Intel Corp. (NASDAQ:INTC) stock edged higher Thursday, outperforming a weaker technology sector as investors favored select mega-cap technology stocks despite a broader risk-off market.

The Nasdaq was down 0.27%, the S&P 500 fell 0.22%, and the Technology sector slipped 0.07%.

SoftBank Gain Highlights Intel Investment

Intel also remains in focus following SoftBank Group’s first-quarter earnings released Thursday. The Japanese investment company said it booked a 1.3 trillion yen ($8.2 billion) gain on its Intel investment after the chipmaker’s shares surged.

The gain helped SoftBank beat quarterly profit expectations despite weaker year-over-year earnings. SoftBank agreed to invest $2 billion in Intel last year at $23 per share, underscoring continued investor interest in the chipmaker as AI-related spending accelerates.

Technical Analysis

Intel remains in a consolidation phase after a strong 12-month rally.

The stock is trading 47.4% above its 200-day simple moving average of $68.27 but remains 9.4% below its 50-day moving average of $111.07, indicating short-term pressure despite a positive long-term trend.

The 20-day moving average remains below the 50-day moving average, while the longer-term bullish crossover between the 50-day and 200-day averages remains intact.

The relative strength index stands at 48.30, signaling neutral momentum.

A key support level sits near $89.50, where buyers previously entered the stock.

Analyst Outlook

The stock carries a consensus Hold rating with an average analyst price forecast of $109.07. Recent analyst actions include:

• Bank of America maintained a Buy rating and raised its price forecast to $160 on July 28.
• Baird maintained a Neutral rating and raised its price forecast to $125 on July 27.
• D.A. Davidson maintained a Neutral rating and raised its price forecast to $100 on July 24.

Benzinga Edge Rankings

Intel scores strongly on momentum, with a Benzinga Edge Momentum score of 98.94.

The score reflects the stock’s longer-term strength despite its recent consolidation.

ETF Exposure

Intel is a top holding in several semiconductor and technology ETFs, including:

• iShares Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:SOXX): 6.11% weighting
• Pacer Data and Digital Revolution ETF (NYSE:TRFK): 7.85% weighting
• Essential 40 Stock ETF (NASDAQ:ESN): 5.81% weighting

Large inflows or outflows in these funds can influence demand for Intel shares through passive investment flows.

Price Action

INTC Stock Price Activity: Intel shares were up 0.12% at $101.19 at the time of publication on Thursday, according to Benzinga Pro data.

Image via Shutterstock