ASML Raises Full-Year Sales Forecast Amid Strong AI Chip Demand ASML, the world’s sole manufacturer of extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines critical for producing advanced semiconductors, has raised its full-year sales forecast for the second time this year. The Dutch semiconductor equipment maker now expects annual net sales to range between 43 billion euros ($49 billion) and 45 billion euros, with a gross margin projected between 54% and 56%. This marks a significant upward revision from its previous guidance of 36 billion to 40 billion euros in net sales and a gross margin of 51% to 53%. The company’s revised outlook reflects sustained demand for its high-end EUV machines, driven by chipmakers ramping up production to meet the surge in AI chip manufacturing. CEO Christophe Fouquet highlighted that order intake remained “extremely strong” during the first half of the year, with the company targeting a 30% increase in its 2026 low NA EUV capacity and a 30% expansion of its 2026 Deep Ultraviolet (DUV) immersion capacity. These upgrades are part of a broader strategy to align with the growing needs of semiconductor manufacturers. ASML’s performance in the second quarter further underscored the strength of its position. The company reported net sales of 9.3 billion euros, exceeding the London Stock Exchange (LSEG) consensus estimate of 8.8 billion euros. Net profit also surpassed expectations, reaching 2.9 billion euros compared to the projected 2.6 billion euros. These results highlight the company’s resilience amid industry-wide challenges and its ability to capitalize on the AI-driven demand for cutting-edge chip production. The expansion of AI chip manufacturing is a key driver behind ASML’s optimism.#asml #taiwan_semiconductor_manufacturing_co #christophe_fouquet #chiayi_science_park #taiwan_national_science_and_technology_council