STMicroelectronics (ST) reported financial results for the first quarter ended April 2, 2011. ST’s net revenues increased 9.0% on a year-over-year basis, with regional growth led by Greater China-South Asia and the Americas with sales up 18% and 13%, respectively. On a sequential basis, ST’s net revenues decreased 10.5%, with declines in all regions. Sequential performances reflected expected seasonal patterns at ACCI, Analog, MEMS and Microcontrollers (AMM) and Power Discrete Products (PDP) as well as a stronger than anticipated decline at ST-Ericsson.
Gross margin increased 140 basis points compared to the year-ago quarter, principally reflecting higher volumes and manufacturing efficiencies that more than offset negative pricing trends. On a sequential basis, gross margin declined by 80 basis points and was penalized by a decrease in volume and prices partially offset by manufacturing efficiencies and product innovation.