The semiconductor industry is experiencing significant changes as key players adjust their strategies amid evolving international trade dynamics. ASML, the world's leading manufacturer of chip-making equipment, has reported its third-quarter results while warning of potential challenges ahead in the Chinese market. This development comes as various nations and companies reposition themselves in the global semiconductor supply chain.
ASML has reported third-quarter net sales of €7.5 billion and a net profit of €2.12 billion, slightly missing sales expectations but exceeding profit forecasts. The company has notably cautioned investors that it expects its sales to China to decline "significantly" in 2026 [1], highlighting the growing impact of international trade restrictions on the semiconductor industry.
In a related development, the Dutch government has taken control of China-owned chipmaker Nexperia, marking another significant shift in the semiconductor landscape. The move reflects growing concerns about foreign ownership of critical technology infrastructure, particularly given Nexperia's ownership by Chinese parent company Wingtech [2].
Meanwhile, China appears to be strengthening its domestic semiconductor capabilities. SiCarrier, a Chinese chip equipment maker with close ties to Huawei, has unveiled new chip design software through its subsidiary, demonstrating China's push for technological self-reliance [3].
On the innovation front, MIT spinoff Vertical Semiconductor has secured $11 million in seed funding led by Playground Global. The company aims to develop vertical gallium nitride transistors for AI data centers, representing a potential breakthrough in semiconductor technology [4].
- ASML reports Q3 net sales of €7.5B, v. €7.7B est., and €2.12B net profit, v. €2.11B est., warning that it expects China sales to decline "significantly" in 2026 (April Roach/CNBC)
- Why has Dutch government taken control of China-owned chipmaker Nexperia?
- China's Sicarrier unit unveils new chip design software, media reports
- MIT spinoff Vertical Semiconductor, which aims to make vertical gallium nitride transistors for AI data centers, raised an $11M seed led by Playground Global (Mike Wheatley/SiliconANGLE)
