Intel set to lay off around 10,000 workers — despite getting $2.2B in CHIPS Act funds under Biden

Core Viewpoint - Intel is preparing to lay off up to 20% of its global workforce, approximately 10,000 employees, despite receiving over $2 billion in federal funding under the CHIPS Act [1][4]. Group 1: Layoff Details - The layoffs are expected to begin in the coming weeks and will primarily affect Intel Foundry, the division responsible for manufacturing semiconductors for external customers [2][4]. - The company had previously announced a reduction of 15,000 jobs across its global operations last year, coinciding with the receipt of CHIPS Act funds [4]. - The layoffs will not involve voluntary buyouts; decisions will be based on performance evaluations and operational needs [7][8]. Group 2: Financial Context - Intel has faced declining demand for PCs and servers, as well as challenges in developing high-end chips for artificial intelligence applications [4]. - The company’s stock has decreased nearly 30% over the past year, trading around $21.50 [4]. - Intel received $7.9 billion in federal subsidies last year to support U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturing, with $2.2 billion frozen pending a review by the Trump administration [3]. Group 3: Operational Impact - The factory workforce in Oregon, where Intel is the largest private employer with 20,000 workers, may be particularly affected by the layoffs [10][12]. - Intel operates major manufacturing facilities in several locations, including Arizona, New Mexico, Israel, Ireland, and Malaysia [15]. - The company has postponed the opening of its $10 billion factory in Ohio until 2030 due to insufficient demand [4].