With its market value down sharply, Intel has become a takeover target. That shows how strategic missteps and the artificial-intelligence boom have together reshaped the fortunes of America’s most storied semiconductor company.

Reports spread over the weekend that the chip giant Qualcomm is interested in acquiring another chipmaking giant, Intel. Both companies are keeping mum — for the moment — about what’s happening. Intel was founded in 1968 and since then,

The stock is now trading 20.4% above the 14-year closing low of $18.89 on Sept. 6. That puts the stock on track for its first "bull market," which many on Wall Street define a rally of at least 20% off a bear-market low, since it peaked at a 21-month closing high of $50.76 on Dec. 27, 2023.

Intel was among the best performers Monday, boosted by M&A news and reports of a potentially massive cash infusion.