

SOURCE: Wall Street Transcript

Asyst Technologies CEO Mihir Parikh
Talks to The Wall Street Transcript

NEW YORK, March 24 /PRNewswire/ -- The Wall Street Transcript has published an
in-depth interview with Mihir Parikh, CEO of Asyst Technologies (Nasdaq: ASYT - news),
in which he talks at length about his company and its future.

The entire 2,100-word interview is available free online at http://www.twst.com/ceos.htm

Parikh states, ``The Company`s mission is to provide productivity to the IC manufacturers and
to the equipment manufacturers. This productivity is aimed at improving manufacturing cycle
time, improving yields, and protecting the value of the wafers throughout the entire
manufacturing cycle. With this mission in mind, the company pioneered the development of a
new technology 15 years ago called SMIF (Standard Mechanical Interface)
mini-environment.``

Parikh explains, ``We believe that we are the only company that offers a complete suite of
productivity-improvement products and value-assurance products. These products are not just
the SMIF interface, and mini-environments, but the complete suite of robots and software
products. We serve both the IC manufacturers (end users) and the OEMs (the equipment
manufacturers) by offering these products to both parties. In addition, this dual strategy
provides us with a tremendous ``pull`` from the IC manufacturers to the equipment
manufacturers. We believe that these competitive advantages place us in very good stead.``

Looking forward, Parikh states, ``Our goals are not just to be the leader in mini-environment
and SMIF technology that we have pioneered, but to be the global leader in offering the
complete manufacturing, automation solutions both to the equipment manufacturers and to IC
manufacturers. We are probably one of the only automation companies, and one of the very
few equipment companies, that now has a very strong presence with the IC manufacturers in
Japan. So we see ourselves to be a leader to IC manufacturers and equipment manufacturers,
worldwide.``

This interview is part of the TWST 79-page SEMInvest 2000 Special Issue available at
http://www.twst.com/info72.htm or by calling 212-952-7433.

The Wall Street Transcript is a premier weekly investment publication serving serious
long-term investors for over 36 years. TWST offers free interview excerpts at
http://www.twst.com/newspage.html

The Wall Street Transcript does not endorse the views of any interviewees nor does it make
stock recommendations. For subscription information call 800-246-7673.

SOURCE: Wall Street Transcript

More Quotes and News:
Asyst Technologies Inc (NasdaqNM:ASYT - news)


LTT

[LongTermTom]

Hier noch das ganze Interview.


THE WALL STREET
TRANSCRIPT


Questioning Market Leaders For Long Term Investors




MIHIR PARIKH - ASYST TECHNOLOGIES INC (ASYT)
CEO Interview - published 03/23/2000

DOCUMENT # JAP217

MIHIR PARIKH, PhD, has served as Chairman of the Board and Chief
Executive Officer of Asyst Technologies since July 1992. He has been a
Director of the company since he founded Asyst in 1984, and served as
Asyst`s President and Chief Executive Officer from its inception to July
1992. From 1974 to 1984, he held various management positions with
Hewlett-Packard and International Business Machines Corporation. Mini-
environment and Standard Mechanical InterFace (SMIF) technology was
first developed under his leadership at Hewlett-Packard. Dr. Parikh has
been widely published on the topics of electron-beam lithography,
theoretical and experimental radiation physics, applications of
tunneling spectroscopy, and wafer automation and transfer systems. He is
a past Chairman and organizer of the ECS Symposium on `Automated IC
Manufacturing` and a past Organizer of a University of California at
Berkeley short course in cleanroom technology. Dr. Parikh received a
Bachelor`s degree in Engineering Physics, a Master`s degree in
Engineering Science and a Doctorate in Engineering Science from the
University of California at Berkeley. He received an Outstanding
Alumnus Award from the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer
Sciences at UC Berkeley for his visionary leadership in the development
of advanced semiconductor manufacturing environments, and was a
recipient of the Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International
(SEMI) Award for North America in 1999 for his significant contributions
to the semiconductor industry.

DOUGLAS MCCUTCHEON joined Asyst Technologies in January 1996 as Senior
Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. From January 1991 to
November 1995, Mr. McCutcheon was Vice President, Corporate Finance at
Cadence Design Systems, Inc., a design automation software company.
Prior to 1991, Mr. McCutcheon was President of Toshiba America Medical
Credit, a captive financing subsidiary of Toshiba America.

Sector: semiconductors

TWST: Could you give us an overview of Asyst Technologies, Incorporated?

Dr. Parikh: Let me begin with the company`s mission. The company`s
mission is to provide productivity to the IC manufacturers and to the
equipment manufacturers. This productivity is aimed at improving
manufacturing cycle time, improving yields, and protecting the value of
the wafers throughout the entire manufacturing cycle. With this mission
in mind, the company pioneered the development of a new technology 15
years ago called SMIF (Standard Mechanical Interface) mini-environment.
Since that time, it has become a mainstream technology, and has enabled
Asyst to grow from being a pioneering company and a market developer to
being the leader in providing this and related technologies. 200-
millimeter technology is an extremely strong and dominant technology
both for new fabs, as well as upgrading existing factories. Moreover,
through standards set by the industry, the technology has been declared
an imperative for 300-millimeter manufacturing.

TWST: Who are some of your customers?

Dr. Parikh: Our customers are the leading manufacturers worldwide. All
foundries around the world and essentially all of their fabs use our
products. Some of the major IC manufacturers are in the US, Europe, and
now even in Japan. For example, Sony`s Playstation 2 fab is being built
around our technology. TI`s D-MOS4 fab for the most advanced DSP
products is being upgraded from the existing six-inch line to an eight-
inch line with our technology. So, as you can see , `the major
manufacturers all over the world.

TWST: Approximately what percent of your revenues emanate from
international companies?

Dr. Parikh: Over 50%.

TWST: How do you think your R&D expenditures will change in the future?

Dr. Parikh: They are increasing in absolute terms, but we are in the 10%
of sales R&D number. Asyst is very efficient in doing our R&D and we
also do not put into R&D some of the things other people put. We will
spend over $20 million this year and probably close to $30 million next
year. So anyway, it`s a very nice number and increasing very nicely,
also.

TWST: What are the most significant trends, developments, or changes
that you anticipate in your marketplace over the next several years?

Dr. Parikh: One trend that we see happening right now is the move from
just process technology as the driver in a manufacturing line, to
manufacturing technology and automation being the drivers. We see a
trend of critical importance wherein factories move toward increasing
productivity in the manufacturing line by bringing the cassette of
wafers to the equipment, making equipment more productive with the right
kind of automation and information systems and then connecting it
throughout the whole factory. This enables the IC manufacturer to
reduce time to market, reduce costs, and improve productivity. In fact,
that is the basis of the IC foundries which are the world`s most
productive and profitable manufacturers the TSMCs, the UMCs, and
Chartered Semiconductors of the world. They have used Asyst`s
technology exclusively around all of their manufacturing lines.

TWST: What are the greatest opportunities for Asyst over the next
several years? Is there a chain of events that could lead the company to
really beat expectations in the future?

Dr. Parikh: We at Asyst are very optimistic that the increasing interest
in 300 millimeter is going to propel our business more than ever before.
As you know, we are a leader by far in 200 millimeter, and our
leadership position in 200 millimeter is giving us opportunities for 300
millimeter as it starts to develop in offering not just the interfaces,
but the entire front ends, or portals, as we call them. This provides a
huge opportunity for us not just to the IC manufacturers, but also to
the equipment manufacturers to outsource their entire portal. The other
opportunity which is very unique for us is one in which Asyst upgrades
an existing factory from 150 millimeter to 200 millimeter, or takes a
single-purpose 200-millimeter factory to a very flexible, advanced 200-
millimeter line. So these opportunities, we believe, are the ones that
can drive our business at a rate significantly greater than that of our
peers and competitors.

TWST: Speaking of competitors, what are some of your other competitive
advantages at Asyst? What sets the company apart?

Dr. Parikh: We believe that we are the only company that offers a
complete suite of productivity-improvement products and value-assurance
products. These products are not just the SMIF interface, and mini-
environments, but the complete suite of robots and software products.
Another competitive advantage , `and one that is very unique, I might
add , `we serve both the IC manufacturers (end users) and the OEMs (the
equipment manufacturers) by offering these products to both parties.
This is unlike any of our peers. In addition, this dual strategy
provides us with a tremendous `pull` from the IC manufacturers to the
equipment manufacturers. We believe that these competitive advantages
place us in very good stead.

TWST: What are the major concerns that the company faces now and will be
facing in the future? Anything that keeps you gentleman up at night
regarding the company?

Dr. Parikh: I think the biggest question in our minds as it probably is
in every other industry is growth rate and potential reduction in growth
rate. Also, what we call a downturn potential over capacity being built
in the industry. Those are the only significant risks we see. But
actually I`ll say it again, Asyst, by virtue of its ability to upgrade
fabs, is, we believe, uniquely positioned so that in a potential
downturn we are still positioned for strength. In fact, we`ve had
several customers tell us explicitly to initiate plans for them for
developing an upgrade solution for the existing factories now in
anticipation of when a downturn does come. Thus, they will be prepared
to upgrade their existing factories with our products, giving them a new
lease on life in those factories.

TWST: Are there any opportunities for improvement within Asyst? Any
weaknesses to be addressed?

Dr. Parikh: In this growth that we`ve had, I would say recruiting strong
managers and recruiting good people. Getting them to be a part of the
Asyst culture is a challenge, and that`s one that we attempt to address
every day.

TWST: What kinds of incentives have you put in place to keep and attract
good people?

Dr. Parikh: Certainly, as is standard in our industry, we offer a very
competitive stock option plan. In fact, recently, we made available to
every employee in the company a very nice stock option plan. This plan,
again, was for all employees in the company. We also employ bonus plans
that are tied very specifically to meeting objectives both financial and
strategic for the company. These are the things that we believe provide
a strong incentive to our people. Most of all though, people are excited
by the opportunity the company gives them. Most people don`t just work
for money. They work for the excitement of being a leader and being
associated with a leader.

TWST: What are your specific goals for Asyst over the next three or four
years?

Dr. Parikh: Our goals are not just to be the leader in mini-environment
and SMIF technology that we have pioneered, but to be the global leader
in offering the complete manufacturing, automation solutions both to the
equipment manufacturers and to IC manufacturers. To this end, we are
positioned very uniquely in the islands of Japan. We are probably one of
the only automation companies, and one of the very few equipment
companies, that now has a very strong presence with the IC manufacturers
in Japan. I mentioned the SONY Playstation 2 factory. In addition to
that very exciting fab, we have two other factories that we are now
doing in Japan that are not yet announced, but are in our numbers. Our
unique position is centered on the recently announced strategic alliance
with MECS, which is a robotics and automation company in Japan. It is
about a $50 million a year company, offering to the Japanese equipment
manufacturers automation products that are developed, engineered, and
supported by the local Japanese organization. So we see ourselves to be
a leader to IC manufacturers and equipment manufacturers, worldwide. Not
just in the US, Taiwan, Singapore, Europe, and so on, but also in Japan.

TWST: How do you gentlemen feel about your current stock price?

Dr. Parikh: Compared to some of our peers, we think we`re undervalued.
Compared to others, I guess we are fair. If you look at our growth, look
at our multiples, you can just determine for yourself that we have some
way to go.

TWST: If you were sitting down now with a group of potential long-term
investors, what two or three reasons would you give them to invest in
Asyst Technologies now?

Dr. Parikh: I think the first reason is that you must look at a company
by its market position and leadership. We are uniquely positioned for
both 200 millimeter and 300 millimeter to end users (IC manufacturers)
as well as OEMs (equipment manufacturers), with new fabs as well as
upgrades, not just in the US and Taiwan, but also very uniquely in
Japan. We have both hardware products and software products. And if you
take all of these things in all of these areas, combined with our status
as a pioneer, it is clear that we are truly the leader. I think that all
of these things better position Asyst for growth more than any of our
peers. Secondly, look at our performance as a company growth, high
growth, and profitability. You can see, we`ve had three consecutive
quarters of 50% growth. None of our peers have had that, and we are
continuing very strong growth. Execution, and not just in terms of
revenue and bottom line performance, but also the way we manage our
assets. Look at our balance sheet, look at our inventory turns, look at
our Ars (accounts receivables), the day sales outstanding, for example.
All of these metrics are better than most companies in the industry, and
significantly better than our peers and our competitors. And last but
not least, look at our organization, our people the kind of people we
have, the kind of people we`ve attracted and the fact that we are driven
to succeed for the sake of our customers, and our shareholders, and of
course for the market as a whole.

TWST: Is there anything I`ve overlooked or missed that you`d like to
bring up?

Dr. Parikh: Well, no, other than to add that we continue to be excited
by the abundant opportunities in the semiconductor marketplace, and we
remain confident that Asyst is more favorably positioned to capitalize
on these opportunities than at any time in the history of the company.

TWST: Thank you.

MIHIR PARIKH
Chairman and CEO
DOUGLAS MCCUTCHEON
Senior VP and CFO
Asyst Technologies, Inc.
48761 Kato Road
Fremont, California 94538
[phone]
[phone] - FAX

LTT

[LongTermTom]

[LongTermTom]

Monday March 27, 4:46 pm Eastern Time

Company Press Release

Asyst Completes Next Stage in
Acquisition of Japan`s MECS
Corporation

Positions Asyst for Comprehensive Automation Offering in Japan

Josui Nashimoto named Representative Director of MECS

FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 27, 2000-- Asyst Technologies, Inc.
(Nasdaq NM: ASYT - news) announced today that it has completed the next phase of its
acquisition of MECS Corporation (MECS), by acquiring a majority ownership position of 79
percent. Based in Nagoya, MECS is one of Japan`s leading suppliers of robotic systems used
to automate sophisticated semiconductor and flat panel display manufacturing equipment.
Originally announced September 22, 1999, the transaction was structured as a staged
acquisition, with Asyst holding an initial minority share ownership of ten percent. Under
terms of the agreement, Asyst agreed to move to a majority ownership position upon
attainment by MECS of certain business objectives. The purchase agreement places an
enterprise valuation on MECS of approximately $45 million. In its last full fiscal year ending
March 1999, MECS had sales of approximately 4.7 billion Yen (approximately U.S. $43
million). Josui (Joe) Nashimoto, president of Asyst K.K., has assumed the title of
Representative Director of MECS.

``We are pleased that the initial minority position which Asyst took in MECS has rapidly
evolved into a majority ownership,`` noted Mihir Parikh, Asyst chairman and chief executive
officer. ``This acquisition greatly expands Asyst`s direct presence in Japan. In addition, with
Joe`s experience and leadership, we are confident in our abilities to motivate existing
employees and recruit world-class engineers and professionals to the Asyst-MECS team.``

Parikh noted that despite representing 35 percent of the world`s semiconductor equipment
market, Japan has historically been an untapped market for non-Japanese automation
companies. ``We believe that our recent successes at Japan`s leading IC manufacturers and
equipment manufacturers strengthen our position to take advantage of opportunities in both
150 mm and 200 mm upgrades, as well as in Japan`s increasing OEM automation market. To
further capitalize on these opportunities, it was imperative that Asyst establish a more
significant Japanese presence. By integrating the existing Asyst Japan organization with
MECS, Asyst believes that it will be better positioned to provide comprehensive local
engineering design, manufacturing, integration and support services than any of its Japanese or
US-based competitors.

Parikh, elaborating on the unique nature of the acquisition, added, ``It is Asyst`s belief that this
marks the first instance in which a major semiconductor equipment manufacturer has
established a significant presence in Japan through an acquisition of an existing Japanese
company. This acquisition strategically positions Asyst to meet Japan`s unique challenges and
opportunities, and affords us an increasingly strengthened platform for supporting and
attracting major semiconductor IC and equipment manufacturers.``

Josui Nashimoto noted, ``Asyst has already infused strength into the MECS organization. Our
cooperative efforts in joint product development, marketing and customer support for the
growing installed base of Asyst products in Japan, strengthens Asyst`s abilities to provide
Japanese IC and Equipment Manufacturers with the latest and most innovative US and
Japanese solutions.``

Except for statements of historical fact, the statements in this press release are
forward-looking. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could
cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include, but
are not limited to, general economic conditions, semiconductor industry cycles, risks
associated with the acceptance of new products and product capabilities and other factors
more fully detailed in the Company`s recent S-3 Registration Statement.


Anbei stand heute im neuen HSI, dass sich ASYST im Moment
kaum vor Auftraegen retten kann.
Na dann.....

LTT

[Stonies bull and bear]

Hallo LTT,

bin auch in Asyst, der HSI-Bericht hat mir gefallen
bin bei 53,-- rein...

bin leider nicht so gut in englisch....
könntest du das ganze mal in kurzfassung auf deutsch durchgeben?

wäre wirklich saunett von dir!!!

stonie

[LongTermTom]

Hi STONIE !

Im Grossen und Ganzen wird hier berichtet, dass ASYST
seinen Aktienanteil an MECS Corporation auf 79%
aufgestockt hat und damit Hauptaktionaer ist.
MECS ist einer der fuehrenden Firmen fuer Robotersysteme der
Halbleiterherstellung in Japan.
Der Sinn der Sache ist die Expansion und die direkte
Anwesenheit in Japan (Asien) die dadurch gefestigt wird.
Auch glaubt ASYST, dass man so seine fuehrende Position
gegenueber der Konkurenz aus Japan und den USA weiter ausbaut.

Ich hoffe, ich konnte Dir damit weiterhelfen.

Weiterhelfen koennte Dir vielleicht auch diese Website:
http://www.heisoft.de/translate/onlinetrans.cgi

Die Uebersetzung verursacht zwar Kopfschmerzen, aber
man kann das eine oder andere rauslesen.
Diese Uebersetzungsprogramme koennen in Zukunft eigentlich
nur besser werden.

