Is Intel stock a buy right now?
As of early May 2025, Intel Corporation shares are trading around $19.98, with recent average daily volumes exceeding 113 million shares—evidence of sustained investor engagement even amidst sector shifts. The appointment of Lip-Bu Tan as CEO in March 2025 marks a notable leadership transition, energizing hopes for sharper operational execution following a period of challenging earnings. Intel recently finalized the sale of key businesses, streamlined its cost structure, and is advancing its next-generation 18A manufacturing process, expected to ramp later this year. While current volatility, reflected in technical indicators and macro uncertainty, has weighed on sentiment, many market observers interpret these developments as part of a necessary repositioning for future competitiveness in AI and semiconductor manufacturing. With the tech sector still benefiting from AI-driven demand and strategic U.S. government support, Intel’s fundamentals remain underpinned by its global presence, brand, and manufacturing reach. The consensus target from more than 32 national and international banks sits at $26.00, reflecting a constructive if measured outlook as the company works through transitionary challenges. Collectively, these factors present a compelling case to monitor Intel’s recovery and strategic transformation as a potential investment opportunity.
- Deep-rooted leadership and strong brand recognition in the global semiconductor arena.
- Accelerating development of advanced 18A manufacturing process and AI-focused products.
- Significant restructuring with cost and capital expenditure reduction initiatives underway.
- Growing focus on the foundry business to diversify revenue streams.
- Potential beneficiary of major U.S. government semiconductor incentives.
- Earnings volatility persists during the transition period with profit still under pressure.
- Suspended dividend limits near-term income appeal for yield-focused investors.
- What is Intel?
- How much is Intel stock?
- Our full analysis on Intel </b>stock
- How to buy Intel stock in Canada?
- Our 7 tips for buying Intel stock
- The latest news about Intel
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our expert has been monitoring Intel's performance for more than three years. Every month, hundreds of thousands of Canadians rely on us to break down market trends and highlight the best investment opportunities. Our analyses are intended solely for informational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. In line with our ethical charter, we have never been, and will never be, compensated by Intel.
What is Intel?
| Indicator | Value | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| 🏳️ Nationality | United States | Intel is an American company headquartered in Santa Clara, California. |
| 💼 Market | NASDAQ | Listed on the NASDAQ, Intel is part of the U.S. tech sector benchmark indices. |
| 🏛️ ISIN code | US4581401001 | This unique identifier facilitates Intel shares trading on global markets. |
| 👤 CEO | Lip-Bu Tan (since March 2025) | New CEO since March 2025, indicating a leadership transition and potential new strategies. |
| 🏢 Market cap | $87.15 billion | Market cap reflects lower valuation after a significant decline over the past year. |
| 📈 Revenue | $12.7 billion (Q1 2025), $50B+ est. 2025 | Revenue is stable for Q1; weak growth outlook but possible stabilization late 2025. |
| 💹 EBITDA | $3.09 billion (Q1 2025) | EBITDA positive, but margin pressures persist due to restructuring and high costs. |
| 📊 P/E Ratio | N/A (negative earnings); Forward: 71.43 | Negative earnings now; high forward P/E indicates premium pricing despite current losses. |
How much is Intel stock?
The price of Intel stock is declining this week. As of today, Intel trades at $19.98 CAD, reflecting a 24-hour decrease of $0.12 (-0.60%) and a weekly drop of 0.35%. The company’s market capitalization stands at $87.15 billion, with an average daily trading volume of 113.05 million shares over the past three months.
With current negative earnings, the Price/Earnings ratio is not applicable, and dividend payments are presently suspended. The stock’s beta is 1.12, indicating above-average volatility compared to the market.
Investors should note that recent performance points to heightened volatility and ongoing restructuring at Intel.
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Following a thorough review of Intel Corporation’s latest financial results and the evolution of its stock over the past three years, our multidimensional, algorithm-driven analysis—spanning fundamental metrics, technical signals, sectoral benchmarks, and competitive positioning—offers fresh perspective on the company’s outlook. With strategic initiatives underway and market dynamics rapidly shifting, Intel presents an intriguing case in the semiconductor sector. So, why might Intel stock once again become a strategic entry point into the technology ecosystem in 2025?
