Intel

Intel’s stock has surged over 50% this month, driven by government and private sector investments. The U.S. government’s stake, acquired via a CHIPS Act investment, is now valued at $16 billion. Nvidia’s $5 billion investment signals confidence in Intel’s data center and PC solutions. Ongoing discussions with AMD for hardware supply further boost the stock. Under new leadership, Intel focuses on innovation and advanced technologies, aiming for a comeback after a challenging 2024. Competition remains fierce, requiring continued strategic execution.

Intel and AMD are reportedly in early talks regarding AMD potentially using Intel’s foundry services. This news boosted Intel’s shares by 7%. Securing AMD as a client would be a major win for Intel, validating its foundry strategy and attracting further investment. It would also signify significant trust from AMD, a direct competitor in the processor market. Diversifying to Intel could improve AMD’s supply chain. Intel’s foundry ambitions are supported by government and Nvidia investments as signals of confidence in Intel’s turnaround, boosting its shares nearly 77% year-to-date. Both companies declined to comment.

Nvidia and Intel are collaborating in a $5 billion deal, merging Intel’s CPUs and Nvidia’s GPUs for AI systems in data centers and PCs. Nvidia’s Huang and Intel’s Tan initiated discussions nearly a year ago. Nvidia will integrate Intel’s CPUs into its AI supercomputers, while Intel will incorporate Nvidia’s GPUs into PCs. The deal, finalized shortly before its announcement, leverages Intel’s packaging technology and aims at a $50 billion market. This reflects Nvidia’s AI dominance and Intel’s restructuring efforts, including cost reductions and fundraising.

Senator Rand Paul criticized the U.S. government’s $8.9 billion investment in Intel, calling it a step towards socialism and a dangerous precedent. The government acquired a 10% stake in Intel at a discounted rate. While Trump hailed the deal, Paul argues such interventions distort the free market. Ironically, Bernie Sanders supports the Intel investment, advocating for taxpayer returns. The CHIPS Act is seen as a driver for increased government involvement in the semiconductor industry, sparking debate over national security versus free-market principles.

Intel received a $5.7 billion U.S. government investment as part of a White House initiative taking a 10% equity stake. CFO David Zinsner also suggested exploring outside investment for Intel’s foundry business, a key growth area. While Q2 results beat expectations, shares dropped due to foundry capital intensity concerns. Intel cautioned that the deal could face “adverse reactions” from stakeholders, including investors and foreign governments, and increased scrutiny. The White House acknowledges the deal is still being finalized.

Intel launched a “USAI” section on its website, emphasizing its commitment to American chip manufacturing – claiming to be the only U.S. company manufacturing advanced chips domestically for over 50 years. This follows a meeting between Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger and President Trump, signaling a potential shift in sentiment. Facing global competition and scrutiny, Intel aims to solidify its standing as a vital American asset. Gelsinger addressed concerns about his background and assured the company is on track to advanced U.S. semiconductor manufacturing process.

Former Intel CEO Craig Barrett argues that Intel’s survival is crucial for U.S. chip manufacturing dominance. He believes underinvestment hinders Intel’s ability to compete with TSMC and Samsung. Barrett proposes a $40 billion collective investment from Intel’s major customers like Apple, Google, and NVIDIA to secure domestic chip supply and potential price advantages. He also urges adoption of advanced technologies and tariffs on imported chips to boost demand. Some of his suggestions align with current U.S. policies and Intel’s existing technology investments.

Intel released a statement affirming its commitment to U.S. national and economic security amid reports of calls for CEO Lip-Bu Tan’s resignation. The company highlighted its significant investments in U.S. semiconductor R&D and manufacturing, including a new fab in Arizona. The statement follows alleged pressure from sources close to former President Trump. Tan, Intel’s first CEO of Chinese descent, was appointed in March 2025 and has a strong background in technology and investment. Intel is reportedly engaging with U.S. government officials to address concerns.

Fitch Ratings downgraded Intel’s credit rating to BBB with a negative outlook, citing challenges in maintaining market demand amid intensifying competition. This follows a Q2 earnings report revealing significant losses and restructuring efforts including workforce reductions and project cancellations. While revenue saw a slight uptick, concerns remain over Intel’s financial stability and its ability to improve PC chip shipments and reduce debt. S&P and Moody’s previously downgraded Intel, reflecting broader market pessimism.

AMD is set to release its Q2 earnings, anticipating strong results and potentially record-breaking revenue. The company is projected to generate approximately $32 billion in revenue this year, nearing Intel’s level for the first time. While Intel’s Q2 revenue was $12.9 billion, its profitability declined, leading to reduced full-year guidance. AMD’s stock performance is strong, with market capitalization exceeding $280 billion, while Intel’s remains around $80 billion. AMD’s revenue is now more than half of Intel’s, a significant shift given AMD’s reliance on external foundries.