Intel (INTC) stock received a fresh vote of confidence after Bank of America raised its price target to $160 from $135.
The upgrade reflects growing optimism that artificial intelligence spending will remain a major driver of semiconductor demand for years to come.
Analysts now expect AI-related investment trends to extend through at least 2028, creating significant opportunities across the chip industry.
Bank of America also increased its estimate for the semiconductor industry’s total addressable market.
The firm now expects the market to reach approximately $2.7 trillion by 2030, supported by a projected annual growth rate of 28% between 2025 and 2030.
Much of that growth is expected to come from AI infrastructure, memory products, and expanding data-center demand.
The automotive and industrial markets are also expected to contribute as those sectors continue to recover.
Investor sentiment toward Intel has improved significantly in recent months as the company advances its foundry strategy.
Recent reports indicate Intel’s next-generation 18A manufacturing process has entered risk production, an important milestone for the company’s turnaround efforts.
Some investors also believe Intel could benefit from increasing demand for advanced chip manufacturing capacity as AI development accelerates.
The company’s packaging technologies and manufacturing capabilities have become increasingly important parts of the investment story.
Institutional ownership remains strong, with hedge funds and asset managers continuing to adjust their positions.
Recent filings showed several large investors increasing their exposure to Intel during the first quarter.
Wall Street analysts have also become more constructive, with multiple upgrades and price target increases announced over the past several months.
While the overall analyst consensus remains more balanced, bullish sentiment has clearly improved.
Despite the positive outlook, valuation remains a topic of debate among investors.
The stock has rallied significantly as enthusiasm around AI, foundry services, and semiconductor demand increased.
Some analysts argue future growth opportunities justify higher valuations, while others believe expectations may already be pricing in much of the anticipated improvement.
Investors will likely continue watching execution closely as Intel works to expand its position in AI infrastructure and contract manufacturing.
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