ASML Rides Chip Stock Rebound on AI Spending Hopes
Shares of ASML Holding NV advanced significantly in Friday's trading session, with its Amsterdam-listed stock rising 3.84% to close at 1,193.80 euros. The gain mirrored a broader rally in semiconductor equities, fueled by renewed investor confidence in artificial intelligence infrastructure investment.
Tech Giants Signal Major AI Investment
The sector-wide upturn was triggered after Amazon.com announced intentions to increase its capital expenditures by over 50% this year, a move that follows similar signals from Alphabet regarding higher AI-related spending. This news propelled the Philadelphia semiconductor index to a 5.7% surge, with notable gains from companies like Nvidia. Analysts interpreted the announcements as evidence of tangible demand for AI products, necessitating substantial ongoing investment in hardware.
Despite Friday's strong performance, ASML's Amsterdam listing concluded the week approximately 2.5% lower, reflecting recent volatility. The stock had experienced declines earlier in the week before staging a recovery. Its Nasdaq-listed shares saw an even larger jump of 4.64%, finishing at $1,413.01.
Dividend and Fundamental Backdrop
Investor attention now turns to ASML's upcoming interim dividend. The stock will trade ex-dividend on February 9 in Amsterdam, with a payment of 1.60 euros per share scheduled for February 18. This financial event provides a near-term catalyst for shareholders.
The company's recent financial outlook remains a key focus. ASML has projected 2026 net sales between 34 billion and 39 billion euros, with a gross margin forecast of 51% to 53%. The company reported fourth-quarter net bookings of 13.2 billion euros and maintains a substantial order backlog of 38.8 billion euros. CEO Christophe Fouquet noted a "notably more positive" sentiment among customers, largely driven by AI demand.
While the surge in tech capital spending bolsters the outlook for chip equipment makers like ASML, it also raises questions about profit margins and has prompted some investors to reassess positions in high-valuation semiconductor stocks. Market participants will be watching to see if Friday's optimistic sentiment carries into the new trading week.
