ASML to cut 1,700 jobs despite record sales growth

ASML Holding NV plans to cut about 1,700 jobs, mainly in the Netherlands and some in the US, according to CEO Christophe Fouquet.

The layoffs will mostly affect the technology and IT divisions, targeting leadership roles.

The cuts represent around 4% of the workforce, despite ASML reporting its 13th straight year of sales growth and record bookings in Q4.

ASML said the move is aimed at reducing organizational complexity and improving efficiency. The company still expects sales to grow in 2026.

Chief financial officer Roger Dassen added that the restructuring is meant to help engineers focus more on their core work.

🔗 Source: Bloomberg

🧠 Food for thought

Implications, context, and why it matters.

Limited financial context is provided for the plan to cut about 1,700 roles, even as record fourth-quarter bookings and a 2026 sales-growth forecast are cited 1.
The expected yearly cost savings from reducing about 4% of ASML’s workforce should be spelled out, so the size of the move can be judged 1.
Any one-time restructuring charges tied to the changes should be confirmed, so the net benefit can be understood.
Any effect on ASML’s existing 2026 revenue guidance of €34 billion to €39 billion should be assessed 2.

Semiconductor equipment rivals and other tech employers can use the restructuring to hire seasoned managers, with Europe likely to be a focus.
Most reductions sit in ASML’s Technology organization and its IT (information technology) organization, with most roles in the Netherlands plus some in the US, and many tied to leadership 1.
ASML remains the only producer of cutting-edge lithography machines needed to make advanced semiconductors 1.
Startups and larger firms may be able to bring in leaders who know high-end semiconductor manufacturing equipment and fast-moving R&D teams.