Apparently AMD has blocking rights for any acquisition of Intel. If a deal were to happen, what would AMD ask for?

Editor's take: We are frequently asked some version of the question, "Will someone acquire Intel?" At this point, we think it is highly unlikely, but these are unpredictable times. Setting aside all the principal considerations – like money, strategy, and regulatory approval – there are a few other hurdles. Chief among these is Intel's license for x86. Editor's note: We published this opinion article in November 2024, ahead of most recent Intel hurdles, CEO ousting, and growing speculation about a takeover or company split. Due to increased interest in how these developments might impact AMD, we're resurfacing this article. Apparently, when Intel and AMD resolved their multi-decade dispute over x86, the cross-license agreement included provisions about transferability. If either company is acquired, the other has the right to cancel the license, effectively blocking the deal. When this was signed, we have to think everyone involved assumed it would be AMD getting acquired, but the pr ... Read full article.