The Trump administration is in preliminary discussions to take an equity stake in Intel Corp., according to multiple media reports first highlighted by Bloomberg News. People familiar with the talks said the investment would be part of a broader effort to expand domestic semiconductor manufacturing and lessen U.S. reliance on overseas chip supplies. News of the possible government investment sent Intel’s stock up about 7% in New York trading on Thursday, with a further 2.6% rise after the closing bell. The rally continued in Europe, where the shares gained roughly 3.6% in Frankfurt on Friday. Details of the potential stake, including its size and structure, have not been disclosed. Intel declined to comment on the report, while the White House has not issued a public statement. The move comes two weeks after President Donald Trump publicly criticized the company’s chief executive, underscoring the volatile relationship between the administration and the chipmaker. A direct federal investment in Intel would mark an unusual step for Washington but aligns with the administration’s push for ‘chip dominance’ and expanded U.S. fabrication capacity. Industry analysts say such support could accelerate Intel’s domestic factory projects at a time of heightened competition with Asian and European rivals.