In Good Company with Nicolai Tangen

ASML CEO: EUV Technology, Microchips and Long-term Mindset

Feb 5, 2025

Christophe Fouquet, President and CEO of ASML, is a pivotal figure in the semiconductor industry, known for producing advanced lithography systems. The discussion dives into the revolutionary EUV technology, highlighting its complexities and the industry’s collaborative efforts towards innovation. Fouquet shares insights on the future of AI, geopolitical tensions, and the critical role of R&D in chip manufacturing. He emphasizes effective leadership traits like humility and authenticity and discusses transitioning from self-validation to meaningful contributions, encouraging a pursuit of passion.

59:47

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Episode guests

Christophe Fouquet

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Christophe Fouquet emphasizes ASML's pivotal role in semiconductor technology through their exclusive production of EUV lithography machines, essential for advanced chip manufacturing.

The podcast highlights the impact of geopolitical tensions on the semiconductor industry, particularly the challenges posed by U.S.-China relations affecting technology access and innovation.

Deep dives

Significance of ASML in the Semiconductor Industry

ASML is a critical player in the semiconductor industry, primarily known for producing lithography systems essential for chip manufacturing. These systems enable the printing of complex electronic circuits on chips, impacting various sectors such as healthcare, electric vehicles, and communication technologies. With their development of EUV (Extreme Ultraviolet) lithography, ASML stands out as the only manufacturer capable of producing the necessary lithography machines that utilize this advanced technology. This innovation has been fundamental in sustaining Moore’s Law, which posits that the density of transistors on chips should double approximately every two years.

Intro

2min

Navigating EUV Lithography: Challenges and Innovations

17min

Navigating the Future of AI and Semiconductors

19min

The Intersection of Politics and Industry: ASML's Unique Culture

5min

Essentials of Effective Leadership

5min

The Drive Behind Effective Problem-Solving in the Semiconductor Industry

2min

The Journey Beyond Proving Oneself

10min

In this episode, Nicolai Tangen speaks with Christophe Fouquet, President and CEO of ASML - the company that makes the ultra-sophisticated machines needed to produce the world's most advanced computer chips. They discuss ASML's groundbreaking technology, the future of semiconductors, geopolitical challenges in the industry, and Fouquet's approach to leadership at one of the world's most strategically important companies.

In Good Company is hosted by Nicolai Tangen, CEO of Norges Bank Investment Management. New full episodes every Wednesday, and don't miss our Highlight episodes every Friday.

The production team for this episode includes Isabelle Karlsson and PLAN-B's Niklas Figenschau Johansen, Sebastian Langvik-Hansen and Pål Huuse. Background research was conducted by Sara Arnesen.