SGS-Thomson Microelectronics BV reports that first quarter net profit soared to more than $80m from $24.4m this time last year, on sales up a lusty 36.5% to $599.1m and orders at $756.5m, up from $726m a year ago – The semiconductor industry is experiencing strong growth with an unusual situation of very firm prices, said Pasquale Pistorio, SGS president.