Intel, Silver, and Nike Stocks: Key Moves and Market Insights

The stock market has been bustling in late December 2025, with significant developments for Intel (INTC), iShares Silver Trust (SLV), and Nike (NKE). Investors are keeping a close eye on these three for very different reasons: technology manufacturing shifts, precious metals momentum, and high-profile insider activity.

Intel (INTC): Nvidia Halts 18A Chip Tests

Intel shares fell over 2% on December 24, 2025, after reports surfaced that Nvidia had halted testing of Intel’s 18A chip manufacturing process. The 18A technology, considered Intel’s most advanced domestic manufacturing technique, aims to restore the company’s competitive edge in the semiconductor industry. Intel recently opened Fab 52 in Arizona, the first facility using 18A for mass production, marking a critical push to challenge Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. and reassert U.S. chipmaking leadership.

While Intel maintains that its 18A technology is progressing well, Nvidia’s decision not to proceed has raised concerns among investors. Nvidia had previously tested the 18A process and was expected to potentially use it for advanced chip production, alongside Broadcom trials. Analysts suggest that this decision highlights the competitive challenges Intel faces in attracting high-profile foundry clients while scaling its manufacturing capabilities.

Intel had also received a $5 billion investment from Nvidia and a roughly $10 billion stake from the U.S. government earlier in 2025, which initially boosted hopes for a turnaround. The 18A process introduces gate-all-around transistors, allowing finer control and greater energy efficiency, alongside innovations in chip power management. These features are designed to increase transistor density and improve performance while reducing energy consumption, potentially giving Intel an edge in next-generation AI and computing applications.

Despite the recent setback, analysts point to ongoing opportunities, such as Intel’s reported collaboration with Apple for select chip production. This suggests that while Nvidia’s withdrawal might be a temporary negative, Intel’s long-term foundry ambitions are still active, though challenges remain in competing with established global leaders.

Investor Takeaway: Intel’s 18A technology represents a bold attempt to regain market leadership, but short-term stock volatility is likely as partnerships and production tests evolve.

Sources: Bloomberg, Yahoo Finance, Barron’s, Investing.com

iShares Silver Trust (SLV): A Record-Breaking Rally

While Intel faces challenges in tech manufacturing, silver has been surging as a high-beta play for investors seeking exposure to precious metals. The iShares Silver Trust (SLV) ETF soared to $64.84 on December 24, 2025, up 3.79% in one trading session, fueled by a combination of rate-cut expectations, haven demand, and industrial usage.

The SLV rally in 2025 has been extraordinary, with the ETF gaining 138% year-to-date, dramatically outpacing gold’s 70% gain. Silver spot prices hit a record high of $72.35 per ounce, supported by a structural supply deficit persisting for the fifth consecutive year. Mine production declines in Central and South America, combined with surging industrial demand for solar panels, electronics, and EV batteries, have tightened available silver, contributing to the ETF’s sharp ascent.

Technically, SLV’s price action shows strong momentum. Trading volumes reached 75.68 million shares, nearly double the average, while indicators like RSI and ADX point to a strong trend, though they also suggest possible short-term corrections due to overbought conditions.

Investors are weighing silver’s high volatility against gold’s stability. While gold provides a steady hedge against inflation, silver offers the potential for higher returns due to its industrial ties and market momentum. Some analysts forecast continued strength into 2026, with silver trading between $56-$88 depending on supply constraints, industrial demand, and continued investor flows into ETFs.

Investor Takeaway: SLV remains a high-momentum, high-beta option for those seeking exposure to both industrial demand and safe-haven assets. Supply deficits and record industrial demand suggest that silver’s upward trajectory may continue, though short-term volatility is likely.

Sources: Meyka, Red94

Nike (NKE): Insider Confidence and Market Moves

Nike shares climbed in late December following a high-profile insider purchase. Tim Cook, Apple CEO and Nike board member, bought 50,000 shares of Nike Class B stock at roughly $58.97 per share, nearly doubling his personal stake in the company. The move added approximately $3 million in value to Cook’s holdings and was seen as a strong signal of confidence in CEO Elliott Hill’s turnaround strategy.

Nike has faced challenges in 2025, including weak margins and sluggish sales in China. Shares had declined nearly 13% following disappointing quarterly results in December. CEO Hill has been implementing a “Win Now” strategy, focusing on running and sports lines while phasing out underperforming lifestyle brands, and attempting to restore relationships with wholesalers to boost visibility amid increasing competition.

Cook’s purchase, the largest by a Nike director or executive in over a decade, suggests faith in Hill’s plan to revive growth. Additionally, other executives, such as former Intel CEO Robert Swan, also acquired shares, signaling broader confidence in Nike’s near-term prospects. The stock reacted positively, climbing 2–5% in pre-market trading following the filings.

Investor Takeaway: Insider buying from high-profile figures often boosts investor confidence, especially when the company is implementing strategic changes. Nike’s stock may see renewed interest if CEO Hill’s initiatives gain traction and international sales recover.

Sources: Investing.com, Reuters

Conclusion: Insights for Investors

The end of 2025 showcases three very different investment stories:

Intel illustrates the challenges and opportunities in advanced tech manufacturing. While Nvidia’s withdrawal from the 18A testing raises near-term concerns, Intel’s ongoing collaborations and groundbreaking transistor innovations position it for long-term growth.
SLV demonstrates the power of industrial demand and macroeconomic factors in commodities investing. With supply deficits and record silver prices, SLV has delivered extraordinary returns, although volatility remains a key consideration.
Nike highlights how insider confidence can influence market sentiment. Tim Cook’s substantial share purchase underlines optimism in management’s strategy, showing that even in the face of weak margins and international challenges, strategic execution can sway investor perceptions.

Across these stories, a common thread emerges: market opportunities often come with complexity and risk, but well-informed investors can find growth by observing technology trends, commodities dynamics, and leadership confidence in established brands.

Sources:

Intel Shares Fall on Report Nvidia Halts Production Test – Bloomberg
INTC: Intel Stock Falls After Nvidia Backs Out of 18A Chip Deal – Yahoo Finance
Intel Stock Drops. Blame Nvidia. – Barron’s
Intel shares slide after report Nvidia halts testing of 18A process – Investing.com
SLV Stock Today: December 24 – Silver ETF Leads Metals Rally – Meyka
SLV soars 138% in 2025 as silver hits record highs, outpaces gold by 75% – Red94
Nike stock up 2% in pre-market after Apple CEO buys shares – Investing.com
Apple's Cook doubles Nike stake, endorses CEO Hill's turnaround push – Reuters

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