BUZZ-Street View: Intel's challenges persist with focus on new CEO

Intel INTC.O on Thursday posted Q4 results that beat analysts' low expectations, while its forecast for current-quarter revenue missed estimates as the chipmaker grapples with tepid demand for its data center chips and as investors wait for a new CEO

Shares of INTC up 1.25% to $20.26 in premarket trading

WALKING A TIGHTROPE

J.P. Morgan ("underweight," PT: $23) expects co's ongoing product gross margin challenges on incremental revenues to persist through 2025

TD Cowen ("hold," PT: $20) believes co will face increased challenges in datacenter and cloud markets

Wolfe Research ("peer perform") sees INTC as misaligned with market trends and burdened by high manufacturing costs

Brokerage doubts co's ability to unlock value, build a foundry business quickly, or secure a partnership with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company 2330.TW

Bernstein ("market-perform," PT: $25) sees co's streamlining efforts as positive, but leadership changes, product delays, and strategic shifts have created a cautious investor outlook

Barclays ("equal-weight," PT: $23) sees investors focusing on asset sales or major business changes as key drivers of INTC's stock, with no significant upside expected this year due to key product delays and ongoing CEO transition