Qualcomm pauses interest in Intel acquisition amid deal complexities
A swift in the business plan due to regulatory challenges and market changes.
Qualcomm’s interest in acquiring Intel has reportedly cooled due to the complexities involved in such a massive deal, according to Bloomberg. While a full acquisition now appears unlikely, Qualcomm may consider pursuing specific parts of Intel’s business or revisiting the idea in the future. Neither company has commented publicly on the report.
Qualcomm initially approached Intel in September, sparking speculation about a potential acquisition. Any deal would face significant antitrust scrutiny as it would unite two of the semiconductor industry’s biggest players. Qualcomm had previously explored acquiring sections of Intel’s design business, but no formal offer materialised.
Intel, once a dominant chipmaking powerhouse, has struggled in recent years, losing market share to competitors like TSMC and missing key opportunities in generative AI. The company’s declining fortunes have been reflected in a 50% drop in its stock price this year and its recent removal from the Dow Jones Industrial Average.
