The Global Purchasing Index continued its upward climb in October, rising 3.4% compared to September, and indicating continued optimism among buyers of electronic components. Surveyed in October, Global Purchasing’s panel of 100 buyers revealed a GPI of nearly 123, its highest level since launching in January and well above the 100-point threshold indicating a positive economic outlook. After falling in July, the GPI has risen consistently through late summer and early fall, rising 1% in August, 1.7% in September, and now more than 3% in October. Panel members reported a slight increase in new orders from customers, higher inventories, and steady lead times. They also indicated that they purchased more components from their suppliers during the month and that prices for those components were generally lower. Overall, buyers said the upward momentum in the electronic components industry continues and that they remain optimistic into 2015. “We are experiencing spike orders that are not customary for this time of year,” said one panelist. “That’s a good thing.” “Recent increases in bookings are largely for products requested for delivery in 2015 and beyond,” another panelist said. New Orders, Inventories Up New orders from customers inched up less than 1% in October, essentially maintaining the 10% gain purchasers reported in September. The September increase in new orders was the largest in the GPI’s 10-month history, and came after a 9% reported decline in August. The inventories index rose roughly 7%, as buyers reported higher inventory levels during the month. This followed a 7% decline in the inventories index in September, when buyers reported having less inventory on hand.