Intel Shares Soar on AI PC Chips, 18A Manufacturing Breakthrough

• Intel's stock surged over 6% after unveiling Panther Lake AI PC chips and the first product from its 18A manufacturing process.
• The company's foundry business faced challenges in 2025, leading to CEO Pat Gelsinger's departure and Lip-Bu Tan's appointment.
• A pivotal meeting between Tan and President Donald Trump resulted in a $10 billion US government investment, making it Intel's largest shareholder.
• Nvidia also invested $5 billion and pledged collaboration on data center technology, boosting Intel's capital and credibility.
• Intel's shares more than doubled by December, and climbed 15% in the first four trading days of 2026, signaling investor confidence in its comeback.

Why It Matters: Intel's stock surged due to new AI PC chips, manufacturing breakthroughs, and significant investments from the US government and Nvidia.