On Monday, Intel (INTC.US) closed up 3.51%, outperforming the broader U.S. stock market and the technology sector, as reviewers praised its latest processor, the Intel Core Ultra9275HX. It is reported that the computer hardware benchmark software PassMark recently updated the running score list. Intel Core Ultra9275HX successfully topped the list, surpassing AMD Ryzen 97945HX3D and becoming the notebook processor with the strongest comprehensive performance.
Additionally, many reviewers, including PCWorld and TomsHardware, cite the Intel Core Ultra9275HX's performance and improvements to laptop battery life.
Intel's fourth-quarter 2024 results announced last month exceeded market expectations and seemed to show positive results from the company's massive restructuring plan implemented in 2024. The financial report shows that Intel's Q4 revenue fell 7% year-on-year to US$14.26 billion, the third consecutive quarter of decline, but better than market expectations of US$13.81 billion; net loss was US$130 million, compared with net profit of US$2.67 billion in the same period last year; adjusted earnings per share was US$0.13, better than market expectations of US$0.12.
Although fourth-quarter revenue and earnings were better than expected, Intel's performance guidance shows that the company's road ahead is still full of challenges. Intel expects revenue in the first quarter of 2025 to be between US$11.7 billion and US$12.7 billion, with the midpoint of the forecast range lower than market expectations of US$12.85 billion; profits after excluding some items are expected to reach breakeven, while the market expects earnings per share of US$0.08.
Intel's weak performance guidance also prompted Wall Street analysts to stay on the sidelines, waiting for further signs of recovery. Intel will host a Foundry DirectConnect event on April 29 in San Jose, California, to share details on foundry strategy, process technologies, and advanced packaging and test capabilities.
Meanwhile, investors and analysts are awaiting the appointment of Intel's new CEO. The new CEO will determine the company's future and face options including a spinoff. Earlier reports said competitors were considering bidding for some or all of Intel's shares.