The ASML story
ASML began in 1984 as a joint venture between Philips and ASM International, working from a shed beside a Philips building in Eindhoven. It developed lithography machines, which project chip designs onto silicon wafers, and grew into the leader in its field. Its headquarters are in Veldhoven in the Netherlands.
What makes ASML powerful
ASML's power is technical. It is the only company that makes extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography systems, which are needed to make the most advanced microchips. Every leading chipmaker depends on its machines. Each EUV system brings together optics, lasers and precision engineering from a network of European suppliers.
ASML today
ASML Holding N.V. is listed in Amsterdam and New York and led by Christophe Fouquet. The company invests heavily in research, and its next generation of High-NA EUV machines is now being delivered to customers. Export controls shape which customers it can serve.
What comes next for ASML
ASML's road ahead is tied to the growth of the chip industry, especially for artificial intelligence. Its task is to scale production of its newest systems while managing geopolitical limits on exports.
Why ASML ranks #20
ASML ranks #58 in WCRC's World's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026 with a Power Score of 75.32.
Europe's ranking carries the same score, which places ASML at #20 among brands of core European origin.
Pillar profile
ASML was assessed on all five pillars and 50 parameters in the World's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026. See its full global profile.
Versus its nearest rivals
6 Technology & Digital brands are in the Europe 100. ASML is #2 in its sector.
Questions people ask
What rank is ASML in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026?
ASML ranks #20 of 100 in Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026, with a WCRC Power Score of 75.32 out of 100. It also ranks #58 in WCRC's World's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026.
When was ASML founded and who founded it?
ASML was founded in 1984. Founder(s): Joint venture of Philips and ASM International.
Who leads ASML today?
Christophe Fouquet, President and CEO. The brand is owned by ASML Holding N.V..
Where is ASML headquartered?
ASML is based in Veldhoven, Netherlands. Its country of origin is Netherlands.
What is ASML's revenue?
€32.7bn total net sales (FY2025, +15.6%), according to the company's published results.
What is a signature fact about ASML?
ASML is the leading supplier of lithography systems to the semiconductor industry and the maker of EUV lithography machines.
Key facts
| Brand | ASML |
|---|---|
| Company / owner | ASML Holding N.V. |
| Headquarters | Veldhoven, Netherlands |
| Founded | 1984 |
| Founder(s) | Joint venture of Philips and ASM International |
| Leadership | Christophe Fouquet, President and CEO |
| Latest revenue | €32.7bn total net sales (FY2025, +15.6%) Source |
| Sector | Technology & Digital |
| Country of origin | Netherlands |
| Signature fact | ASML is the leading supplier of lithography systems to the semiconductor industry and the maker of EUV lithography machines. |
| Official website | asml.com |
ASML is ranked #20 in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026 (Power Score 75.32).