ASML raises 2026 guidance as AI chip demand stays strong
CNBC • • business
Key Points:
- ASML exceeded first-quarter revenue and profit expectations, reporting net sales of €8.8 billion and net profit of €2.8 billion, driven by strong demand for AI-related chips.
- The company raised its 2026 net sales forecast to between €36 billion and €40 billion, up from the previous range of €34 billion to €39 billion, citing accelerated capacity expansion by customers.
- Demand for memory chips, crucial for AI systems and data centers, remains high, with 51% of ASML's first-quarter tool sales going toward memory chip production, especially from South Korean and Taiwanese customers.
- ASML faces challenges due to export restrictions to China, with sales to the country dropping from 36% to 19% of overall sales, and potential new U.S. legislation could further limit exports of its machines to China.
- The semiconductor industry's growth is being fueled by ongoing AI infrastructure investments, with major customers like TSMC reporting record revenues amid strong chip demand.
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