- Intel negotiates with Silver Lake to sell majority stake in Altera.
- Sale part of Intel’s broader cost-cutting and restructuring efforts.
What happened: Intel in exclusive talks to sell Altera majority stake
Intel is reportedly in exclusive negotiations with private equity firm Silver Lake to sell a majority stake in its programmable chip unit, Altera. This move is part of Intel’s ongoing effort to divest non-core assets and refocus on its foundry business. Intel acquired Altera in 2015 for $16.7 billion to strengthen its data centre and IoT portfolio. However, after nearly a decade, Intel is seeking a sale of Altera to bolster its financial position amidst mounting financial challenges. This potential deal could offer the company a much-needed cash influx as it contemplates strategies to address declining revenues and growing competition in the chip industry. The sale of Altera would represent a major shift in Intel’s approach as it narrows its focus to its core business.
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Why it’s important
Intel’s decision to offload Altera highlights its ongoing struggles in a competitive semiconductor market. After a disappointing Q2 2024 financial report, Intel has been restructuring its operations, including a significant workforce reduction. This sale could provide critical capital and reinforce Intel’s plans to focus on its foundry business. The discussions with Silver Lake show the company’s intent to streamline operations and prioritise areas aligned with its long-term strategic goals. The outcome of these talks could shape Intel’s position in the semiconductor sector for years to come.
