SoftBank Invests $2bn in Intel as US Eyes 10% Stake

Japan's SoftBank Group has agreed to invest $2 billion in Intel by purchasing common stock at $23 per share, acquiring nearly a 2% stake and becoming one of Intel's top shareholders. This strategic investment underscores SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son's belief in the critical role of advanced semiconductor manufacturing in the U.S. and Intel's position as a leader in innovation. Intel's CEO Lip-Bu Tan welcomed the support amid ongoing corporate restructuring, cost-cutting, and efforts to regain competitiveness in AI and chip manufacturing markets. The investment coincides with reports that the Trump administration is considering converting Chips Act subsidies into a 10% equity stake in Intel, potentially making the U.S. government the largest shareholder. SoftBank's involvement also aligns with its broader AI infrastructure ambitions, including its stake in the $500 billion Stargate data center project. This capital injection comes at a time when Intel is investing heavily in new production capacity while facing significant challenges, including market share losses and operational restructuring.