Lam Research Vs. Applied Materials: Who Actually Helps ASML Share Prices Rise Higher?
Lam Research (LRCX) reported $6.72B in Q4 revenue, up 30% YoY, while Applied Materials (AMAT) reported $9.12B, up 24.8% YoY. Both companies are benefiting from AI-driven semiconductor demand. Analysts debate which stock correlates more closely with ASML (ASML), with Lam Research seen as more tightly coupled to ASML's EUV systems.
How this was made

The 30-second read
Why it matters
Both companies delivered strong revenue growth, suggesting continued AI‑related equipment demand.
Market read
Earnings beats for two major equipment suppliers provide fresh trading signals in the AI‑driven semiconductor theme.
What to watch
Supply‑chain constraints and potential EUV lithography pricing could temper upside.
Background
The article compares Lam Research and Applied Materials as proxies for ASML's EUV cycle, focusing on their Q4 earnings releases.
Ticker impact
Lam Research reported Q4 fiscal revenue of $6.72B, up 30% YoY, indicating strong AI-driven capex demand.
Potential short-term rally on earnings beat.
Revenue beat and guidance raise are fresh, material information for traders.
Applied Materials posted Q4 fiscal revenue of $9.12B, up 24.8% YoY, with strong advanced packaging growth.
Likely modest upside as market digests strong results.
New revenue figures and segment growth are material for price action.
Market effects
Both firms reinforce the AI‑driven semiconductor equipment demand narrative.
U.S. semiconductor sector likely to see uplift.
Highlights continued global AI capex cycle.
Counterpoint
If AI capex slows, the high valuations may face pressure despite earnings beat.
Key entities
- CompanyLam Research
Semiconductor equipment maker specializing in etch and ALD.
- CompanyApplied Materials
Broad semiconductor equipment supplier with deposition, etch, and metrology.

