Dataquest seems to be moderately optimistic concerning personal computer market growth this year. The research firm predicts 4.8% increase in shipments in the first quarter this year over the same period a year ago. Dataquest also forecasts 7.9% annual growth what at this point does seem optimistic.

The report indicates that one of the key-reasons of growth is going to be end-of-life of personal computers purchased to address Y2K problem almost 4 years ago. Of course, the PC replacement is more likely to start in the second half of the year during back-to-school season, nevertheless, slight indications of rebound will be seen even in the first half.

It is forecasted that during the Q1 2003 33.2 million of personal computers will be sold worldwide. Unfortunately there are no details about the figure like which regions are going to drive the growth forward and which market segments are expected to be more active.

There are also concerns about war in Iraq and possible economic outcomes of it, therefore, any precise forecasts may eventually appear false.