Intel shares have jumped after Japanese technology investment giant Softbank said it is buying a $2bn (£1.5bn) stake in the US computer chip maker.
The announcement came just hours after new reports that the Trump administration is in talks to take a stake of around 10% in Intel by converting government grants into shares.
The potential deal, which was first reported last week, aims to help Intel build a flagship manufacturing hub in Ohio. At the time, a White House spokesman told the BBC that the reports "should be regarded as speculation" unless officially announced.
The BBC has contacted the White House and Intel for comment.
Under the deal announced on Monday, Softbank will pay $23 per share in Intel.
