ASML Stock Surges on Record Orders and AI-Driven Semiconductor Demand
ASML Holding NV shares rallied after reporting record quarterly bookings of €13.2 billion, nearly double analyst estimates. The Dutch semiconductor equipment manufacturer's bullish 2026 guidance of €34-39 billion in projected sales reflects accelerating demand for extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography systems from memory chip producers.
CEO Christophe Fouquet highlighted strategic positioning to capitalize on the AI chip boom, with CFO Roger Dassen confirming the strongest order backlog in company history. ASML announced a €12 billion share repurchase program, signaling confidence in sustained growth as Samsung and SK Hynix expand production capacity.
The semiconductor equipment sector shows no signs of cooling, with Barclays projecting SK Hynix alone will acquire 12 EUV machines in 2026. This demand surge has propelled ASML shares 30% year-to-date, outperforming broader tech indices.