ASML Reports €7.08 Billion Orders Amid AI Demand Surge

ASML reported impressive fourth-quarter bookings of €7.09 billion, driven primarily by robust demand for its advanced chipmaking machines amid the AI boom. This figure significantly exceeded analysts' expectations of €3.53 billion, reflecting strong market confidence in AI chip prospects despite recent concerns raised by the launch of a low-cost AI model by Chinese startup DeepSeek. CEO Christophe Fouquet emphasized that AI remains a key growth driver for the semiconductor industry, even as ASML faces challenges from U.S. pressure on sales to China, now accounting for 27% of its revenue. The company's net income for the quarter was reported at €2.7 billion on total sales of €9.3 billion, with a maintained sales forecast of €30-35 billion for 2025. ASML's stock experienced a notable rebound, alleviating investor concerns following a recent market selloff. Overall, ASML's performance signals strong ongoing demand for high-end chip-making equipment despite market fluctuations.