US chipmaker Intel secures $2 billion from SoftBank, reinforcing its manufacturing operations and AI strategy. SoftBank becomes the fifth-largest Intel shareholder, signaling strong market support.
Intel Corporation and Japanese conglomerate SoftBank announced on Monday that SoftBank will invest $2 billion in the struggling chipmaker. The investment, representing about 2% of Intel, will make SoftBank the fifth-largest shareholder.
SoftBank will pay $23 per share for Intel’s common stock, which closed Monday at $23.66, with shares rising nearly 6% in extended trading to $25. The move signals strong support for Intel, which has faced challenges in capitalizing on the artificial intelligence boom in advanced semiconductors and building its manufacturing business without yet securing major customers.
Masa and I have worked closely together for decades, and I appreciate the confidence he has placed in Intel with this investment.” Tan took over as CEO in March after Pat Gelsinger’s departure in December.
Lip-Bu Tan, CEO of Intel
Intel’s stock saw its worst performance in over 50 years last year, losing 60% of its value, but it has rebounded 18% in 2025. Despite its setbacks, Intel remains a key player in US semiconductor manufacturing, particularly for advanced chips critical to AI infrastructure.
Also Read: Trump Targets Intel CEO—National Security or Political Theater?
SoftBank has become a major player in the global chip and AI markets, acquiring Arm in 2016 for $32 billion and Ampere Computing for $6.5 billion in 2025. The conglomerate is also part of the US Stargate AI infrastructure initiative, pledging significant investments to advance AI and semiconductor capabilities.
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.”
Masayoshi Son, Founder of SoftBank
Intel plans to use the funding to strengthen its manufacturing operations and expand its foundry business, which is critical for producing chips for other companies and stabilizing its long-term growth trajectory.
READ MORE ON
