ASM Pacific Technology reported record interim turnover of US$944 million, up 76 per cent year on year, and net profit growth of 22.5 per cent. The Kwai Chung-based firm, which designs, makes and markets equipment and materials for the semiconductor industry, said net profit was HK$1.4 billion for the first half, up from HK$1.15 billion a year earlier. But its gross profit margin fell to 38 per cent, compared with 46 per cent a year earlier.