ASML Holding(US:ASML) Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-09-30 04:18Core Insights - The article focuses on the rise of ASML, a global leader in photolithography machines, which are essential for chip manufacturing, capturing over 80% of the market share and monopolizing advanced EUV technology [4][6][10]. Group 1: Photolithography Technology - Photolithography is described as the "heart" of chip manufacturing, with its precision directly impacting chip performance. The evolution from g-line to EUV technology has doubled chip integration with each advancement [6][8]. - ASML's journey is characterized as a "chasing light" story, continuously pushing the limits of light wavelength to create smaller, faster, and more powerful chips [6][10]. Group 2: ASML's Formation and Challenges - ASML originated from Philips' photolithography department, which was initially undervalued. In 1984, ASML was established with a mere $2.1 million in capital and fewer than 30 employees [6][8]. - The company faced severe challenges at its inception, including a lack of orders and near bankruptcy, which fostered a resilient and determined culture [7][10]. Group 3: Technological Breakthroughs - ASML's rise is marked by significant technological achievements, such as the development of the PAS 5500, which outperformed Nikon's machines in the 1990s [8][9]. - The ambitious EUV project required over €10 billion in investment and a decade of development, culminating in the production of the first EUV machine in 2018, enabling chips below 7nm [9][10]. Group 4: Business Model Innovation - ASML's success is attributed to its unique business model, emphasizing deep collaboration with suppliers and customers, such as the partnership with Zeiss for optical technology [10][11]. - The company shares risks with clients like Intel and TSMC, who invested in ASML during challenging times, creating a closed-loop of technology, funding, and market access [10][11]. Group 5: Talent and Culture - ASML's core strength lies in its people, fostering a culture that encourages questioning authority and tolerating failure, which attracts top engineering talent [11][13]. - The company promotes a mindset of viewing failures as valuable data, which aids in continuous improvement and innovation [20][25]. Group 6: Broader Implications - ASML's success is framed within the context of global technological competition, representing a significant achievement for European technology and impacting the advancement of digital civilization [17][19]. - The article emphasizes that the competition in photolithography is not just between machines but also between nations and eras, highlighting ASML's role in shaping the future of technology [17][19].