Intel (INTC) Stock Predictions: What Investors Should Expect in 2026 and Beyond

Intel (INTC) forecast

Intel is at a crucial phase of its turnaround. In 2026, the semiconductor company plans to begin shipping Panther Lake, the first microchips built on the Intel 18A process for laptops and new server central processing units (CPUs). The company is also seeking an external customer for its Intel 14A process, which it might discontinue if it doesn’t secure at least one major external customer. Intel is also working with Nvidia (NVDA -0.19%) to develop data center and PC CPUs that incorporate technology from both companies (including Intel chips that integrate Nvidia's GPUs). Further progress on the company’s turnaround strategy could drive its stock even higher in the future.

2026 Forecast

Analysts have a muted view on Intel stock in 2026. Their consensus estimate is that shares will be around $38.31 in 12 months. That was below the company’s stock price in early 2026 (around $44 per share in mid-January). The majority of analysts who follow the company have a hold or equivalent rating on the stock (32 of 45).

I’m also not overly optimistic that Intel can continue rallying in 2026. While there are upside catalysts, such as finding a major customer for its 14A process, the company faces numerous downside risks, including intense competition and geopolitical uncertainties. That drives my prediction that Intel will give back a portion of last year’s gains and fall below $40 a share in 2026.

2030 Forecast

Intel has set bold goals for 2030. In early 2024, the semiconductor company unveiled its goal of reaching 60% non-GAAP gross margins and 40% non-GAAP operating margins by 2030 for its products business. Additionally, Intel aims to grow its foundry business to the second-largest in the world by 2030, while targeting a non-GAAP gross margin of 40% and a non-GAAP operating margin of 30% for this business by the same year.

However, a lot has changed over the past two years. Intel has hired a new CEO to turn around its struggling business, and he has made several changes, including potential plans to invest in 14A capacity for third-party clients. Winning one could delay its ability to reach the breakeven point for its foundry business, as well as its margin targets.

This uncertainty is making it even more challenging to predict Intel’s future stock price. Forecasts range from its stock price dropping into the single digits by 2030 -- if its turnaround efforts fail -- to skyrocketing by $100 per share -- if it grows its earnings by 20% per year and experiences a valuation expansion to 20-25 times earnings.

I think that somewhere in the middle is more likely. My prediction is that Intel stock will top $60 a share by 2030.

Intel’s highlights and risks

Intel is investing a massive amount of capital into building its foundry business. It’s hoping to win new customers, especially for its 14A manufacturing process. While this spending has weighed on the company’s profits and stock price in recent years, this investment could pay off if Intel is successful in its efforts to build out a leading foundry business. If Intel can complete its fabrication facilities, win new customers, and start generating profits from semiconductor fabrication, its stock price could soar.
However, if Intel fails to win over external customers to its 14A process and struggles to improve the profitability of its foundry business, its stock price could suffer. The company faces significant competition in the sector, which could reduce its ability to scale its foundry business and transform it from a moneymaker into a money pit.

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