A bellwether semiconductor price – a barometer of costs of finished electronics products as diverse as laptops, dishwashers, LED bulbs, and medical devices delivered worldwide – is now half its July 2018 peak and down 14% from the middle of last year, according to Bloomberg.
In addition, the spot rate for shipping containers – which tells us more about expenses we can expect later in the pipeline for apparel in Chicago, luxury items in Singapore or home furnishings in Europe – has declined 26% since its September 2021 all-time high.
“Even as central bankers raise rates, more economists are coalescing around the idea that peak inflation is behind us – though there will be a lag before the lower costs of raw materials filter through to the prices shoppers see,” writes Bloomberg. “Though few forecasters are predicting a return to pre-pandemic prices in the short run, global retail giants like Walmart Inc. are now struggling to unload bloated inventory to a less enthusiastic shopper. So a moderation in those supply-side pressures could eventually allow central bankers to slow their tightening cycles.”
To avoid electronics supply-chain disruptions, you may also wish to consult an expert in electronics component supply. With more than three decades of supply-chain expertise, Astute Electronics is ideally placed to work with you on your daily component requirements.
For more help with looking at supply chain options, contact Astute Electronics
