Intel (INTC) to Increase CPU Prices by 10%...Aims to Reclaim All-Time High of $142

▲ Intel (INTC), Artificial Intelligence (AI), U.S. Stock Market/AI-generated image

Intel (INTC) has launched a rebound strategy to reclaim its all-time high of $142, by expanding its foundry business and increasing CPU prices. Robust data center demand and double-digit pricing power are emerging as key drivers for the stock's rebound.

According to FXLeaders on September 17 (local time), Intel's stock price settled around $101 after undergoing a correction from its all-time high of $142 recorded in June. On an annual basis, it has maintained an upward trend of approximately 300%. Wall Street analysts have issued a cautious "Hold" rating. The 12-month median target price is around $112. However, individual brokerage forecasts show a wide discrepancy, ranging from a low of $75 to a high of $200. Factors limiting the upside include U.S. 10-year Treasury yields exceeding 5% and geopolitical oil price instability in the Middle East.

Strong performance and upgraded earnings forecasts are supporting the stock price. Intel's quarterly revenue increased by 25.4% year-over-year to $16.13 billion, significantly exceeding market expectations of $14.4 billion. Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) reached $0.42, nearly double the estimated range of $0.21-$0.27. The gross profit margin improved to 41.8%. Intel raised its third-quarter revenue forecast to $15.8 billion-$16.8 billion, surpassing market expectations. In response to surging demand for CPUs for data centers and agentic artificial intelligence (AI), the company also expanded its capital expenditure for 2026 to $20 billion.

Strong pricing power and success in securing external customers are also becoming visible. Intel plans to increase CPU prices for enterprise and PC use by approximately 10% starting October 5, 2026. In its foundry division, the company has secured achievements in the initial verification phase, including Tesla's (TSLA) 14A process terafab project and the introduction of ASML's (ASML) next-generation lithography equipment (High-NA EUV). However, concerns exist regarding equity dilution due to foundry capital expenditures and a rights offering conducted at around $95 per share. A net loss of approximately $11 billion during the recent reporting period, attributed to restructuring and the burden of foundry construction costs, remains a challenging factor.

Technically, short-term support is established in the $94-$97 range. The 200-day moving average is located near the lower bound of $75. The upper resistance is in the $103-$117 range. The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) is at 62, indicating a neutral bullish bias. The Average Directional Index (ADX) is at 15, suggesting a weak trend strength.

Sustained demand for data center CPUs, the 10% price increase, and the expansion of external customers for 18A and 14A processes are key pillars for a turnaround. Market attention is focused on whether Intel can overcome initial losses in the foundry division and macroeconomic tightening pressures to return to its previous peak of $142.

[Article Summary]

-Intel (INTC) reported quarterly revenue of $16.13 billion and announced a 10% CPU price increase starting October 5.

-Foundry expansion, including securing the Tesla 14A Terrafab project, has materialized, but a net loss of $11 billion and equity dilution concerns persist.

-With a median Wall Street target price of $112, Intel is undergoing a rebound test to reclaim its all-time high of $142.

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