asml ceo urges eu action amid stock drop
Veldhoven, Thursday, 27 March 2025.
asml’s ceo, christophe fouquet, is calling for stronger european support. he fears that without it, leading tech companies like asml could relocate. this warning comes as asml shares experienced a nearly 3% drop. fouquet emphasizes asml’s crucial role, noting they provide 90% of the global market’s advanced semiconductor equipment. a new eu chips law aims to address these concerns. it will allocate funds for chip design, materials, and equipment, but fouquet suggests more assertive measures are needed to secure europe’s semiconductor future.
asml’s market dominance
ASML stands as the sole provider capable of reliably etching the most advanced semiconductors, holding a dominant position by fulfilling 90% of the global demand for advanced semiconductor equipment [1][2]. This near-monopoly underscores the company’s significance in the semiconductor supply chain. Fouquet’s statements reflect concerns that losing ASML would significantly impair Europe’s technological capabilities and economic competitiveness. The potential relocation of such a critical player highlights the urgent need for strategic support and protection within the european union [1][2].
eu’s response and global competition
The proposed EU chips law represents an effort to bolster the european semiconductor industry. It mirrors similar initiatives like the US Chips & Science Act and the Chinese Big Fund [1][2]. These global initiatives aim to secure domestic semiconductor production and innovation. The EU’s version seeks to allocate funds specifically for chip design, materials, and equipment, addressing the needs of key european companies like ASML [1][2]. The effectiveness of this law in providing sufficient support remains a critical factor in ASML’s future decisions and its impact on the broader european economy [1].
fouquet’s call for assertive action
Fouquet’s call for more assertive action indicates a belief that current measures may not suffice to counter the competitive pressures from other regions [5]. He has been more outspoken than his predecessor regarding the impact of us-instigated export bans, describing them as economically motivated [5]. Fouquet’s direct appeal to european policymakers emphasizes the need for europe to determine its own course independently [5]. He suggests that europe should not be dictated by external forces in shaping its technological and economic landscape [5].
asml’s commitment to europe
Despite the concerns, ASML has demonstrated a commitment to maintaining and expanding its presence in europe. Following successful negotiations for a support package with dutch authorities, ASML has committed to expanding in the eindhoven region [5]. Fouquet has stated that the likelihood of ASML remaining in europe is extremely high [5]. This commitment suggests that ASML’s call for support is aimed at ensuring long-term competitiveness and innovation rather than an imminent departure [5].