Core Viewpoint - ASML's inability to confirm growth for 2026 has led to an 11% drop in its stock price, resulting in a market value loss of over $30 billion, signaling potential challenges for the semiconductor and AI sectors [1][2][3]. Group 1: Company Performance - ASML reported strong second-quarter earnings with revenue and net profit exceeding expectations, and an order volume of $6.4 billion [1]. - Despite the strong performance, CEO Christophe Fouquet expressed uncertainty about future growth due to macroeconomic and geopolitical factors, particularly new tariff threats [1][5]. Group 2: Market Implications - The warning from ASML may indicate a peak in the AI and semiconductor supercycle, suggesting a potential downturn or volatility ahead [2][3]. - ASML is the sole supplier of extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines, crucial for producing advanced semiconductors used in AI accelerators and data center chips [3][4]. Group 3: Factors Affecting Growth Outlook - Uncertainty surrounding tariffs, particularly a potential 30% tariff on European semiconductor equipment, is causing anxiety among ASML's customers, leading to delayed investment decisions [5]. - Ongoing trade disputes and export controls, especially involving China and the U.S., complicate demand forecasting for ASML [5]. Group 4: Market Reaction - The market reacted sharply to ASML's news, with an 11% drop in stock price, marking the largest single-day decline since October 2024 [6]. - The sell-off affected the broader European tech sector and impacted U.S. semiconductor equipment companies like Lam Research and Applied Materials [6].