Shares of Intel Corp. (INTC) jumped more than 9% on Wednesday, January 21, reaching their highest level since January 2022.
With this, INTC stock positioned itself among the top three gainers in the S&P 500.
The rise in power will not stop there. Recent upgrades from companies like HSBC and Seaport Research claim that the evolution of AI from simple chatbots to complex, autonomous “agents” will drive massive demand for Intel’s general-purpose server processors.
While this is good news for the company, the surging stock price sets a high bar for the earnings report due after the bell on Thursday, January 22nd.
Experts warn that underlying challenges may prevent Intel from meeting demand.
The consensus is for adjusted earnings of 8 cents per share on revenue of $13.4 billion.
Investors will be watching for any official announcement from a major external customer for Intel’s fledgling foundry business, which would authenticate its costly manufacturing turnaround.
The post-earnings reaction will determine whether the recent rise is the start of a lasting comeback or a premature celebration.
