Summary

With Intel’s finances under strain, U.S. policymakers are exploring contingency plans, including a possible merger with rivals like AMD, as the chipmaker’s strategic importance grows amid competition with China. Despite a strong earnings forecast, Intel faces persistent losses, layoffs, and debt downgrades, raising doubts among officials about granting it CHIPS Act funds without clear recovery. Intel’s new 18A chip could restore its competitive edge, but skepticism remains over its ability to meet industry expectations.