ASML Profit Jumps as AI Boom Lifts Chip Tool Demand Worldwide

Dutch semiconductor equipment leader ASML has reported a strong rise in profits, driven by growing global demand for chips used in artificial intelligence applications. The company, which supplies advanced machines essential for making modern semiconductors, said it sees a positive outlook ahead as AI continues to reshape technology markets worldwide.

ASML’s net profit for 2025 rose sharply to 9.6 billion euros, up from 7.6 billion euros in 2024. The company said customer sentiment has improved in recent months, especially as chipmakers gain confidence that demand linked to artificial intelligence will remain strong over the medium term. Chief Executive Officer Christophe Fouquet said many customers now expect AI-driven demand to be more stable and long-lasting than previously thought.

One of the strongest signals of future growth came from ASML’s order book. Net bookings in the fourth quarter reached 13.2 billion euros, a major jump from 5.4 billion euros in the previous quarter. This figure is closely watched by investors as it reflects expected future sales. Total net sales for 2025 touched a record 32.7 billion euros, comfortably above earlier expectations.

Looking ahead, ASML forecast net sales of between 34 billion and 39 billion euros in 2026, indicating another year of growth. For the first quarter of the current year, the company expects sales to be in the range of 8.2 billion to 8.9 billion euros. Fouquet said the company is confident that 2026 will continue the growth trend.

ASML, however, remains affected by global geopolitical tensions, particularly restrictions on high-tech exports to China as part of a broader US-led effort. The company has already cautioned that sales to China are likely to decline in 2026 compared with strong levels seen in recent years.

Despite these challenges, ASML remains optimistic about the long term. The company expects the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence to push its annual sales to between 44 billion and 60 billion euros by 2030, reinforcing its central role in the global semiconductor industry.

Source: The Economic Times