Responding to weakness in the global economy, Intel, the world's largest microchip maker, lowered its financial forecast for the second half of 2012.

Reporting for the second quarter of the fiscal year, led the technology leader ( INTC ) to lower its revenue growth forecast to 3 - 5% ( earlier forecast - 10%). As policymakers try to get America back on the rails of healthy growth and employment, Intel's cut in its forecast is a stark reminder that the problems of the global economy - and Europe in particular - are spilling over into the U.S. economy. Technology leaders like Apple, Google, IBM, Intel and Microsoft are sliding into recession. If these companies get on the "fallback track," the U.S. will be in trouble. "As we enter the third quarter with less growth, we get into a tougher macroeconomic situation," Intel CEO Paul Otellini said. The world's largest semiconductor maker is facing weak consumer demand. Simply put, the global economy is not growing fast enough. This impact is already having a noticeable effect on U.S. corporate profits. Intel is signaling not only to the IT industry, but to the economy as a whole. Intel's declining outlook, does not bode well for the entire technology supply chain to the U.S. and global economy. High-tech companies should buy more microchips, not fewer.

Based on foreign press for ForTrader.org