Shares of ASML Holding NV surged 5.15% in pre-market trading on Wednesday following the release of the company's third-quarter 2025 earnings report. The Dutch semiconductor equipment manufacturer posted solid results and provided an optimistic outlook, particularly highlighting the positive impact of artificial intelligence (AI) investments on its business.
ASML reported third-quarter net bookings of €5.4 billion, significantly exceeding analyst expectations of €4.9 billion. The company's CEO, Christophe Fouquet, noted "continued positive momentum around investments in AI," with this trend extending to a broader customer base in both leading-edge Logic and advanced DRAM segments. While revenue of €7.5 billion slightly missed estimates, ASML's forward guidance impressed investors. The company expects fourth-quarter sales between €9.2 billion and €9.8 billion, projecting full-year 2025 sales growth of around 15% with a gross margin of approximately 52%.
Despite cautioning about an expected decline in China sales for 2026, ASML reassured investors by stating it does not expect 2026 total sales to fall below 2025 levels. The company's strong order book, optimistic AI-driven outlook, and confidence in maintaining sales levels have collectively fueled investor enthusiasm, driving the significant pre-market stock price increase.