ASML has increased its 2026 guidance again, citing robust demand tied to the rapid buildout of AI chip production. The Dutch semiconductor equipment maker said it now expects full-year sales of 43 billion euros to 45 billion euros, up from a prior range of 36 billion euros to 40 billion euros. It also lifted its gross margin outlook to 54% to 56%, compared with an earlier forecast of 51% to 53%.
The company’s second-quarter results also came in ahead of expectations. ASML reported net sales of 9.3 billion euros and net profit of 2.9 billion euros, both above LSEG consensus estimates. CEO Christophe Fouquet said order intake was “extremely strong” in the first half of the year, adding that customers have been accelerating their capacity expansion plans across ASML’s product range.
ASML is the world’s only maker of extreme ultraviolet lithography machines, which are essential for producing the most advanced chips. The company said it is targeting a 30% increase in 2026 low NA EUV capacity and a 30% increase in 2026 DUV immersion capacity. Shares initially jumped more than 7% before trimming gains and eventually closing 0.49% lower, even after rising sharply earlier this year.
The latest update comes as chipmakers continue to pour money into manufacturing capacity to support AI-related demand. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., one of ASML’s biggest customers, recently reported a 68% increase in June sales, while Reuters reported that TSMC plans to add two advanced chip packaging plants in southern Taiwan. UBS said in a recent note that semiconductor fabrication buildout and AI-driven demand for leading-edge chips should support a stronger second half for ASML. At the same time, investors remain cautious about whether the pace of AI spending can last, and ASML continues to face tighter export restrictions on advanced equipment sales to China.
Source: cnbc.com
