ASML Holding NV's U.S.-listed shares closed Friday's session at $1,413.01, marking a robust gain of 4.6%. The advance was part of a broader rally in semiconductor equities, with the PHLX Semiconductor Index climbing 5.7% for the day.
AI Spending and Market Rotation in Focus
The sector's strength followed indications of increased capital expenditure from major technology firms, renewing interest in the artificial intelligence infrastructure trade. However, analysts note a shift in sentiment, with some investors rotating out of crowded tech positions that had become expensive. The market is actively differentiating between potential AI winners and losers following a period of volatility.
ASML, a critical supplier of advanced lithography systems for chip manufacturing, is often viewed as a bellwether for high-end semiconductor production. The company recently reaffirmed its financial outlook, projecting 2026 net sales between €34 billion and €39 billion and planning share buybacks of up to €12 billion by 2028.
Dividend and Macroeconomic Calendar Ahead
Investors face a busy schedule in the coming days. ASML shares will trade ex-dividend in Europe on February 9 and in the U.S. on February 10 for an interim payout of €1.60 per ordinary share, with payment scheduled for February 18.
Market attention will also pivot to key U.S. economic releases. The postponed January nonfarm payrolls report is due on Wednesday, February 11, with consensus estimates pointing to a gain of 70,000 jobs. Consumer price index (CPI) inflation data follows on Friday, February 13. These reports could significantly influence interest rate expectations and market volatility, particularly for highly valued chip stocks.
Further sector insight may come from Applied Materials, a leading U.S. chip equipment maker, which is scheduled to report earnings on Thursday, February 12.
