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28 PCB007 MAGAZINE I DECEMBER 2023 with cash or financing depends on a company's financial health, cash flow, and growth strat- egy. Using cash for equipment purchases can provide flexibility and reduce long-term inter- est costs. However, financing allows compa- nies to conserve cash for other essential opera- tions or investments. e choice between cash and financing should align with the company's financial objectives and risk tolerance. The CHIPS Act e CHIPS Act aims to support semiconduc- tor manufacturing in the United States. While the primary focus is semiconductor manufac- turing, it can indirectly impact the PCB indus- try by influencing the supply and cost of critical components. Depend- ing on the extent of a compa- ny's reliance on domestic or international supply chains, the CHIPS Act could have varying effects. e PCB industry should get some of these funds. Our govern- ment should be supporting us as well as our customers. Growth Plans I have always advocated for the idea, "If you're not growing, you're dying." Growth plans should consider a bal- ance of capabilities, capacity, and competition. Developing new capabilities can open doors to new markets and revenue streams. Expand- ing capacity is essential to meet increasing demand. However, competition is a signifi- cant concern, as the PCB industry is highly competitive. Differentiating through technol- ogy, quality, and customer service is crucial for sustainable growth. is is exactly the kind of strategy my company has employed for the past decade. Green Initiatives Green processes are increasingly impor- tant in the electronics industry. Sustainability and environmental responsibility can be both a cost of doing business (CODB) and a sell- ing point. Customers oen prefer eco-friendly products and suppliers with green practices. Implementing sustainable manufactur ing processes, reducing waste, and obtaining certifications like RoHS and REACH can enhance a company's reputation and competi- tiveness. Process Technologies e most promising process technologies for growth in the PCB and assembly industry in 2024 may include advancements in minia- turization, high-density interconnects (HDI), and flexible PCBs. Adopting Industry 4.0 practices, automation, and A I - d r i v e n q u a l i t y c o n t r o l can optimize manufactur- ing processes and enhance competitiveness. At ASC, we are focused on the cut- ting edge of process tech- nology. In the past year, we have delved deeply into ultra HDI, for example, and we are experiencing significant interest in this technology from our customers and potential customers. In the end, companies in the PCB and assembly business need to stay agile, monitor industry trends, and adapt their strategies to navigate the evolving landscape successfully. Specific outlooks may vary depending on the company's size, market focus, and geographic location. But the point is always to work on your company regardless of what is happening worldwide. Our job is to play the cards we are dealt to the best of our abilities. PCB007 Anaya Vardya is the CEO of American Standard Circuits. The CHIPS Act aims to support semiconductor manufacturing in the United States.