weekly Market Wrap: Tech Sector Gains momentum – Apple, Electronic Arts, and Intel See Positive Movement
The technology sector experienced a dynamic week, with notable gains for Apple, Electronic Arts, and a resurgence for intel.Market activity was driven by new product launches, potential acquisitions, and government policy shifts aimed at bolstering domestic semiconductor manufacturing.
Intel Benefits from New Semiconductor Manufacturing rule
A new US rule designed to dramatically increase domestic semiconductor production provided a boost to Intel (INTC). The regulation requires companies to manufacture domestically a quantity of semiconductors equivalent to what they import from overseas, or face tariffs. Following the announcement, Intel’s stock saw immediate gains, and other US-based chipmakers like Micron and Texas Instruments also experienced positive market reactions.
This move builds on previous government support for Intel, including the US governance’s acquisition of a 10% stake in the company in august. This investment came alongside an announcement allowing tech companies to avoid 100% tariffs by increasing domestic investments. Intel has reportedly been in negotiations with Apple and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing company (TSMC) regarding manufacturing and investment assistance, predating the finalization of the US government’s stake. The company has faced challenges in recent years securing investments and maintaining its market leadership.
Electronic Arts Targeted in Potential $50 Billion Acquisition
Electronic Arts (EA) shares surged 14.8% on Friday, reaching a 52-week high, after reports surfaced of a potential acquisition. The Wall Street Journal reported that a consortium of private investment firms - Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Silver Lake, and Jared Kushner’s affinity Partners - are in advanced talks to acquire Electronic Arts in a deal valued at approximately $50 billion.
If completed,this would represent the largest leveraged buyout in history,with a significant portion of the funding coming from borrowed capital. Year-to-date, Electronic Arts’ share price is up 32%, fueled by renewed investor interest in the company known for popular franchises like FIFA, The Sims, and Madden NFL.
iPhone 17 Demand Drives Apple Stock Higher
Apple (AAPL) initially saw a stock dip ahead of its September 9th announcement of the iPhone 17 and Pro models. However, demand for the new devices quickly rebounded, leading to a 4% gain for Apple stock over the week, despite closing down 0.6% on Friday.
Analysts at Bank of America attribute the strong performance to US carrier promotions, noting double-digit increases in iPhone activations at T-Mobile and strong upgrade activity at Verizon. Lead times for the iPhone 17 are reportedly longer than last year, while Pro and Pro Max models have similar shipment times. Evercore also raised its price target for Apple to $290 from $260, maintaining an Outperform rating.
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Date: September 27, 2025.
