ASML Holding NV (ASML) surged 5.19% in pre-market trading on Thursday, reflecting strong investor sentiment following positive analyst coverage and broader sector gains.
The rally was primarily driven by RBC Capital's initiation of coverage on ASML with an Outperform rating and a $1,550 price target. The bullish outlook underscores confidence in ASML's growth prospects, particularly in the semiconductor equipment market.
Additionally, semiconductor stocks, including ASML, benefited from TSMC's announcement of higher capital expenditure forecasts for 2026, signaling robust demand for chip-making equipment. This sector-wide optimism further bolstered ASML's pre-market performance.