Strong demand for AI chips lifts European markets as ASML raises its outlook

2026, October 14

Netherlands / Europe

European shares rose after ASML reported strong demand for its chipmaking equipment, driven partly by continued investment in artificial intelligence. The company raised its full-year sales forecast and indicated that demand for its machines could exceed its available capacity in 2027 and 2028. ASML shares gained around 2.4%, helping lift the broader European technology sector.

The news suggests that major technology companies continue to invest heavily in the semiconductor infrastructure needed for AI. However, investors remain concerned about oil-price volatility, inflation and the possibility that expectations for future AI growth have become excessive. Markets are therefore balancing strong corporate demand against wider economic and geopolitical uncertainty.

Why it matters: ASML's outlook provides an important indication of the health of the global semiconductor supply chain and the sustainability of AI-related investment.

Source: Reuters — European shares rise on ASML's AI-demand outlook