Dutch company ASML, a key supplier of chip manufacturing equipment, reported its third-quarter results on October 15, 2025, beating analyst expectations for new orders. According to Reuters, the company continues to benefit from the global boom in AI infrastructure investment, which is driving demand for its advanced lithography systems. However, despite the strong current performance, ASML expressed concern about its largest market, China. The company forecasts a "significant" drop in demand from Chinese customers in 2026. This forecast reflects the dual nature of the market: on one hand, unprecedented growth driven by AI, and on the other, growing uncertainty related to trade restrictions and Chinas push for technological independence. ASMLs statements serve as an important signal of a potential "inflection point" and regional fragmentation in the global semiconductor supply chain.
ASML: AI Boom Lifts Orders Above Forecasts, But China Demand Set to Fall
