ASML, a Dutch semiconductor equipment manufacturer, saw its stock price fall in pre-market trading as concerns about future growth and potential tariff pressures surface. The company's shares dropped around 6.4% in European markets. As a result, major chip stocks like Nvidia (NVDA), AMD (AMD), Intel (INTC), and TSMC (TSM) also experienced declines in pre-market trading.
ASML's leadership highlighted the robust fundamentals from AI customers but noted increasing uncertainties due to macroeconomic and geopolitical developments. The company is preparing for growth in 2026 but currently cannot confirm it. They revised their 2025 outlook, expecting a 15% rise in net sales over 2024 and a gross margin of about 52%.
Recent comments from former U.S. President Trump have added to ASML's challenges, as he threatened a 30% tariff on imported goods starting August 1. Although semiconductors currently avoid U.S. tariffs, it's unclear if ASML will benefit. Trump indicated a likelihood of tariffs on semiconductors and pharmaceuticals.
ASML's extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUV) equipment is crucial for advanced AI chip production, with major clients like Intel and TSMC. The company's recent financial results showed net sales of 7.692 billion euros, surpassing analyst expectations of 7.52 billion euros, with net profits also exceeding forecasts.
