Why Intel Stock Jumped in a Brutal Day for the Market

Intel (NASDAQ: INTC) stock posted gains despite big sell-offs for the broader market Thursday. The semiconductor company's share price closed out the day up 2.1% and had been up as much as 8.7% earlier in trading. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 fell 4.9% in the session, and the Nasdaq Composite ended the day down 6%.

Stocks saw huge sell-offs today as investors reacted to wide-ranging new tariffs set to be implemented by the Trump administration. Intel was able to fight through the bearish momentum and end the day in the green thanks to a report that the company could reach a major new deal with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing.

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Intel stock rises on potential TSMC deal

The Information reported today that Intel and TSMC had reached a preliminary agreement that could have major implications for the long-term outlook of the U.S. semiconductor industry. According to the report, TSMC is gearing up to take a 20% stake in Intel's chip foundry unit that will see the fabrication business operated as a new joint venture between the two companies. As part of the deal, TSMC would share key trade secrets and help Intel operate its foundry unit in exchange for a substantial equity stake in the business.

What's next for Intel?

While preliminary terms for a foundry business partnership between Intel and TSMC are said to be in place, there's still a good amount of uncertainty about what a partnership between the two companies would look like. On the other hand, TSMC is the clear leader in the chip fabrication space -- and having the company come on board to help its foundry operations would likely be a major positive development for Intel. With demand for foundry services for high-margin artificial intelligence (AI) chips rising, partnering with TSMC could help make Intel a real player in the space.

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Keith Noonan has positions in Intel. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Intel and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing. The Motley Fool recommends the following options: short May 2025 $30 calls on Intel. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.