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Analyst Upgrades Lift Intel as 18A Progress and Server Demand Fuel Turnaround

Optimism stems from 18A entering production, pointing to prospects for new foundry customers.

Overview

  • Intel shares have surged about 31% to start 2026 after an 84% gain last year, with fourth-quarter results due Jan. 22.
  • KeyBanc raised Intel to overweight with a $60 target and Citi moved to neutral at $50, joining other firms boosting targets on a strengthening outlook.
  • Intel’s 18A node is in production and analyst checks put yields around 60%, aligning with the launch of Panther Lake laptops later this month.
  • Analyst checks indicate 2026 server CPU capacity is effectively sold out and Intel is evaluating 10%–15% price increases.
  • Wall Street sees a window for Intel Foundry to win AI chip orders as TSMC capacity stays tight and U.S. support grows, with rumored Apple interest unconfirmed and overall consensus still cautious.