Intel's Missed Opportunity: Rejected $20 Billion Nvidia Acquisition in 2005
In 2005, Intel's board declined a proposal to acquire Nvidia, a decision that now highlights a significant strategic oversight.
- Former Intel CEO Paul Otellini proposed acquiring Nvidia in 2005 for $20 billion, foreseeing the future importance of graphics chips.
- The Intel board rejected the acquisition, partly due to its focus on x86 architecture and skepticism towards large mergers.
- Nvidia's market value has since skyrocketed to over $3 trillion, positioning it as a leader in AI technology.
- Intel's failure to diversify beyond x86 chips has contributed to its current financial struggles and competitive pressures.
- Intel's missed acquisitions, including a stake in OpenAI, have compounded its strategic challenges over the years.