Intel Stock Under $20 as Trump Calls for CEO to Leave, Will Support Hold?

After a brief recovery earlier this week, Intel Corporation (NASDAQ: INTC) stock is once again under pressure following pointed comments...

Leadership Uncertainty and Q2 Loss Weigh on INTC Amid Political Firestorm

Quick overview

  • Intel Corporation's stock is under pressure following President Trump's demand for the resignation of CEO Lip-Bu Tan due to alleged ties with Chinese tech firms.
  • The stock price fell to $19.99 in pre-market trading, down from $20.41, amid concerns over political backlash and recent poor earnings results.
  • Intel's recent Q2 earnings report revealed an unexpected loss and significant one-time expenses, further shaking investor confidence.
  • The company's future appears uncertain as it struggles with leadership issues and increasing competition in the semiconductor market.

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After a brief recovery earlier this week, Intel Corporation (NASDAQ: INTC) stock is once again under pressure following pointed comments by U.S. President Donald Trump, who demanded the resignation of Intel’s CEO in a public Truth Social post.

President Trump Lashes Out at Intel CEO Over China Ties

The sharp downturn follows a social media outburst from President Trump, who accused Intel’s CEO of being “extremely disagreeable” and called for his immediate resignation. The post appears to be linked to reports alleging the CEO, Lip-Bu Tan, may have directed investments nearing $200 million into Chinese tech and semiconductor firms, some of which reportedly have connections to the Chinese military.

The political pressure has rattled markets, with Intel shares plunging in pre-market trading to open at $19.99, down from $20.41 the previous close. As trading continued through the day, the stock saw further losses, slipping closer toward its key support level around $19.

Lingering Damage from Q2 Earnings Miss

Just two weeks prior, INTC had already suffered a steep drop after releasing Q2 results that shocked investors. Although the company beat revenue expectations—thanks in part to the resilience of its foundry business—it posted an unexpected adjusted loss. This was largely attributed to $200 million in one-time expenses and an additional $800 million in impairment charges.

The weak report further dampened sentiment around Intel’s turnaround efforts, especially as competitors continue to outpace the chipmaker in chip market segments. At the same time, broader tech indices have been advancing, making Intel’s relative underperformance more conspicuous.

INTC Chart Daily – Trading in the Range for A Year

Conclusion: Investor Confidence Shaken

With political backlash now compounding fundamental concerns, Intel’s path forward looks increasingly fragile. The stock remains within a vulnerable trading zone just above $19 support. If the CEO is forced to step down or investor anxiety grows, a clean break below this level could trigger a new leg lower in the stock. For now, confidence in Intel remains on shaky ground, clouded by leadership uncertainty and external political pressure.

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Skerdian Meta
Lead Analyst
Skerdian Meta Lead Analyst. Skerdian is a professional Forex trader and a market analyst. He has been actively engaged in market analysis for the past 11 years. Before becoming our head analyst, Skerdian served as a trader and market analyst in Saxo Bank's local branch, Aksioner. Skerdian specialized in experimenting with developing models and hands-on trading. Skerdian has a masters degree in finance and investment.

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