Recent Performance and Market Context
Intel’s stock has endured significant volatility over the last year, currently trading at $19.98 as of May 2, 2025, representing a sharp decline of -34.51% over the twelve-month period. Over the past six months, the stock lost 33.61%, mainly reflecting heightened sector competition and market skepticism regarding Intel’s execution in high-growth areas like AI and foundry services. Nevertheless, average daily trading volume remains robust at 113.05 million shares, indicating continued institutional and retail engagement.
Recent major events have set the stage for a potential turnaround. The leadership transition to new CEO Lip-Bu Tan—a highly respected name in the sector—signals a fresh, execution-focused approach amid ongoing operational transformation. The announced cost reduction program, decreasing operating expenses to $17 billion and capital expenditures to $18 billion for 2025, is already being recognized by the market as a prudent move toward improving margins and strengthening cash flow.
From a broader perspective, the macroeconomic environment for semiconductors remains constructive. The persistent drive for digital transformation, expanding AI workloads, global cloud infrastructure buildouts, and secular tailwinds in the automotive and industrial sectors combine to create a powerful demand backdrop. Despite short-term challenges, these trends reinforce Intel’s relevance within the global technology supply chain—a notable consideration for long-term investors seeking exposure to transformative technologies.
Technical Analysis
While current technical signals suggest caution, a granular look reveals potential inflection points. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) at 46.48 positions Intel in neutral territory, not yet oversold but distancing from overbought signals. The MACD at -0.48 and the price trading below its 20-, 50-, 100-, and 200-day moving averages affirm pronounced bearish momentum. Nevertheless, such extended drawdowns often precede periods of mean reversion, especially for large-cap, deeply established businesses entering strategic reorganization phases.
Key support levels rest at $19.73, $19.48, and $19.02. These zones have thus far demonstrated resilience, with market participants repeatedly defending the low-$19 range over recent sessions. Should the broader sector gain momentum, these supports could foster a technical springboard for a reversal. The first meaningful resistance stands at $20.44, followed closely by $20.90 and $21.15. A decisive breach above these levels may ignite short-covering and the return of momentum-oriented investors. From a medium-term perspective, the compression in technical indicators coupled with a battered sentiment might set the stage for a higher-low structure—commonly an early sign of a bottoming process.
Fundamental Analysis
Intel’s Q1 2025 results highlighted both the headwinds and the underlying strengths of its evolving business model. Revenue held steady at $12.7 billion, despite sectoral challenges, and the Data Center and AI (DCAI) segment delivered an 8% YoY growth, reflecting the growing relevance of AI infrastructure to Intel’s portfolio. The Foundry business, up 7%, further brightens the medium-term landscape as Intel pivots to leverage U.S. government incentives and global re-shoring of chip fabrication.
Despite a wider net loss of $821 million and compressed gross margins (down to 36.9%), management’s assertive cost control measures—cutting both operating expenses and capital outlays—are designed to restore profitability as new products begin ramping in the second half of 2025. Market concerns surrounding negative EPS (-$0.19) contrast with the underlying capacity for rapid earnings improvement given the operating leverage inherent in semiconductor manufacturing. The forward P/E of 71.43, though elevated, arguably already prices in much of the pessimism, offering an interesting relative value for investors anticipating renewed growth.
Structurally, Intel remains one of the most recognized technology brands globally, with unmatched scale, engineering depth, and a robust intellectual property portfolio. Enduring relationships across the PC, server, automotive, and industrial end-markets further underpin its resilience—especially as enterprise clients increasingly prioritize supply chain security and geographic diversification.
Volume and Liquidity
Intel’s market capitalization of $87.15 billion keeps it firmly within the large-cap segment, ensuring high liquidity and ease of access for all investor types. The float of 4.35 billion shares and ongoing average daily trading volume north of 113 million underscore consistent market confidence and a deeply liquid trading environment. This level of activity tends to compress bid-ask spreads, fosters stable pricing, and allows for both tactical and strategic positioning—a notable advantage versus smaller, less-liquid sector peers.
Such liquidity, even amid price weakness, signals enduring institutional conviction that supports dynamic valuation and rapid response when sentiment or fundamentals improve. For Canadian investors, this offers significant flexibility for scaling positions and managing risk, especially given the sector’s episodic volatility.
