ASML Becomes the Largest Shareholder in Mistral AI

ASML became the largest shareholder in French startup Mistral AI. Dutch chipmaker led a €1.7 billion Series C funding round. With €1.3 billion.

The investment gave the AI player a valuation of €10 billion. The move is also expected to secure ASML a seat on Mistral’s board. The investment appears as part of a broader push to strengthen European technological sovereignty and reduce reliance on US and Chinese AI systems. While both companies declined to comment, sources indicate that Bank of America advised ASML on the investment.

Founded in 2023, Mistral has become a leading European player in AI, competing with giants including OpenAI and Google. The company is backed by Nvidia and raised €600 million in a funding round led by investment company General Catalyst last year, which valued it at around €6 billion. Mistral was recently reported to be seeking up to $1 billion in fresh capital from investors, including Abu Dhabi-based investment company MGX, at a $10 billion valuation.