Core Viewpoint - Intel's turnaround and manufacturing ambitions face significant challenges following Nvidia's decision to halt its trial of the 18A manufacturing technology, which is critical for Intel's recovery strategy [1][2] Group 1: Manufacturing Technology and Partnerships - Nvidia's withdrawal from the 18A manufacturing technology trial undermines Intel's recovery prospects, as this 2 nm chip technology was expected to enhance power efficiency and chip density [1] - The initial optimism surrounding Nvidia's $5 billion investment in Intel has diminished, revealing that the partnership may have been primarily financial without guarantees of technological collaboration [2] Group 2: Financial Performance and Valuation - Intel's stock has decreased nearly 18% since reaching a 52-week high of $44.01 in early December, although it has shown a year-to-date performance of 87%, outperforming the PHLX Semiconductor Index's 44.7% [5] - Despite the recent stock decline, Intel's valuation appears high, trading at a non-GAAP forward P/E of 106.48x, significantly above its 5-year average of 48.17x, indicating potential overvaluation [6] - The company's price-to-book value ratio is comparable to its 5-year average of 1.63x but remains below the sector average, suggesting that the stock is trading at a discount relative to peers [6]
As Nvidia Reportedly Snubs the Intel 18A Process, How Should You Play INTC Stock for 2026?