Der auf die Zukunft hoffende
LTT

[LongTermTom]

Und noch ein Auftrag...

Wednesday March 29, 9:28 am Eastern Time

Company Press Release

Asyst Technologies Receives
Multimillion-dollar Order From SSMC

FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 29, 2000--Asyst
Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq NM: ASYT - news) today announced that it has received a
multimillion-dollar order from System on Silicon Manufacturing Co. Pte. Ltd (SSMC) in
Singapore for its fab-wide SMIF automation capability. SSMC is a Singapore-based
joint-venture company founded by Philips Semiconductor, Taiwan Semiconductor
Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and the Economic Development Board of Singapore.

The order includes Asyst`s SMIF-LPT(tm) (loadports, minienvironments) and
SMART-Tags(tm) (lot ID systems and wafer sorters), and is slated for installation at SSMC`s
Singapore fab in June 2000. SSMC will use the Asyst products in the production of SSMC
TriMedia (processors and other devices) for digital consumer applications. Volume
production at the Singapore fab is expected to commence by the end of the calendar year, with
full production capacity expected to be thirty thousand 200 mm wafers per month.

SSMC Chief Executive Officer Peter Yates noted that Asyst was selected based on the
company`s reputation for technical competence and leadership in advanced wafer isolation,
material handling and tracking technologies. ``Asyst`s technologies helps us eliminate critical
manufacturing problems, including wafer contamination and mishandling, which is crucial to
achieving our manufacturing goals,`` he said.

``We are pleased that SSMC has selected our factory automation solutions for their initial
fab,`` said Mihir Parikh, Asyst`s chairman and chief executive officer. ``We believe that
Southeast Asia is rapidly emerging as an important center for semiconductor manufacturing.
This order marks another key gain in our sales momentum in this strategic region --
capitalizing on the continued adoption of our wafer isolation and fab automation technologies
in the foundry market.``

Except for statements of historical fact, the statements in this press release are
forward-looking. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could
cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include, but
are not limited to, general economic conditions, semiconductor industry cycles, risks
associated with the acceptance of new products and product capabilities and other factors
more fully detailed in the Company`s recent S-3 Registration Statement.

About SSMC: Systems on Silicon Manufacturing Co. Pte Ltd is a joint venture of Philips
Semiconductor, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and the Economic
Development Board of Singapore (EDBI). SSMC is in the advanced semiconductor foundry
business with an investment of over $2 billion. Operations will commence in the second half
of 2000, with 0.25 micron moving quickly to 0.18-micron technology, to supply a large
volume of strategic and customized integrated circuits to the global market for a wide range of
applications -- telecommunications, information technology, multi-media, digital consumer
electronics and many more.

LTT

[LongTermTom]

Monday April 3, 4:02 pm Eastern Time

Company Press Release

Asyst Introduces Advanced Wafer
Transport Robot

New Axys 407 Atmospheric Robot Enables Improved
Reliability in Semiconductor Process Tools

FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 3, 2000--Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq
NM: ASYT - news) today unveiled the Axys(TM) 407, the latest addition to its family of
Axys wafer transfer robots.

Utilizing direct drive technology, the Axys 407 atmospheric robot achieves the versatility,
repeatability and reliability needed to withstand the rigorous manufacturing demands of
today`s advanced semiconductor process tools.

``The move in semiconductor fabs toward greater automation and the rising complexity in
manufacturing processes are placing increased pressure on original equipment manufacturers
(OEMs) to improve the performance and productivity of their tools,`` stated Dennis Riccio,
Asyst`s senior vice president of global customer operations. ``This, in turn, is driving the need
for more reliable robots to move wafers into and out of process tools as they are being
processed throughout the fab.``

Many older generation robots incorporate belt-and-pulley drive components that can wear and
slip, thereby failing to deliver the reliability required in today`s manufacturing environment.
Asyst`s Axys 407 robot is directly driven by a sealed-for-life gear system, which eliminates
maintenance downtime. In addition, the Axys 407 incorporates four major field-replacable
sub-assemblies that reduce the total parts count by up to a factor of five over older robot
designs. These features enable the Axys 407 to achieve a reliability of greater than 10 million
mean cycles before failure (MCBF), thus delivering the reliability and precision needed to
improve the performance of OEM tools both for existing and new applications.

Market research firm Dataquest estimates the market for robotics in semiconductor
manufacturing at $500 million and expects this segment to grow more than 30 percent over the
next two years. ``The addition of the Axys 407 will enable Asyst to service a broad range of
customer applications while offering a lower cost of ownership solution,`` added Riccio.
``Asyst is offering the Axys 407 as a drop-in replacement for one of the industry`s most
commonly used, previous-generation wafer transfer robots. We believe that this is the first
time that this type of offer has been made in the semiconductor equipment industry. In
addition, we are working closely with our customers to ensure our Axys platform is fully
integrated into their process tools to ensure a high level of performance.``

The Axys 407 robot is sub-class 1 cleanroom compatible and is capable of moving either 200
mm or 300 mm wafers from any position in a wafer cassette or carrier into a process station
or loadlock of any process tool. Its proprietary SmartCourse(TM) software allows the
operator to specify complex robotic motions and enables it to move wafers from two 300 mm
front opening unified pods (FOUPs) without the use of an expensive horizontal linear track.
The Axys 407 also serves as a critical component of Asyst`s PLUS(TM) Portal, the industry`s
first turnkey, tool-automation solution that enables seamless integration between OEM
production tools and advanced fab automation systems.

Axys 407 robots are currently being shipped and tested at major semiconductor equipment
OEM sites. Production deliveries are scheduled to begin in April 2000.

Except for statements of historical fact, the statements in this press release are
forward-looking. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could
cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include, but
are not limited to, general economic conditions, semiconductor industry cycles, risks
associated with the acceptance of new products and product capabilities and other factors
more fully detailed in the Company`s recent S-3 Registration Statement.


LTT

[LongTermTom]

Wow, sowas nenne ich volatil.
Im Intraday bis ca 33$ runter.
WAHNSINN !

Der schwitzende
LTT

[LongTermTom]

Monday April 24, 3:52 pm Eastern Time
Company Press Release
Asyst Technologies Receives 50th 300 mm OEM Design Win
FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 24, 2000--Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq NM: ASYT - news) today announced it has achieved a significant milestone--its 50th 300 mm OEM design win. As a result of this design win from Silicon Valley Group, Asyst`s 300 mm SMIF input/output system, the SMIF-300FL(TM), has been integrated into SVG`s ProCell(TM) deep ultraviolet (DUV) photoresist processing tool.

``SVG has more than 10 years of experience working with Asyst in integrating their isolation and automation technologies into our advanced lithography and photoresist processing tools,`` stated Boris Lipkin, president of SVG`s Track Systems Division. ``When integrated into our ProCell tool, Asyst`s SMIF-300FLs will increase the tool`s buffer capacity, the number of wafers that can be stored at one time, to 100 wafers. This will help to improve the throughput of the ProCell by improving utilization through reduced time for loading and unloading wafers.``

Asyst`s SMIF-300FL is designed to serve as an input/output device for loading wafers into the process tool, mapping the position of wafers and communicating with the host server. Its key features include built-in E-84 functionality--the automation communication standard used in the semiconductor industry, which reduces the software workload of the OEM tool supplier. The SMIF-300FL also includes reliable wafer mapping to ensure an accurate wafer count, as well as ensure that the wafers are properly seated in the SMIF-Pod(TM) before transferring the wafers to the process tool. In addition, the SMIF-300FL has a superior reliability of greater than 500,000 mean cycles before failure (MCBF).

``With an installed base of over 400 units worldwide, we believe that our SMIF-300FLs are recognized by OEM tool suppliers as key enablers to completing their bridge tool solutions,`` stated Mihir Parikh, Asyst`s chairman and chief executive officer. ``We believe that the success of our 300 mm offerings--including our SMIF-300FL, SMIF-Pod 300(TM) and Plus(TM) Portal products--demonstrates the increased market development and penetration for Asyst`s 300 mm technology for full-scale semiconductor manufacturing.``

Except for statements of historical fact, the statements in this press release are forward-looking. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions, semiconductor industry cycles, risks associated with the acceptance of new products and product capabilities and other factors more fully detailed in the Company`s recent S-3 Registration Statement.

About Silicon Valley Group: Silicon Valley Group (Nasdaq: SVGI - news) is a leading manufacturer of automated wafer processing equipment for the worldwide semiconductor industry. The company designs, manufactures and markets technically sophisticated equipment used in the primary stages of semiconductor manufacturing. Its products include photolithography exposure tools; photoresist processing equipment; oxidation, diffusion and low-pressure chemical vapor deposition processing systems; atmospheric pressure chemical vapor deposition systems and precision optical components and systems. For more information, visit http://www.svg.com


Natuerlich konnte sich auch ASYST der "Korrektur" nicht entziehen, aber bei all den guten News, ist es nur eine Frage der Zeit, wann sich der Kurs wieder deutlich Richtung Norden bewegen sollte.
Vorher wird er sich m. E. nach noch einige Zeit im Bereich zwischen 40-50$ aufhalten.
Auf Sicht von 12 Monaten sollten die o.g. Kursziele sicher erreichbar sein.

Der Kursziel erreichende
LTT

[LongTermTom]

Asyst Technologies shares pop

By Janet Haney, CBS MarketWatch
Last Update: 1:38 PM ET Apr 27, 2000 Silicon Stocks
Hardware Report

FREMONT, Calif. (CBS.MW) -- Asyst Technologies stock popped Thursday, after the company reported a whopping 403 percent increase in fourth-quarter sales, powered by demand for its 200 millimeter and 300mm products.




Asyst (ASYT: news, msgs), a maker of automation systems used in chipmakers` clean rooms, said late Wednesday that it earned $12.2 million, or 34 cents a share, minus non-recurring charges in the period. Analysts surveyed by First Call expected the Fremont, Calif. company to report results of 27 cents a share.

In the year-ago quarter, Asyst`s net loss was $7.5 million, or 32 cents per share.

Sales for the period hit $94 million, a major leap from the $18.7 million reached the year earlier. See statement.

"This coming quarter, ending June, will be very comfortably over $100 million," Chief Executive Officer Mihir Parikh, told CBS.MarketWatch.com, following the results. "We see a sequential growth rate [in revenue] around 30 percent."

Asyst stock advanced 3, or 6.9 percent, to 46 1/2 in recent trading.




Parikh added that increased level of adoption and acceptance of the company`s technology helped the fourth-quarter numbers, as did a boost in market share. The gain in market share was encouraged by the company`s wins in 200mm factories as well as its 300mm front-opening unified pod (FOUP) containers and its 300mm front-load interface product, he added. The company`s products help keep semiconductor makers` products free of contaminants.

Additionally, the 300mm FOUP is targeted to 300mm wafer fab customers and can support 0.18-micron devices.

The one-time charge of $3.2 million in the quarter was a result of the termination of a distribution relationship in Japan, as well as for in process research and development related to the company`s stake in Japanese robotics company, MECS Corp. Including the charge, Asyst earned $9.8 million, or 27 cents a share.

MECS will add $10 to $12 million a quarter to Asyst`s revenue, beginning with its first quarter, Parikh said.

Gross margin in the fourth quarter was 47 percent, from 45.9 percent in the year-ago period.


LTT

[LongTermTom]

Die Zahlen wurden im Amiland gut aufgenommen.
SK in USA 52,94$ mit einem Plus von 21,7%.

LTT

[LongTermTom]

Hier mal was neues, ein TV-Interview mit ASYSTs Ceo.

http://biz.yahoo.com/oo/000503/22977.html

Gruss
LTT

[LongTermTom]

Tuesday May 9, 6:30 am Eastern Time
Company Press Release
Asyst Technologies Introduces Industry`s First 200 mm Reticle SMIF-Pod
FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 9, 2000--Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq NM:ASYT - news) today introduced the industry`s first 200 mm Reticle SMIF-Pod(TM) (RSP). The 200 mm RSP is designed for automated handling, transport and storage of 6- and 9-inch reticles both within the mask shop and between the mask shop and the semiconductor fab.

Standard Mechanical InterFace (SMIF) technology is widely used for reticle and wafer management in semiconductor fabs due to its ability to isolate reticles and wafers from harmful contaminants and protect them from mishandling throughout the manufacturing process. Until now, however, mask shops have mainly been using shipper boxes--which have no automation capability--to store and transport 6- and 9-inch reticles. 150 mm reticle pods have been available on the market to transport and store 6-inch reticles, but cannot be modified to support 9-inch reticles due to physical size limitations. 200 mm wafer SMIF-Pods have been used in some cases to handle 9-inch reticle cassettes, but are too cumbersome to support single 9-inch reticles.

``As design rules shrink, contamination control is becoming ever more critical throughout all stages in the semiconductor manufacturing process. This is just as true for reticles as it is for patterned wafers,`` stated Dennis Riccio, Asyst Technologies` senior vice president of global customer operations. ``If undetected during the photolithography process, a damaged reticle can greatly impact device yield. This impact will be even greater when the industry transitions to 300 mm wafers, which contain twice as many chips as 200 mm wafers. Using SMIF technology, such as our new 200 mm RSP, for reticle management can help minimize yield loss due to reticle contamination or mishandling.``

The 200 mm RSP is a sealed container that maintains reticles in a better-than-Class 1 cleanroom environment and isolates the reticles from harmful contaminants. It is compatible with Asyst`s 200 mm SMIF I/O LoadPorts--enabling automated loading onto lithography tools without requiring manual handling. This minimizes the danger of reticle damage from particle contamination or electrostatic discharge (ESD). The 200 mm RSP also incorporates Asyst`s 200 mm Gen 4 Pod door latching mechanism and seal integrity, which evenly distributes force around the perimeter of the pod door, thus ensuring a secure seal between the door and top. In addition, the 200 mm RSP provides ``edge to the edge`` chamber reticle contact, which minimizes reticle movement inside the pod during transportation and shipment and prevents direct contact to the reticle surface. Other features of the 200 mm RSP include the incorporation of improved static dissipative materials and a low profile design that enables the pods to be stacked on top of one another, thus reducing footprint on the fab floor. The 200 mm RSP is also compliant with SEMI industry standards.

``The 200 mm RSP complements our existing line of reticle automation products, including reticle-handling robots, reticle sorters, automated ID systems and complete tool front ends,`` added Riccio. ``Utilizing these technologies, mask shops can realize the same SMIF technology benefits that have served chipmakers so well in increasing their wafer and device yields.``

200 mm RSPs are currently being shipped and beta-tested at customer sites. Production deliveries are expected to begin later this month.

Except for statements of historical fact, the statements in this press release are forward-looking. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions, semiconductor industry cycles, risks associated with the acceptance of new products and product capabilities and other factors more fully detailed in the Company`s recent 10-Q quarterly report on file with the SEC.

LTT

[LongTermTom]

Hi Leute !

Ich moechte hiermit nochmal auf ASYST aufmerksam machen, die sich seit Beginn dieses Threads recht negativ entwickelt haben.
Zwischendurch wurde meine Position, zum Glueck noch mit ein wenig Gewinn, ausgestoppt.

Der Kursrutsch ist ausser der schlechten Martlage auch auf ein Geruecht zurueckzufuehren, wonach ein Auftrag nicht zugeteilt worden sei. Dieses Geruecht wurde aber nicht bestaetigt.

Die letzte Ausgabe des HSI raet deher erneut zum Kauf, da dies fuer Interessierte eine zweite Chance bedeute.

Ich persoenlich habe ASYST derweilen auf meine Watchlist gesetzt und werde eine deutliche Bodenbildung abwarten.

Hier noch die letzten News, die ja lange genug haben auf sich warten lassen.



Monday June 19, 6:31 am Eastern Time
Company Press Release
Asyst Technologies, Inc. Provides Comment
FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 19, 2000--Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq NM: ASYT - news), today commented on recent rumors. Laura Guerrant, investor relations manager for Asyst, noted that it is the company`s policy not to respond to market activity. However, under certain circumstances, NASD guidelines suggest that companies respond to rumors which are likely to have, or have had, an effect on the trading of a company`s securities or would have an influence on investment decisions. Recently, rumors have circulated in the marketplace related to business relations between Applied Materials, Inc. (Nasdaq NM: AMAT - news) and Asyst. Ms. Guerrant noted, ``We are not aware of any material change in our relationship with Applied Materials. Nor do we anticipate any such change.``

Relations between Asyst and Applied Materials remain very strong. Order activity by Applied Materials for both 200 mm and 300 mm products has of late been increasing. In the fiscal year ending March 31, 2000, orders placed by Applied were around $10 million, and in the current quarter (ending June 30, 2000), bookings by Applied as of this date are running at an annualized rate which is over 250% of last year.
For fiscal year 2000, Applied Materials was one of Asyst`s top 20 customers world wide, and ranked among the top 3 OEM customers. Historically, OEM sales have represented approximately 35 percent of Asyst`s revenues.
Additionally, Asyst noted that general business conditions remain strong and that management is comfortable with current consensus street estimates for the fiscal year 2001 first quarter of $116 million in revenues and earnings per share before goodwill amortization of $0.39. Asyst will announce its fiscal first quarter results on July 19, 2000, after market close. Mihir Parikh, chairman and chief executive officer, commented, ``We believe this to be quite a milestone for both Asyst and the industry, as Asyst will be the first of the U.S.-based semiconductor automation companies to exceed $100 million in quarterly revenues.``

Parikh also noted that at the upcoming SEMICON West trade show in San Francisco, on July 10th Asyst will sponsor a 300 mm product briefing by a panel of industry experts which will include the chief executive officer of Lam Research Corp., the president of TSMC North America and the president of the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA).

