Explore the latest developments concerning Is Intel Keeping.
Is Intel Keeping a (Wonderful) Secret From the Market Regarding Its 18A Node?
There's a conventional wisdom among investors that Intel (INTC +6.64%) is significantly behind Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSM +4.03%), and that it will take years for the company to catch up to TSMC's technological lead — if it ever happens at all.
Last week, sell-side analyst Stacy Rasgon of Bernstein said that since it took a decade to "break" Intel, investors shouldn't expect it to take less than 10 years to fix. Notwithstanding Intel's heavy lift turnaround really began in 2021 with the appointment of former CEO Pat Gelsinger, the turnaround may actually be closer than Rasgon expects.
One key element for Intel being able to leapfrog TSMC would be the earlier implementation of high-NA EUV lithography technology. While Intel has publicly stated that it won't introduce high-NA until its 14A node in 2028, there were numerous indications over the past year that Intel may in fact accelerate HNA into its current 18A manufacturing process.
INSE N520 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner Lightweight 6-in-1 Rechargeable Stick Vacuum 28kPa with 45min Runtime for Home Pet Hair Floor
Intel's Foundry Gambit: A High-Stakes Bid to Challenge TSMC's Dominance ()
Intel has placed a monumental bet for early 2026, officially launching mass production of its pivotal 18A semiconductor process. This move is the core of the chipmaker's strategy to reclaim technological leadership from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). While bolstered by significant investment from Nvidia, internal metrics reveal the path to sustained profitability remains fraught with challenges.
The company's ambitious turnaround is being funded by a wave of strategic capital. A recent equity investment of approximately five billion dollars from Nvidia, giving it a stake of around five percent, is a key component. Combined with capital from SoftBank and various government subsidies, Intel now holds cash reserves totaling roughly 31 billion dollars. This substantial liquidity provides essential breathing room for CEO Lip-Bu Tan to execute the expensive corporate restructuring without facing immediate financial constraints.
For more detailed information, explore updates concerning Is Intel Keeping.