ASML: One of a Kind Monopoly
A deep dive into the most important company in the world
Dear reader,
Welcome back to another deep dive into a wonderful company.
Today, discover the story of ASML, from its origins in the Dutch town of Veldhoven to its rise as a critical player in the semiconductor industry. Explore the world of semiconductors, understand why ASML's technology is indispensable, and learn about the company's current prospects. ASML's significance cannot be overstated—without them, the production of the most advanced semiconductor chips would be impossible, making ASML arguably the most important company in the world today.
Advanced Semiconductor Materials Lithography, or ASML, a Dutch-based company and Europe's largest technology firm, designs and manufactures the lithography machines essential for chip production. These machines, each costing hundreds of millions of dollars, are vital to the semiconductor industry—a cornerstone of modern technology. Semiconductors are the building blocks of nearly all contemporary devices, powering everything from computers and smartphones to automobiles, electronics, military systems, and medical equipment. In this article, we'll explore whether investing in ASML is wise.
Table of Contents
1. Chips
1.1 What are Chips?
1.2 The Semiconductor Industry
2. ASML’s History
2.1 Philips’ Spin-Off
2.2 IPO and EUV
2.3 The Making of a Monopoly
3. ASML’s Business
3.1 Lithography Machines
3.2 ASML’s Moat
3.3 Key Financials
3.4 Into The Future
3.5 Management
3.6 Risks