Intel (INTC) Stock Jumps 4.5% on AI Chip Demand and Strong Tech Sector Recovery

Quick overview

INTC (Intel) stock managed to stop its previous day bearish trend and gained some strong traction in the early European trading session on Wednesday. As of 15 July 2026, the Intel stock is trading at $107.76 level, showing a 4.50 percent gain in the last 24 hours.

However, the reason for its good performance can be linked to the higher demand for AI chips, which is evident from the fact that Intel Data Center & AI sales increased by 22 percent to 5.1 billion dollars. Moreover, the gains in the stock were further bolstered by a broader recovery in the tech sector.

Intel Shows Good Business Growth

However, the good performance of this company is also evident from its strong earnings report for the first three months Quarter one of 2026, which shows that the company made $13.6 billion in sales, which was 7 percent higher compared to the previous year.

Out of this total revenue, Client Computing (PCs) made the highest money, which was approximately $7.7 billion. Not only this, but Intel’s Data Center and AI business also performed very well, growing 22 percent to $5.1 billion.

Meanwhile, the company Non GAAP EPS was $0.29, which was better than expectations, and the gross margin also improved to 41 percent. Moreover, the companys free cash flow and backlog figures also show that the business is in a good position.

In contrast to this, the GAAP numbers showed a net loss, and EPS came in at -$0.73 because restructuring costs and one time expenses were higher. Despite this, the overall picture remains positive and the company has provided Q2 revenue guidance of $13.8 billion to $14.8 billion.

All investors are keeping thier eyes on its next full earnings report, which is scheduled to be released on 23 July 2026. These numbers will give fresh clues about company performance.

Experts Believe Intel Can Grow More

Looking at future expectations, most analysts say it’s okay to hold this stock. Some experts are looking so excited, for example, the big bank HSBC just increased its target price to $200, and the reason for that is Intel’s chip making business called Foundry.

Now you might be wondering, why are so many investors becoming positive on Intel? Well, one big reason is that the company is working hard to grow. It is spending billions of dollars to build new chip factories in the United States, especially in Arizona.

But that is not all. Intel is also getting ready to launch its new 18A technology, which is designed to make chips smaller, faster, and use less power. Meanwhile, the company says many new products based on this technology will arrive in the second half of 2026.

Looking at this progress, KeyBanc increased its target price to 155 dollars and expects strong growth over the next two years. That’s another reason investors are feeling more positive.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR See More

Arslan Butt

Lead Markets Analyst – Multi-Asset (FX, Commodities, Crypto)

Arslan Butt serves as the Lead Commodities and Indices Analyst, bringing a wealth of expertise to the field. With an MBA in Behavioral Finance and active progress towards a Ph.D., Arslan possesses a deep understanding of market dynamics. His professional journey includes a significant role as a senior analyst at a leading brokerage firm, complementing his extensive experience as a market analyst and day trader. Adept in educating others, Arslan has a commendable track record as an instructor and public speaker. His incisive analyses, particularly within the realms of cryptocurrency and forex markets, are showcased across esteemed financial publications such as ForexCrunch, InsideBitcoins, and EconomyWatch, solidifying his reputation in the financial community.

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