Quotes for large-size LCD panels have stabilized in the first half of November as China-based TV makers have begun to rebuild up inventory for the forthcoming Lunar New Year holidays, according to industry sources.
Additionally, flat panel makers have also stepped up their controls on production volumes as demand for notebook and monitor panels might be affected by a shortage in the supply of HDDs triggered by the floods in Thailand, said the sources.
Prices of 19-inch monitor panels for the first half of November are set at US$60 on average, while 14-inch notebook panels are priced at US$42 and those for 32-inch TV panels stayed flat at US$125. However, quotes for 40-42-inch LED backlight panels for TV applications dropped by US$2 as compared to early October, the sources noted.
Despite the stabilization in panel prices, it will be difficult for flat panel makers to swing back to profitability in the fourth quarter as panel prices are still hovering at low levels, the sources added.