Except for statements of historical fact, the statements in this press release are forward-looking. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions, semiconductor industry cycles, risks associated with the acceptance of new products and product capabilities and other factors more fully detailed in the Company`s recent 10-Q quarterly report on file with the SEC.



Asyst Technologies Inc ASYT FS Van Kasper from Hold
to Strong Buy http://biz.yahoo.com/c/20000619/u.html?asyt



Thursday June 22, 2:40 pm Eastern Time
Company Press Release
Asyst Receives Multimillion-dollar Order From Atmel Corporation
Atmel Order Marks the 75th Fab Worldwide to Utilize Asyst`s SMIF Technology in Semiconductor Manufacturing
SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 22, 2000--Atmel Corporation (Nasdaq:ATML - news) today announced that it has placed an order with Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq NM:ASYT - news) for fab-wide Standard Mechanical InterFace (SMIF) automation technology. The multimillion-dollar order includes Asyst`s SMIF-LPTs(TM) for transferring cassettes into and out of process equipment, SMART-Tags(TM) for wafer lot tracking, SMIF- Pod(TM) for encapsulating wafer cassettes, single-reticle pods and wafer sorters.

The Asyst products will be installed at Fab 8, Atmel`s first SMIF fab, located in Irving, Texas, beginning in August this year. Atmel will use the products in the manufacture of advanced Silicon Germanium (SiGe) , BiCMOS, radio frequency, non-volatile memory, microcontrollers and ASICs with 0.25- and 0.18-micron design rules. These devices will be used in consumer applications such as mobile phones, DVD players, PCs and servers.

Atmel Executive Vice President of Technology Tsung-Ching Wu noted that Asyst had been a supplier prior to this order, although their orders were exclusively for non-SMIF products such as wafer sorters and reticle pods. ``As we continue to manufacture more advanced integrated circuits (ICs), SMIF technology will become increasingly important to ensure the integrity of our wafers as they move through the various stages involved in semiconductor fabrication,`` stated Wu. ``Atmel recognized the need to integrate this technology into our manufacturing strategy. After looking at several potential suppliers, we chose Asyst, the pioneer in SMIF technology, because of their expertise and their strong regional support team.``

``This order marks the 75th fab worldwide to have purchased our SMIF wafer isolation and fab automation technologies,`` stated Dennis Riccio, Senior Vice President of Global Customer Operations. ``It is indicative of the industry`s continued strong acceptance of SMIF as an industry standard for increasing wafer yield and productivity. We are pleased that the strength of our relationship with Atmel over the past six years has culminated in this order, and look forward to this new expanded role in their manufacturing process.``

About Atmel: Founded in 1984, Atmel Corporation is headquartered in San Jose, California with manufacturing facilities in Colorado Springs, Colorado; Irving, Texas; Nantes and Rousset, France and Heilbronn, Germany. Atmel designs, manufactures and markets on a worldwide basis advanced logic, mixed-signal, non-volatile memory, and RF semiconductors. Atmel is also a leading provider of system level integration semiconductor solutions using advanced CMOS, BiCMOS, Bipolar and SiGe process technologies.

Atmel product and financial information can be retrieved from its Fax-on-Demand service. In North America call 1-[phone]. International, from a fax phone, call 1-[phone]. You can send your request via e-mail to [e-mail] or visit Atmel`s Web site at http://www.atmel.com



Wednesday June 28, 6:31 am Eastern Time
Company Press Release
Asyst Technologies Announces Increased Bookings for Wafer Sorters -- Greater Than 380 Percent Increase Sequentially
Company Attributes Increase to Success of Substrate Management System Platform, Launched Following PST Acquisition
FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 28, 2000-- Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:ASYT - news) today announced it has achieved a key milestone indicative of its growing presence in the wafer-sorter market.

On a quarter-to-quarter basis, Asyst experienced a 382-percent increase in bookings for wafer sorters for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2000 (ended March 31, 2000). The company attributes this growth in large part to the rapid adoption of its SMS(TM) (substrate management system) platform, launched last November based on technology acquired as part of Asyst`s purchase of Progressive System Technologies (PST) in June 1999. To date, Asyst`s SMS customers include industry leaders such as Chartered Semiconductor, First Silicon, Hewlett-Packard, KLA-Tencor, and System on Silicon Manufacturing Co.(SSMC).

The first generation of the SMS family of high-productivity wafer sorters, used by semiconductor device manufacturers to manipulate and identify wafers, is a 200mm, fully automated platform designed to ensure that wafers remain in a Class 0.1 environment during all fab process steps. By implementing this ``hands-off`` approach, manufacturers can reduce handling-induced scratches and contamination, as well as protect against misprocessing errors, thereby increasing yield. Asyst has also developed a 300mm version of the SMS platform, which the company anticipates will further strengthen its market position for wafer sorters.

``The SMS platform is Asyst`s first 100-percent vertically integrated wafer sorter, incorporating many of our key product technologies,`` said Mihir Parikh, Asyst chairman and chief executive officer. ``This is significant because SMS, which is typically the first tool to be delivered to a customer, is used to introduce new silicon into fabrication. As such, it represents even greater opportunities for Asyst to demonstrate its capabilities from both the product and customer support perspectives.``

Asyst products included in the SMS configurations include:


-- Axys(TM) 407 dual wafer-handling robot
-- Dual buffered wafer aligners
-- SMIF-300FL(TM) front-load Series 2 (S2) minienvironment
technology
-- SMART-Comm(TM) HS80 protocol converter
-- VersaPort(TM) 2200 load port opener
-- SMART-Tag(TM) ST-8400 microcomputer

SMS Helps Lower Overall COO

The SMS platform`s appeal to chip manufacturers has much to do with its contribution to reduced cost of ownership (COO). With its modular design, small footprint (2.66 ft. W x 3.71 ft. D) and high throughput (550 wafers per hour), Asyst`s SMS solution offers heightened tool utilization, which helps to lower overall system and fab COO. Installation of the SMS has also proven highly efficient, with an average time to install of less than one hour.

Asyst delivered its first SMS products at the end of April 2000. The company reports that additional deliveries to multiple fabs in Malaysia and Singapore are scheduled for June and July. To accommodate the dramatic increase in SMS sales, Asyst has boosted manpower at its Austin facility (formerly PST), which produces the SMS platform, by more than 30 percent.

Deliveries of the next-generation 300 mm SMS solution are expected to commence in July 2000. Asyst will debut the 300 mm version of the SMS platform in Booth No. 1338 at SEMICON West in San Francisco, Calif., July 10-12.



June 29, 2000

ASYST TECHNOLOGIES INC /CA/ (ASYT)
Annual Report (SEC form 10-K)
ITEM 7--Management`s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
http://biz.yahoo.com/e/000629/asyt.html

Gruss
LTT

[Laschi007]

Kurs 28,50


Tiefer gehts wohl nicht mehr(hoffe ich).Bin mit -40% gut im Rennen,was meint Ihr?

Interessietrt sich überhaupt jemand für diese Aktie?
Ich denke es ist Zeitpunkt gekommen diesen Thread wieder aufleben
zulassen.

Schreibt eure erfahrungen mit dieser Aktie, ich denke nicht das ich
der einzige (GEWINNER) bin.

Gruss an alle

[lecu68]

Hallo Laschi007,

ich habe mich entschlossen hier einzusteigen und habe mir paar ins Depot gelegt.
Asyst hat ja eigentlich Rekordzahlen vorgelegt aber, die Analysten Flüsterschätzungen konnten nicht erreicht werden.
Deshalb wurde die Aktie von ein paar Analysten abgestuft.

Jetzt mehren sich aber nach dem ein Großabschluß bekanntgegeben werden konnte die Analysten wieder zur Wort und erhöhen Ihre prognosen nach oben.

Die Gesellschaft ist Grundsolide und erwirtschaftet satte Gewinne. Auf Sicht von 12 Monaten erwarte ich Kurse um 60,- US$.

Auf jeden Fall dranbleiben.

lecu68

[Laschi007]

Hallo lecu68

Ich denke der Boden ist erreicht ,wenn der kurs sich etwas stabilisiert hat werde ich nachkaufen.

Übrigens ich habe euer Tread über Ventro verfolgt heutige kurs war
um die 15 euro.Glaubst du an eine Technischereaktion nach oben über
20 euro?

[lecu68]

Hallo,

ich glaube das Ventro für eine weile tot ist. Wenn der Kurs nochmals nachlässt werden so ziemlich alle aussteigen.

Asyst wurde von einem Analyst aufgestuft (name ist mir nicht bekannt). Auf jeden Fall ein plus von 7% Heute.

lecu68

[Laschi007]

Hallo



Nasdaq -3%

ASYST 0%

Wer jetzt nicht einsteigt ist selber schuld, der wert wartet nicht mehr lange, am Monntag werdet ihr mindestens 10% sehen oder DAUSEND.

Ich denke kurzfristig sind 50% drin.

Ich selbs habe bei 28,50 nachgekauft


servus.

[lecu68]

Hi,

ich habe zur Zeit kein Glück. Asyst geht Aktuell mit 9% minus in die Knie.

lecu68

[LongTermTom]

Hallo Leute !

Ich bin ja zur Zeit nicht in ASYST investiert, habe sie aber nach wie vor auf der Watchlist.

Analysten, wie schon weiter oben gepostet:

Asyst Technologies Inc ASYT FS Van Kasper from Hold
to Strong Buy http://biz.yahoo.com/c/20000619/u.html?asyt

Ausserdem:
Tucker Anthny Clry from Hold
to Strong Buy http://biz.yahoo.com/c/20000721/u.html?asyt

Irgendwo hab ich auch vor wenigen Tagen ein BUY oder STRONG BUY von Merrill Lynch mit Kz 60$ (waren ja schon mal 128$) gelesen.


Hier noch die letzten news:

Friday July 21, 6:30 am Eastern Time
Company Press Release
Anam Semiconductor Places Multimillion-Dollar Order With Asyst Technologies for SMIF and Minienvironment Products

Key Competitive Win Expands Korean Presence

FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 21, 2000--Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:ASYT - news) today announced that Anam Semiconductor, Inc. (Buchon, Korea) has placed a follow-on multimillion-dollar order for Asyst`s load-port transfer (LPT) system and minienvironment products. While the dollar value of the order was not disclosed, it represents significant additional Asyst products purchased by Anam following a November 1999 trial order and subsequent extensive evaluation. Asyst products selected by Anam include the Asyst-SMIF(TM) minienvironment system, the SMIF-LPT(TM) 2200, and the single-reticle SMIF-Pod(TM) 150mm.

Anam will implement Asyst`s technology in its existing fab, currently expanding to manufacture a wide range of semiconductors including advanced digital signal processors (DSPs), flash memory, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and telecommunications chips. Anam`s 67,000-square-foot clean room produces approximately 25,000 deep-submicron wafers per month, targeting 30,000 per month by the end of 2000.

According to Chul-Ho Shin, SMIF manager with Anam, ``We selected Asyst because of its technically superior products and extremely responsive and competent customer support team. We are pleased to have entered into our expanded relationship with Asyst, and we look forward to their continued assistance with our ongoing productivity and efficiency improvements that will allow us to expand our leadership role in the semiconductor foundry arena.``

J.K. Kim, director of Asyst Korea Co. Ltd., said, ``When we learned that Anam was seeking an alternative source for its minienvironment products, we offered our consulting services and provided evaluation installations designed to address their most critical issues. It was therefore quite rewarding for us to ultimately win their business, and we look forward to the continued growth of our relationship as Anam plans construction of its new fab.``

Except for statements of historical fact, the statements in this press release are forward-looking. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions, semiconductor industry cycles, risks associated with the acceptance of new products and product capabilities and other factors more fully detailed in the Company`s recent 10K quarterly report on file with the Securities Exchange Commission.

About Anam: Founded in 1970, Anam Semiconductor, Inc. officially entered the semiconductor fab industry in September 1996. Based in Buchon, Korea, Anam`s fab is equipped with a 0.25-micron production facility, which is currently being upgraded to take the fab to the 0.18-micron process level. By converting to mass production in 1998, Anam had an annual export capacity of more than $600 million. Anam expects its annual export capacity to grow to $1.8 billion by the end of 2000.





Tuesday July 25, 9:00 am Eastern Time
Individual Investor
Asyst Technologies: Riding the Chip Sector Boom



Analyst: David Peltier (07/25/00)

Signs that the chip cycle is in the early stages of a two to three year boom have lifted the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index (SOX) to a 53% return year-to-date. The rally has extended far beyond the 16 index members, as momentum investors have been clamoring to own any company involved in the sector.

But not all stocks related to the chip industry are doing well this year.

Asyst Technologies (NASDAQ: ASYT - news) saw its shares nearly double during the first three months of the year, only to lose all of the gains and more, dropping 57% from its high on March 27.

Asyst had the misfortune of being dragged down by the rip tide that sent almost all tech stocks into the drink. But when the chip sector started recovering over the last couple of months, its shares were overlooked. Investors were more than willing to get back into the large-cap chip names like Intel (NASDAQ: INTC - news) and Texas Instruments (NYSE: TXN - news) . But Asyst, given its market cap of under $900 million, was easy to overlook.

We think that`s about to change.

At Monday`s closing price of $27, the stock trades at only 14.3 times the $1.89 per share that the Street expects Asyst to earn in its March 2001 fiscal year. This looks especially cheap versus the 24% annual growth expected by Wall Street analysts over the long-term.

Last week, the company reported June fiscal first quarter earnings of $0.49 per share, a full dime ahead of estimates. This marks the fourth consecutive quarter that Asyst beat the Street.

The company makes automation products that facilitate the chip-making process. Asyst`s Standard Mechanical InterFace (SMIF) units provide a safe and clean working environment for companies that manufacture 200mm (8``) wafers.

Management says it has a market share of 80% to 90% in this industry, and it believes it will hold on to a lot of this business as the market moves towards 300mm wafers.

Asyst just introduced its FastTrack system for the 300mm products, and the company claims to have already received a lot of interest from potential customers.

Sales came in at $124 million, which was in-line with estimates and 32% sequentially better than the March quarter. This is the first quarter that Asyst topped $100 million in sales.

Other management goals include 50% annual revenue growth by the end of 2001. The company is already dominant in its market, and chief executive Mihir Parikh is confident that Asyst will continue to see its order sizes increase.

In a recent statement, Parikh noted that companies that used to buy $25 million in equipment are now making $40 million purchases, and he sees ``$75 million orders ahead.``

The earnings leverage was helped by a 380 basis point increase in the gross margin and lower research and development spending. This new leverage to the business model is seen as sustainable, and has led the Street to ratchet up their full-year EPS estimates.

Record bookings in the first quarter set the company up nicely for the near future, and should allow Asyst to post another double-digit sequential revenue gain. The company finished the June quarter with a book-to-bill ratio just above 1.1.

As for the semiconductor industry peak recently called by Salomon Smith Barney analyst Jonathan Joseph, Asyst continues to receive healthy business from customers in all global regions.

The company absolutely dominates in Asia, where it receives about 56% of its total sales. In fiscal 2000 the company`s largest customer was Taiwan Semiconductor, and Asyst has strong ties with most of the Asian capital equipment makers.

The company`s rock-solid balance sheet is anchored by $124 million, $3.50 per share, in cash and marketable securities, and it sports only $5.4 million in long-term debt. Both accounts receivable and inventory grew at a slower pace than sales, and the company fired off a secondary offering of stock last November to gain enough working capital for the near-term.

Bottom Line:

This stock has been oversold given its fundamentals. We believe Asyst will continue to benefit as the industry upgrades its equipment, and investors will likely prosper over the next year by investing at these levels.





Charttechnisch befindet sich der Kuers gerade an einer Unterstuetzung, die m.E.(bei weiterhin schwacher NASDAQ) nach unten durchbrochen werden koennte, so, dass es noch auf die 20$ zugehen kann.
Aber das bleibt natuerlich noch abzuwarten.

Ich warte weiterhin auf eine Bodenbildung.

Gruss
LTT

[lecu68]

Asyst aht bei schwacher Nasdaq 4% verloren. Aktuell jahrestiefstand.
lecu68

[Laschi007]

Hi lecu68,

Ich will hoffen es wird kein zweites VENTRO.
Ich habe bereits -50% . sitze seid 2 Monaten im Minus
Was glaubt ihr soll ich jetzt noch stoploss einsetzen?

Ich will hier keine Panik verbreiten aber ich habe doch tatsächlich
geglaubt das es nicht weiter runter geht.

Kann es sein das die Aktie einfach OUT ist? Das sich keiner dafür
interessiert.

Für den Thread hier anscheinend nicht.

Mfg.
Der Einsameinvestor

[lecu68]

Hi,

einen Stopp-Loss solltest Du generell bei jeder Aktie setzen. Manchmal ist man von den Fundamentaldaten so überzeugt, dass man die Aktie nicht mehr verkaufen will.
Was sich im nachhinein als Fehler herausstellt (siehe bei mir Ventro).
Wenn mein Stop-Loss erreicht ist werde ich Asyst verkaufen. Etwas Luft habe ich noch.

lecu68

[Sailer9782]

hi Ihr!!!

Ich bin auch mit 56€ rein und habe sogar bei 30€ nochmal nachgekauft.
Ich glaube noch fest an die Aktie. Wartet mal den lauen August noch ab. Das Unternehmen ist Spitze possitioniert und im Herbst werden die Karten wieder neu gemischt. Ich glaube ohne Übertreibung das wir Ende des Jahres bei 80€ stehen werden.

Tschau und viel Glück alles Asysties!!!

