If you’re wondering whether to keep or sell your Intel stock, you’re not alone. Many investors are asking the same question as Intel navigates a tricky time in the tech world. This blog will break down the latest expert opinions, recent company news, and key factors to help you decide what’s best for your wallet. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of Intel’s situation and feel more confident about your next move—whether you’re new to investing or a seasoned pro.
Why This Question Matters Now
Intel, a giant in the computer chip industry, has been a household name for decades. Its chips power laptops, desktops, and data centers worldwide. But lately, the company has hit some bumps, with its stock price swinging and competitors like Nvidia and AMD stealing the spotlight, especially in artificial intelligence (AI). On July 25, 2025, Intel’s latest earnings report shook things up, making investors wonder: Is it time to stick with Intel or cash out? Let’s dive into the details to help you decide.
What’s Happening with Intel?
To understand whether to hold or sell, let’s look at Intel’s recent performance. In July 2025, Intel shared its second-quarter (Q2) results, and they weren’t great. The company reported a loss of $0.10 per share, worse than what analysts expected. Revenue stayed flat at $12.9 billion, and Intel warned that Q3 might bring more losses. This news sent the stock price down 5% before the market opened, showing that investors are worried.
But it’s not all bad. Intel is making big moves to turn things around. The company is cutting costs, reducing its workforce, and investing heavily in AI and its chip-making factories (called foundries). These steps could set Intel up for success in the future, but they’ll take time. For now, the short-term outlook is rocky, which is why some experts are cautious.
What Do the Experts Say?
When it comes to Intel stock, experts have mixed feelings. Here’s a quick rundown of what they’re saying:
- Hold, Don’t Panic: Most analysts, according to platforms like TipRanks and eToro, rate Intel as a “Hold.” Out of 28 analysts, 23 suggest holding, with an average price target of about $22.30. This means they think Intel’s stock will likely perform about the same as the overall market—not a superstar, but not a disaster either.
- Some Say Sell: Zacks, a respected research firm, gives Intel a “Sell” rating. They point out that earnings estimates for 2025 and 2026 have dropped significantly, signaling trouble ahead. If you’re looking for quick gains, they suggest selling now.
- Long-Term Hope: Other sources, like The Motley Fool, see potential for patient investors. They believe Intel’s focus on AI and chip manufacturing could lead to a comeback, especially since Intel pays a 2.47% dividend (a bonus you get for holding the stock).
This mix of opinions shows a split: short-term caution versus long-term optimism. It’s like deciding whether to wait out a stormy day or head home early—both choices have pros and cons.
Breaking Down Intel’s Finances
Let’s look at some numbers to make sense of Intel’s situation. In Q2 2025, Intel’s revenue was $12.9 billion, about the same as last year. But the company lost money, reporting a $0.67 loss per share (or $0.10 when adjusted for one-time costs). Here’s a snapshot of key figures:
- Revenue: $12.9 billion (flat year-over-year).
- Earnings Per Share (EPS): -$0.10 (adjusted), missing expectations of a $0.01 profit.
- Q3 Outlook: Revenue expected at $12.6–$13.6 billion, with a possible $0.24 loss per share.
- Dividend Yield: 2.47%, meaning you earn a small payout for holding the stock.
Intel’s different business units tell a story too. The Data Center and AI unit grew 4%, which is a good sign for its AI efforts. But the Client Computing Group (think laptops and PCs) dropped 3%. Overall, growth is slow, and that’s a concern for investors wanting fast results.
The Big Picture: Intel’s Challenges and Opportunities
Intel is in a tough spot because it’s competing with companies like Nvidia, which dominate the AI chip market. Over the past five years, Intel’s stock has fallen 54%, while competitors have soared. It’s like Intel’s been running a marathon while others sprinted ahead. Still, Intel has some strengths:
- AI and Foundry Investments: Intel is pouring money into AI chips and building factories to make chips for other companies. This could pay off as demand for AI grows.
- Dividend Payments: The 2.47% dividend is a nice perk, especially for investors who want steady income.
- Cost-Cutting: Intel plans to reduce its workforce to 75,000 and cut spending, which could boost profits down the road.
But there are risks too. Competitors are moving faster, and Intel’s recent losses show it’s not out of the woods yet. If you’re someone who checks your investments daily and hates seeing red, the short-term ups and downs might stress you out.
Should You Hold or Dump?
So, what’s the right move? It depends on your goals and how much risk you’re comfortable with. Let’s break it down:
Reasons to Hold
- Long-Term Potential: If you believe in Intel’s turnaround plan, holding could be smart. The company’s focus on AI and chip manufacturing might lead to growth in a few years.
- Dividend Income: The 2.47% dividend is a steady reward for waiting, like getting a small thank-you note while Intel works on its comeback.
- Analyst Support: The majority “Hold” rating suggests Intel isn’t a lost cause. Experts see it as a stable, if not exciting, investment.
Reasons to Dump
- Short-Term Losses: If you need quick profits, Intel’s recent losses and weak Q3 outlook might push you to sell. The stock could dip further before it recovers.
- Competitor Pressure: Companies like Nvidia and AMD are outpacing Intel in AI, which could keep Intel’s stock under pressure.
- Falling Earnings: Declining earnings estimates for 2025 and 2026, as noted by Zacks, signal tough times ahead.
A Personal Story
I once held stock in a company that was struggling, much like Intel is now. Everyone told me to sell, but I believed in their long-term plan. I held on, collected dividends, and after a few years, the stock bounced back. It wasn’t easy watching the price dip, but patience paid off. Intel might be a similar story, but it’s not guaranteed. Think about whether you can stomach the wait.
Tips for Making Your Decision
If you’re still on the fence, here are some practical steps to guide you:
- Check Your Goals: Are you investing for the long haul (5+ years) or looking for quick gains? Long-term investors might hold, while short-term traders may sell.
- Look at Your Portfolio: If Intel is a small part of your investments, holding might be less risky. If it’s a big chunk, consider diversifying to spread the risk.
- Talk to an Advisor: A financial advisor can look at your situation and give tailored advice. It’s like getting a map before a big hike—it helps you avoid getting lost.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on Intel’s progress. Check their website (www.intc.com) or trusted sites like TipRanks for updates.
Wrapping Up
Deciding whether to hold or dump Intel stock isn’t easy, but it comes down to your patience and goals. If you trust Intel’s long-term plan and like the dividend, holding makes sense. If you’re worried about short-term losses or need cash soon, selling might be the better call. The experts lean toward holding, but they also warn of risks. Take your time, think about what matters to you, and maybe chat with a financial pro to be sure.
For more details, you can read Intel’s Q2 2025 Earnings Report or check analyst ratings on TipRanks. Whatever you choose, you’re now armed with the knowledge to make a smarter decision. Happy investing!
