Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan recently commended India’s gradual, step-by-step approach to building its semiconductor manufacturing capabilities, suggesting that focusing on incremental progress could ultimately drive profitability and cash generation. He told Economic Times that this measured strategy could open up opportunities in feature-rich process technology, particularly for automotive manufacturers like Tata and Mahindra. Tan highlighted potential applications in power management, image sensors, and automotive components that don’t require the most advanced fabrication processes, framing these areas as sensible entry points on India’s path to semiconductor capability. He also touched on Intel’s foundry roadmap, asserting a continued emphasis on the most advanced 14A technology, referring to Intel’s 1.4-nanometer-class process developed with High-NA EUV lithography.
In a separate development, Reuters reported scrutiny over multi-billion-dollar deals tied to Tan amid new disclosures about Intel’s bid for AI chip startup Rivos. The agency cited three people familiar with the matter who said Tan, at the time both Intel CEO and Rivos chairman, pitched Intel’s board on acquiring Rivos in mid-2025 but did not gain traction. The board reportedly deemed there was a conflict of interest in representing both Rivos and Intel, and questioned Tan’s AI strategy as a justification for a deal. Following the board’s stance, Tan urged an alternative AI plan to an Intel executive, which led to renewed discussions with Rivos. Meanwhile, Meta had also shown interest in acquiring Rivos, ultimately raising its offer to around $4 billion; Meta completed the purchase in September. The Rivos negotiations are among a few instances where Intel pursued deals involving companies in which Tan holds stakes. Since becoming CEO, Tan has overseen Intel Capital, the company’s investment arm, which has funded several firms connected to Tan’s own investments or venture networks, including A&E Investment LLC, Celesta Capital, and Walden International.