[lecu68]

dein Wort in Gottes ohr.

inzwischen habe ich durch die Verluste recht kleine position. verkaufen lohnt sich nicht mehr.

Asyst Tech. bleibt im Depot.

lecu68

[Laschi007]

Hallo ASYSTENTEN

Ich habe für euch einen neuen wert, der zur Zeit unterdrückt wird
WKN:925938

Ich selbst hatte mit dieser Aktie, die Softwahre für Email herstellt
vor nicht allzulanger Zeit 50% verdient.

Nun hat die Aktie fast Jahrestief erreicht, nach Bodenbildung erwarte ich schnelle Erholung.

Leider kenne ich keine details(empfehlungen,Quartalszahlen)da ich noch nicht sogut im suchen bin,und kein Englisch kann. Und im Thread zu diesem Wert sind auch keine neue einträge vorhanden.Doch schaut
euch mal den Chart an.

Kommentare erwünscht

Mfg
Laschi007

[lecu68]

man o man,

jetzt sackt der Kurs wirklich nochmal um 20% ab.

[Laschi007]

Diese sch... Aktie werde ich in meinem gansen Leben nicht vergessen!!!

Es war eine bittere Lehre über STOPLOSS.

Nun weiter, weiss jemand warum die so abgekakt ist?
würde für jeden hinweis dankbar sein.

Mfg.
Laschi007

[LongTermTom]

Hi LASCHI !

Der gestrige Kursrutsch mit ca. 16$ im Intraday, ist auf ein Geruecht zurueckzufuehren, in dem ein Analyst (Name entfallen) meinte, das Gewinnwachstum im Sektor Chipmaschinen und Anlagenbau wuerde sinken.
(Quelle: Bloomberg)

Gleich nach Boersenbeginn ging es aber wieder stetig nach oben und ASYST haelt sich auch heute wieder in der 20$ Unterstuetzungszone.

Ich denke, dass sich dort auch ein Boden bilden wird von dem es in diesen sehr volatilen Tagen auch kurzfristig mal wieder nach oben gehen koennte.

Gruss
LTT

[prudent_investor]

Hi Asyster,

hier ein kleiner Kommentar zu ASYT aus meiner Sicht:
Die gesamte Branche der Ausrüster von Chipfabriken betreibt ein stark zyklisches Geschäft. Zur Zeit hat der Markt beschlossen, daß der Zyklus zu Ende ist. Kleinere Firmen wie ASYT fallen dann schnell und tief, größere wie AMAT, KLAC, NVLS und TER nicht ganz so schnell und meist auch nicht ganz so tief. Aber sie fallen alle, obwohl die Fundamentaldaten so wunderschön sind. Der Markt riecht den Abschwung bereits viele Monate gegen den Wind. Und jetzt will natürlich kein Fondsmanager diese Werte mehr im Depot haben. Für alle kurzfristigen Trader sei gesagt, daß ASYT noch tiefer fallen kann. Orientierung bietet hier der Buchwert der Aktie (derzeitiger Umsatz und Gewinn sagen leider nicht viel aus, weil stark schwankend). Beim letzten großen Zyklus-Tiefpunkt war ASYT ungefähr zum Buchwert zu haben (~3$ nach Split im Herbst 98). Folglich ist für mich jetzt der worst case für diese Aktie ein Fall bis 8$.
Soweit zum worst case... Generell kann man sagen, daß die Branche auch in den nächsten Jahren ihr Geschäft steigern wird. Grund hierfür ist der stark wachsende Bedarf an Halbleitern in der Telekommunikation und in der Automobilindustrie. Auch das PC-Geschäft wird weiter, wenn auch nicht mehr so stark wachsen. In anderen Worten: der nächste Zyklus kommt bestimmt (vielleicht ist er auch noch gar nicht richtig vorbei?). Wichtig ist es, innerhalb der Branche die Firmen zu finden, die das größte Wachstumspotenzial haben. Applied Materials ist hier bisher das Maß aller Dinge. Sie sind Marktführer und sind bisher aus jeder Krise gestärkt herausgekommen (unschwer zu erkennen am Langfristchart). Interessant ist das Geschäft von ASYT. Ohne ins technische Detail gehen zu müssen, liegt es auf der Hand, daß der zunehmende Druck auf die Herstellungskosten bei den Halbleiterherstellern immer mehr automatisierte Prozesse in einer Chip-Fabrik erfordert. Neben ASYT verdienen auch PRIA und BRKS als reinrassige Automatisierungsfirmen ihr Geld. BRKS hat übrigens vor einiger Zeit den Bereich INFAB von Jenoptik gekauft. INFAB steht in direkter Konkurrenz zu ASYT.
Längerfristig gesehen (2-3 Jahre) würde ich Firmen wie ASYT, BRKS und PRIA jetzt kaufen. Die Hälfte des Geldes würde ich aber noch zurückhalten. Vielleicht kommen ja noch bessere Einstiegsmöglichkeiten.

Gruß
prudent_investor

[lecu68]

@prudent_investor
ja,

soll das jetzt von dir eine Kauf- oder Verkaufsempfehlung sein?
Wie jetzt?

Warum jetzt mit der Hälfte des Geldes einsteigen, wenn die Aktie bis auf 8US$ fallen kann? Was für ein KGV hast Du dann? Vielleicht 3-4.

"Der nächste Zyklus kommt bestimmt. Vielleicht ist er noch nicht vorbei". Eine tolle Reschersche!

Fakt ist das Asyst Fundamental zu niedrig bewertet wird. Nach meiner Ansicht ist hier nur noch ein Rückschlagspotential (wenn überhaupt)bis auf 15 US$ da.
Die sollte man aber unbedingt zum Einstieg nutzen.

Aktuell Kurs bei 21,90 Euro und KGV auf Basis 2001 bei 9,5

Bei konservativer Ertragslage, würde das KGV immer noch auf Basis 2001 bei lächerliche 8-9 sein (wenn Kurs bei 15US$).
Bedenke das die Konkurrenz bei Aktuellem Niveau KGV über 20 ist.

lecu68

[prudent_investor]

Hi lecu68,

hiermit setze ich ASYT auf Strong Buy. Mein Kursziel ist 80$. Den zyklischen Tiefpunkt der Branche erkläre ich hiermit für erreicht. Zufrieden?

Spaß beiseite, ich bin kein Analyst.

98 habe ich mir auch ab und zu die Messageboards bei Yahoo und SiliconInvestor durchgelesen, da gab es immer viele Aussagen wie Deine nach dem Motto: das KGV ist lächerlich niedrig, die Aktie hat bei soundso Dollar ihren Boden gefunden und ist ein klarer Kauf. Letztendlich ist die Aktie von Herbst 97 bis Herbst 98 von ca.45$ bis ca. 6$ (vor Split) abgeschmiert. Das KGV war erst verdammt niedrig, aber im Endeffekt hat ASYT einige Quartale sogar Verluste gemacht. Ich wollte nur aufzeigen, wie tief es gehen könnte und daß man sich nicht so an die derzeitigen fundamentalen Daten klammern sollte.
Richtig ist, daß beispielsweise BRKS und PRIA zur Zeit (noch) höher bewertet sind als ASYT.
Was den Teilkauf betrifft: das mache ich meistens so. Meine Erfahrung lehrt, daß man den Tiefpunkt sowieso nie trifft. Wenn Du das immer schaffst: Gratulation.

[lecu68]

Hallo prudent_investor,

das man den tiefstpunkt selten erreicht stimmt. Ich ärgere mich nur deswegen, das die Analysten die Aktie runterstufen und dann nach 2 Wochen das Kursziel anzuheben.

Auf welche Kriterien soll man sich denn noch orentieren? Wenn nicht nach Marktkapitalisierung, KGV, Umsatz, GuV usw.

Ich verstehe das ganze nicht mehr.

lecu68

[prudent_investor]

Natürlich sollte man sich immer Umsatz und Gewinn anschauen. Wichtig ist, daß das Unternehmen in jeden Zyklus Umsatz und Gewinn kräftig steigert und keine Marktanteile verliert. Allerdings steigert sich der Gewinn nicht so gleichmäßig wie z.B. bei Topfirmen wie CSCO oder EMC. Auch in der Halbleiter-Equipment Branche gibt es viele gute Firmen, allen voran AMAT, nur alle sind diesen Investitionszyklen ausgesetzt. Dies bedeutet, daß es immer wieder Zeiten gibt, in denen auch gute Firmen weniger verdienen bzw. kurzzeitig sogar Verluste machen. Langfristig gesehen wachsen sie trotz dieser ständigen Berg- und Talfahrt mit über 30% pro Jahr. Selbst für langfristig orientierte Investoren ist das manchmal etwas nervenaufreibend, wenn der Depotwert so stark schwankt. Vorteil dieser Volatilität ist, wenn man seine Investitionen an diesen Zyklen orientiert, kann man seine Performance im Vergleich zum durchnittlichen Wachstum in dieser Branche noch steigern. Eine Orientierung hierfür war schon genannt: der Buchwert. In schlechten Zeiten fällt die Börsenkapitalisierung gerade bei kleineren Firmen wie ASYT schnell mal unter Buchwert. In Hochzeiten erreicht dieses Verhältnis auch mal einen zweistelligen Wert - ein deutliches Zeichen, daß die Luft dünner wird.
Ein weiterer Anhaltspunkt sind Aktienkäufe bzw. -verkäufe von Insidern. Hier z.B. die letzten Insiderverkäufe seit Oktober 99 bei ASYT:
Okt 99 -
Nov 99 -
Dez 99 -
Jan 00 3,04 Mill. $
Feb 00 15,39 Mill. $
Mär 00 8,29 Mill. $
Apr 00 -
Mai 00 0,27 Mill. $
Jun 00 -
Jul 00 -
Insider (in erster Linie leitende Manager) haben hier recht gut erkannt, daß die Börse ASYT im Feb/Mar dieses Jahres historisch gesehen sehr hoch bewertet hat. Allein der CEO Mihir Parikh hat im März für 7.8 Mill. $ Aktien verkauft.
Diese Informationen über Insiderverkäufe bzw. -käufe kann man auch dank einer schärferen Gesetzgebung in den USA im Vergl. zu Deutschland kostenlos und recht zeitnah über das Internet bekommen.
Ein weiterer Orientierungspunkt sind Kapitalerhöhungen und Aktienrückkäufe. Gerade ASYT hat es in der Vergangenheit sehr gut verstanden, das Kapital in guten Zeiten zu erhöhen und in Tiefpunkten Aktien zurückzukaufen. Auch eine gute Möglichkeit, das shareholder value zu erhöhen.

[veit01]

Ich habe deinen Beitrag zu diesem Thema sehr ausmerksam gelesen.

Da ich noch ein ziemlichen Neuling in dem Börsengeschäft bin, hätte ich ein bitte an Dich !!!
Mail mir doch bitte die Internet-Adressen der Insider-Informationen zurück, daß ich mich auch etwas genauer über das Börsengeschäft informieren kann.

Vielen Dank im vorraus


sveit01

[prudent_investor]

www.insidertrader.com
oder auch
http://finance.yahoo.com/ ->Kürzel für entsprechende Aktie eingeben und dann unter Insider

Habe dabei selbst gerade festgestellt, daß auch noch im Juni Insider bei ASYT Aktien verkauft haben. Diese wurde erst ab 15.8. angezeigt. Hierbei ist mir noch nicht so ganz klar, wie zeitnah diese Trades veröffentlicht werden, bzw. wie da die Gesetzgebung ist.

[lecu68]

Heute bis dto. plus 20%

ciau, ciau
lecu68

[LongTermTom]

August 14, 2000

ASYST TECHNOLOGIES INC /CA/ (ASYT)
Quarterly Report (SEC form 10-Q)
- Management`s Discussion and Analysis of Results of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Quartalsbericht vom 14.8.00
Da es mir zum posten zu viel war, hier der Link.

http://biz.yahoo.com/e/000814/asyt.html

Gruss
LTT

[the gruen]

hi alle miteinand,
schätze mal, daß die meisten von euch die randnotitz in der aktuellen wirtschaftswoche gelesen haben. Deshalb hier nur kurz der schlußsatz des artikelchens. "Die AKtie wird mit einem 2001er-KGV von knapp zehn bewertet -ein im Branchenvergleich absolutes Sonderangebot. Aufträge limitieren!" [WiWo Nr. 35; 24.08.00 S.185]
über die WiWo mag man nun denken was man mag (ich lese sie jedenfalls wegen des unterhaltungswertes ), aber es ist schön wieder einmal ein kleines fizelchen über asyst zu lesen. vielleicht (hoffentlich) hat die WiWo mit Ihrer Sternebewertung ja recht (5 für Chance und 3 für risiko).
übrigens finde ich diesen thread ziemlich gut und informativ. kompliment an euch alle. wünschte, es würden sich mehr leute im WO-Board darauf beschränken zu informieren.
alles jute noch,
the gruen

[LongTermTom]

@the gruen
Danke fuer die Infos.
Ich lese die Wiwo auch nur sehr selten und kannte den Artikel daher nicht.


Friday, August 25, 2000

Merrill bullish on MTCH
--11:48 am - By Michael Baron
Positive comments from Merrill Lynch are giving Metron Technology (MTCH: news, msgs) a lift Friday. The shares are adding 2 1/16, or 21.9 percent, to 11 1/2, in early action. Merrill analyst Brett Hodess reiterated his "buy" rating on the company with a $22 price target. "Our checks indicate that Metron should very comfortably reach or exceed our first fiscal quarter (August) EPS of $0.25 vs. $0.20 in the previous quarter and $0.08 a year ago," writes Hodess in ressearch note issued this morning. "We believe that the company has equipment bookings visibility for the next two quarters while materials backlog continues to increase." Hodess also offered some bullish comments on Asyst Technologies (ASYT: news, msgs) while reiterating a "buy" rating on the company. "Our mid-quarter check on Asyst reinforces our comfort with our $0.52 EPS before goodwill estimate vs. $0.49 Q/Q and $0.05 Y/Y," Hodess says. "Orders are particularly strong from Japan, with robotics and 300mm related demand also high. 300mm could account for 5% of sales this quarter." Asyt is jumping 1 5/16, or 5.1 percent, to 27 1/16, in midday action.

http://www2.marketwatch.com/pulse/pulseone.asp?source=blq/yh…

Gruss
LTT

[prudent_investor]

Hier eine paar Gründe von Lehman Brothers, warum der Zyklus noch nicht zu Ende ist:

Why Lehman Bros.` White says
equipment cycle is not ending
NEW YORK--After Kulicke & Soffa scared the heck out of investors and spurred a run on semiconductor equipment maker stock early in August, Lehman Bros. analyst Edward C. White came out with his 10 reasons why this industry would continue to grow.

There is a huge amount of demand for electronic equipment, White points out, fueled by DVD players, digital cameras and camcorders, information appliances, and PCs. "A major downturn in semiconductor equipment would be unlikely in [such] a climate of very strong electronics demand," he says.

Capacity shortages still abound across the entire electronics industry, the analyst insists. It will take a lot of time to turn this situation into a glut of electronics, he says. The semiconductor industry is "fundamentally healthy," he says. Unit volumes are still rising, pricing trends are normal, and there doesn`t appear to be large inventory accumulations of chips, he adds.

The capacity expansion cycle in the U.S. and Japan is just beginning, White notes. "The amount of new chip capacity that is coming on line [now] is limited," he says. And equipment utilization rates are still high, he adds.

If the industry was coming to the end of a cycle, there would be a flood of order cancellations for chip gear, he maintains. No such thing is happening, he adds, and chip makers are trying to accelerate their equipment deliveries.

Chip expansion projects are still being added, White notes, they`re not being delayed or canceled.

Finally, a new semiconductor manufacturing technology up-cycle is just beginning, he points out. Three major events will happen next year, he says: the move to 300-mm wafers, the move to copper processing, and the move to volume manufacturing at 0.13-microns. All three have been planned for some time, and it is unlikely hey will be postponed unless there is a great deal of industry turmoil. All three of these events, he adds, will involve the purchase of a significant amount of high priced equipment.


Wenn alles oben genannte zutrifft, könnte Asyst wieder langsam die alten Höchststände erreichen. Voraussetzung ist, daß der gesamte High-Tech-Aktienmarkt gut läuft (und der ist meiner Meinung immer noch recht hoch bewertet).

Und noch eine aktuelle Nachricht: TSMC hat gestern verkündet, daß ihre gesamten Kapazitäten in der Halbleiterfertigung bis Ende 2001 bereits ausgebucht sind. TSMC ist die größte Wafer-Foundry in der Welt und bester Kunde von ASYT. Hier der Link:
http://www.semibiznews.com/story/OEG20000829S0071

[Laschi007]

Asyst Technologies nachkaufen Datum : 07.08.2000
Zeit :16:46


Die Analysten des Börsenbriefes Hot Stocks Investor empfehlen die Aktien
der Asyst Technologies (WKN 890407) nachzukaufen.
Bei Asyst Technologies sei es im Rahmen der Ergebnisvorlagen sogar zu
positiven Überraschungen gekommen, die verschiedene Analysten zu einer
Anhebung ihrer Gewinnschätzungen veranlasst hätten. Bei Merrill Lynch sei
Brett Hodess jetzt der Ansicht, Ayst würde im laufenden Geschäftsjahr 2001
(bis Ende März) 2,15 USD pro Aktie verdienen, in 2002 dann bereits 2,65
USD. Auf Basis dieser Gewinnschätzungen würde die Aktie gegenwärtig zu
Kursen von 22,25 Euro mit einem Kurs-Gewinn-Verhältnis von 8,4 gehandelt.
Das Kursziel dagegen auf 60 USD gesteckt.

