Core Insights - Intel and Qualcomm are leading semiconductor companies focusing on AI and advanced chip technologies, with Intel shifting from PC-centric to data-centric businesses [2][4] - Qualcomm is enhancing its position in mobile and edge computing markets, leveraging its extensive IP portfolio [3][8] Intel's Position - Intel is implementing its IDM 2.0 strategy to expand manufacturing capacity and improve operational efficiency, aiming to become a leading foundry [5] - The company anticipates shipping over 100 million AI PCs by the end of 2025, with Xeon platforms setting benchmarks in 5G cloud-native core performance [6] - However, Intel faces challenges due to significant revenue dependence on China amid tightening U.S. export restrictions and competition from domestic chipmakers [7] Qualcomm's Position - Qualcomm is well-positioned for long-term growth with strong 5G traction and a diversified revenue stream, expecting 2025 sales to rise by 11.8% and EPS to grow by 14.6% [8][12] - The company is expanding its presence in edge networking and AI PCs, with innovative product launches in mobile chipsets [10] - Despite its strengths, Qualcomm faces competition in the AI PC market and potential impacts from U.S.-China trade tensions [11] Financial Performance - Intel's 2025 sales are projected to decline by 4.3%, while Qualcomm's are expected to grow by 11.8% [12][14] - Over the past year, Intel's stock has declined by 32%, while Qualcomm's has lost 24.4% [14] - Intel's price/sales ratio is 1.97, significantly lower than Qualcomm's 3.93, making Intel appear more attractive from a valuation standpoint [15] Investment Outlook - Long-term earnings growth expectations are 10.5% for Qualcomm and 8.2% for Intel, with Qualcomm currently viewed as a better investment option due to its stronger growth outlook and better Zacks Rank [20]

Core Viewpoint - Qualcomm is expected to report strong earnings for the second quarter of fiscal 2025, with improved revenue and earnings estimates over the past 60 days, driven by advancements in 5G technology and AI integration [1][5][13]. Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Qualcomm's revenues is $10.64 billion and earnings per share is $2.82 for the upcoming quarter [1]. - Earnings estimates for fiscal 2025 have increased from $11.64 to $11.85 per share, and for fiscal 2026 from $12.43 to $12.61 [1][2]. Earnings Surprise History - Qualcomm has a strong earnings surprise history, averaging a 7.8% surprise over the last four quarters, with a notable 16.4% surprise in the last reported quarter [3][14]. Earnings Whispers - Qualcomm has a positive Earnings ESP of +0.86% and a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy), indicating a high likelihood of an earnings beat for the upcoming quarter [4]. Factors Influencing Results - The rollout of 5G technology and investments in mobile licensing are expected to drive long-term revenue growth [5][11]. - Qualcomm's Snapdragon portfolio is positioned to capitalize on growth opportunities in the mobile space, particularly with the launch of new AI-focused products [6][12]. Product Launches - The Snapdragon X chip for mid-range AI desktops and laptops was launched, featuring advanced processing capabilities [6]. - Samsung has deployed the Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform in its latest smartphone models, enhancing connectivity and performance [7]. Price Performance - Over the past year, Qualcomm's stock has decreased by 12.2%, underperforming the industry average growth of 9.1% [8]. Valuation Metrics - Qualcomm's shares are trading at a forward P/E ratio of 12.09, which is lower than the industry average of 24.06 and its historical mean of 17.35, indicating a relatively cheaper valuation [9][13]. Investment Considerations - Qualcomm is focusing on maintaining its leadership in 5G and mobile connectivity through innovative product launches and technological advancements [11][12]. - The company is well-positioned to benefit from the growing demand for 5G and AI technologies, which are expected to drive future revenue growth [5][13].