China and tariffs have wiped off $130 billion from critical chip firm ASML since peak value

Core Viewpoint - ASML has experienced a significant decline in market value, losing over $130 billion in less than a year due to export restrictions to China and uncertainty surrounding U.S. tariffs [1][2]. Group 1: Market Performance - ASML's shares reached a record high of over 1,000 euros in July last year, resulting in a market capitalization of$429.5 billion, but have since fallen to just under $297 billion [1]. - The volatility in semiconductor stocks has been attributed to tightening U.S. chip export restrictions to China and tariff threats from the U.S. government [2]. Group 2: Industry Context - The entire equipment manufacturing sector in the semiconductor space has seen declines, driven by fears surrounding U.S. restrictions on China [3]. - There are concerns regarding potential over-investment in artificial intelligence, leading to questions about whether demand for semiconductors is meeting expectations [3]. Group 3: Technological Developments - ASML has begun shipping its next generation of extreme ultraviolet lithography machines, known as high numerical aperture (High NA) [4].