ASML to become the main shareholder of Mistral AI
The Dutch company is set to become the main shareholder of the French Mistral AI, securing Mistral's European future.
Yesterday, Reuters reported that ASML is about to invest €1.3 billion in Mistral AI. While there are still many unknown details, this move would make Mistral AI the most valued European tech company, reaching a valuation of €10 billion.
For context, ASML is a Dutch company that designs machinery used to build high-tech microchips, and it is the only European company that plays a critical role in the global microchip supply chain. On its side, Mistral AI is the European response to companies like Alphabet or OpenAI, which dominate the AI market.
Further integration between ASML and Mistral AI can make the latter especially less reliant on both US and Chinese companies, and has the potential to make Europe more technologically competitive overall.
Mistral AI is already a significant player beyond the civil sphere, having signed several partnerships with defence companies, including the German Helsing, at the beginning of this year.
Further reading:
- Exclusive: ASML becomes Mistral AI’s top shareholder after leading latest funding round, sources say. Vinn, M. and Cherney, M. A. Reuters.
- AI and the Arms Industry: an Overview. The Debugger
