ASML Holding NV, a leading supplier of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, saw its shares plummet 5% in intraday trading on Thursday. The stock's sharp decline can be attributed to a combination of factors, including a weaker order outlook and growing concerns over potential U.S. tariffs on European semiconductor manufacturers.

UBS analysts have raised concerns about ASML's first-quarter results, anticipating weaker order bookings compared to the previous quarter. The bank expects order bookings in the range of 4 billion to 5 billion euros, significantly lower than the 7.1 billion euros reported in Q4. Additionally, UBS notes that ASML's 2026 outlook has deteriorated somewhat over the past three months, primarily due to increasing uncertainty surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) end demand.

Further compounding the pressure on ASML's stock is the looming threat of new U.S. tariffs on imported goods. Former President Trump's recent announcement of a potential 10% blanket tariff on all imports, with higher duties for specific countries including a 20% tariff for European nations, has sent shockwaves through the semiconductor industry. JPMorgan analysts warn that European semiconductor manufacturers like ASML, which conducts the majority of its final assembly in the Netherlands, could be significantly impacted by these tariffs. The broader chip sector has also reacted negatively to this news, with many semiconductor stocks experiencing notable declines in pre-market trading.