Should You Buy Intel Stock Before Q3 Earnings?
Intel Corporation (INTC) is set to release its third-quarter earnings report on Thursday, October 23, 2025, after market hours. This announcement comes after a remarkable 85% rise in its stock value this year, driven by strategic partnerships and significant investments. Notably, SoftBank has invested $2 billion, and Intel has entered a new CPU partnership with Nvidia (NVDA), which has bolstered investor confidence.
Concerns Ahead of Q3 Earnings
Despite this positive momentum, Intel’s foundry business faces challenges. Production delays and uncertainty surrounding its next-generation chip technology have led to cautious sentiment among investors. Analysts are closely watching how these issues will affect Intel’s earnings.
What Analysts Expect
Wall Street analysts forecast Intel will report earnings per share (EPS) of less than $0.01, a notable improvement from a loss of $0.46 per share in the same quarter last year. Revenues are expected to reach approximately $13.15 billion, reflecting a modest increase of 0.97% from the previous year.
- Projected EPS: Less than $0.01
- Previous EPS: -$0.46
- Expected Revenue: $13.15 billion
Investment strategists will be keen to hear updates from management regarding cost reduction efforts, the impact of tariffs, and advancements in product roadmaps, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) chips.
Analyst Insights
Before the earnings release, Susquehanna analyst Christopher Rolland adjusted Intel’s price target from $22 to $31 while maintaining a Neutral rating. This adjustment reflects expectations that the results will align with forecasts, though he warns of potential weaker guidance for the upcoming quarter. Rolland noted that the recent sale of Altera might impact revenue and margins negatively.
On the upside, he highlighted the potential of new AI chips, such as Lunar Lake and Arrow Lake, to enhance pricing and stimulate growth.
Price Target Changes
Similarly, Mizuho analyst Vijay Rakesh raised his price target on Intel stock from $23 to $39, continuing to hold a Neutral rating. Rakesh recognizes that Intel’s advanced packaging segment could contribute an additional $1.5 billion in annual revenue starting between 2026 and 2027, as demand for advanced packaging grows among chipmakers.
Consensus Ratings on Intel Stock
The consensus on Wall Street indicates a Hold rating for Intel (INTC) stock, consisting of two Buy ratings, 24 Holds, and six Sell ratings issued over the past three months. Analysts project an average price target of $28.70 per share, which signifies a downside risk of 22.45%.
- Consensus Rating: Hold
- Buy Ratings: 2
- Hold Ratings: 24
- Sell Ratings: 6
- Average Price Target: $28.70
As the Q3 earnings announcement approaches, investors are left pondering: Should you buy Intel stock before the earnings report? The upcoming results and guidance could significantly impact Intel’s market position.
