TLDR
- Intel stock jumped 8% after unveiling Panther Lake processors at CES, with shipments starting this month
- Intel shares gained 84% in 2025 after CEO Lip-Bu Tan implemented cost cuts and operational discipline
- The company secured major deals including $5 billion partnership with Nvidia for joint processor development
- Intel received $8.9 billion from U.S. Government and $2 billion from SoftBank to strengthen its balance sheet
- Fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 earnings will be reported on January 22, 2026
Intel shares rose 8% after the company showcased its next-generation Panther Lake processors at the CES trade show in Las Vegas. The new chips, branded Intel Core Ultra Series 3, are built on Intel’s 18A process technology and will begin shipping in consumer laptops this month.
The processor launch represents a key part of Intel’s turnaround strategy focused on artificial intelligence applications. The company positioned the new laptops as AI PCs designed to handle advanced computing tasks.
Intel stock gained 84% throughout 2025, outperforming competitors Nvidia and AMD for the year. The rally came after a difficult period that saw the company struggle with manufacturing delays and competitive pressures.
New CEO Brings Cost Cuts and Discipline
Intel appointed Lip-Bu Tan as CEO in March 2025 following the surprise departure of former CEO Pat Gelsinger in late 2024. Tan moved quickly to reduce costs through layoffs and reviews of business operations.
In a letter to employees, Tan stated “There are no more blank checks.” The new CEO took a more careful approach to Intel’s foundry business, tying investments in future technologies to confirmed customer orders.
The company secured several major deals during 2025 to strengthen its financial position. Intel received $8.9 billion in equity investment from the U.S. Government and $2 billion from SoftBank.
Partnership With Nvidia Announced
Intel and Nvidia announced an unexpected partnership that includes a $5 billion investment from Nvidia. The companies will develop data center and PC processors that combine technologies from both firms.
The deal means Intel CPUs with Nvidia graphics will become available in the PC market. For data centers, Intel will build custom CPUs that include Nvidia’s NVLink networking technology.
Rumors emerged late in 2025 that Apple is considering using Intel’s 18A process for some M-series processors in 2027. A deal with Apple would provide external manufacturing volume for Intel’s foundry operations.
Despite the 84% gain in 2025, Intel stock remains below its all-time high price levels. The company is attempting to rebuild its position in both processor manufacturing and chip design.
New server CPUs built on Intel’s 18A process are expected to launch later in 2026. The chips aim to capture demand from companies building AI infrastructure.
Intel will report its fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 financial results on January 22, 2026, after the market close. The company will hold an earnings conference call at 2 p.m. Pacific Time that same day.
Get 3 Free Stock Ebooks
Discover top-performing stocks in AI, Crypto, and Technology with expert analysis.
- Top 10 AI Stocks - Leading AI companies
- Top 10 Crypto Stocks - Blockchain leaders
- Top 10 Tech Stocks - Tech giants