Die Experten von Hot Stocks Investor sehen nach wie vor keine Veranlassung
für diese niedrige Bewertung.




Ich bleibe long

[LongTermTom]

Tuesday September 5, 6:30 am Eastern Time
Press Release
Asyst Puts New Fab Transport System On the Fast Track With Multimillion-Dollar Customer Win
Atmel Selects FasTrack System for Full-Fab Implementation in Texas
FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 5, 2000--Less than two months after unveiling its new FasTrack(TM) automated fab transport system at SEMICON West 2000, Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:ASYT - news), the world`s largest semiconductor fab automation company, today announced its first FasTrack customer. Atmel Corporation (Nasdaq:ATML - news; San Jose, Calif.) has placed a multimillion-dollar order for a fabwide implementation of the advanced FasTrack system at its Fab 8 facility in Irving, Texas, which produces advanced nonvolatile memories and microcontrollers on 200mm wafers. Installation is slated for full completion in 2001.

Atmel`s selection of the FasTrack system, designed to efficiently transport and protect valued semiconductor wafers throughout the entire manufacturing process, represents the first U.S. installation of continuous-flow transport (CFT) technology for a fab automated material handling system (AMHS), as well as a follow-on order for Asyst. Earlier this year, Atmel purchased a full complement of Asyst Standard Mechanical InterFace (SMIF) products for Fab 8, including SMIF-LPTs(TM) for transferring cassettes into and out of process equipment, SMART-Tags(TM) for wafer lot tracking, and SMIF pods for encapsulating wafer cassettes and single-reticle pods.

Said Dr. T.C. Wu, Atmel`s senior vice president and chief technology officer, ``We are very impressed with the Asyst FasTrack technology. We believe it offers a powerful combination of features unavailable anywhere else -- high throughput, high capacity and small footprint, as well as flexibility and predictable performance. FasTrack will be essential to helping Atmel ensure that Fab 8 remains state-of-the-art in every sense, both now and in the future.``

Dennis Riccio, Asyst`s senior vice president of global customer operations, noted, ``The Atmel FasTrack order is a huge win for us. It`s a full-fab implementation of our newest product line -- one that is fully optimized for future 300mm manufacturing and yet applicable today to 200mm. The order highlights our technology`s key competitive advantages, and, more importantly, it validates the success of our existing relationship with Atmel. We believe that Atmel`s satisfaction with our SMIF technology led to their interest in FasTrack as a critical component for a full, fabwide automation solution.``

FasTrack, built from the ground up to conform to Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International (SEMI) interoperability standards, is a key component of Asyst`s ``Value Assured Fab`` strategy, which leverages isolation, robotics, tracking, software automation and transport technology to protect the integrity of semiconductor wafers and reticles throughout the entire integrated circuit (IC) fabrication process. FasTrack`s unique, open architecture addresses multiple transport challenges while seamlessly integrating interbay and intrabay transport systems to improve fab equipment utilization. The system`s ability to move hundreds of carriers independently and simultaneously provides customers with high capacity, short and predictable delivery times and worry-free capability to ramp the fab`s output. Its modular design gives customers the ability to easily expand the system, add vicinity loading stations and interface to intrabay systems.

FasTrack`s capabilities are designed to help decrease AMHS capital costs by approximately 25 percent and improve the speed and predictability of transport delivery by as much as 50 percent. As a result, FasTrack is ideal for fabs in which automation is essential for every lot at every step of production.

The management of Asyst Technologies will host a conference call with the investment community, the media and the general public to discuss the opportunities provided by this customer win. Call details: Wednesday, September 6, 9:00 a.m. Pacific Time/12:00 p.m. Eastern Time. All interested participants may call in to: 800/276-6308 or 303/205-0033.

About Atmel: Founded in 1984, Atmel Corporation is headquartered in San Jose, Calif., with manufacturing facilities in Colorado Springs, Colorado; Irving, Texas; Nantes and Rousset, France and Heilbronn, Germany. Atmel designs, manufactures and markets on a worldwide basis advanced logic, mixed-signal, non-volatile memory, and RF semiconductors. Atmel is also a leading provider of system level integration semiconductor solutions using advanced CMOS, BiCMOS, Bipolar and SiGe process technologies.

Gruss
LTT

SK in USA 26$ +5,85%

[Laschi007]

Hallo LTT

Würdest du bitte so Nett sein mir dein letztes Posting in Paar Worten
übersetzen ?(Nur was ASYST betrift versteht sich)

Vielen Dank!!!

[LongTermTom]

ASYST vermeldete fuer das neue "Fab Transport System" den ersten Kunden.
AMTEL zeigte sich von diesem System sehr beeindruckt.

Das wars eigentlich schon.

Fuer alles weitere hilft Dir vielleicht auch die Online-Uebersetzung weiter.

Klick auf
http://www.heisoft.de/translate/onlinetrans.cgi, dann diese URL einfuegen:
http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/000905/ca_asyst_p.html
und auf uebersetzen klicken.

Heisoft uebersetzt Dir dann die ganze Site.

Falls Dir das nicht reicht, dann melde dich nochmal.

Gruss
LTT

[Laschi007]

Asyst bei schlechter Nasdaq -8%. Gelegenheit zum nachkauf?
bin durch Stop-Loss bei 29 raus.Am nächsten Tag bin bei 30 wieder rein
so ein Pech.



Hi LTT

Danke für Übersetzung und den Link, ich wußte garnicht das es so etwas gibt.Habe mir die Seite gleich zu den Favoriten hinzugefügt.Werde in Zukunft viel
leichter haben.

Allerdings hat es am Sonntag nicht funktioniert, ich probiere noch mal
am Werktag.

Dankeschööön!!
Laschi007

[LongTermTom]

Ich weiss ja nicht bei welchem Kurs Du eingestiegen bist, wuerde aber, haette ich die Aktie, den Stopp nicht zu eng setzen.

Charttechnisch sehe ich Moment schon eine Gelegenheit zum Nachkauf, sollte allerdinds das letzte Tief nicht halten, koennte es noch auf ca. 15$ runtergehen.
Spaetestens beim erreichen des letzen Tiefs koennte man auf einen Doppelboden spekulieren.

Das sollte aber, sieht man die fundamentalen Daten, nicht passieren.
Da die Chipindustrie auf immer neue Fertigungsverfahren angewiesen ist, sollte ASYST, nicht nur mit dem neuen System, Erfolg haben.

Ich selbst habe mich, obwohl ASYST nach wie vor sehr interessant ist auf andere Segmente fokussiert, werde aber diesen Thread weiterhin verfolgen und ggf. News posten.

Gruss und viel Erfolg
LTT

[Glesi]

Hi alle zusammen, hat jemand eine Ahnung wo ich Asyst im Videotext z. B. über N-TV verfolgen kann? Habe schon alle möglichen Seiten durchgesucht, finde aber nichts. Bin neu eingestiegen bei diesen niedrigen Kursen, hoffenlich lohnt es sich. Wäre dankbar für Nachricht, bis dann...........

Glesi

[LongTermTom]

Tuesday September 12, 9:20 am Eastern Time
Press Release
Asyst Features Broad Range of 300mm Products At SEMICON Taiwan 2000
Company Also Announces Expanded Presence in Region
TAIPEI, Taiwan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 12, 2000--Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq NM: ASYT - news), the world`s largest semiconductor fab automation company, today announced it will feature a wide range of its advanced products -- with a strong emphasis on 300mm offerings -- at this week`s SEMICON Taiwan 2000 exposition. Asyst will introduce to the Taiwan market its new FasTrack(TM) automated fab transport system designed specifically for transporting 300mm wafers, and will offer in-person demos of other key products optimized for the 300mm era. Among these will be the Asyst Plus(TM) Portal automated front end, the SMS(TM) (substrate management system) automated wafer management tool, and the SMIF-Pod(TM) front-opening unified pod (FOUP).

To further bolster already strong relationships with its customers in this important region, Asyst has recently expanded its local presence via two new offices. The company has moved its Taiwan headquarters to a larger space in Hsin-Chu City (10,000 square ft), offering greatly increased storage and product demonstration capacity. In addition, Asyst has opened an office in Tainan City, close to the new and rapidly growing Tainan Science Industrial Park (TSIP), to provide enhanced service and support to customers with facilities there. This includes Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), which earlier this year purchased a complete Standard Mechanical InterFace (SMIF) system solution intended for TSMC`s Fab 6, the first fab to be built at TSIP, and other new fabs planned in the new area.

Said Kenneth Leung, Asyst vice president, Asia-Pacific operations, ``Taiwan has rapidly developed as a key market for Asyst. We currently hold a significant majority of the available market for automation products in the region. We have achieved this success by working very hard to develop close customer relationships based on mutual trust, strategic development programs, and an in-depth understanding of customer needs. As a result, we have direct access to the technology decision-makers, with whose input we are able to customize our products to meet those needs. With the rapid onset of the 300mm era, we look forward to continuing partnerships with our customers in this vital region.``

Asyst Products Featured at SEMICON Taiwan

FasTrack Wafer Transport System - FasTrack represents Asyst`s entry into the wafer fab transport market. Designed specifically for interbay and intrabay transport of 300mm wafers throughout the fab, FasTrack is based on continuous-flow transport technology, which is designed to be faster, more flexible and more cost-effective than car-based systems. A video demo of this new system -- for which Asyst has already received initial orders -- will be shown in Asyst`s booth.
Plus Portal 300mm - The Plus Portal is a complete, turnkey front-end solution for OEM tools. An outgrowth of Asyst`s work with chipmakers to design powerful interfaces between production equipment and SMIF/minienvironment products, the Plus Portal can speed OEMs` time to market while accelerating time to full-fab automation for global chipmakers.
SMS 300mm - The SMS family of high-productivity wafer sorters are used by semiconductor device manufacturers to manipulate and identify wafers. SMS is a fully automated platform designed to ensure that wafers remain in a Class 0.1 environment during all fab process steps. By implementing this ``hands-off`` approach, manufacturers can reduce handling-induced scratches and contamination, as well as protect against misprocessing errors, thereby increasing yield.
SMIF-Pod 300mm with SMART-Tag(TM) ST-8400 - The Asyst 300mm FOUP leverages the experience and proprietary technology of Asyst`s SMIF-Pod product family to deliver a clean, reliable and cost-effective wafer carrier solution for 300mm wafer fab customers. The new SMART-Tag(TM) ST-8400, a microcomputer with a liquid crystal display and two-way infrared communications, is part of the Asyst STS. It replaces paper travelers on wafer lots for automated management of factory floor work-in-process and guides product through the factory by supplying lot information directly to operators.
200mm Reticle SMIF-Pod (RSP) - The 200mm RSP is designed for automated handling, transport and storage of 6- and 9-inch reticles, both within the mask shop and between the mask shop and the semiconductor fab.
VersaPort(TM) 2200 - Ergonomically designed to easily integrate the SMIF contamination control technology for unloading and loading all 200mm SMIF pods, the VersaPort(TM) 2200 is an advanced load port opener. Its sophisticated features include laser-based cassette slot/wafer mapping, cross-slotted detection, wafer protrusion sensing and automatic wafer reseating.




Wednesday September 13, 9:18 am Eastern Time
Press Release
Asyst Achieves Milestone With Shipment of 250th Plus Portal System
Company Sees Rapidly Growing Interest in Outsourcing Strategy for Automated Front-end Technology
FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 13, 2000--Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:ASYT - news), the world`s largest semiconductor fab automation company, today announced it has shipped its 250th Plus(TM) Portal automated equipment front-end system to a major United States semiconductor equipment manufacturer.

Part of the Asyst ``Value Assured Fab`` product portfolio, the Asyst Plus Portal has become the industry`s most widely used turnkey automated front-end solution for both 200mm and 300mm applications. The Plus Portal combines Asyst`s patented automation, isolation and information technology to enable seamless integration between original equipment manufacturers` (OEMs`) production tools and advanced fab automation systems. In addition, because the Plus Portal is a true plug-and-play automation solution, it is fully compatible with the company`s fab transport (FasTrack(TM)) and tracking (SMART-Tag(TM)) technology, as well as its 300mm front-opening unified pods (FOUPs). As a result, the Asyst Plus Portal is designed to help OEMs meet the stringent manufacturing requirements associated with today`s most advanced integrated circuits.

``The strong demand for the Plus Portal is accelerating,`` said Dr. James Mitchener, senior vice president of global marketing operations for Asyst. ``We believe that the market for system-level outsourcing is growing rapidly, as semiconductor equipment manufacturers confront development time, manufacturing cost and increasing automation complexity issues associated with overall system design and manufacture.``

Mitchener further explained, ``We believe that the requirements for full fab automation in the most advanced 200mm and 300mm manufacturing facilities have created a demand for increasingly sophisticated, proven automation technology. This has led makers of critical manufacturing and metrology equipment to seek outsourcing options to help them achieve timely, cost-effective and reliable automation solutions. Implementing the Plus Portal frees our OEM partners to focus on their own core competencies while leveraging Asyst`s expertise in the multiple automated front-end technologies of equipment portals.``

Asyst`s Plus Portal technology also incorporates a series of integrated building blocks that can be custom-configured to meet the needs of each OEM and fab customer. The complete Plus Portal system fully integrates its critical functions into a turnkey material handling and factory automation interface for the full range of wafer process and metrology tools. In tailoring Plus Portals to meet the stringent requirements of today`s fabs, Asyst works in close partnership with both the OEM and IC makers to develop an optimized fab/process interface that complies with all SEMI and I300I standards and guidelines.

Except for statements of historical fact, the statements in this press release are forward-looking. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions, semiconductor industry cycles, risks associated with the acceptance of new products and product capabilities and other factors more fully detailed in the Company`s recent 10Q quarterly report on file with the Securities Exchange Commission.


P.S.: Im TV-Text kommt ASYST, meines Wissens nach, nicht vor.

Gruss
LTT

[Laschi007]

Hallo Leute bin gerade nach Hause gekommen und sehe +6% Super toll,
Schaue gleich nach Amiland -1,9% kake.

hier habe ich etwas gefunden mit Übersetzung für die, die wie ich
kein Englisch verstehen.Übersetzung wünscht zwar zu wünschen übrig
aber besser als garnichts und dazu noch kostenloss.

FREMONT, Calif., Sep 13, 2000 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:ASYT), the world`s largest semiconductor fab automation company, today announced it has shipped its 250th Plus(TM) Portal automated equipment front-end system to a major United States semiconductor equipment manufacturer. Part of the Asyst "Value Assured Fab" product portfolio, the Asyst Plus Portal has become the industry`s most widely used turnkey automated front-end solution for both 200mm and 300mm applications. The Plus Portal combines Asyst`s patented automation, isolation and information technology to enable seamless integration between original equipment manufacturers` (OEMs`) production tools and advanced fab automation systems. In addition, because the Plus Portal is a true plug-and-play automation solution, it is fully compatible with the company`s fab transport (FasTrack(TM)) and tracking (SMART-Tag(TM)) technology, as well as its 300mm front-opening unified pods (FOUPs). As a result, the Asyst Plus Portal is designed to help OEMs meet the stringent manufacturing requirements associated with today`s most advanced integrated circuits. "The strong demand for the Plus Portal is accelerating," said Dr. James Mitchener, senior vice president of global marketing operations for Asyst. "We believe that the market for system-level outsourcing is growing rapidly, as semiconductor equipment manufacturers confront development time, manufacturing cost and increasing automation complexity issues associated with overall system design and manufacture." Mitchener further explained, "We believe that the requirements for full fab automation in the most advanced 200mm and 300mm manufacturing facilities have created a demand for increasingly sophisticated, proven automation technology. This has led makers of critical manufacturing and metrology equipment to seek outsourcing options to help them achieve timely, cost-effective and reliable automation solutions. Implementing the Plus Portal frees our OEM partners to focus on their own core competencies while leveraging Asyst`s expertise in the multiple automated front-end technologies of equipment portals." Asyst`s Plus Portal technology also incorporates a series of integrated building blocks that can be custom-configured to meet the needs of each OEM and fab customer. The complete Plus Portal system fully integrates its critical functions into a turnkey material handling and factory automation interface for the full range of wafer process and metrology tools. In tailoring Plus Portals to meet the stringent requirements of today`s fabs, Asyst works in close partnership with both the OEM and IC makers to develop an optimized fab/process interface that complies with all SEMI and I300I standards and guidelines. Except for statements of historical fact, the statements in this press release are forward-looking. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions, semiconductor industry cycles, risks associated with the acceptance of new products and product capabilities and other factors more fully detailed in the Company`s recent 10Q quarterly report on file with the Securities Exchange Commission. About Asyst: Asyst Technologies, Inc. is the leading provider of manufacturing automation systems that enable semiconductor makers to protect their valued assets throughout the manufacturing process while increasing manufacturing productivity. Asyst offers a broad range of 200mm and 300mm products that enable the Company to provide semiconductor manufacturers and OEMs automated manufacturing solutions for the transfer of wafers and information between the process equipment and the fab line. Asyst`s homepage is

Target text in German
FREMONT, Calif., Sept 13, 2000 (GESCHÄFTSCLeitung) -- Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:ASYT), die Halbleiterfab-Automatisierungsfirma der Welt größte, heute verkündet ihm hat sein 250. automatisiertes Ausrüstungsvorderseitenportalsystem Plus(TM) zu einem Hauptstaathalbleiter-Gerätehersteller versendet. Zerteilen Sie von der Produktmappe Asyst " Wert sicheres Fab ", ist das Asyst plus Portal die verwendete schlüsselfertige automatisierte Vorderseitenlösung der Industrie allgemein für die 200mm- und 300mm-Anwendungen geworden. Die Plusportaldes mähdrescherAsysts patentierte Automatisierung, Lokalisierung und Informationstechnologie zum Aktivieren der nahtlosen Integration zwischen Produktionshilfsmitteln der Originalgerätehersteller (OEMs`) und vorgerückten fabautomatisierungssystemen. Zusätzlich weil das Plusportal eine zutreffende Stecker-und-Spielautomatisierungslösung ist, ist sie mit dem fabtransport der Firma (FasTrack(TM)) völlig kompatibel und (SMART-Tag(TM)) Technologie, sowie seine vereinheitlichten Hülsen 300mm Vorderöffnung (FOUPs) aufspürend. Infolgedessen wird das Asyst plus Portal entworfen, um Treffen OEMs zu helfen, welches die zwingenden Herstellungsanforderungen mit heutigen hochentwickeltesten integrierten Schaltungen verbanden. " die starke Nachfrage nach dem Plusportal beschleunigt, " sagte Dr. James Mitche

Servus
Laschi007

[Laschi007]

Hier eine neue empfehlung:

Company Broker New Old Comments
Asyst Technolog. (ASYT: news, msgs) Needham & Co. Strong Buy 6-12 month price target to $48

[LongTermTom]

[audio] Asyst Technologies Upgraded to a Strong Buy Rating [30 sec]

http://biz.yahoo.com/oo/000920/38264.html

Gruss
LTT

[Laschi007]

Was kümmert uns Intel mit seiner Gewinnwarnung.Asyt ist ein selbstständiger Unternehmen mit Vielen Empfehlungen,günstigen KGV,
und guten News.

kurs aktuell 23,25€.

