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TIP746: ASML: Europe's Tech Monopoly

119 snips
Aug 22, 2025
Discover the fascinating journey of ASML, a Dutch company that transformed into the globe's key player in semiconductor technology. Explore its unique monopoly on EUV lithography machines, essential for advanced chip production. Learn how strategic partnerships with giants like TSMC have shaped the industry. Delve into the geopolitical challenges that position ASML at the center of tech power struggles between the U.S. and China. Discover the company’s relentless innovation culture that makes its market dominance hard to replicate.
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INSIGHT

ASML's Critical Monopoly

  • ASML is the sole maker of EUV lithography machines that enable the most advanced chips.
  • Those machines cost hundreds of millions and require over 100,000 precision parts.
ANECDOTE

Birth From Philips NatLab

  • ASML originated as a Philips spinoff after Philips' NatLab developed a wafer stepper.
  • Wim Troost partnered with Arthur Del Prado and formed ASML in 1983 to commercialize the tech.
INSIGHT

Focus On Winning Market Share

  • ASML adopted a ruthless focus on winning and targeted the tier beneath top incumbents.
  • That focus let them attract risk-tolerant chipmakers willing to try a newcomer.
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