ASML becomes top shareholder in Mistral AI with EUR 1.3B B stake

ASML becomes top shareholder in Mistral AI with EUR 1.3B B stake

Dutch advanced semiconductor equipment manufacturer ASML Holding (ASML.US) has led the latest round of financing for French artificial intelligence startup Mistral AI, securing a significant stake in the company. The investment, valued at EUR 1.3 billion, is part of Mistral AI's Series C funding round, which is valued at EUR 1.7 billion [1].

Following the completion of this funding round, Mistral AI's valuation is expected to reach EUR 10 billion, making it the most valuable AI company in Europe. ASML's investment will also secure a seat on Mistral AI's board, further strengthening the strategic alliance between the two European technology leaders [1].

Mistral AI, founded in 2023 by former researchers from DeepMind and Meta (META.US), has quickly become a prominent AI startup in Europe, competing with American companies such as OpenAI and Google (GOOGL.US). The company has received support from NVIDIA (NVDA.US) and other global investors, achieving a valuation of over $6 billion following its Series B funding last year [1].

Analysts suggest that this collaboration will enable ASML to leverage Mistral AI's AI technology to optimize its chip manufacturing equipment, while Mistral AI will gain substantial financial support to expand its research areas and product offerings. This could potentially reduce Europe's reliance on American AI systems [1].

ASML is currently the only company in the world that produces extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines, which are essential for chip manufacturers such as Taiwan Semiconductor (TSM.US) and Intel (INTC.US) [1]. The investment in Mistral AI aligns with ASML's goal to enhance Europe's technological autonomy and strengthen its position in the global semiconductor market.

References:
[1] https://news.futunn.com/en/post/61778848/asml-holding-asmlus-leads-the-investment-in-europe-s-largest
[2] https://www.business-standard.com/technology/tech-news/asml-becomes-mistral-ai-s-top-shareholder-after-latest-funding-round-125090700737_1.html