Intel officially entered High-Volume Manufacturing (HVM) for its 18A process node as of December 2025, completing its ambitious "five nodes in four years" roadmap. This technical milestone, featuring RibbonFET and PowerVia, is critical for AI and HPC advancements.

Further solidifying its position, Intel has become a "National Champion" with a 9.9% U.S. government equity stake, finalized in August 2025. These transformative developments have driven a significant stock recovery, with shares surging from a 2024 low of $17.67 to nearly $38.00 in late 2025, reflecting renewed investor confidence.