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Intel (INTC) Secures Funds to Propel Semiconductor Ecosystem

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Intel Corporation (INTC - Free Report) has secured up to $8.5 billion in direct funding under the CHIPS and Science Act. The partnership between Intel and the U.S. Department of Commerce marks a pivotal moment in advancing U.S. semiconductor manufacturing and research and development.

The funding, a crucial component of the CHIPS Act, underscores the government's commitment to enhancing domestic semiconductor production, particularly in cutting-edge technologies. Intel, as the sole U.S. company engaged in both the design and manufacturing of leading-edge logic chips, stands poised to leverage this support for critical semiconductor projects across its facilities in Arizona, New Mexico, Ohio and Oregon.

Intel's CEO, Pat Gelsinger, heralded the partnership as a watershed moment, emphasizing the significance of semiconductor innovation in powering the digital revolution. The funding is poised to reinforce Intel's position as a trailblazer in technology leadership, facilitating resilient and sustainable semiconductor supply chains critical for America's future.

This collaboration represents one of the most substantial public-private investments in the U.S. semiconductor industry to date. Intel's commitment, coupled with the CHIPS Act funding, is set to generate thousands of new jobs, fortify research and development endeavors and bolster U.S. supply chains, thereby cementing U.S. leadership in semiconductor manufacturing and technology.

Under the agreement, Intel has the option to access federal loans of up to $11 billion, further amplifying its capacity for innovation and expansion. Additionally, by availing the U.S. Treasury Department's Investment Tax Credit, Intel anticipates substantial returns on qualified investments exceeding $100 billion over five years, a move poised to fuel long-term growth and competitiveness.

Intel's overarching strategy aligns seamlessly with the objectives of the CHIPS Act, focusing on process technology leadership, resilient supply chains and the development of a world-class foundry business. Through its ongoing investments, including the establishment of Intel Foundry, the company is primed to deliver cutting-edge solutions tailored for the AI-driven computing era.

Moreover, Intel's steadfast commitment to U.S. manufacturing and research and development is evident in its extensive investments across key states. From Arizona's Silicon Desert to Oregon's Silicon Forest, Intel's footprint underscores its dedication to fostering innovation and economic growth domestically.

With nearly 55,000 employees in the United States and indirect support for more than 720,000 American jobs, Intel's impact on the economy is substantial. The CHIPS Act funding is projected to create more than 10,000 permanent jobs at Intel, along with nearly 20,000 construction jobs, further catalyzing job creation and economic prosperity.

The stock has gained 50% over the past year compared with the industry’s growth of 166.3%.

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Intel currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

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