Intel (INTC) Set to Report Q4 Earnings Amid Rally and Rising Expectations

Intel is set to report fourth-quarter earnings after the market closes on January 22, 2026, as its stock faces a critical test following a nearly 50% surge since the start of the year. The chipmaker’s shares have rallied amid speculation about new clients, stronger-than-expected AI demand, and support from President Donald Trump. Options pricing indicates traders expect a potential 9% move in either direction after the results. Analysts anticipate adjusted earnings of 9 cents per share on $13.41 billion in revenue, with HSBC, KeyBanc, and Wedbush expecting beats driven by strong server CPU demand. HSBC upgraded Intel to "hold" with a $50 price target, above the Visible Alpha consensus. However, most analysts remain cautious, citing ongoing competitive challenges. Shares were down less than 1% ahead of the report, despite broader market gains.