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ASML Stock Rises 3% on 2026 Guidance Raise
Why is ASML stock up today?
ASML (ASML.AS) stock rose nearly 3% in Amsterdam on Wednesday, lifting its value to about €586 billion, after it raised its 2026 sales forecast (guidance) to €44–45 billion on AI demand.
Key numbers
| Q3 net sales | €11.7BRecord, near top of guidance |
|---|---|
| Q3 net income | €5.0Bvs ~€4.1B expected |
| Gross margin | 57.5%Company record |
| 2026 sales guidance | €44–45BRange narrowed upward |
| Q4 sales guidance | €14.2–15.2BUp from €11.7B in Q3 |
| Q3 earnings per share | $14.65vs $12.13 expected (per [5]) |
What happened
ASML (ASML.AS) stock rose nearly 3% in Amsterdam on Wednesday, lifting its value to about €586 billion, after it raised its 2026 sales forecast (guidance) to €44–45 billion on AI demand. Third-quarter sales hit a record €11.7 billion, and profit reached €5.0 billion, well above the roughly €4.1 billion analysts expected. CEO Christophe Fouquet said some customers now want to place orders for 2029 and even 2030, because they expect AI spending to last. ASML expects €14.2–15.2 billion in sales in the fourth quarter.
Why it matters
ASML makes the machines that print the tiny circuits on computer chips, and the most advanced AI chips depend on them. When customers line up orders years ahead, it suggests they expect AI spending to last rather than fade. ASML also said it cannot build enough machines to meet demand through 2028, which may limit how fast chip makers can expand.
Who this affects
- MarketbullishMedium impact
- Chip investors get a strong sign of lasting AI demand.
- CompanybullishHigh impact
- Record sales and profit are good for ASML shareholders.
- CompetitorsneutralLow impact
- Applied Materials, Lam and KLA may see similar demand.
- IndustrymixedMedium impact
- Chip makers face tool shortages through 2028, slowing expansion.
ASML vs Applied Materials, Lam Research, KLA
How we got here
Chip equipment stocks slide on profit-taking; Applied Materials falls 7%, Lam and KLA 4%.
ASML reports record Q3 sales of €11.7B and raises 2026 guidance to €44–45B.
CEO says some customers want to order for 2029 and 2030; shares rise nearly 3%.
What to watch
- Whether ASML delivers fourth-quarter sales within its €14.2–15.2B forecast rangeQ4 2026
- Any plan to add capacity for 2028 beyond the 30% increase already forecastQ1 2027
Educational content only. Not investment advice.
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