Fazit: kufen was das Zeug hält.

Laschi007

[Initiative2000]

Hallo,

die Orderbücher sind voll.

http://cnnfn.cnn.com/2000/09/21/technology/wires/chip_wg/

Chip equipment boom
Semiconductor equipment orders top $3B in one month for first time
September 21, 2000: 10:32 p.m. ET


SAN JOSE, Calif. (Reuters) - Semiconductor equipment makers saw their average monthly orders top $3 billion in August, marking the first time orders have reached that level in one month, an industry group said Thursday.

Semiconductor equipment shipments during August reached $2.4 billion, giving the industry a book-to-bill ratio of 1.24, according to Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International, an industry association.

A book-to-bill ratio of 1.24 essentially means that microchip equipment makers received about 24 percent more orders for products than were shipped out, and it is an indicator of generally good health in the industry.

Overall, the worldwide orders figure was up 93 percent from August 1999 when bookings were about $1.6 billion, and shipments were up 69 percent from the same month one year ago when equipment makers shipped $1.4 billion worth of product.

"While there are diverse opinions as to how long the current expansion cycle will last, most industry analysts expect at least another 12-18 months of orders growth," said Elizabeth Schumann, director of industry research and statistics for the group.

She noted that the fact orders topped $3 billion during August is especially significant because August is a traditionally weak month for the semiconductor equipment industry.

[LongTermTom]

Thursday September 28, 2:17 pm Eastern Time
Press Release
Asyst Reaches $50 Million in Japanese Orders for Fiscal Year-To-Date
Asyst Becomes Leading U.S.-Based Fab Automation Provider to Japanese Semiconductor Markets; Key Japanese Business Executives Honor Asyst Position in Japan
NAGOYA, Japan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 28, 2000-- Signaling strong business growth in Japan, Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:ASYT - news), the world`s largest semiconductor fab automation company, today announced it has received $50 million in new orders from leading Japanese chip and equipment manufacturers since April 1, 2000, the beginning of the company`s current fiscal year.

With these orders, Asyst is on track to surpass its goal of reaching over $100 million in total sales from Japan for the current fiscal year, further strengthening its position as the leading U.S.-based automation solutions supplier to the Japanese semiconductor market. In the previous fiscal year, sales from Japan totaled $30.7 million. Asyst believes its growing market share position in Japan reflects an increasing number of customers who prefer Asyst`s solutions for their proven performance and interoperability, as well as the company`s superior service and support. Asyst has customers in the Kansai, Oita, Nagasaki and Yokahama regions that produce large memory chips as well as major logic producers serving the telecommunications, consumer electronics and entertainment industries.

According to GartnerGroup`s Dataquest, Japan is the world`s second largest producer of semiconductors in an overall global IC market estimated to be $222 billion for the year 2000. Japan is also second in the world`s production of semiconductor capital equipment in a global market estimated to be greater than $30 billion in 2000.

``Japan accounted for 26 percent of the worldwide IC market in 1999 and has been a leader in fab automation products. We see this region as a vital growth opportunity,`` said Mihir Parikh, Asyst chairman and chief executive officer. ``We are extremely pleased with Asyst`s escalating performance and presence in the Japanese market over the past six months. We look forward to working with our customers in this important region so that we can continue to help them realize the highest value possible within their fabs.``

To honor Asyst`s growing importance to the Japanese market, leading executives and dignitaries, including Thomas Foley, the United States` Ambassador to Japan; Taizo Nishimuro, chairman, Toshiba Corporation; and Shoichiro Yoshida, president, Nikon Corporation, attended a reception on Wednesday evening at Tokyo`s Hotel Okura. As part of the event, these leaders participated in an Asyst-sponsored forum on 300mm semiconductor manufacturing and automation.

Asyst also announced consolidation of its operations with those of MECS, a company acquired by Asyst last March, further solidifying its commitment to the Japanese semiconductor automation market. ``Our new centralized operations will allow us to meet the needs of our Japanese OEM and end-user customers most cost effectively,`` said Josui ``Joe`` Nashimoto, president, Asyst Japan, Inc. ``We are committed to service the full range of opportunities in the semiconductor automation market with a dedicated Asyst facility. We believe existing and potential customers are both showing strong interest in how our leading 200mm standard mechanical interface (SMIF) and 300mm front-opening unified pod (FOUP)-based technologies can further their fab automation needs,`` Nashimoto concluded.

Gruss und schoenen Feiertag
LTT

[Nickelz]

Hi Leute,

ich wollt diesen Thread mal wiederbeleben, und euch fragen wann den bei Asyst der Boden gefunden ist , bzw. ob ein Investment derzeit sinnvoll ist?
Fundamental halte ich die Aktie für aussichtsreich, und der Chipzyklus soll ja auf diesem noch länger andauern als erwartet. Derzeit erscheint es mir so das nach "jedem guten Tag zwei schlechte folgen". Was denkt Ihr(Falls überhaupt noch irgendwer investiert ist?)?

MFG

Nickelz

[LongTermTom]

Hi Nickelz !
Eigentlich dachte ich ja, dass sich ein Boden bei ca. 20$ bilden wuerde, lag damit aber schief - wie man sieht.
Momentan befindet sich der Kurs in einer sehr starken Unterstuetzungszone, es koennte aber auch noch bis 10 oder gar drunter gehen, da moechte ich mich nun nicht festlegen.

Gruss
LTT

[prudent_investor]

@Nickelz
Langfristig (2 bis 3 Jahre) machst Du bei einem Kauf um 15$ nichts falsch. Stelle Dich aber darauf ein, das der Kurs sich im Extremfall noch mal halbieren kann (siehe meinen Kommentar vom 8.8.). Zur Zeit muß man leider zur Kenntnis nehmen, daß es immer weiter nach unten geht. Dies ist auch nicht ungewöhnlich, in dieser Branche gibt es nur zwei Richtungen: hoch oder runter, seitwärts nie (siehe Langfristchart). Wenn Du auf Nummer sicher gehen willst, warte bis sich die Richtung grundlegend ändert und springe dann auf. Dann hast Du zwar nicht die besten Einstiegskurse, aber bekommst auch keine Bauchschmerzen beim Anblick Deines Depots.
Kleines Zitat am Rande von Keynes (heute erst gelesen) für alle, die voll investiert sind und jetzt gerade ihre Margin ausreizen:
"markets can remain irrational longer than you can remain solvent"
@Laschi007
Dein letzter Beitrag vom 22.09. zeigt, daß Du überhaupt noch nicht begriffen hast, wie der Hase läuft. Wir hier im Board sind vielleicht alle kleine Würstchen, aber Du bist mit Abstand das kleinste. Hier noch mal für Dich:
Intel ist der größte Halbleiterproduzent der Welt und damit auch das Unternehmen mit der größten Investitionssumme.
KGV`s sind gerade in einer zyklischen Branche als Kaufkriterium mit äußerster Vorsicht zu genießen.
Zu den Fehlleistungen der Analysten sage ich nichts, das steht jetzt schon in jeder Wirtschaftszeitung. Es gilt nach wie vor der bekannte Ausspruch: In guten Zeiten braucht man die Analysten nicht, die Börse läuft von allein. In schlechten Zeiten kommen die Downgrades immer zu spät wenn überhaupt.
@LongTermTom
Könntest Du vielleicht statt der ganzen Unternehmensberichte jeweils einen Link liefern. Die Sache hier wird sonst ziemlich unübersichtlich und es dauert immer länger bis man "unten" ist. (Mein Internetzugang ist nicht so schnell).

[LongTermTom]

@prudent_investor

Wenn Du zwischen "Titel" und "Beiträge" auf den "weissen Zettel" klickst, erscheinen nur die letzten Postings.
Das Problem sollte damit beseitigt sein; ich koennte natuerlich auch mal nen neuen Thread eroeffnen, trotzdem ich in ASYST nicht mehr investiert bin.

Gruss
LTT

[LongTermTom]

Wednesday October 18, 4:07 pm Eastern Time
Press Release
Asyst Announces Record Second Quarter Results for Fiscal Year 2001 and Generates Record Bookings for the Quarter
Company Experiences Continued Record Growth and Profitability
http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/001018/ca_asyst_f.html



Asyst Tech downgraded by Needham & Co, Adams Harkness, Merrill Lynch
http://biz.yahoo.com/c/20001019/d.html?asyt

[prudent_investor]

@LongTermTom
Danke für den Tip. So einfach kann Board aufrufen sein.
Bei den Links würde ich trotzdem bleiben. Es ist halt übersichtlicher und für alle, die Geld in eine Aktie wie Asyst stecken, sind Seiten wie die von Yahoo sowieso Pflicht.
Wie eröffnet man eigentlich einen neuen Thread?

[42_2011]

1999 hatte Asyst einen sehr schlechtes Jahr (EPS = -1 $)
Das ist auch der Grund warum die Aktie zur Zeit so schwach notiert. -> viele befürchten wohl eine Wiederkehr dieses Desasters.
War jemand damals (der Kurs viel schon 1998 von 20 auf 5, als die Gewinne noch stiegen) schon dabei und weiß ob es eher ein einmaliges Problem war oder ein zyklisch wiederkehrendes ????

[LongTermTom]

@42
Ich bin erst Ende Februar auf ASYST aufmerksam geworden, war also noch nicht dabei.
Da ich aber ASYST den Chipwerten zuordne, gehe ich von einem zyklischen Verlauf aus, wie bei den meisten Chipwerten.
Vielleicht ist gerade jetzt ein guter Zeitpunkt zum Einstieg, da die Korrektur im Chipsektor abgeschlossen scheint, Werte wie INTEL oder MICRON TECHNOLOGIES sich bereits wieder erholen und ASYST momentan einen Boden ausbildet.



@prudent_investor
Im Dikussions-Forum steht rechts neben der Bezeichnung, z.B. INTERNET,
"Neues Thema beginnen "
Das musst Du anklicken.

Die Berichte im Ganzen zu posten, werde ich beibehalten, ggf. immer die Links zusaetzlich.
Ich finde es einfach uebersichlicher.

Wenn Du auf den Link klickst, brauchst Du ja auch wieder eine Weile, bis sich die neue Seite aufbaut, also praktisch keine Zeitersparnis und soooo viele News gibts ja auch nicht zu ASYST.


Gruss
LTT

[LongTermTom]

Tuesday November 21, 7:55 am Eastern Time
Press Release
Asyst Receives $12 Million Order for Wafer Sorters
Major U.S. Supplier of Communications Chips Chooses Asyst 200mm and 300mm Sorters for Multiple-Fab Installation
FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 21, 2000--Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:ASYT - news), the world`s largest semiconductor fab automation company, today announced it has received an order valued at more than $12 million from a leading U.S. supplier of semiconductors used in communications applications.

The order comprises Asyst Substrate Management System(TM) (SMS(TM)) wafer sorters in a wide variety of configurations, including the newest version of the product created specifically for 300mm fab lines. The SMS units will be installed at four of the chip company`s fabs located in the United States and Europe, representing a follow-on for Asyst products in one fab and new Asyst installations in the other three.

Used by semiconductor device manufacturers to manipulate and identify wafers, Asyst`s SMS family of automated, high-productivity wafer sorters are designed to ensure that wafers remain in a Class 0.1 environment during all fab process steps. In the communications chipmaker`s rigorous technical evaluation, the SMS products outperformed competitive wafer sorters in key areas, including scribe read rate, connectivity and ease-of-use, as well as safety and ergonomic issues related to processing of larger, heavier 300mm wafers. Asyst believes additional factors that influenced the customer`s selection of the SMS included its minimal footprint (the smallest allowed by Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International standards); its rapid throughput, which exceeded that of the competition by more than 100 wafers per hour; and the fact that Asyst`s installed base of sorters is the industry`s largest -- more than 1,000 units worldwide.

``It`s a source of great satisfaction when a customer trusts your product enough to select it repeatedly for exclusive use,`` said Dennis Riccio, Asyst`s senior vice president of global customer operations. ``The customer intends to use the SMS as an open-cassette-to-SMIF bridge tool in one of its non-SMIF fabs. Asyst is the only wafer-sorter supplier to date that has successfully demonstrated this capability. We are pleased that a major supplier to the burgeoning communications product market has demonstrated confidence in our wafer-sorter technology.``

This recent major order for the Asyst SMS products comes shortly after the June announcement that bookings for Asyst wafer sorters had climbed more than 380 percent as of the fourth quarter of fiscal 2000. Asyst believes the success of this product line indicates that customers are seeing how Asyst`s advanced automation solutions help protect their valuable wafer assets throughout the fab. By implementing this platform with its ``hands-off`` approach, manufacturers can reduce handling-induced scratches and contamination, as well as protect against misprocessing errors. The bottom-line results are two-fold: improved yield and lower overall cost of ownership.

Manufactured at Asyst`s Austin, Texas facility, the Asyst SMS is available in two-, three- and four-interface configurations, offering the industry`s best available footprint, throughput and clean wafer handling. Asyst has developed versions of the SMS platform designed to accommodate both 200mm (in open-cassette, SMIF or open-cassette/SMIF combination units) and 300mm wafers, as well as allow for ease of migration to 300mm wafer manufacturing. To date, publicly announced SMS customers include industry leaders such as Chartered Semiconductor, First Silicon, Hewlett-Packard, KLA-Tencor, and System on Silicon Manufacturing Co. (SSMC).

Except for statements of historical fact, the statements in this press release are forward-looking. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions, semiconductor industry cycles, risks associated with the acceptance of new products and product capabilities and other factors more fully detailed in the Company`s recent 10Q quarterly report on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/001121/ca_asyst_p.html

[LongTermTom]

Thursday December 7, 6:45 pm Eastern Time
Press Release

Asyst Pioneers Automation Foundry Model With Two Strategic Acquisitions
Acquisitions
Help Asyst Advance Its Leadership in 300mm, Creating Expanded OEM Opportunity

FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 7, 2000--Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq NM:ASYT - news), the world`s largest semiconductor fab automation company, today announced it has signed definitive agreements to acquire two privately held companies -- Advanced Machine Programming (AMP, Morgan Hill, Calif.) and Semifab, Inc. (Hollister, Calif.) -- for approximately $24 million in cash and an estimated 2.95 million shares of stock. The two companies are suppliers of semiconductor equipment-oriented contract manufacturing and integration services. AMP is a precision machining and assembly firm with recent annual revenues of approximately $24 million. Semifab is a provider of process environmental-control systems and outsourcing capabilities with estimated annual revenues of approximately $21 million. Both companies are profitable. Together, these two strategic acquisitions are expected to be immediately accretive to both sales and earnings, and they are expected to close in early 2001.

With these acquisitions, Asyst is pioneering a new automation foundry model aimed at semiconductor equipment manufacturers. Mihir Parikh, Asyst Technologies chairman and CEO, explained: ``These acquisitions complement our industry-leading automation and isolation technology with services vital to semiconductor equipment manufacturers, enabling us to offer these companies a one-stop resource for their contract manufacturing and integration needs. Further, this initiative places us at the forefront of an increased opportunity in the tool-integrated automation market -- from an estimated $45 million per fab to more than $80 million per fab -- for outsourcing of portal automation front-ends and various subsystems. Already considerable, these needs will only become greater as the in-process ramp from 200mm to 300mm semiconductor wafers intensifies.``

Commenting on the new strategy, G. Dan Hutcheson, president of VLSI Research Inc (San Jose, Calif.), said, ``This makes a great deal of sense, and is a natural progression for Asyst. Asyst has long been the top portal provider to the industry, with their ability to understand the needs of both the equipment maker and the chip company. Now, they`re taking this capability to the next level, creating a model whereby they can provide to the equipment makers and, through them, to the chipmakers, a manufacturing capability that leverages their technology strengths and service network. It`s a unique, practical solution that illustrates Asyst`s flair for vision and innovation, as when the company helped pioneer the minienvironment revolution more than a decade ago.``

Benefits to Semiconductor Equipment Manufacturers

AMP and Semifab have strong customer relationships with the world`s top three semiconductor original-equipment manufacturers (OEMs) -- Applied Materials, Tokyo Electron Ltd. and ASML/SVGL -- from which the two companies derive more than 75 percent of their collective business. The products and services brought under the Asyst banner with the new acquisitions will benefit equipment OEMs in a number of ways, enabling:

Considerable cost savings by allowing Asyst to employ economies of scale in combining its front-end technology with contract manufacturing and integration services;
Broader access to on-time, short cycle delivery of comprehensive solutions; and
The ability to obtain, from a proven, reliable source, service and support unavailable elsewhere within the equipment industry.
Details of Acquisitions

The two companies will become wholly owned Asyst subsidiaries headed by current presidents Craig Fisher of AMP and Glenn Roberson of Semifab. Asyst plans to maintain both AMP`s and Semifab`s existing sites, creating new opportunities for growth and employee recruitment in the South Bay Area. The companies` 265 total employees will enhance Asyst`s expertise in the companies` core areas of competency -- manufacturing and integration services. For Semifab, this includes not only its successful line of process environmental-control systems, but also its full range of outsourced services -- from integration, sheet-metal fabrication and machining, to industrial design and full and turnkey builds. AMP`s capabilities center on its sophisticated high-quality, high-precision component machining and subsystem assembly, with short cycle times and responsive configuration management.