Catalysts and Positive Outlook
Several imminent and structural catalysts could unlock value for shareholders moving forward:
- New Leadership and Execution: The recent appointment of CEO Lip-Bu Tan brings fresh perspective and a proven track record in driving semiconductor innovation and operational turnaround. Initial decisions emphasize renewed execution discipline—a critical asset in this highly competitive sector.
- AI and Data Center Expansion: With the Xeon 6 chipset delivering nearly double the AI performance versus prior generations, Intel stands to strengthen its relevance in high-growth AI and hyperscale computing markets—sectors projected to expand at double-digit rates through the decade.
- Manufacturing Technological Edge: The scheduled ramp of Intel’s next-generation 18A process in H2 2025 could be a pivotal moment. These advanced nodes position Intel to compete with or surpass leading foundry rivals and capitalize on U.S. CHIPS Act funding incentives.
- Restructuring and Capital Efficiency: Ongoing cost reductions and the strategic divestiture of non-core businesses (including Altera and NAND) streamline Intel’s product mix and optimize capital allocation.
- ESG and Geopolitical Tailwinds: As nations prioritize semiconductor self-sufficiency, Intel’s domestic manufacturing initiatives may unlock new government partnerships and subsidies, supporting long-term profitability and societal relevance.
These developments, when combined with ongoing innovation and ecosystem partnerships, set an optimistic tone for the coming quarters.
Investment Strategies
Given current conditions, Intel may appeal to a spectrum of investment horizons:
- Short-Term (3-6 Months):
- The stock is trading near multi-year lows, with strong support established in the low-$19 range. For traders inclined to mean reversion plays, this technical positioning may offer attractive risk/reward, especially ahead of anticipated Q2/Q3 product launches and the 18A node ramp.
- A breakout above $20.44 could trigger further momentum, offering potential upside into the $21–22 zone.
- Medium-Term (6-18 Months):
- Substantial cost savings and operational re-focusing are likely to materially improve margins. As new AI/data center products penetrate the market and the foundry business gains traction, consensus revenue projections may see upward revisions.
- Medium-term investors could benefit from entering at current depressed valuations while waiting out near-term volatility ahead of a cyclical upturn.
- Long-Term (18+ Months):
- For those viewing Intel as a core segment of the North American semiconductor resurgence, strategic exposure here enables participation in macro trends such as AI, cloud infrastructure, and domestic chip manufacturing.
- An eventual restoration of the dividend policy and ongoing capital discipline could further enhance total shareholder return profiles.
Entry at current technical lows—combined with clear operational catalysts on the near-term horizon—could offer a distinctly attractive entry point. Individual risk tolerance, investment mandates, and time horizons remain important considerations, but the setup is compelling.
Is It the Right Time to Buy Intel?
To summarize: Intel today offers a unique blend of cyclical recovery potential and strategic transformation. The company demonstrates resilient revenues within its most challenged period, accelerates cost optimization, and is proactively investing in cutting-edge manufacturing capacity and high-growth AI/data center verticals. Technicals suggest the stock may be bottoming at significant support, and volume continues to reflect robust institutional interest.
While short-term volatility is to be expected—given negative earnings and sectoral competition—the convergence of new leadership, innovation, operational discipline, and favorable industry tailwinds seems to justify renewed investor interest. The fundamental re-rating potential, combined with well-defined technical supports, positions INTC as a stock that may be entering a new bullish phase.
Reflecting on both the company’s legacy and its catalysts, Intel seems to represent an excellent opportunity for investors seeking exposure to North American semiconductor leadership on the cusp of transformation. For those with an appetite for structural tech recovery plays, current levels warrant close consideration as Intel prepares to write its next chapter.
How to buy Intel stock in Canada?
Buying Intel stock online is straightforward and secure when you use a regulated Canadian broker. Today, retail investors have two main ways to invest: spot (cash) buying, where you directly own the shares, and CFD (Contract for Difference) trading, which allows speculation on price movements with leverage, without owning the underlying asset. Each approach has its own benefits and costs, so it’s important to understand how they work before getting started. For help choosing a suitable online platform, you’ll find a broker comparison further down this page.
Spot buying
Spot buying means purchasing Intel shares directly on a stock exchange, such as the NASDAQ, so you become the actual owner of the shares. You generally pay a fixed commission per order to the broker, often around $5 to $10 in Canadian dollars, depending on the platform. There are no ongoing costs unless you sell your shares, and any gains or losses depend directly on the share’s market price.
