Buy Intel Stock After Favorable CPI Data & Q3 Earnings Beat?

Core Viewpoint - Intel's Q3 results indicate a potential turnaround for the company, with a significant rebound in stock price following better-than-expected earnings and improved operational execution [1][3][16]. Financial Performance - Intel reported Q3 net income of $4.06 billion or $0.23 per share, a substantial recovery from a loss of $16.64 billion or -$0.43 per share in the same quarter last year [3][16]. - The company's earnings per share (EPS) exceeded expectations, with a surprise of 2,200% compared to an estimate of $0.01 [6]. Revenue and Growth Drivers - Q3 sales rose 3% year over year to $13.65 billion, surpassing estimates of $13.11 billion [10]. - The Data Center and AI (DCAI) division revenue increased by 5% year over year to $4.1 billion, driven by strong demand for AI-related products [10][11]. Strategic Moves and Collaborations - Intel's profitability was significantly aided by one-time operational gains, including the divestiture of its Altera business and favorable tax treatments [4][16]. - The company received substantial equity investments from Nvidia ($5 billion) and SoftBank ($2 billion), enhancing its financial position [11]. Future Outlook - Intel expects Q4 revenue between $12.8 billion and $13.8 billion, with EPS projected at $0.08 [12]. - For fiscal 2025, total sales are anticipated to dip by 2%, but a rebound of 3% is projected for FY26, with EPS expected to swing to $0.12 [13]. Market Sentiment - The U.S. Government has become Intel's largest shareholder after converting $11.1 billion from the CHIPS Act into equity, positively influencing investor sentiment [11][16]. - Despite the positive indicators, there are concerns regarding the sustainability of the turnaround, as profitability was largely driven by non-core business activities [16].