BofA Downgrades Intel to Underperform, Warns Valuation Overstates Foundry Potential

Core Viewpoint - BofA Securities downgraded Intel Corporation from Neutral to Underperform, maintaining a price target of $34.00, indicating that recent share gains have already factored in most of the company's balance sheet improvements and foundry ambitions [1] Group 1: Market Position and Valuation - Intel's market cap increase of $80 billion is seen as overstating its external foundry potential, with the company facing structural competitive disadvantages [1] - Analysts argue that Intel's valuation should be based on total company earnings rather than a sum-of-parts approach, as there are no catalysts for a structural separation [3] Group 2: Foundry Business and Production - Intel's foundry business is mischaracterized, as the company still relies on TSMC for approximately 30% of its production [2] - There is skepticism regarding the cost and yield outlook for Intel's upcoming 18A and future 14A manufacturing processes [2] Group 3: Regulatory Environment - U.S. government pressure may compel Intel to maintain unprofitable manufacturing operations, which could limit flexibility for divestitures [2]