Intel Soars 16% Amid Breakup Speculation

Intel shares surged 16.1% on Tuesday, marking their best performance since March 2020, following reports that Broadcom and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSMC) are exploring potential bids to split the struggling chipmaker.

According to sources, Broadcom is considering acquiring Intel’s chip design and marketing division, while TSMC may seek a stake or full control of its factories. No formal offers have been made, and discussions remain preliminary.

Once a leader in the semiconductor industry, Intel has struggled in recent years, missing out on the AI-driven boom that propelled its competitors. The company’s stock plummeted in August, suffering its worst market day in five decades. It also announced a 15% workforce reduction.

In December, Intel’s board removed CEO Pat Gelsinger due to underperformance and declining investor confidence. However, shares gained 6% last week after Vice President JD Vance pledged to protect U.S. AI technology and boost domestic chip production.

Despite last year’s 60% decline, Intel shares are now up nearly 31% in 2025. Meanwhile, Broadcom and TSMC saw slight dips, falling 1.9% and 0.6%, respectively.