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Intel Gains Momentum as Upgrades Flag 18A Progress and Foundry Opening

Fresh upgrades reflect confidence in Intel's 18A progress, signaling new foundry openings.

Overview

  • KeyBanc raised Intel to buy with a $60 target and Citi moved to neutral with a $50 target, highlighting a shift in sentiment ahead of Jan. 22 earnings.
  • Options positioning points to further upside, with a 7.73% implied move into results and mid-April contracts suggesting prices near $56.
  • Analysts report Intel’s 18A node has reached roughly 60% yields and entered production, with Panther Lake laptops set to debut later this month.
  • Checks indicate tight data-center demand, including reports that 2026 server CPU capacity is effectively sold out and potential average selling price increases of 10%–15%.
  • TSMC’s advanced-packaging constraints and U.S. policy support are seen opening a window for Intel Foundry; KeyBanc’s checks suggest Apple engagement, which remains unconfirmed.