Doubling Down: How Intel Navigates Economic Downturns

InnovationConsumer TechDoubling Down: How Intel Navigates Economic DownturnsByTim Bajarin,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Tim Bajarin covers the tech industry’s impact on PC and CE markets.Follow AuthorMay 12, 2026, 10:00am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.Intel's history shows downturns reward companies that invest in the future.gettyYears ago, I served on Intel's marketing advisory board, which brought in industry analysts for candid feedback under strict NDA.This role let me interact with Intel's CEOs, including Andy Grove, Craig Barrett, and Paul Otellini. Each guided Intel through a tech boom and bust. In the good years, Intel grew aggressively to maintain its lead. In the lean years, it struggled and laid off hundreds of employees to survive.The 2008 Crisis and a Lesson I've Never ForgottenPaul Otellini was at the helm during one of the worst economic downturns since the Great Depression — the 2008 Financial Crisis. It was triggered by real estate speculation, predatory subprime mortgage lending and a near-total failure of financial regulation. When the housing bubble burst, it took a significant portion of the global economy with it.After an Intel advisory board meeting during that downturn, I had a side conversation with Otellini. I asked him directly: What was Intel's plan for navigating the crisis?His answer was simple and it has stuck with me ever since.Intel planned to double down on R&D.Rather than pull back, Otellini expanded research projects and maintained full momentum. His reasoning was straightforward: no matter how severe the downturn, the economy would eventually recover. When it did, Intel needed to have next-generation products ready to meet the demands of the next growth cycle.Otellini Was RightBy 2010, the economy began to stabilize. By 2012, demand for new technology had acce...