ASML, a leading provider of chipmaking machines to the semiconductor industry, has announced a rise in its net profit for 2023, despite ongoing trade tensions between China and the West. The Dutch tech giant reported a net profit of €7.8 billion ($8.5 billion), compared to €5.6 billion in the previous year. The company highlighted positive signs in the semiconductor market and expressed optimism for future growth, especially related to the rise of artificial intelligence (AI).
ASML CEO Peter Wennink stated that the semiconductor industry is still navigating the bottom of the market cycle. However, there are encouraging signs and a positive outlook for the industry’s recovery. Investors responded positively to the news, with ASML’s stock surging around seven percent at the opening bell, outperforming the wider Amsterdam market.
ASML plays a crucial role in the production of state-of-the-art semiconductor chips, which power various electronic devices, including mobile phones and cars. The company’s chief financial officer, Roger Dassen, emphasized the importance of high-end logic and memory for AI development. He stated that without ASML, there would be no high-end logic or high-end memory, making ASML’s contribution to the AI sector significant.
Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding the semiconductor industry, ASML remains confident in its ability to navigate through these challenges. The company recently faced restrictions on exporting its advanced machines to China, allegedly due to pressure from the United States on the Dutch government. ASML’s officials have expressed their determination to weather the storm and stated that the firm is well-positioned to handle these geopolitical headwinds.
ASML reported that 29 percent of its sales came from China, which is more than double the percentage from the previous year. The restrictions imposed on the Chinese market are expected to impact approximately 10-15 percent of ASML’s sales in 2023. Despite this, the company remains optimistic about its future prospects, expecting flat sales in 2024 as a transition year before significant growth in 2025.
The company’s overall net sales for 2023 reached €27.6 billion, compared to €21.1 billion in 2022. The fourth-quarter results surpassed expectations, with profits of €2.0 billion on sales of €7.2 billion. ASML also reported a robust pipeline, with net bookings nearly tripling in the fourth quarter to €9.2 billion compared to €2.6 billion in the previous quarter. However, net bookings for the year as a whole declined from €30.6 billion in 2022 to €20.0 billion in 2023.
ASML anticipates that sales in the first quarter of 2024 will slow compared to the strong pace set in the previous quarter. The company forecasts sales of €5.0 to €5.5 billion for the first quarter. CEO Peter Wennink maintains a conservative view for the total year and expects revenue in 2024 to be similar to that of 2023. He emphasized that 2024 will be an important year for preparing for significant growth, which is anticipated in 2025.
In conclusion, ASML’s strong financial performance and positive outlook for the semiconductor industry reflect its resilience amidst geopolitical challenges. The company’s focus on artificial intelligence and its role in the semiconductor market positions it well for future growth. Despite uncertainties, ASML remains optimistic about the industry’s recovery and its own prospects in the coming years.
