Intel’s Nvidia deal expected to be a mixed blessing for Asian chipmakers

In a landmark move, Nvidia has announced a $5 billion equity investment in Intel, positioning itself as one of Intel’s largest shareholders with an approximate 4% stake. The deal, unveiled on Thursday, includes a collaborative effort to develop PC and data center chips, signaling a significant shift in the semiconductor industry. While Intel’s shares surged by 23% following the announcement, the implications for Asian chipmakers like TSMC and Samsung Electronics are more nuanced. Analysts suggest that Intel’s potential revival could alleviate U.S. regulatory pressure on foreign competitors, even as it intensifies long-term competition. TSMC, which currently dominates the AI chip market for U.S. companies, saw its shares dip by 1.6%, while Samsung’s shares fell by 1%. The partnership could bolster Intel’s next-generation manufacturing capabilities, a critical factor given its recent struggles. However, the deal also raises concerns about the future of TSMC’s business with AMD, a key competitor to Intel and Nvidia. As the U.S. government pushes for domestic semiconductor production, the dynamics of the global chipmaking industry remain uncertain, with Intel’s resurgence potentially reshaping the competitive landscape.