KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 21 — AmBank Research said today that the overall earnings prospects are looking positive for local semiconductor companies although valuations are unattractive.

It was "neural” on the technology sector over the next 12 months, saying the key themes of the sector in 2018 will revolve around connected cars, smart homes and automation.

"This paints a positive outlook for sensor and radio frequency (RF) chip manufacturers, automated equipment manufacturers and companies looking to improve operational efficiencies through automation,” the research firm said in its analyst report today.

On the other hand, AmBank Research believes the smartphone segment is on the verge of entering a single-digit growth trajectory as it moves towards saturation point in major markets.

It said that its top picks for the sector are Inari Amerton and Malaysian Pacific Industries.