ASML tops Q4 estimates, unveils 2025 outlook
en
January 29, 2025
TLDR: Microsoft investigating DeepSeek's potential use of OpenAI data, SoftBank planning to invest in Skild AI, and Q4 bookings for AI are surging with projected 'normal ratio' for China sales in 2025.

In this episode of Seeking Alpha's Wall Street Breakfast, host Julie Morgan discusses the latest financial updates from ASML, Microsoft’s investigation into DeepSeek, and SoftBank's new investment endeavors in AI robotics. Here’s a breakdown of the key highlights and insights shared in the podcast.
ASML’s Impressive Q4 Performance
Record Results:
ASML, the Dutch semiconductor equipment manufacturer, sees a significant boost with an 8% rise in pre-market trading following its Q4 earnings report. Key points include:
- Q4 Net Sales: Reported at 26 billion euros, exceeding estimates by 200 million euros, equating to a 28% year-over-year increase.
- 2025 Forecast: The company expects total net sales to range from 30 to 35 billion euros with a gross margin of 51-53%.
- Q1 Outlook: Predictions indicate sales between 7.5 and 8 billion euros, outperforming the consensus of 7.24 billion euros.
- Dividend Announcement: ASML raised its annual dividend by 4.9%, further boosting investor confidence.
These results underscore ASML's pivotal role in the semiconductor industry and its strong demand dynamics, particularly related to artificial intelligence and technology advancements.
Microsoft and DeepSeek Investigation
Data Misuse Concerns:
The episode highlights a potential data breach involving Microsoft's OpenAI models. Notable points are:
- Allegations Against DeepSeek: Microsoft is investigating whether DeepSeek, a Chinese AI startup, improperly accessed OpenAI data using its API.
- Security Lapses: Reports indicate that DeepSeek’s connections to unauthorized data extraction could violate OpenAI's terms of service.
- Market Impact: The fallout from DeepSeek’s actions led to significant market fluctuations, causing a $1 trillion market wipeout across tech stocks, highlighting the fragile state of trust in AI innovations.
These developments emphasize the importance of data governance and compliance in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
SoftBank’s Investment in AI Robotics
New Ventures:
SoftBank is reportedly poised to lead new funding for the AI robotics startup SkillDI, with expectations of a $4 billion valuation. Key insights include:
- Investing in Innovation: This move comes after SkillDI successfully raised $300 million in previous funding rounds, indicating strong interest and potential for growth in AI technology.
- Previous Support: Notable investors already backing SkillDI include LightSpeed Venture Partners and Amazon co-founder Jeff Bezos.
SoftBank's focus on robotics and AI reflects the continuing trend of large investment firms targeting innovative technologies that promise significant returns.
Broader Market Context
What's Trending:
The podcast also covers various other market highlights:
- Tech Earnings Reports: Firms like Microsoft, Tesla, and Meta are expected to report earnings soon, focusing particularly on AI infrastructure spending that could ripple through the tech sector.
- Market Movement: Global market indices, including the Dow, S&P, and NASDAQ, showed positive futures, while crude oil prices dipped slightly.
- Economic Indicators: Listeners are prepared for significant data releases, including wholesale inventories and the FOMC announcement.
These trends underline the interconnectedness of corporate earnings, investments, and macroeconomic indicators affecting the overall market.
Conclusion
The latest episode of Seeking Alpha's Wall Street Breakfast provides insight into important developments within the technology and investment sectors. ASML’s strong financial outlook reinforces its critical position in the semiconductor industry, while the scrutiny surrounding DeepSeek highlights the need for data integrity in AI practices. Meanwhile, SoftBank continues to move forward with significant investments in AI robotics, indicative of the evolving landscape in technological innovation.
For investors and industry watchers, these insights emphasize the ongoing importance of monitoring both individual company performances and broader market trends to stay informed about potential impacts on investment strategies.
This blog summarizes key topics from the podcast, offering a clear overview without additional advertisements or links, ensuring easy readability for those seeking information on the latest market trends.
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