ASML Holding N.V. reached a market capitalization exceeding $500 billion on January 16, 2026, becoming only the third European company to achieve this milestone. The surge reflects strong demand for advanced chip manufacturing equipment fueled by global artificial intelligence expansion.
- ASML surpassed $500 billion in market capitalization on January 16, 2026
- EUV lithography systems account for over 90% of the global high-end chip tool market
- Fourth-quarter 2025 revenue increased 38% year-over-year
- Full-year 2025 revenue reached €21.7 billion
- Backlog of orders exceeds €18 billion
- Gross margins remain above 50% despite rising R&D investments
ASML Holding N.V., the Dutch semiconductor equipment manufacturer, achieved a record market valuation surpassing $500 billion in early trading on January 16, 2026. This milestone marks the first time a European technology firm has crossed that threshold since the emergence of the digital economy’s high-growth era, positioning ASML among an elite group of global tech giants. The rally follows sustained demand for ASML’s extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography systems, which are essential for producing the most advanced semiconductors used in AI accelerators, data center processors, and next-generation consumer electronics. Industry analysts note that ASML's EUV machines currently command over 90% of the global market share in high-end chip production tools, with demand outpacing supply due to long lead times and complex engineering requirements. Revenue from its core lithography business rose 38% year-over-year in the fourth quarter of 2025, driven by a 45% increase in system deliveries. The company reported full-year 2025 revenue of €21.7 billion, up from €15.6 billion in 2024, while maintaining gross margins above 50%. These figures underscore its pricing power and technological dominance in a sector critical to AI infrastructure development. Investors are increasingly focused on ASML’s ability to scale production capacity amid geopolitical constraints and supply chain bottlenecks. With major customers including TSMC, Samsung, and Intel relying on ASML’s EUV systems, the company is viewed as a linchpin in the global semiconductor ecosystem. Analysts project further upside potential, citing a growing backlog of orders totaling over €18 billion and expansion plans in Europe and Asia.