Intel surges 5% on Apple chip partnership deal

What happened

Intel gained nearly 5% after President Trump announced Apple would collaborate with the company on U.S.-based chip development and manufacturing. Separately, Nebius completed its acquisition of AI optimization specialist Eigen AI and posted a 10% weekly gain, while RUM Group finished its purchase of Germany-based Northern Data and launched its Quake AI platform. Ondas announced its sixth acquisition of 2026, agreeing to buy Cyberhawk for about $125 million（約200億円） to expand its drone inspections and critical infrastructure monitoring capabilities.

Why it matters

Investors are watching companies that control hardware for AI computing and domestic chip production as governments and corporations prioritize securing their own semiconductor capabilities. The flurry of deals and partnerships reflects a strategic shift toward building AI infrastructure at scale and reducing reliance on overseas manufacturing, which appears to be reshaping where investors see long-term demand.

What to watch

While most semiconductor and AI infrastructure stocks declined during the week—UBER, TSLA, and ASTS fell between 1% and 7%—retail investor interest surged on some names (RUM message volume jumped 86%, MRVL message volume up 12%). Geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran also lingered, though negotiators reported meaningful progress during talks in Switzerland on Monday, with hopes to finalize a broader agreement within the next two months.