A quick note to wish everyone a happy holiday season and wishes for a fantastic 2014.  At this time of year I frequently come upon lists: best books, music, movies, gadgets, etc..  Often these lists commemorate the best of the prior year, or they represent excellent gift ideas..  Regardless, I have two reading vignettes to add today.  First, I must applaud the power of Twitter.  I have an account to follow industry pundits, local beat writers, comedians and some artists.  Happily enough, one of my favorite (and extremely underrated) musicians, Evan Dando, responded to one of my tweets and suggested a book of short stories for me:  “The Dubliners” by James Joyce.  Interestingly enough, I was able to find the book for $1 at Amazon.  Coupled with free prime shipping, I was able to buy 5 excellent/thoughtful gifts for $5!  Now I just hope the book is good…

Secondly, while I think of reading books, I often think about business reading as well.  On that note, a former colleague of mine, Jay Goldberg, puts out a very interesting blog regarding wireless technologies and the surrounding ecosystem…  If you get the chance, check it out:  www.digitstodollars.com  Great reading/learning in one.

Once again, Happy Holidays to one and all!

Congratulations to Sandy Harrison!  Sandy recently joined Semtech as Director, Investor Relations and Business Development.  No doubt an interesting opportunity given Semtech’s high quality team/performance and diverse end markets.  ACME wishes Sandy the best and believes Semtech will benefit significantly from the hire.  In my opinion, semiconductor (and technology companies in general) benefit from bringing non-operaotrs in to their fold.  Sandy brings a strong understanding of investor mindset/motivations that will certainly enhance Semtech’s ability to create shareholder value…

We’ve witnessed major management transition at IDT.  First, CEO Ted Tewksbury resigned a couple weeks ago.  Then this week, CFO Rick Crowley announced he will leave IDT to become CFO at Intersil.  My first comment is best of luck to Ted, Rick and IDT.  I think highly of the two gentlemen as well as the direction of IDT.

The changes highlight the current dynamism in the semis industry.  Like at numerous technology companies, activist shareholders took board seats at IDT, in this case Starboard, a little more than one year ago.  Since that time, IDT has also undergone many changes in its business, including publicly announced divestitures and delivery of exciting new products (see wireless charging).  In addition, the share price of IDT has risen approximately 60% over the last 12 months.

Despite IDT’s impressive accomplishments of late, the Company faces significant challenges as it competes in what many consider a consolidating and maturing industry.  I don’t know the cause/effects of the board and management changes at IDT, but I do know they are symptomatic of the industry as a whole as it moves forward in what remains a challenging market.