ASML, AMAT Gains Exceed 26%, Outpacing Broader Tech Sector

Edgen Stock·Jan 22 2026, 23:07

Share to

Share to

Copy link

Key Takeaways

Semiconductor equipment manufacturers Applied Materials (AMAT) and ASML are demonstrating strong performance, outperforming the wider technology sector. However, a closer look at their specific sub-industries reveals a nuanced picture, with ASML's wafer fabrication peer group showing explosive growth.

Applied Materials and ASML have delivered year-to-date returns of 26.6% and 27.1%, respectively, beating the Computer and Technology sector's average gain of 25.8%.
Analyst sentiment is positive, with both firms holding a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy) and seeing upward revisions in earnings estimates over the past 90 days.
ASML's direct industry, Semiconductor Equipment - Wafer Fabrication, has rocketed 96.8% this year, while AMAT's broader semiconductor group gained a more moderate 42.4%.

AMAT and ASML Post Over 26% Returns, Beating Tech Average

Applied Materials (AMAT) and ASML have delivered robust year-to-date returns, outpacing the broader technology market. As of January 22, 2026, AMAT's stock has climbed 26.6%, while ASML has advanced 27.1%. Both performances surpass the 25.8% average return for the 612 companies within the Computer and Technology sector.

This outperformance is supported by improving analyst sentiment. Both companies currently hold a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy). Over the last 90 days, the consensus earnings estimate for AMAT's full year has increased by 1.2%. During the same period, the consensus estimate for ASML's current year earnings per share (EPS) has risen 2.2%, signaling growing confidence in their financial outlook.

Wafer Fabrication's 97% Surge Reveals Industry Divergence

While both companies are outperforming the wider tech sector, their performance relative to their specific industries tells a different story. Applied Materials belongs to the Electronics - Semiconductors industry, which has gained an average of 42.4% year-to-date. This indicates that AMAT, despite its strong gains, is slightly underperforming its direct industry peers.

In contrast, ASML operates within the highly specialized Semiconductor Equipment - Wafer Fabrication industry. This niche two-stock group has experienced a staggering 96.8% average gain so far this year. This context highlights that while ASML's 27.1% return is impressive, it trails the explosive growth seen in its immediate sub-sector. The data underscores the significant performance gap between different segments of the semiconductor market.