Life Sciences sector (Biotechnology and Medical Devices industries, together) investments increased during 2004, totaling $5.6 bln in 578 companies, the largest dollars and deals in four years. The Software industry hit a three-year high during 2004, attracting $5.1 bln. Software represented 24% of all venture capital dollars while Telecommunications investing fell to $1.9 bln in 2004, the lowest figure in eight years. The Networking industry fell slightly to $1.6 bln, a seven-year low. And, Semiconductor investing continued its steady, if modest, recovery rising to a three-year high of $1.6 bln in 2004. Most other major industry categories were comparable to prior year levels, according to PriceWaterhouseCoopers.
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