ASML Holding(US:ASML)2024-04-24 13:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2023, ASML achieved total revenue of €27.6 billion, a 30% increase compared to the previous year, despite the semiconductor industry experiencing an 8% decline [15][17] - The gross margin improved to 51.3%, with net income reported at €7.8 billion and net bookings at €20 billion [17][25] - The company returned €3.3 billion to shareholders, including €2.3 billion in dividends and €1 billion in share buybacks [18][37] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Logic business saw substantial growth, increasing from approximately €10 billion in 2022 to nearly €16 billion in 2023, driven by demand for advanced logic and mature technologies [18][20] - EUV technology sales grew by 30%, while DPV sales surged by 60%, indicating strong demand for immersion technology [17][18] - The applications business experienced a slight decline, attributed to its shorter lead time and lack of significant backlog [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - ASML's sales in China increased significantly, rising from 14% to 29% of total sales, reflecting the company's ability to meet previously unmet demand in the region [21] - The company noted that the semiconductor market is expected to grow from €600 billion to around €1 trillion by 2030, indicating a robust long-term outlook for the industry [55] Company Strategy and Development Direction - ASML is preparing for significant growth in 2025, viewing 2024 as a transition year with expected revenue levels similar to 2023 [32][33] - The company is focused on building capacity and hiring talent to meet anticipated demand, particularly in advanced technologies [33][56] - ASML emphasizes the importance of sustainability and ESG initiatives, aiming for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 [59][64] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the current downturn in the semiconductor industry but expressed confidence in a recovery, citing improved customer dynamics and tool utilization [34][35] - The company expects a stronger second half of 2024, driven by a healthy order intake and improved market conditions [34][36] Other Important Information - ASML's R&D expenditure reached €4 billion in 2023, reflecting the company's commitment to innovation and technology development [25][30] - The company reported a healthy cash balance of around €7 billion, providing resilience amid industry challenges [26] Q&A Session: All Questions and Answers Question: Impact of US Government Restrictions on Advanced DUV Machines - Management indicated that the restrictions would not significantly affect the 2025 or 2030 financial targets, as the impact is limited to specific factories under export control [80][89] Question: China's Advancements in DUV Technology - Management clarified that while China can technically achieve 5nm chips using multi-patterning, the economic feasibility for high-volume manufacturing remains a challenge [91][92] Question: Adoption of High NA EUV Technology - Management expressed confidence in the adoption of high NA EUV technology, noting that initial customer interest is strong, and the adoption will be gradual [94][96] Question: Free Cash Flow and Backlog Recovery - Management acknowledged that free cash flow is under pressure due to lower contract liabilities but expects a recovery in backlog as orders return [82][104] Question: Expansion Potential in Eindhoven - Management confirmed ongoing discussions with the Dutch government regarding expansion plans and emphasized the need for a supportive investment climate [83][102]