Overview

• Broadcom is said to be considering acquiring Intel's chip design business, while TSMC has reportedly explored taking a stake or control of Intel's manufacturing operations.
• Jim Keller, a prominent chip designer, criticized potential Intel breakups as a 'fire sale,' arguing the company could be worth $1 trillion with proper leadership and goals.
• Intel's advanced 18A process node, which aims to regain process leadership, is nearing production and has shown promising progress, raising questions about the timing of any sale or split.
• The U.S. government has expressed concerns about foreign ownership of Intel's fabs, viewing them as national assets critical to domestic manufacturing and security interests.
• Intel stock surged 16% earlier this week on speculation of deals but has since declined as analysts highlight regulatory, logistical, and strategic challenges to potential transactions.