A series of jumps in Intel Corporation's NASDAQ: INTC stock price during the middle of August has sent shares of the tech sector giant above the $25 mark on massive trading volume. This multiday rally was the market's recognition of a fundamental transformation in the company's investment story.
TSMC is a clear leader in advanced chip manufacturing, benefiting from AI-driven demand and strong client relationships, in my opinion, justifying its premium valuation. TSMC's global expansion and U.S. investments help mitigate geopolitical risks, positioning it well for long-term growth despite tariff uncertainties. Intel is getting a lot of spotlight attention over new investments and interest from Trump, but I don't see their business competing with that of TSMC anytime soon.
Intel's shares fell more than 1% to $25.02 in early trading Wednesday after surging nearly 7% on Tuesday. Shares of AMD, which fell more than 5.4% on Tuesday, were down 1.4% more in the premarket.
Intel stock (NASDAQ: INTC) surged nearly 7% on Tuesday after reports that the Trump administration could take a 10% stake in the company by converting CHIPS Act grants into equity. Moreover, Japan's SoftBank also revealed a $2 billion investment it had made betting on Intel's revival.
Intel remains a Buy, with 10–25% upside, driven by turnaround potential and low market expectations. Government backing, SoftBank's $2B investment, and asset sales reduce downside risk and support Intel's strategic repositioning. Key risks include execution delays, foundry losses, and financial strain, but Intel's cash and incentives provide a buffer.
Intel looks to be set to get the U.S. government as a shareholder. The Trump administration could pursue equity stakes in other companies including Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing
Jefferies Asia's Atul Goyal argues SoftBank's tiny Intel stake limits exposure, while potential U.S. government backing could turn Masa's Intel bet into an advantage. For Intel, still struggling with its turnaround, the investment offers a rare vote of confidence and valuable time.
Intel's new CEO, Lip-Bu Tan, brings a strong turnaround track record and valuable industry connections, fueling optimism for major new deals. SoftBank's $2 billion investment is a significant vote of confidence, potentially opening doors for further business with SoftBank's portfolio companies and AI infrastructure projects. U.S. government backing through the CHIPS Act and possible future equity stake could drive more hyperscaler and tech company partnerships with Intel.
SoftBank plans to put $2 billion into Intel as the US government weighs taking a 10% stake in the company without seeking a governance role. Bloomberg's Peter Elstrom discusses the details with Caroline Hyde on “Bloomberg Tech.
Bloomberg Intelligence's Kunjan Sobhani says the government taking a stake in Intel would not be a good outcome for shareholders. He discusses the possible deal with Caroline Hyde on “Bloomberg Tech.
More investment can't solve Intel's main problem: It doesn't have enough customers.
Japanese conglomerate SoftBank is making a $2 billion investment into chipmaker Intel. The companies say the new arrangement, announced Monday (Aug. 18), represents a commitment to investing in advanced technology and semiconductor innovation in the U.S.