ASML

ASML builds the lithography systems that every advanced chip fab depends on, and is the only supplier of extreme ultraviolet machines anywhere. It is based in Veldhoven in the southern Netherlands and sits at the centre of Europe's claim to a chokepoint in the semiconductor supply chain. In September 2026 it began working with the Canadian quantum company Xanadu on whether advanced lithography can cut optical losses in photonic quantum processors. In October 2026 it reported record quarterly revenue of EUR 11.7 billion, said its planned 30 per cent capacity increases for 2027 and 2028 would not meet demand, and took its wafer handler back from VDL ETG after more than a decade of trying to outsource it.