ASML tops $500 billion market cap as TSMC plans to spend more

Core Viewpoint - ASML, the largest manufacturer of chip-making equipment, reached a market value of over $500 billion following TSMC's announcement of increased capital spending plans to meet the rising demand for AI chips [1][2]. Group 1: ASML's Market Position - ASML's shares rose by 5.4% after TSMC's announcement, contributing to a total increase of 24% in January [2]. - ASML is now recognized as Europe's most valuable company [2]. Group 2: TSMC's Capital Spending Plans - TSMC increased its capital spending forecast for 2026 to between $52 billion and $56 billion, exceeding market expectations of $46 billion, representing a potential increase of up to 21% in spending on chip-making equipment [2]. - This heightened spending from TSMC is in response to increased demand from other manufacturers like Micron and Korean memory chip producers [4]. Group 3: Industry Demand and Growth Outlook - Analysts indicate that ASML stands to benefit significantly from the AI boom, as demand for AI-related chips is growing faster than anticipated [3]. - Despite ASML's forecast of only modest growth for 2026, TSMC's plans to accelerate factory construction suggest a strengthening outlook for ASML into 2027 and beyond [4][5].