TIA Monitor Magazine, Jan/Feb 1999.

T-Net 20 High Tech Stock Index Prognosis by Michael Volker

In May'98 we launched the T-Net 20 B.C. high tech index to track the performance of BC-based public technology companies. The intent was to draw more public - and investor - attention to the technology sector in B.C. We selected the 20 largest companies, by market cap, and set the index to 1000 as of January 1, 1998.

We were off to a great start with the index hitting 1437.20 at the end of April. Then, as the broader markets retreated in the summer months, the index saw an August close of 855.80.

It is presently standing back in the 1400+ territory as we approach year end. Where will the index be a year from now? Will it reach pass the 2000 mark in the year 2000? I think so.

The reason I believe that this will happen is because the companies which comprise the index, especially the top four which account for 80% of the value of the index, are all in great shape with excellent prospects for growth. These four companies, led by Ballard Power Systems include PMC-Sierra Inc., QLT Phototherapeutics Inc., and Sierra Systems Group Inc.

Investors are warming up to the technology sector while at the same time leading economic indicators would lead one to believe that the bull market will steam ahead.

If we see 2000 a year from now, we'll have double the reason for a hearty celebration!


Michael Volker is the Director of the University/Industry Liaison Office at Simon Fraser University, Chairman of the Vancouver Enterprise Forum, and a technology entrepreneur. He owns shares in many of the companies he writes about. Contact: mike@risktaker.com.