ASML's gross margin in the third quarter was 57.5%, higher than expected

JPMorgan analysts stated in a research report that Dutch semiconductor equipment manufacturer ASML achieved a very strong gross margin performance in the third quarter. ASML's gross margin in the third quarter reached 57.5%, higher than the market consensus of nearly 56% and also exceeding the company's previously provided guidance range of 55% to 57%. JPMorgan analysts pointed out that ASML's strong profitability was mainly due to the income growth from maintenance and upgrade services for sold equipment. As customers continue to maintain, modify, and enhance the performance of existing lithography machines, this segment has become a high-margin source of income for ASML. For the current quarter, ASML expects a gross margin of about 57%. JPMorgan said this level is about 60 basis points higher than the market consensus of 56.4%. Analysts believe that as semiconductor manufacturers continue to optimize existing production lines and improve the efficiency of advanced process equipment, the equipment maintenance and upgrade business is becoming an important support for ASML's margin performance.