Rothschild invests 5MEuros in Chipidea

Update: MIPS Technologies Acquires Chipidea (August 27, 2007)

Paris -- November 30, 2005 – R Capital Technologies, a leading international venture capital fund managed by Rothschild invested nearly 5M€ in Chipidea, an analog and mixed-signal semiconductor solutions provider.

Chipidea has developed one of the largest analog and mixed-signal technology portfolios in the world, ranging from precision single-function blocks to full analog sub-systems for communications, multimedia and power management applications. Founded in 1997, Chipidea now employs over 200 people based in Europe, Asia and North America. The company’s headquarters is Lisbon, Portugal. Chipidea is profitable with double-digit growth figures in 2004, almost double that of the previous year. The company’s key products target fast-growing market segments such as wireless communications, digital media and consumer electronics.

In addition to developing its IP business, Chipidea has been working on the launch of semiconductor products under a fabless chip company business model. Product development is underway, and product announcements will be done towards the beginning of 2006.

Jose Franca, co-founder and CEO of Chipidea, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Rothschild as financial partner to Chipidea. Once again, this investment reinforces Chipidea’s strong shareholders base that leverages our position business.”

Jean-Michel Beghin, Partner of R Capital Technologies, commented:“With such an outstanding blue chip customer base that strongly drives Chipidea’s development in analog, Chipidea is in the path of rapid growth and success. Indeed its aggressive strategy combined with its long term and repeated relations with the who’s who in the semiconductor industry excel in the market.“

About Rothschild
The Rothschild Group has been at the center of the world's financial markets for over 200 years. Its Paris-based Venture Capital team manages funds backed by leading European institutional investors. The team invests in first-class international projects led by exceptional entrepreneurs, in the Telecom, Semiconductor/EDA, Software and MedTech sectors. It invests between $1 million and $10 million to support companies through all phases of their growth. The team provides insights and expertise through its entrepreneurial and operational background as well as access to the worldwide Rothschild network.

About Chipidea
Chipidea is the world’s number one analog/mixed-signal merchant technology supplier targeting fast-growing market segments like wireless communications, digital media and consumer electronics. Chipidea supports blue-chip customers across the globe, has an impeccable reputation for delivering high-quality products and is known for its reliable execution. Chipidea licenses its technology to leading companies in these and other key markets, delivering everything from precision single-function blocks to full analog sub-systems. Chipidea employs 200 people in its research and development, and sales and marketing offices across Europe, Asia and North America.
For more information, please visit: www.chipidea.com

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