ASML on Wednesday raised its guidance for the second time this year as customers continue to expand production capacity for AI chips.
The Dutch semiconductor equipment maker now forecasts full‑year sales of €43 billion to €45 billion (approximately $49 billion to $52 billion) and a gross margin of 54%‑56%, up from its earlier outlook of €36 billion‑€40 billion in sales and a 51%‑53% margin.
ASML had previously lifted its forecast last quarter, citing sustained demand for its top‑tier EUV lithography systems, the sole equipment capable of patterning the most advanced AI‑focused chips.
This demand is expected to stay strong as chipmakers scale up capacity to satisfy the ongoing AI boom.
Earlier this week, TSMC, one of ASML’s biggest customers, reported a 68% jump in June sales, driven by strong demand for its chips.
TSMC plans to build two advanced chip‑packaging facilities in the Chiayi Science Park in southern Taiwan, according to Reuters, which cited comments from Taiwan’s National Science Council Minister Wu Cheng‑wen on Sunday.
UBS analysts noted in a July 10 report that expanding fab capacity and AI‑driven demand for leading‑edge chips should support a stronger second half for ASML.
Although demand remains strong, semiconductor shares have faced pressure as investors weigh the sustainability of massive AI‑related capital expenditures. ASML is also confronting stricter export controls on its advanced equipment.