Workflow
High NA
icon
Search documents
Exclusive look at the making of High NA, ASML's new $400 million chipmaking colossus
CNBC· 2025-05-22 12:11
Core Insights - ASML has developed the High NA machine, the world's most advanced and expensive chipmaking machine, with a cost exceeding $400 million, which is set to transform microchip production [1][4][12] - The first commercial installation of High NA occurred at Intel's Oregon chip fabrication plant in 2024, with only five machines shipped to date [3][4] - High NA is expected to be utilized by all ASML's EUV customers, including major chipmakers like TSMC, Samsung, and Micron, enhancing chip production efficiency and yield [4][21] Technology and Development - High NA machines are larger than a double-decker bus and consist of four modules manufactured in different locations, requiring significant logistics for delivery [2] - The technology behind High NA allows for higher resolution projections of chip designs, reducing the need for multiple patterning and improving yield [7][13] - ASML's High NA machines have shown significant improvements over previous EUV machines, with Intel reporting a 100% increase in reliability and Samsung noting a 60% reduction in cycle time [6][7] Market Position and Strategy - ASML holds a dominant position in the EUV lithography market, being the exclusive manufacturer of these machines, which are essential for producing advanced microchips [4][5] - The company sold 44 EUV machines in 2024, with a starting price of $220 million, while its older DUV machines accounted for 60% of its business [16][17] - ASML's sales to China peaked at 49% of its business in Q2 2024, but are expected to normalize to 20%-25% in 2025 due to U.S. export controls on EUV technology [17][18] Future Outlook - ASML plans to ship at least five more High NA systems in the current year and aims to ramp up production capacity to 20 machines in the coming years [24] - The company is also developing the next generation of machines, Hyper NA, expected to be needed between 2032 and 2035, with draft optical designs already in progress [23][24] - ASML is establishing a training center in Arizona to train 1,200 individuals annually on EUV and DUV technologies, addressing the growing demand for skilled labor in the semiconductor industry [23]
ASML Holding(ASML) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript
2025-04-16 06:00
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total net sales for Q1 2025 were €7.7 billion, including €2 billion from the installed base business, which was within guidance [1] - Gross margin was reported at 54%, slightly better than guidance due to a higher average selling price (ASP) for EUV tools and customer-specific performance rewards [2] - Net income for the quarter was €2.4 billion, with order intake at €3.9 billion, including €1.2 billion for EUV [2] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The logic segment is expected to see strong growth, particularly in advanced logic, with customers ramping up to two-nanometer technology [6] - Memory is anticipated to remain stable at last year's levels, supported by customer activity [7] - The installed base is growing, with a stronger mix of EUV versus Deep UV tools contributing to growth in 2025 [7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The overall revenue range for 2025 is projected between €30 billion and €35 billion, driven by strong AI demand [4][8] - Tariff dynamics are creating uncertainty in the market, potentially impacting GDP and overall market demand [8][16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on advancing technology, particularly in EUV and High NA systems, to meet customer needs and optimize their product roadmaps [9][12] - There is an emphasis on transitioning from multi-patterning to single-exposed EUV, which is expected to enhance litho intensity and reduce process complexity [11][26] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledges strong AI demand as a key driver for the market, with expectations for growth in 2025 and 2026 [24][25] - There is caution regarding the impact of tariffs on long-term growth, with ongoing monitoring of the situation [16][25] Other Important Information - The company executed a share buyback of €2.7 billion in Q1 and proposed a total dividend of €6.4 per ordinary share for 2024 [22] - Guidance for Q2 revenue is expected to be between €7.2 billion and €7.7 billion, with a gross margin forecast of 50-53% [17][19] Q&A Session Summary Question: How does the company view the impact of tariffs on 2025? - Management highlighted the dynamic nature of tariffs and their potential direct and indirect implications on the ecosystem and overall market demand, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring [14][16] Question: What is the guidance for Q2? - Revenue is expected between €7.2 billion and €7.7 billion, with a gross margin of 50-53%, reflecting uncertainties related to tariffs [17][19] Question: What are the long-term market expectations beyond 2025? - The company anticipates continued strength in AI demand and a shift towards more advanced technology, with a focus on lithography advancements [24][25]