The management of Asyst Technologies will host a conference call with the investment community, the media and the general public to discuss the opportunities these acquisitions afford Asyst and the equipment industry. Call details: Friday, December 8, 8:00 a.m. PST / 11:00 a.m. EST. All interested participants may call in to: 303/205-0044, or access the call via webcast at: www.asyst.com. A replay will be available for five business days, beginning Friday, December 8, at 10:00 a.m. PST / 1:00 p.m. EST. Replay dial-in number: 303/590-3000; passcode: 796403.

About AMP: Advanced Machine Programming provides contract precision machining and electro-mechanical assembly services to the electronics manufacturing and semiconductor equipment industry. Founded in 1980, AMP is headquartered in Morgan Hill, Calif., and has a design/integration center in Austin, Texas. AMP`s ``user-friendly`` concurrent engineering, rapid prototyping and turnkey manufacturing services enable the customer`s focus to remain on the customer. AMP`s homepage is http://www.a-m-p.net.

About Semifab: Semifab, Inc., founded in 1978, designs, manufactures, markets and supports complete process environmental-control systems, including enclosures, air-control modules and inert atmospheres for isolated wafer environments. A vertically integrated company, Semifab provides full outsourcing capabilities for the semiconductor and other advanced technology industries, striving to work in partnership with customers to provide high-quality products at a fair price. Semifab is headquartered in Hollister, Calif.; its homepage is http://www.semifab.com.


http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/001207/ca_asyst_c.html

[Nickelz]

Thursday December 14, 10:21 pm Eastern Time
Asyst stock may be a bargain-Business Week
NEW YORK, Dec 14 (Reuters) - Asyst Technologies Inc, maker of ultraclean automation systems used in chipmakers` cleanrooms, may be underpriced but well positioned in a manufacturing niche that makes it an attractive buy, according to Business Week magazine.

In its December 25 edition, the magazine said Michael Kahn, an analyst at New York investment firm A.R. Schmeidler, expected the company to earn $2 a share on sales of $600 million for the year ending March 31, 2001.

In 2002, Kahn said he expected the company to earn $2.50 a share on sales of $750 million, the magazine said. He also expected the stock to rise to $60 in 18 months, it said.

The stock closed $11-15/16 on Thursday.

MFG
Nickelz

[the gruen]

hallo alle miteinand,
bitte korrigiert mich, wenn meine informationen falsch sein sollten, aber kan es wirklich sein, daß asyst nur noch ein kgv von knapp 6 hat?!
das ist ja der pure wahnsinn.
allein das know-how, läßt man mal das betätigungsfeld von asyst außer betracht, im bereich roboting ist ja schon beachtlich und rechtfertigt eine höhere bewertung und über die zukunftsaussichten im reinraumbereich will ich mich gar nicht auslassen. da müßte ich mich nur wieder über diese wahnwitzige bewertung aufregen
tut mir bitte einen gefallen und schaut euch die aktie mal näher an. ich zweifle schon fast an meinem verstand.
hoffe nur, asyst kommt wieder. zugegeben, der ganze chipsektor lahmt, aber da verstehe ich dann auch die geschäftsleitung von asyst nicht. ich meine reinräume werden doch mittlerweile noch in ganz anderen branchen gebraucht. warum die strake konznetration auf den chip und halbleitersektor?
bitte baut mich auf
bis dann,
the gruen

[Initiative2000]

Hallo the gruen,

Deine Informationen stimmen !!!
Bin selbst in Asyst investiert und verstehe es auch nicht.
Lass uns von der Dividende leben !

[Initiative2000]

Hallo the gruen,

Deine Informationen stimmen !!!
Bin selbst in Asyst investiert und verstehe es auch nicht.
Lass uns von der Dividende leben !

[LongTermTom]

Asyst Tech downgraded by Tucker Anthny Cap Mkts
from Strong Buy to Mkt Perform
http://biz.yahoo.com/c/20010104/d.html?asyt

Gruss
LTT

[Nickelz]

Hi Leute,

das Downgrade scheint sich ja in steigenden Kursen auszuwirken, :-). Kurz runter und dann wieder in die richtige Richtung.

MFG

Nickelz

[Initiative2000]

Hallo,
ein Blick auf den Chart zeigt uns die Stärke von Asyst im Vergleich zu Intel, Nasdaq und dem DJ Semi.

Asyst-Nasdaq-Chart vom 1.12.00 - 09.01.01



Asyst - DJ Semiconductor - Nasdaq - Intel

[LongTermTom]

@Nickelz
Immer das Gleiche Spiel; nachdem eine Aktie schon kraeftig gefallen ist, schmeissen die Analysten mit Downgrades um sich und steigen selber ein........

[LongTermTom]

Wednesday January 10, 4:06 pm Eastern Time
Press Release
ADVISORY/Asyst Technologies, Inc. to Present at Needham & Co. Growth Conference in New York on January 11, 2001
(BUSINESS WIRE)--
Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq NM: ASYT - news), today announced that it will be participating in the Needham & Co. Growth Conference in New York.


Where: The New York Palace Hotel
New York, New York

When: Thursday, January 11, 2001
9:00 a.m. Eastern Time

NOTE: Needham and Co. will webcast the presentation live at: http://www.vcall.com/NASApp/VCall/ Custom.jsp?fileName=vcallNEEDHAM011101_KENNEDY2.html

Additionally, a recording of the presentation is available at our investor website at http://www.asyst.com

About Asyst: Asyst Technologies, Inc. is the leading provider of isolation and automation technologies that enable semiconductor makers to protect their valued assets throughout the manufacturing process while increasing manufacturing productivity. Through this ``Value-Assured Fab`` strategy, Asyst offers a broad range of 200mm and 300mm solutions that enable the safe transfer of wafers and information between the process equipment and the fab line throughout the IC fabrication process, preventing human, environmental, mechanical and chemical harm. Encompassing robotics, portals, wafer and reticle carriers, connectivity and interface products, and transport and loading products, Asyst`s modular, interoperable solutions allow chipmakers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to select and employ the value-assured, hands-off manufacturing capabilities that best suit their needs. Asyst`s homepage is http://www.asyst.com
http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/010110/ca_asyst_f.html




Asyst Tech downgraded by WF Van Kasper
from Accumulate to Hold
http://biz.yahoo.com/c/20010112/d.html?asyt

[LongTermTom]

Asyst Technologies, Inc. provider of SMIF-based mini-environment and manufacturing automation systems that enable semiconductor manufacturers to increase their manufacturing productivity and protect their investment in silicon wafers during the manufacturing of integrated circuits. The Company provides facility automation solutions in the areas of isolation systems, work-in-process materials management, substrate-handling robotics, automated transport and loading systems, and connectivity automation software.
http://biz.yahoo.com/cc/5/375.html




Asyst Tech downgraded by WF Van Kasper
http://biz.yahoo.com/c/20010115/d.html?asyt

Asyst Tech downgraded by Lehman Brothers
http://biz.yahoo.com/c/20010116/d.html?asyt




Wednesday January 17, 6:01 pm Eastern Time
Press Release
Industry Veteran Stephen S. Schwartz Joins Asyst Technologies as Senior Vice President of Product Groups and Operations
FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 17, 2001--Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:ASYT - news), the world`s largest semiconductor fab automation company, today announced the appointment of Stephen S. Schwartz (41) to the company`s senior management team. Mr. Schwartz has accepted the position of Senior Vice President of Product Groups and Operations. In addition to all Asyst product groups, he will be responsible for the company`s operations including manufacturing and supply-chain functions on a world-wide basis. Mr. Schwartz will report to Mihir Parikh, Asyst Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

Mr. Schwartz joins Asyst from Applied Materials, where he has had over thirteen years` experience. Most recently he served as President of Consilium, an Applied Materials Company. Mr. Schwartz had also served as Vice President and General Manager of Applied`s Global Service Business and General Manager of their High Temperature Films Division. Mr. Schwartz holds Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Ph.D. degrees in Electrical Engineering from Purdue University. In addition, he holds an MBA from the University of Chicago, Graduate School of Business. He is a 1999 recipient of the Outstanding Electrical Engineer, Purdue University.

``Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Asyst organization,`` noted Dr. Parikh. ``By combining the product groups (product marketing and dedicated technical resources) with global fulfillment (manufacturing and supply chain functions) under a single, focused senior executive, we believe we can make significant enhancements to our customers` level of satisfaction. His proven operations management skills, honed at technology and industry leader Applied Materials, coupled with his business acumen, will help to promote our future positioning and strengthen the company`s infrastructure.`` Parikh concluded, ``We are delighted to have Steve on board and look forward to his contributions to Asyst`s future leadership position.``

http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/010117/ca_asyst_c.html

[Nickelz]

Asyst Announces Record Revenues for Third Quarter Fiscal Year 2001

Record Quarterly Bookings Exceed Industry Book to Bill Ratio

Fremont, CA, January 25, 2001 - Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq NM: ASYT), the world`s largest semiconductor fab automation company, today reported results for its third quarter of Fiscal Year 2001 ended December 31, 2000. Net sales for the quarter were $127.4 million, a 100 percent increase over net sales of $63.8 million for the third quarter of fiscal 2000. Net income before amortization of acquired intangible assets was $14.3 million, or $0.42 per share, an increase of 123 percent compared to net income of $6.3 million or $0.19 per share in the third quarter of fiscal year 2000. All per share amounts in this release are stated on a fully diluted basis.

For the nine months ended December 31, 2000, the Company had net sales of $378.0 million, versus net sales of $131.6 million for the first nine months of fiscal 2000. Net income before amortization of acquired intangible assets for the first nine months of fiscal 2001 was $49.8 million, or $1.43 per share, compared to net income of $1.5 million or $0.05 for the same period last year.

Asyst Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mihir Parikh, commented, "Asyst experienced only a slight sequential increase in overall revenue, which is reflective of the dramatic softening of the semiconductor capital equipment market conditions. Nonetheless, we are pleased to note that Asyst`s bookings for the quarter increased to a new record level. In addition to increased bookings, we are pleased with the sales growth of our latest products. While revenues from the historically predominant 200mm SMIF isolation technology product lines were down sequentially, revenues from the new elements of the Asyst model increased significantly quarter over quarter. Many of these products, which include robotics, substrate management systems and Plus Portals, are being deployed in the newest 300mm fabs around the world. Combined sales from these products grew 41 percent sequentially while sales of our mature 200mm products decreased, primarily due to the softness in the 200mm capacity buys on a worldwide basis. We believe that Asyst is increasing its position in both the 300mm and newly entered product areas."

"We view the acceptance of our new 300mm product offerings as very positive," said Doug McCutcheon, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. "The early stage cost structures and margins for the new product lines, however, are below those of Asyst`s mature lines. As a result, consolidated gross margins fell 2.2 percentage points on a sequential basis to approximately 45 percent. We are working to reduce our costs in these areas. To this end, we have combined product marketing, development and operations under a single focused executive, Stephen Schwartz, Senior Vice President of Product Groups and Operations, recently recruited from Applied Materials, Inc. In leveraging Steve`s experience and leadership, we believe that Asyst is more optimally positioned to capitalize on its technology excellence combined with newly invigorated operational excellence."

Dr. Parikh added, "With the aforementioned shift in product mix occurring more rapidly than expected, we experienced a high inventory buildup. As expected, inventory and accounts receivable levels increased in the new, fast growing product lines. Meanwhile, a decline in revenues in the traditional 200mm SMIF and isolation product lines resulted in inventory increases due to expectations that could not be addressed rapidly enough. We have designated specific asset management teams and goals to return these metrics to historical levels."

Outlook
The following outlook is for ongoing business only. The outlook is prior to the adoption of SAB 101, and excludes any impact of acquisitions or other non-recurring items, most notably the acquisitions of Applied Machine Programming Inc. (AMP) and Semifab, Inc. Both of these acquisitions are expected to close during the current quarter.

Current market conditions are marked by volatility, and inherently bring challenges both on an operational basis and a forecasting basis. Few companies have been immune from the impact of global inventory and supply chain adjustment. The challenge is to fully exploit the benefits of the opportunities before us, in spite of the uncertainty of the market. We remain confident that Asyst`s automation foundry model, predicated on the requirement by semiconductor equipment manufacturers to have a one-stop resource for their contract manufacturing and integration needs, provides us with an increased competitive advantage.

The company experienced record bookings in the fiscal third quarter. It is anticipated, however, that bookings will likely soften in the current fiscal fourth quarter. Therefore, the company expects revenues and earnings for the fiscal fourth quarter to be essentially the same as that reported in the fiscal third quarter for the continuing business.

"While we are being cautious in terms of our near-term outlook, we believe that Asyst is better positioned than ever to meet the anticipated needs of the world`s 300mm semiconductor manufacturers. We have continued in our endeavors to further diversify our revenue stream through the addition of new products and a greater balance of growth geographically," concluded Dr. Parikh.

Highlights of the Quarter


New products success:
In November, Asyst announced that it had received an order for wafer sorters valued at more than $12 million from a leading U.S. supplier of semiconductors used in communications applications. The order`s various installations represented a follow-on for Asyst products in one fab and new Asyst installations in three others. The win ensued through a rigorous technical evaluation of many products in which the Asyst SMS products outperformed competitive wafer sorters in key areas of the automation process. The success of this product line indicates that customers are seeing the benefits that Asyst`s advanced automation solutions offer in protecting their valuable wafer assets throughout the fab.

Accelerated growth strategy:
In early December, Asyst announced its plan to pioneer the Automation Foundry Model through the acquisition of two semiconductor equipment-oriented contract manufacturers; AMP and Semifab, Inc. This new Automation Foundry Model is aimed at semiconductor equipment manufacturers and once again places Asyst in the forefront of the automation industry, providing an added value and unique service to its customers. AMP is a precision machining and assembly firm with revenues for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2000 of approximately $24 million. Semifab is a provider of process environmental-control systems and outsourcing capabilities with estimated annual revenues of approximately $21 million.

About Asyst:
Asyst Technologies, Inc. is the leading provider of manufacturing automation systems that enable semiconductor makers to protect their valued assets throughout the manufacturing process while increasing manufacturing productivity. Asyst offers a broad range of 200mm and 300mm products that enable the Company to provide semiconductor manufacturers and OEMs automated manufacturing solutions for the transfer of wafers and information between the process equipment and the fab line.

Except for statements of historical fact, the statements in this press release are forward-looking. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions, semiconductor industry cycles, risks associated with the acceptance of new products and product capabilities and other factors more fully detailed in the Company`s recent 10Q quarterly report on file with the Securities Exchange Commission.

Conference Call Details:
A live webcast of the conference call discussing the third quarter fiscal year 2001 financial results for Asyst Technologies, Inc. will take place on January 25, 2001 at 5:00 p.m. EST. The webcast will be publicly available on Asyst`s website at http://www.asyst.com/frame/confcall_frame.html A replay of the webcast may be accessed via the same address until February 2, 2001.


MFG
Nickelz

[Pebbles]

Bin leider zum falschen Zeitpunkt (29,41 Euro) eingestiegen. Aber langfristig sollte ASYT ein gutes Investment sein. Die Aussichten scheinen gut zu sein, auch wenn die Aktie manchmal sehr volatil ist.

Pebbles

[LongTermTom]

Friday February 2, 8:00 am Eastern Time
Press Release
Asyst Technologies, Inc. Completes Acquisition of Advanced Machine Programming
FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 2, 2001--Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:ASYT - news), the world`s largest semiconductor fab automation company, announced that it has completed its acquisition of Advanced Machine Programming (AMP, Morgan Hill, Calif.,) effective February 1, 2001. AMP is a precision machining and assembly firm with revenues for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2000 of approximately $24 million. Asyst expects AMP to be an integral part of its pioneering automation foundry model aimed at semiconductor equipment manufacturers. AMP is now a wholly owned subsidiary of Asyst.

The acquisition was originally announced on December 7, 2000. Under the terms of the agreement, Asyst acquired AMP in a forward subsidiary merger, with merger consideration of $19 million in cash and $19 million in Asyst stock. Asyst also paid AMP shareholders an additional $1.7 million in cash as consideration for additional working capital in the business as of the closing date.

