Intel to Seek Apple Investment, Shares Jump 6%

According to recent reports, Intel has reached out to Apple in hopes of securing fresh investment to support its restructuring efforts as the chip giant faces mounting challenges. Part of Intel's shares are already owned by the U.S. government, highlighting its role as a strategic pillar in domestic semiconductor policy.

Sources familiar with the matter revealed that early talks also touched on possible collaboration, though negotiations remain at an initial stage and may not lead to a deal. At the same time, Intel is in discussions with other potential investors.

Following the news, Intel's stock (INTC-US) surged 6.4% to close at $31.22, while Apple dipped slightly by less than 1% to $252.31. Rival TSMC ADR (TSM-US) slipped 0.71% to $280.71.

If Apple moves forward with an investment, it would extend the wave of external backing Intel has attracted recently. Nvidia announced a $5 billion investment last week to co-develop chips for PCs and data centers, and SoftBank committed $2 billion last month.

Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan is leaning on U.S. government support to accelerate reforms. The Trump administration acquired around 10% of Intel's shares in August, pledging to fast-track its advanced manufacturing push. Observers note that an Apple stake would bring powerful endorsement to Intel's turnaround plan.

Still, Apple's core processors are currently produced by TSMC, making a near-term return to Intel technology unlikely. Intel's 18A node has faced delays, while TSMC's 2nm (N2) process is on track for mass production in the second half of 2025.

Meanwhile, Apple continues to emphasize its U.S. investment strategy, recently committing $600 billion over four years, including $2.5 billion for glass supplier Corning.