Intel Surpasses Q4 Estimates, Faces 2025 Challenges

Intel's fourth-quarter earnings exceeded expectations with an EPS of $0.13 and revenues of $14.3 billion, although first-quarter guidance fell short of estimates. Despite the positive earnings surprise, Intel's shares have declined significantly, reflecting ongoing challenges including weak demand, competition, and the absence of a permanent CEO. Interim co-CEOs David Zinsner and Michelle Johnston Holthaus are leading the company while a long-term strategy and potential restructuring, including a company split, are considered. Intel's new 18A microprocessor and foundry business are pivotal to its future plans, aiming to regain industry prominence. However, the company faces immediate hurdles with expected first-quarter revenues between $11.7 billion and $12.7 billion, below analysts' predictions.