Strong Q2 results and a higher 2026 outlook underscore how AI-driven chip demand is bolstering the Dutch lithography supplier’s growth alongside its planned employee stock grant.
ASML Holding plans to give employees worldwide a one-time €20,000 stock award, or about $22,862, with the grant scheduled for January 1, 2027 and full vesting in early 2030 for staff who remain through the period. The retention-linked award comes as the Dutch chip-equipment maker posted stronger-than-expected Q2 2026 results, with net sales of €9.3 billion and net income of €2.9 billion, both above its prior guidance. ASML sold 86 new lithography systems in the quarter, including 16 extreme ultraviolet, or EUV, machines, while its installed base management business contributed €2.8 billion, about 30% of revenue. The company raised its full-year 2026 outlook to €43 billion to €45 billion in sales with gross margin of 54% to 56%, and expects Q3 sales of €11 billion to €12 billion as AI-related chip demand continues to drive capacity expansion among major semiconductor manufacturers.