HKG:WRD.O 13 January 2026

June 28, 2026, 9:26 AM EDT. ASML Holding (ENXTAM:ASML) is gaining recognition as the "New OPEC" of the semiconductor industry due to its pivotal role in extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography, essential for manufacturing advanced AI chips. The stock has surged 60% year to date and 133.1% over the past year, reflecting growing investor focus on its long-term influence rather than just export control concerns. ASML supplies critical equipment to major chipmakers like TSMC, Samsung, and Intel, helping define global capacity for next-generation processors powering AI workloads. Market observers caution against overestimating ASML's market power, but its foundational technology position strengthens its outlook as AI demand rises.