Dutch tech giant ASML posts gain in third-quarter net profits

ASML's role is vital to the global economy and a key barometer of the tech sector, with chips made using its equipment powering everything from smartphones to missiles. (AFP pic) THE HAGUE: Dutch tech giant ASML, which makes cutting-edge machines to manufacture semiconductor chips, Wednesday posted a gain in third-quarter net profits compared with the same period in 2025.

ASML, Europe's biggest tech firm by market value, said net profits came in at €5.0 billion, compared with €2.1 billion in the third quarter of last year.

The firm also hiked its full-year sales forecast, predicting total turnover of between €44-€45 billion, from a previous projection of €43-€45 billion.

ASML is a critical cog in the global economy and a key bellwether for the tech sector, as the semiconductors crafted with its tools power everything from smartphones to missiles.

It has also become a pivotal player in AI, as the only manufacturer of machines high tech enough to provide the advanced chips for AI systems worldwide.

"Our customers continue to increase their short- and medium-term equipment demand forecasts with us, driven primarily by their views on the size and duration of AI-related investments," said the firm's chief executive Christophe Fouquet.

"In light of their demand visibility, some customers are expressing an interest in placing orders with us for 2029 and even 2030," he added.

He said that demand was currently outstripping supply and that the firm was seeking ways to boost its capacity for 2028 beyond a 30% increase the firm had already announced.