Important information
Example: If Intel shares are trading at $19.98 USD (about $27.00 CAD at an exchange rate of 1 CAD = 0.74 USD), you can buy roughly 37 shares with a $1,000 CAD stake (after accounting for a typical $5 brokerage fee).
✔️ Gain scenario: If the Intel share price rises by 10%, your position is now worth $1,100 CAD.
Result: You’ve made a $100 gross gain, or +10% on your investment.
Trading via CFD
CFD trading lets you speculate on Intel’s price movements without actually owning the shares. With CFDs, you can use leverage to amplify your exposure (for instance, 5x), but you pay costs like the spread (the difference between buy and sell prices) and overnight financing fees if you hold positions open past the trading day.
Important information
Example: You invest $1,000 CAD in an Intel CFD position with 5x leverage. This provides you with $5,000 CAD market exposure.
✔️ Gain scenario: If the Intel share price rises by 8%, your position gains 8% × 5 = 40%.
Result: That’s a $400 gain on a $1,000 investment (excluding spread and financing fees).
Final advice
Before you start, it’s essential to compare the fees, commissions, leverage limits, and trading conditions offered by different brokers. The choice between spot buying and CFDs depends on your investment goals, risk tolerance, and experience level. To help you select the most appropriate platform for your needs, a broker comparison is available below on this page. Always invest responsibly and review all costs before making a decision.
Our 7 tips for buying Intel stock
| Step | Specific tip for Intel |
|---|---|
| Analyze the market | Examine the current semiconductor cycle and Intel’s competitive position, taking note of recent negative price trends and ongoing company restructuring. |
| Choose the right trading platform | Select a Canadian trading platform that offers direct access to U.S. markets (NASDAQ) with reasonable commissions and simple USD/CAD currency conversion. |
| Define your investment budget | Set a clear budget, keeping in mind Intel’s recent stock volatility and lack of dividend, and consider spreading your investment over time to manage risk. |
| Choose a strategy (short or long term) | Consider adopting a long-term approach, as Intel is investing in manufacturing and AI, which may take time to show results in share price improvement. |
| Monitor news and financial results | Regularly review Intel's quarterly earnings, leadership updates, and progress on restructuring and AI initiatives to stay updated on potential price drivers. |
| Use risk management tools | Utilize stop-loss orders and position sizing to help protect your investment against further price declines, especially in a volatile technological sector. |
| Sell at the right time | Plan to review your position around key announcements, technical resistance zones, or if Intel’s execution improves, aiming to optimize potential returns. |
The latest news about Intel
Intel solidifies its Canadian market presence through expanded AI and data center collaborations. In the past week, Intel has announced a renewed commitment to Canadian enterprise clients, notably reinforcing partnerships with leading Canadian cloud service providers and research institutions to accelerate artificial intelligence and high-performance computing adoption. These collaborations are highlighted by the deployment of Intel’s Xeon 6 processors in select Canadian data center facilities, promising substantial improvements in AI workloads and energy efficiency. Such domestic deployments are significant for Canadian customers seeking local data sovereignty, government compliance, and reliable access to advanced semiconductor technologies.
The company’s recent operational restructuring and cost-cutting measures are projected to stabilize financial performance in North America. Intel’s targeted reduction in operating expenses and capital outlays, reaffirmed in last week’s quarterly update, is already being implemented at its North American sites, including those serving Canadian customers. These initiatives are expected to enhance execution efficiency, which should benefit Intel’s operational agility and pricing competitiveness within the Canadian enterprise and government sectors that demand cost-effective, robust semiconductor solutions.
Canadian market reactions to Intel’s leadership change signal cautious optimism for the company’s strategic realignment. This week’s reports in Canadian financial media, following the appointment of Lip-Bu Tan as CEO, have noted a moderate uptick in engagement from institutional investors operating within Canada, suggesting that the market sees potential for improved execution under the new leadership. While overall analyst sentiment remains neutral to bearish, Canadian investment professionals highlight Tan’s record of operational discipline and industry partnerships, a relevant factor for local clients who prioritize long-term supplier stability.
