 (Bloomberg) -- Intel Corp.'s biggest critics on Wall Street didn't get a chance to question executives on its recent earnings conference call, a sign of mounting pressure on the chipmaker and its leadership.Intel stock plunged as much as 12% Friday following a report that detailed a drop in profitable data center chip demand and falling overall profitability. That follows a 16% share slump after its second-quarter results three months ago.The world's largest chipmaker is at the center of a debate about its future, one that its detractors are winning. They argue that multiyear delays in introducing new manufacturing technology has cost Intel its main competitive advantage and rivals are going to thrive at its expense. Intel counters that the company is posting record sales and expanding into new areas.Sanford C. Bernstein's Stacy Rasgon was among those who weren't called on to ask questions during Thursday's call. Of the eight analysts that were, five recommend buying the stock. In general, less than a third of recommendations on Intel's stock tracked by Bloomberg analytics are buy.Rasgon's absence was notable because he's one of the most outspoken critics of the company who often peppers management with tough questions. Around the end of Thursday's conference call, Rasgon tweeted "Cowards..." and posted a video clip from a Monty Python movie with knights fleeing a battle. It's unclear if he was referring to Intel.During July's earnings call, Rasgon clashed with Chief Executive Officer Bob Swan, who snapped back at
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