Intel boosts guidance, high-tech hopes

Nearly two years after the onset of the worst recession in generations, encouraging signs continue to emerge, bringing cautious optimism to workers, investors and companies battered by the financial meltdown.

The latest positive indication of improving -- or at least stabilizing -- economic conditions came this morning when microchip giant Intel (INTC) boosted its third-quarter revenue guidance above Wall Street's expectations -- a welcome sign that business activity is set to improve for the world's largest chip manufacturer.