Trump's Tariff Threat Casts Shadow Over ASML's 2026 Growth Plans, Despite Strong Q2, AI Momentum
ASML Holding NV has warned investors that its growth outlook for 2026 is uncertain due to rising macroeconomic uncertainties and trade tensions, particularly tariffs on new systems and parts for the U.S. Despite strong Q2 results with $8.9 billion in sales and $2.66 billion in profit, the company cannot confirm its growth plans. Strong bookings of $6.4 billion were reported, exceeding estimates, but the forecast for Q3 sales fell short of analyst expectations. ASML shares rose 2.02% but dropped 7.10% after hours following the results.
Dutch semiconductor company, ASML Holding NV ASML, warned investors that its growth outlook for 2026 is now under a cloud, citing rising macroeconomic uncertainties and escalating trade tensions.
Check out the current price of ASML stock here.
What Happened: During the company’s second quarter results on Wednesday, ASML’s CEO, Christophe Fouquet, said in a statement, “while we still prepare for growth in 2026, we cannot confirm it at this stage,” citing growing uncertainties driven by macroeconomic and geopolitical developments.
He adds that the fundamentals of AMSL’s key AI customers remain strong, but acknowledges the growing threat of tariffs.
“Tariffs on new systems and parts going into the U.S., as well as reciprocal measures from other countries, could impact our gross margin,” Fouquet says.
The company, nonetheless, witnessed strong bookings during the quarter, at $6.4 billion, compared to consensus estimates at $5.6 billion, according to a report by Bloomberg.
Its forecast for third quarter sales, however, estimated between $8.6 billion and $9.2 billion, fell short of analyst consensus estimates.
Why It Matters: While semiconductors were exempt from President Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs, there is a lot of uncertainty surrounding chipmaking equipment.
During its second quarter results, ASML posted $8.9 billion in sales, ahead of consensus estimates at $8.7 billion, with a profit of $2.66 billion, against estimates at $2.37 billion.
Price Action: Shares of ASML were up 2.02% on Tuesday, trading at $823.02, but are now down 7.10% after hours, following its second quarter results.
According to Benzinga’s Edge Stock Rankings, ASML scores well on Growth and Quality, while having a favorable price trend in the short, medium and long terms. Click here for deeper insights into the stock.
- Nvidia’s Jensen Huang: China Doesn’t Need US Chips
Photo courtesy: Skorzewiak / Shutterstock.com
