Intel Stock Soars on $2 Billion SoftBank Boost
Intel Corporation’s shares leapt 5.62% in pre-market trading on 19 August 2025, following a major investment announcement that had caught the market by surprise.
Japan’s SoftBank Group is pumping $2 billion into Intel. The deal is more than cash, it’s a statement. Investors see it as a vote of confidence in Intel’s role in the U.S. semiconductor landscape.
“Semiconductors are the foundation of every industry. For more than 50 years, Intel has been a trusted leader in innovation. This strategic investment reflects our belief that advanced semiconductor manufacturing and supply will further expand in the United States, with Intel playing a critical role.”
Intel $INTC and Softbank just announced that the Japanese investment giant will make a $2 billion investment in Intel – CNBC pic.twitter.com/rXXWKcyjb4
— Evan (@StockMKTNewz) August 18, 2025
The company has faced rough waters. Financial setbacks, talks of government stakes, and a cautious market outlook had put Intel under pressure. But SoftBank’s commitment is sending a clear message: Intel is not out of the game yet.
The timing is notable. With the U.S. government reportedly weighing the conversion of CHIPS Act grants into equity, potentially claiming up to a 10% stake in Intel, the chipmaker is seeing support from multiple fronts.
Traders reacted quickly. Intel’s stock jumped, reflecting renewed optimism. Meanwhile, SoftBank shares slipped slightly in Tokyo trading, a small price to pay for influence over one of the world’s biggest chipmakers.
Intel’s challenge now is to convert this financial backing into growth. The company is restructuring, focusing on artificial intelligence technologies, and scaling its U.S. manufacturing footprint. With SoftBank on board, the road ahead is challenging, but promising.
This development is a significant moment for UK investors tracking Intel stock, particularly as semiconductor demand and AI-related growth continue to drive global market trends.