Evaluating Cameco (CCJ) Stock's Actual Performance: What's Behind the Phenomenal Returns?

Core Insights - Cameco is one of the largest uranium miners globally, playing a significant role in the nuclear energy sector [1] Group 1: Stock Performance - Cameco stock remained flat for several years due to the Fukushima disaster's impact on uranium demand, leading to production cuts by major producers [2] - Recently, Cameco stock has delivered exceptional returns, outperforming the S&P 500 significantly over one, three, and five years, with total returns of 78.3%, 326%, and 618% respectively [6][7] - Uranium prices have more than tripled to over $100 per pound between 2021 and 2024, driven by a supply deficit and geopolitical factors, including a U.S. ban on uranium imports from Russia [7] Group 2: Strategic Moves - In November 2023, Cameco acquired a 49% stake in Westinghouse Electric, enhancing its position in the nuclear energy market and making it a vertically integrated entity [8] - A partnership with the U.S. government was established in October 2025 to finance new Westinghouse reactors worth at least $80 billion, aimed at boosting the domestic nuclear energy industry [9] Group 3: Future Outlook - The demand for nuclear energy is expected to increase, potentially leading to another bull run for Cameco stock [10] - Following President Trump's executive orders in May to quadruple America's nuclear energy capacity by 2050, Cameco shares have gained over 80% in 2025, indicating strong future growth potential [11]