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Intel's Humbling

Jan 30, 2024
Dive into the tumultuous journey of Intel as they navigate leadership shifts and strategic challenges in semiconductor manufacturing. Explore the fierce competition they face, particularly in the data center segment, and their ambitious 18A technology. Discover their partnership with United Microelectronics Corp to enhance production capabilities. Compare Intel’s strategies with TSMC’s adaptability in a rapidly evolving market, highlighting Intel’s historical struggles and their quest for a comeback through innovation and acquisitions.
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ANECDOTE

Krzanich's Missed Opportunity

  • When Brian Krzanich became Intel's CEO, the author advised him to shift Intel towards becoming a foundry.
  • Krzanich ignored this, focused on short-term gains, and oversaw Intel losing its process lead to TSMC.
INSIGHT

Gelsinger Inherits Krzanich's Problems

  • Current CEO Pat Gelsinger is dealing with the consequences of Krzanich's decisions, including declining stock prices and weakening demand in data centers.
  • Intel also faces slowdowns in programmable chips, self-driving car components, and its new foundry business.
INSIGHT

Gelsinger's Course Correction

  • Gelsinger is implementing the foundry strategy now, aiming to regain Intel's leading-edge process.
  • He's also working on five process nodes, from Intel 7 to 18A, to catch up and possibly surpass competitors.
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