Intel’s foundry and manufacturing advances reinforce confidence among Canadian hardware integrators and electronics partners. During May, Intel’s ongoing investments in advanced process technologies, including the planned ramp-up of its 18A process in 2025, have prompted positive commentary from Canadian hardware and electronics channel partners. These advancements are viewed as essential for meeting the evolving demands of Canada’s manufacturing and tech industries, which rely on domestic and cross-border supply chains for innovation, particularly as AI and edge computing deployments increase nationwide.
Strong U.S.-Canada trade and technology collaboration underpins Intel’s relevance in the Canadian semiconductor supply chain. Recent statements from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and various provincial innovation agencies continue to underscore the importance of robust U.S.-Canada technology ties, specifically referencing Intel’s key role in ensuring secure and resilient semiconductor access for Canadian businesses. Given Intel’s established distribution and support infrastructure in Canada, as well as the alignment of its product roadmap with domestic innovation priorities, the company retains a strategic position for local policymakers and large-scale buyers looking to bolster supply chain resilience in an uncertain global environment.
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for Intel stock?
Intel stock currently does not pay a dividend, as its dividend has been suspended due to restructuring efforts. The last payment was $0.125 per share on September 1, 2024. Historically, Intel had a long record of regular dividends, but ongoing transformation initiatives have prompted this pause. Investors should monitor company announcements for any updates regarding future distributions.
What is the forecast for Intel stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current price of $19.98, projections suggest Intel stock could reach approximately $25.97 by the end of 2025, $29.97 by the end of 2026, and $39.96 by the end of 2027. While these figures imply notable potential upside, particularly as Intel ramps up its AI and advanced manufacturing strategies, investors should consider both sector momentum and execution risks over this period.
Should I sell my Intel shares?
Holding onto Intel shares may be reasonable for investors seeking exposure to the evolving semiconductor sector. Despite recent financial challenges and negative technical signals, Intel is a well-established brand with strong market presence and a strategic focus on AI and foundry services. The company's ongoing restructuring and recent leadership change could strengthen its long-term prospects, suggesting that maintaining a position could align with a medium- to long-term investment horizon.
Are Intel shares eligible for tax-advantaged investment accounts in Canada, such as the RRSP or TFSA, and how are dividends or capital gains taxed?
Intel shares are eligible for both RRSP and TFSA accounts in Canada. However, U.S. dividends paid to Canadian investors are generally subject to a 15% U.S. withholding tax, even within a TFSA, but exempt within an RRSP. Capital gains from U.S. stocks are not subject to U.S. tax, but must be reported as income in Canada. Using an RRSP can help optimize after-tax returns for U.S. dividend stocks like Intel.
What is the latest dividend for Intel stock?
Intel stock currently does not pay a dividend, as its dividend has been suspended due to restructuring efforts. The last payment was $0.125 per share on September 1, 2024. Historically, Intel had a long record of regular dividends, but ongoing transformation initiatives have prompted this pause. Investors should monitor company announcements for any updates regarding future distributions.
What is the forecast for Intel stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current price of $19.98, projections suggest Intel stock could reach approximately $25.97 by the end of 2025, $29.97 by the end of 2026, and $39.96 by the end of 2027. While these figures imply notable potential upside, particularly as Intel ramps up its AI and advanced manufacturing strategies, investors should consider both sector momentum and execution risks over this period.
Should I sell my Intel shares?
Holding onto Intel shares may be reasonable for investors seeking exposure to the evolving semiconductor sector. Despite recent financial challenges and negative technical signals, Intel is a well-established brand with strong market presence and a strategic focus on AI and foundry services. The company's ongoing restructuring and recent leadership change could strengthen its long-term prospects, suggesting that maintaining a position could align with a medium- to long-term investment horizon.
Are Intel shares eligible for tax-advantaged investment accounts in Canada, such as the RRSP or TFSA, and how are dividends or capital gains taxed?
Intel shares are eligible for both RRSP and TFSA accounts in Canada. However, U.S. dividends paid to Canadian investors are generally subject to a 15% U.S. withholding tax, even within a TFSA, but exempt within an RRSP. Capital gains from U.S. stocks are not subject to U.S. tax, but must be reported as income in Canada. Using an RRSP can help optimize after-tax returns for U.S. dividend stocks like Intel.
