ASML Holding released its second-quarter 2026 results on July 15, and the numbers clearly indicate that the artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure build-out isn't going to slow down.
ASML not only crushed Wall Street's expectations by delivering stronger-than-expected growth, but it also raised its 2026 guidance substantially. However, the Dutch semiconductor equipment giant also delivered terrific news for Intel (NASDAQ: INTC) investors, which suggests that the latter could deliver robust guidance when it releases its results on July 23.
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Let's see what ASML said about Intel.
ASML noted in a press release on July 15 that Intel Foundry is now using its high-NA extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines to mass-produce Panther Lake client processors based on the Intel 18A process node. It is worth noting that Intel found it difficult to meet demand for its client central processing units (CPUs) used in personal computers (PCs) and laptops in Q1.
However, Intel CFO David Zinsner noted on the April earnings call that the volume of Panther Lake CPUs will "be up six or seven times in the second quarter relative to the first quarter." Additionally, Zinsner noted that the gross margin of the Panther Lake platform will improve with each quarter.
Intel started shipping Panther Lake CPUs late last year, and management's comments on the Q1 earnings call suggested solid demand. So, ASML's announcement that these chips are now in high-volume production indicates that Intel is on track to meet the robust demand for its client CPUs.
ASML also pointed out that it will collaborate with Intel to further refine the 18A process node to help enable broader adoption. Intel has been trying to close the gap with AMD in the server CPU market with chips manufactured using the 18A process node, and it looks like it may be making progress on that front with ASML's help.
All this could set Intel up for a better-than-expected quarterly report next week.
Intel expects Q2 revenue of $14.3 billion and non-GAAP earnings per share of $0.20. The top line will grow by 11% year over year, while the bottom line points toward a major turnaround from last year's loss of $0.10 per share.
Source: Yahoo Finance Top News — This article was automatically imported from the source. Read full article at original source →
