[ASML Raises Full-Year Sales Forecast for the Third Consecutive Quarter, AI Spending Boosts Chip Equipment Demand] DeepTech TechFlow reports that on October 14, Dutch semiconductor equipment manufacturer ASML raised the lower end of its 2026 sales forecast range, marking the third consecutive quarter of upward performance revisions. ASML now expects full-year 2026 sales to range between €44 billion and €45 billion (approximately $49 billion to $50 billion), up from the previous lower limit of €43 billion. However, skepticism within the industry about the sustainability of the AI boom is growing. Given that the lead time from order placement to delivery for ASML's advanced equipment exceeds one year, its performance provides a window into chip manufacturers' investment plans. ASML reported that net sales for the third quarter, from July to September this year, rose to €11.66 billion. Investors are also closely watching whether ASML can deliver orders on time amid strong market demand. In July this year, the company announced plans to increase the production capacity of its second most advanced equipment, the Low Numerical Aperture Extreme Ultraviolet (LowNA EUV) lithography machines, by 30% next year, aiming for an annual shipment target of approximately 85 units. ASML stated that it would be unable to fully meet market demand in 2027 and 2028. ASML's CEO noted that some customers "have already expressed interest in placing orders with us for 2029 and even 2030. We are studying how to further increase 2028 capacity to exceed the previously announced 30% growth."