Intel’s stock tumbles as reports indicate its 18A process yields may not reach profitability until late 2026 or 2027, delaying foundry recovery.
Intel (NASDAQ: INTC) shares fell 21% over the past week to $110, reversing a 2026 rally built on expectations for its 18A manufacturing process. The decline follows reports that 18A yields may not hit profitable levels until late 2026 or 2027, later than investors anticipated.
The company’s foundry business, critical to its turnaround, posted less than $200 million in external revenue and a steep operating loss in Q1 2026. Weak yields increase costs, prolonging losses and delaying the payoff for a stock that had already priced in success.
The timing shift raises doubts about Intel’s ability to compete with rivals, as manufacturing delays could erode its market position. The stock’s sharp drop reflects growing skepticism over its near-term recovery.