ASML says AI demand will exceed chip-tool capacity through 2028
ASML•ASML said customer demand for chipmaking tools exceeds the capacity it can supply next year through 2028, with some customers seeking orders for 2029 and 2030. It raised its full-year sales forecast to €44 billion to €45 billion and expects fourth-quarter sales of €14.2 billion to €15.2 billion.
1. Demand exceeds capacity
ASML said booming AI demand is driving orders for its chipmaking tools beyond its available capacity next year and through 2028. Customers are discussing orders beyond 2027, with some interested in booking capacity for 2029 and 2030, CEO Christophe Fouquet said.
2. Sales outlook rises
The company expects fourth-quarter sales of €14.2 billion to €15.2 billion and a gross margin of around 57%. It raised its full-year sales forecast to €44 billion to €45 billion. Third-quarter net profit was €4.96 billion on net sales of €11.7 billion.
3. Ways to add capacity
ASML said it plans to address shortages by upgrading existing tools and selling new machine versions with higher throughput. The company previously said it would increase capacity by 30% in 2027 and another 30% in 2028, but Fouquet said those increases would not be enough. ASML will raise prices starting in 2027, with the full effect visible from 2028.
