Networking IC design specialist Realtek Semiconductor has reported consolidated revenues of NT$3.87 billion (US$131.9 million) for January 2018, up 15.2% sequentially and 9.9% on year.

Realtek's revenues for January 2018 also hit the second-highest monthly levels in the company's history.

Realtek expects its first-quarter revenues to post positive growth compared to a quarter earlier. The company's revenues slipped 1.4% sequentially to NT$10.8 billion in the fourth quarter of 2017,

Realtek had record consolidated revenues of NT$41.69 billion in 2017, which represented a 7.1% on-year increase. The company generated net profits of NT$3.39 billion in 2017, up about 10% from a year earlier, with EPS reaching NT$6.71.

Chip demand for IoT, Bluetooth, Type-C, switch and voice devices applications will be driving Realtek's revenue growth in 2018 and 2019, said company VP and spokesperson Yee-Wei Huang at recent investors meeting. The company expects to enjoy another year of record revenues in 2018, with gross margin ranging from 42% to 44% compared with 42.95% in 2017.