Daily Earnings: Chip Monopolies Ration 2028 Factory Slots | TSM, ASML | Oct 15

Global semiconductor manufacturing capacity is officially sold out through at least 2028, prompting ASML and TSMC to ration future factory slots, hike prices mid-cycle, and physically audit customer buildouts before committing more supply.

- ASML paused 2029–2030 orders while collecting €9.3 billion in customer down payments to prevent hoarding.

- TSMC dispatched field teams to verify U.S. data center construction and local power grid readiness.

- Both companies are bypassing standard factory procedures and raising prices to bridge cleanroom bottlenecks.

Despite blowout third-quarter revenue and raised full-year guidance, both stocks slipped as next-generation factory ramp costs compress near-term gross margins.