Core Viewpoint - Intel Corporation (NASDAQ: INTC) has shown significant stock performance, rising 10.28% to $40.56, driven by optimism regarding a potential supply deal with Apple Inc. for its lowest-end M-series chips in the next two years [1][2]. Group 1: Analyst Insights - Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo from TF International Securities noted improved visibility for Intel becoming an advanced-node supplier to Apple, indicating a positive shift in the industry landscape [2]. - Kuo highlighted that Apple intends to utilize Intel for its lowest-end M processor, which is essential for MacBook Airs and iPad Pros [2]. Group 2: Competitive Position - Despite the positive developments, Intel is still trailing behind its competitor, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) [3]. - A partnership with Apple could enhance Intel's long-term outlook, especially following a $5 billion investment from Nvidia Corp. in September [3]. Group 3: Strategic Developments - The collaboration with Apple is expected to include joint development efforts in AI infrastructures and personal computing products, targeting various market segments including hyperscale, enterprise, and consumer [4].

While Apple has not confirmed these discussions, the strategic logic behind such a move is compelling. Currently, Apple relies almost exclusively on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (NYSE: TSM) (TSMC) for its cutting-edge processors. Given rising geopolitical tensions and Apple's growing chip requirements, finding a viable second-source manufacturer is a matter of supply chain security. Intel, with its aggressive expansion of factories in the United States and its new National Treasure status, is ...

Core Viewpoint - Intel shares surged over 10% following an analyst report indicating improved chances of a chip partnership with Apple, reaching their highest point in a month [1] Group 1: Stock Performance - Intel's stock closed up 10.3% at $40.56, nearing its highest closing price in over a year [1] - Since January, Intel shares have climbed 102.3%, rising from approximately $20.22 [3] Group 2: Analyst Insights - TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported that visibility on Intel becoming an advanced-node supplier to Apple has significantly improved [2] - Apple plans to utilize Intel for shipping its lowest-end M processor, which is used in MacBook Airs and iPad Pros [2] Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Kuo noted that Intel will still lag behind Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company in the coming years, but a deal with Apple and other tier-one customers could enhance Intel's long-term outlook [3]