About Asyst: Asyst Technologies, Inc. is the leading provider of isolation and automation technologies that enable semiconductor makers to protect their valued assets throughout the manufacturing process while increasing manufacturing productivity. Through this ``Value-Assured Fab`` strategy, Asyst offers a broad range of 200mm and 300mm solutions that enable the safe transfer of wafers and information between the process equipment and the fab line throughout the IC fabrication process, preventing human, environmental, mechanical and chemical harm. Encompassing robotics, portals, wafer and reticle carriers, connectivity and interface products, and transport and loading products, Asyst`s modular, interoperable solutions allow chipmakers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to select and employ the value-assured, hands-off manufacturing capabilities that best suit their needs. Asyst`s homepage is http://www.asyst.com

http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/010202/ca_asyst_c.html

[Nickelz]

Multimillion-Dollar 300mm FOUP Orders Expand Asyst`s Market Lead

Leading Firms in Taiwan and Europe Select Asyst FOUPs for 300mm Automation Needs

Fremont, CA, February 6, 2001 -Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq NM: ASYT), the world`s largest semiconductor fab automation company, today announced it has received initial multiple orders, valued at approximately $5 million, for its 300mm front-opening unified pods (FOUPs) from leading semiconductor and foundry firms in Europe and Taiwan. These orders broaden Asyst`s established lead in the rapidly growing market for 300mm FOUPs, which isolate costly 300mm wafers throughout the front-end semiconductor manufacturing process, protecting them from damage due to mishandling, contamination or electrostatic discharge. Shipments began this month, and will continue in stages throughout the first half of 2001.

The orders, secured over the past month, all reflect multi-year contracts for high-volume production quantities of the Asyst FOUPs, to be used on both pilot and production 300mm fab lines. In each case, the order was secured following an intensive competitive evaluation. At one site, the customer chose Asyst 300mm FOUPs over the incumbent for its transition from pilot into production use.

Key to the selection of the Asyst FOUPs was their compatibility with other Asyst 300mm product offerings, including the advanced SMART-TagTM ST-8400 infrared tracking and identification system, as well as some enhancements implemented by Asyst that will be standard features of the company`s next-generation FOUP due in Q2 2001. These include: enhanced wafer-positioning accuracy to improve 300mm wafer handling; a drainable door to improve cleanability and drying times in advanced FOUP cleaning systems and prevent improper placement of the door into the FOUP; full compatibility with 300mm standards set forth by Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International (SEMI); a streamlined design aimed at optimizing high-volume manufacturing efficiencies; and a greater selection of product colors to facilitate identification of wafers at various process steps and help avoid cross-contamination issues associated with the introduction of copper and other metals into the chipmaking process.

According to Dennis Riccio, senior vice president of global customer operations for Asyst, these orders offer further evidence of Asyst`s ability to deliver leading-edge products that anticipate customer needs. "Each of these customers, a market leader in its own right, has selected our FOUPs because we were able to clearly demonstrate the advantages of our products over the available competitive offerings," said Riccio. "Our close relationships with these customers enabled us not only to develop new capabilities based on their existing needs, but to anticipate and address their emerging needs, as well. We look forward to ongoing relationships with these and other customers as we continue to broaden our leadership in this market."



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright © 2001 Asyst Technologies. All rights reserved.

[LongTermTom]

February 13, 2001

ASYST TECHNOLOGIES INC /CA/ (ASYT)
Quarterly Report (SEC form 10-Q)
- Management`s Discussion and Analysis of Results of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
http://biz.yahoo.com/e/010213/asyt.html



Tuesday February 13, 5:17 pm Eastern Time
Press Release
Asyst Technologies, Inc. Completes Acquisition of Semifab, Inc.
FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 13, 2001--Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:ASYT - news), the world`s largest semiconductor fab automation company, announced that effective today, it has completed its acquisition of Semifab, Inc. (Hollister, Calif.) Semifab is a provider of process environmental-control systems and outsourcing capabilities with annual revenues for the period ended December 31, 2000 of approximately $21 million. In tandem with the recently announced acquisition of Advanced Machine Programming, Asyst expects Semifab to be an integral part of its pioneering automation foundry model aimed at semiconductor equipment manufacturers. Semifab is now a wholly owned subsidiary of Asyst.

The acquisition was originally announced on December 7, 2000. Under the terms of the agreement, Asyst acquired Semifab in a forward subsidiary merger, with merger consideration of $5 million in cash and 1.4 million shares of Asyst stock.




Asyst Tech downgraded by WF Van Kasper
from Hold to Sell
http://biz.yahoo.com/c/20010213/d.html?asyt

[LongTermTom]

Tuesday February 27, 11:02 am Eastern Time
Press Release
Asyst Ships 1,000th VersaPort 2200 System to Silicon Valley Group
Load Port Tool Now Achieving Production-level Design Wins as Fabs Worldwide Increasingly Recognize Value in Upgrading to SMIF Isolation Technology
FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 27, 2001-- Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq NM: ASYT - news), the world`s largest semiconductor fab automation company, today announced it has reached a significant milestone with the shipment of its 1,000th VersaPort(TM) 2200 load port tool to Silicon Valley Group, Track Systems Division (San Jose, Calif.). The dollar value of the order was not disclosed.

Since the VersaPort 2200`s November 1999 launch, Asyst has received orders from more than 30 customers worldwide, spurring the product to this milestone in just over a year. A number of the most recent shipments included the company`s manual open-cassette adapter (MOCA) option, also announced today (see separate release: ``Asyst Open-Cassette Adapter Broadens Horizons for OEM Suppliers``). Further indicating the industry`s growing adoption of the VersaPort 2200, Asyst has secured several design wins for production-level systems from both original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and chipmakers.

The VersaPort 2200 is an essential component of Asyst`s Plus(TM) Portal turnkey automation solution, which enables integration between OEM process tools and advanced fab automation systems. The load port tool is a modular, configurable input/output (I/O) interface that facilitates transfer of 200mm semiconductor wafers into and out of both older-technology open cassettes and the Standard Mechanical InterFace (SMIF(TM)) pods used to isolate wafers in clean minienvironments. With the new bolt-on MOCA option, which allows fabs to run open cassettes on new 200mm tools without having to immediately move to SMIF technology, the VersaPort 2200 truly becomes a bridge tool for technology transition. The VersaPort accommodates both open cassettes and 200mm SMIF-Pods on the same platform, as well as eases transition from 200mm to 300mm technology thanks to its significant compatibility with Asyst`s 300mm Front-Load product.

``Asyst`s VersaPort solution offers a degree of flexibility and scalability unavailable anywhere else,`` said Jae Park, vice president of advanced engineering at Silicon Valley Group, Inc. ``We chose to implement the VersaPort on our Pro Cell tool front end because it works with both open cassettes and pods and gives us a migration path to 300mm. Also, the new MOCA option gives us the flexibility to upgrade our older fab lines to newer 200mm equipment on an as-needed basis, providing a huge cost savings. We believe it will help to greatly enhance our productivity and, ultimately, our fab yields.``

``Since its introduction, the VersaPort 2200 has already achieved great success in the marketplace because of the practical solutions it offers our customers,`` stated Dennis Riccio, Asyst senior vice president of global customer operations. ``The system is designed with multiple configurations based on a single platform so that there are reduced integration and support requirements for the OEM. Because it`s also fully certified to meet ergonomic and safety requirements, OEMs can implement the VersaPort with full confidence in its ability to help meet their wafer-loading and transfer needs.``

The VersaPort 2200 is plug-and-play compatible with Asyst`s other front-end products, meaning that the VersaPort and the Asyst SMIF-300FL Front-Load Series feature significant hardware and software compatibility, so customers who purchase the VersaPort for open-cassette and/or 200mm SMIF and then later want to upgrade to 300mm can do so easily. This is accomplished by employing the optional SEMI-Standard E-63 BOLTS interface hardware and a 300mm software command set designed to ensure compatibility with Asyst`s 300mm Front-Load systems. A key advantage for OEMs who employ the VersaPort in one of its several configurations is that it enables them to adopt the ``bridge tool`` strategy for marketing their products to chipmakers, as well.





Tuesday February 27, 11:02 am Eastern Time
Press Release
Asyst Open-cassette Adapter Broadens Horizons for OEM Suppliers
New MOCA Front-End Option Helps Bridge Gap Between Open Wafer Cassettes and Newer Isolation Technology, Allowing Older Fabs to Implement SMIF-Optimized Process Tools
FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 27, 2001-- Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq NM: ASYT - news), the world`s largest semiconductor fab automation company, today unveiled a new addition to its family of front-end wafer-cassette input/output (I/O) products. The Asyst manual open-cassette adapter (MOCA) is a bolt-on option for Asyst`s 200mm class load port tools that, when paired with original equipment manufacturers` (OEMs`) process tools, allows fabs to run older-technology open wafer cassettes on new 200mm tools. This creates a bridge to Class 1-quality isolation based on Standard Mechanical InterFace (SMIF(TM)) technology--for which most current 200mm tools are optimized--thus enabling older fabs to take advantage of modern SMIF designs without having to immediately implement a full-fab upgrade.

While the overwhelming majority of new semiconductor fabs use SMIF technology, many of the world`s older semiconductor fabrication facilities still use open-cassette technology. However, fully SMIF-implemented fabs produce significantly higher yields than open-cassette fabs. While Asyst continues to strongly encourage manufacturers using the less-clean open-cassette technology to transition to SMIF, the MOCA option gives Asyst a unique opportunity to meet the needs of this market segment. With the new adapter added to Asyst front-end tools and ported to their SMIF-ready 200mm process systems, OEMs can offer a more comprehensive set of solutions to their end-user customers.

``We know that many companies operating open-cassette fabs would like to use newer-generation manufacturing tools, but aren`t yet ready to implement a full upgrade to SMIF,`` said Tony Bonora, Asyst`s chief technology officer. ``Now, with the MOCA option, we can offer fabs a newer-class tool that`s SMIF-ready, but can also run open cassettes today. Then, when the company is prepared to transition to the SMIF process, they can simply remove the adapter instead of replacing the entire I/O front end. In this way, our I/O tools, due to their full plug-and-play compatibility, can become a true bridge, both backward to the open-cassette marketplace and forward into the realm of 300mm wafers. This is the kind of flexibility that chipmakers need, and now Asyst, working together with our OEM customers, can provide it.``

Production versions of MOCA have already begun shipping with the VersaPort(TM) 2200 load port tool to key OEM customers; to date, Asyst has shipped over 230 units. The adapter is fully certified to the Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International (SEMI) S2 standard and the European CE standard for safety and reliability, assuring ease of certification for any OEM that purchases the product for use with its tools.

Pricing and Availability

The Asyst MOCA load-port option is base-priced at less than $4,900, and is available now for use with the VersaPort 2200 load port tool. By early 2001, the MOCA adapter will be available as a bolt-on production option to Asyst`s other front-end products in the SMIF 200mm Load-Port I/O Series, including the SMIF-LPT (Load-Port Transfer) and SMIF-LPI (Load-Port Interface), and the SMIF-INX(TM) (Indexer) Series. The product will also be available midyear as a standalone configuration for implementation in the field with existing systems.

[LongTermTom]

Tuesday March 13, 4:15 pm Eastern Time
Press Release
Asyst Announces Revised Business Outlook
FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 13, 2001--Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq NM:ASYT - news), the world`s largest semiconductor fab automation company, today revised its business outlook. Citing the sharp economic slowdown and accompanying inventory corrections in worldwide technology markets, the company revised its expectations for revenues in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2001 (ending March 31, 2001).

The company now anticipates that fourth quarter revenues will be approximately fifteen percent lower than the previous sequential quarter, yet as much as 15 percent above the $94 million revenues reported in the year-ago period. Previous company guidance, provided on January 25, 2001, anticipated flat sequential revenues from the third to the fourth quarter. All revenue expectations are stated before the impact of the adoption of Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 101, and before accounting for the recent acquisitions of Advanced Machine Programming and Semifab, Inc.

``Weak global economic conditions are affecting business across the board in our customers` fabs, and they are in turn reducing their capital spending,`` stated Mihir Parikh, Asyst`s chairman and chief executive officer. ``Although we cannot predict the length of the current slowdown, we continue to capture additional opportunities in the 300mm interfaces, portal and FOUP product arenas, further demonstrating our 300mm market leadership.``

The company further noted that the uncertainty surrounding current industry dynamics prevents it from providing meaningful guidance at this time for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2001 with reference to gross margin, operating expenses as a percent of revenue or net income.

To accommodate lowered revenue expectations, the company has implemented several cost-reduction measures, including reducing worldwide headcount by approximately 17 percent and lowering non-essential discretionary spending. The headcount reductions affected both temporary and regular full-time positions and were implemented during the past two weeks.

``Although employee headcount reductions are painful measures,`` noted Parikh, ``our goal is to allocate resources in line with revenue levels, while maintaining our critical spending in areas related to development of innovative automation products and foundry services that enable IC and equipment manufacturers to improve their productivity and profitability.``

The company also reminded the investing public that as of March 17, 2001, Asyst will maintain a ``Quiet Period.`` During this time, the company does not intend to provide any additional updates to its guidance until the close of market on May 3, 2001, when Asyst plans to issue its fourth-quarter and year-end financial report. In addition, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on that day, the company will conduct a conference call to discuss its fourth-quarter financial results and its guidance for the upcoming quarter. Information on how to access a webcast of the conference call will be provided on the company`s website at www.asyst.com

Except for statements of historical fact, the statements in this press release are forward-looking. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions, semiconductor industry cycles, risks associated with the acceptance of new products and product capabilities and other factors more fully detailed in the Company`s recent 10Q quarterly report on file with the Securities Exchange Commission.

About Asyst: Asyst Technologies, Inc. is the leading provider of isolation and automation technologies that enable semiconductor makers to protect their valued assets throughout the manufacturing process while increasing manufacturing productivity. Through this ``Value-Assured Fab`` strategy, Asyst offers a broad range of 200mm and 300mm solutions that enable the safe transfer of wafers and information between the process equipment and the fab line throughout the IC fabrication process, preventing human, environmental, mechanical and chemical harm. Encompassing robotics, portals, wafer and reticle carriers, connectivity and interface products, and transport and loading products, Asyst`s modular, interoperable solutions allow chipmakers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to select and employ the value-assured, hands-off manufacturing capabilities that best suit their needs. Asyst`s homepage is http://www.asyst.com





Thursday March 15, 8:03 am Eastern Time
Press Release
Asyst Receives Major Order From Leading U.S. Equipment Manufacturer
Multimillion-Dollar Order Comprises Portal and Robotics Technologies, Represents Key Installation in Japan
FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 15, 2001--Asyst Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq NM:ASYT - news), the world`s largest semiconductor fab automation company, today announced it has received a multimillion-dollar, multiple-system order for its Plus(TM) Portal tool front end from one of the world`s leading U.S.-based providers of semiconductor manufacturing equipment. The order further bolsters Asyst`s already strong presence in Japan -- Asyst believes it is currently the leading U.S.-based automation solutions supplier to the Japanese semiconductor market.

The systems that constitute this order reflect a customer-specific design, incorporating an Asyst-Japan-developed and -built UTM-3500 robot with Asyst`s Plus Portal front end -- a fully automated and integrated front-end solution specifically designed to provide isolation and automation solutions for original equipment manufacturers` (OEMs`) wafer processing and metrology tools. Asyst`s acquisition of Japan-based MECS Corp. has proven invaluable in providing localized service and support to customers in Japan. By integrating with MECS, Asyst believes that it is not only better positioned to provide comprehensive local engineering design, manufacturing, integration and support services in the Pacific Rim, but better able, as well, to capitalize on the opportunities to upgrade existing 150mm and 200mm facilities with newer automation technologies.

Dennis Riccio, senior vice president of global customer operations for Asyst, said these orders substantiate the successful integration of the MECS family of advanced robotic systems into Asyst`s automation offerings. ``This integrated Plus Portal/MECS robot design reflects our ability to bring together complementary technologies to create high-value-add products that meet OEMs` specific needs,`` said Riccio. ``Further, the installation of these systems in Japan helps expand Asyst`s global presence and allows us to leverage the local infrastructure we now have in place, which is so important to supporting our installed base in this region.``

Asyst reports that a key factor in the customer`s decision to select the Asyst equipment was the substrate-handling robotic system designed into the tool. The MECS UTM-3500 robot features a six-axis, dual-arm design with a fast ``swap out`` speed -- i.e., the time it takes for one wafer to be switched for another. Another unique feature of the robotic system is the absence of a linear track setup. Typically, a factory interface with multiple load ports requires ``track robots.`` However, the UTM-3500 configuration enables the robot`s access of up to four load ports without the need for a linear track, which simplifies integration with the process tool. Because the UTM-3500 configuration contains one less axis than standard robotic substrate-handling systems, mechanical reliability is increased. These benefits result in a higher throughput rate, enabling the equipment to process more wafers per hour.

Except for statements of historical fact, the statements in this press release are forward-looking. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions, semiconductor industry cycles, risks associated with the acceptance of new products and product capabilities and other factors more fully detailed in the Company`s recent 10Q quarterly report on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

[Pfusch]

4:43pm 05/02/01
Asyst misses mark by 20 cents (ASYT) By Jason Margolis
Asyst Technologies (ASYT) reported fourth-quarter pro forma earnings of $1.8 million, or 5 cents a share,
missing the Wall Street consensus estimate by 20 cents a share. During the same quarter last year,
the company reported a gain of $12.2 million, or 34 cents a share. Pro forma net sales reached $113.4
million, up from $91 million last year. "Our business climate changed significantly late in the fourth
quarter," said Doug McCutcheon, chief financial officer, which led to under absorption of manufacturing
overhead costs. Shares of the maker equipment used to clean semiconductor equipment closed flat at
$19.12 during the regular session and were down to $16 in after-hours trading.

[LongTermTom]

Wenn das kein Ausbruch wird, dann weiss ich nichts mehr....



Ziel:
Kurzfristig ca. 28$

Gruss
LTT

[Pantauu]

Hat noch jemand Asyst?

Heute sind die ja ziemlich gut gelaufen, kann jemand sagen warum?