SMR Plunges 8% in One Month: Should You Buy, Sell, or Hold the Stock?

Core Insights - NuScale Power's shares have decreased by 7.6% year-to-date, underperforming the Zacks Computer & Technology sector, which has returned 2.9% [1] - Despite this decline, the company has outperformed the Zacks Electronics-Power Generation industry, which has seen a 10.3% drop, due to advancements in Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology [2] - The company is experiencing high demand for electricity and clean energy, driven by the increasing need for AI-powered data centers [3] Company Developments - NuScale Power has made significant progress in the manufacturing and commercialization of its SMR technology, partnering with key players like Doosan Interability and ENTRA1 Energy [6] - The company supports ENTRA1 Energy's agreement with the Tennessee Valley Authority to deploy up to 6 gigawatts of NRC-approved SMR technology, marking the largest SMR deployment program in U.S. history [7] - This initiative aims to provide carbon-free, baseload electricity, sufficient to power the entire Dallas-Fort Worth area, addressing the demand from AI, semiconductor manufacturing, and critical infrastructure sectors [8] Competitive Landscape - NuScale Power faces strong competition in the nuclear energy sector from companies like Oklo, BWX Technologies, and Constellation Energy [9] - Oklo is expanding its presence in the SMR market through strategic partnerships and technological advancements [10][11] - BWX Technologies is enhancing its capabilities in advanced nuclear technologies, recently completing a significant milestone in fuel production [12] - Constellation Energy has secured a long-term power purchase agreement with Meta, ensuring continued operation and expansion of its emissions-free nuclear energy supply [13] Financial Outlook - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NuScale Power's loss in 2025 is projected at 46 cents per share, unchanged over the past month [14] - The company's shares are currently considered overvalued, with a forward price/sales ratio of 79.71X, significantly higher than the sector average of 6.74X [15] Conclusion - NuScale Power's advancements in SMR technology and partnerships position it as a key player in sustainable energy [17] - However, challenges from a competitive energy market and regulatory hurdles, along with a stretched valuation, raise concerns about its market positioning [18]