DeepSeek Crushed Constellation Energy. Is This Nuclear Stock a Buy Now?

Core Viewpoint - The emergence of DeepSeek in January 2025 has significantly impacted the AI and nuclear energy sectors, leading to substantial market capitalization losses for companies like Nvidia and Constellation Energy [1][2]. Company Analysis: Constellation Energy - Constellation Energy's stock experienced a 21% decline in market capitalization following the introduction of DeepSeek, and it is currently trading 29% below its previous share price [2]. - The company remains committed to nuclear energy, announcing a $100 million investment to upgrade its Calvert Cliffs nuclear power plant in Maryland, aiming to renew operating licenses and increase future power output [4][5]. - The planned upgrades include replacing critical components and installing$68 million worth of new electrical breakers to enhance power output by 10%, with each unit expected to produce approximately 950 megawatts of continuous nuclear power [5]. Market Position and Growth Potential - Constellation's existing licenses allow operation into the 2030s, with potential extensions enabling operation into the 2050s [6]. - Despite a trailing price-to-earnings ratio of 20.7, which appears attractive compared to the S&P 500 average of 29.8, analysts project a long-term annual growth rate of only 7.4% for Constellation, which is below the average expected growth of 9.5% for S&P stocks [7]. - The company is viewed as a bellwether for the AI-nuclear energy trend, but it faces competition from other utilities that may also benefit from this trend [8]. Competitive Landscape - Other nuclear operators such as Duke Energy, Dominion Energy, and Southern Co. have lower P/E ratios (20.4, 20.8, and 22.3 respectively) and offer better dividend yields compared to Constellation's 0.6% [9]. - Dominion Energy is highlighted as a preferable investment option, with a P/E ratio of about 21, a projected long-term earnings growth rate of 17.5%, and a superior dividend yield of 4.7% [10][11].