Intel’s Strong Q3 Results Ignite Broad Tech Futures Rally

Investors cheered Intel’s third-quarter earnings, which came in at $9.81 billion profit and $2.82 EPS—an 11% surprise above consensus estimates. The upbeat report pushed S&P 500 and Nasdaq futures higher by 0.7% and 1%, respectively, reflecting renewed appetite for semiconductor and AI stocks. Analysts cited improving margins, new server-chip launches, and steady data-center demand as drivers behind the rally. The company’s 2026 cash-flow guidance also reassured markets that efficiency programs and inventory optimization remain on track despite global demand volatility.