ASML is being questioned by the Dutch regulator over an error in publishing its results

(Bloomberg) — ASML Holding NV is in talks with the Dutch market regulator about incorrectly publishing the company's financial results a day earlier than planned.

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Regulatory authority AFM confirmed the discussions but said it could not comment at this stage on whether the company would face consequences from the error. A spokesman told Bloomberg News by phone Wednesday that the agency is required to keep discussions with companies confidential.

ASML posted weak third-quarter results on Tuesday and cut its outlook for next year, triggering a 16% fall in its share price in Amsterdam, its biggest since June 12, 1998. Shares fell 5.1% on Wednesday , and ASML lost its place as the favorite to become Europe's most valuable technology company for the software group SAP SE.

“We took immediate action to publish the full notice when we became aware of the incident and contacted the relevant tax authorities,” said ASML spokeswoman Monique Mols.

CEO Christophe Fouquet apologized at an investor call for the premature publication of the announcement, which was expected before the stock market opened on Wednesday.

“It was very unfortunate,” he said, attributing the problem to a “technical error.”

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