A timeline of the US semiconductor market in 2025

The U.S. semiconductor market in 2025 has experienced significant developments amid geopolitical tensions and industry shifts, largely driven by the strategic importance of AI chip technology. Nvidia reported a record quarter in August, with a notable 56% year-over-year revenue growth in its data center business, underscoring its strong market position despite broader industry turmoil. Meanwhile, Intel underwent major changes: the U.S. government took an equity stake in the company’s foundry program to maintain control, and Japanese conglomerate SoftBank also acquired a strategic stake. Intel further restructured by spinning out its telecom chip business and consolidating operations to improve efficiency, including halting projects in Germany and Poland and planning workforce reductions. Political dynamics have heavily influenced the semiconductor landscape. President Donald Trump announced potential tariffs on the industry, though none had been implemented by early September, and publicly criticized Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan amid concerns over Tan’s ties to China. Tan met with Trump to discuss Intel’s role in revitalizing U.S