By Stefon Walters
Publication Date: 2026-01-29 16:00:00
Its business has proven that it’s here to stay for the long haul.
Since the start of 2025, Intel (INTC 2.05%) has been one of the best-performing big tech stocks on the market. The stock is up over 170% in that time (through Jan. 22), with a large chunk of that gain coming after mid-September. Like many tech companies, Intel can thank the current artificial intelligence (AI) supercycle for much of this turnaround.
As the hardware side of AI becomes more vital with hyperscalers (companies like Microsoft, Alphabet, and Amazon) writing big checks, semiconductor companies are in a good spot to capitalize. Although Intel is one of them, there’s a company I wouldn’t hesitate to choose over it.
Image source: Getty Images.
What has been going right for Intel lately?
A few years ago, Intel decided to fully throw its hat into the semiconductor ring and become a foundry-first company. It’s a move that many felt was needed, but weren’t 100% sure the massive costs would justify the results…
