Yeah, I mean it's the 60th year of this conference. Morgan, thank you very much. First time that CNBC has been here because so much attention now is around electric and utility and this thing called AI, which apparently we've talked about a few times.We're pleased to be joined now by John Ketchum of Next Area Energy. First interview, by the way, since you guys announced that massive 25-year partnership with Google to restart the Dwayne Arnold nuclear facility in Iowa. So, John, great time to talk to you.Tha ...

Core Insights - Artificial intelligence (AI) is identified as the greatest investment opportunity of the current era, with a strong emphasis on the urgent need for energy to support its growth [1][2][3] - A specific company is highlighted as a key player in the AI energy sector, owning critical energy infrastructure assets that are essential for meeting the increasing energy demands of AI technologies [3][7][8] Investment Landscape - Wall Street is investing hundreds of billions into AI, but there is a pressing concern regarding the energy supply needed to sustain this growth [2] - AI data centers, such as those powering large language models, consume energy equivalent to that of small cities, indicating a significant strain on global power grids [2] - The company in focus is positioned to benefit from the surge in demand for electricity driven by AI, making it a potentially lucrative investment opportunity [3][6] Company Profile - The company is described as a "toll booth" operator in the AI energy boom, collecting fees from energy exports and benefiting from the onshoring trend due to tariffs [5][6] - It possesses critical nuclear energy infrastructure assets, making it integral to America's future power strategy [7] - The company is noted for its capability to execute large-scale engineering, procurement, and construction projects across various energy sectors, including oil, gas, and renewables [7] Financial Position - The company is completely debt-free and has a substantial cash reserve, amounting to nearly one-third of its market capitalization, which positions it favorably compared to heavily indebted competitors [8] - It also holds a significant equity stake in another AI-related company, providing indirect exposure to multiple growth engines in the AI sector [9][10] Market Sentiment - There is a growing interest from hedge funds in this company, which is considered undervalued and off-the-radar, trading at less than seven times earnings excluding cash and investments [10][11] - The company is recognized for delivering real cash flows and owning critical infrastructure, making it a compelling investment choice in the context of the AI and energy sectors [11][12]

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. government is increasing investments in nuclear power, creating new opportunities for companies like Cameco as demand for clean energy rises due to electrification and AI data centers [1][12] Company Overview - Cameco is a leading uranium producer with significant assets, including a 70% stake in the McArthur River mine, which has estimated reserves of 251 million pounds of uranium and is expected to operate until 2044 [3] - The company also holds a 55% stake in the Cigar Lake mine with reserves of 105.2 million pounds, expected to run until 2036, and a 40% interest in Joint Venture Inkai in Kazakhstan with reserves of 100.4 million pounds, projected to operate until 2045 [4] - Additionally, Cameco owns a 49% interest in Westinghouse, a key player in nuclear reactor technology and services [5] Strategic Partnerships and Investments - Cameco's partnership with Westinghouse and Brookfield Asset Management aims to accelerate nuclear power deployment in the U.S., supported by an executive order from President Trump [7] - An investment of $80 billion is planned for building new reactors in the U.S., utilizing advanced reactor technologies from Westinghouse [8] - Analysts suggest this partnership could lead to a significant nuclear new-build program not only in the U.S. but also in other Western-aligned countries [9] Market Position and Financial Outlook - Cameco's extensive assets in mining and refining, along with its stake in Westinghouse, position it favorably for the upcoming U.S. nuclear infrastructure buildout [10] - The stock is currently priced at 67 times next year's earnings, reflecting investor confidence in its long-term potential, with projected earnings per share of $2.25 by 2028, requiring a 26.5% compound annual growth rate from this year's projected EPS of $1.11 [11] - Despite being considered pricey, the outlook for Cameco remains positive, suggesting it could be a valuable long-term holding in a diversified investment portfolio [12]

Core Viewpoint - Meta Platforms is experiencing a significant sell-off due to concerns over rising operating expenses outpacing revenue growth, but it remains a strong long-term investment opportunity for growth-focused investors [1][5][15] Financial Performance - Meta's stock fell 15.2% following the Q3 2025 earnings report, with a 1.5% decline in the second half of 2025, contrasting with a 15.9% gain in the S&P 500 and a 24.7% surge in the Nasdaq Composite [1] - Despite increased capital expenditures, Meta has $15.6 billion more in cash and marketable securities than long-term debt, maintaining impressive operating margins of 40% in the recent quarter [8][16] Investment Strategy - The recent sell-off reflects a market demand for focused AI spending, which is considered healthy for overall market dynamics [15] - Meta's strategic investments in AI are yielding positive results, with a 14% growth in ad impressions and a 10% increase in average ad prices due to higher advertiser demand [13][14] Market Position - Meta's price-to-earnings ratio has dropped to 28.2, making it the least expensive among the "Magnificent Seven" tech stocks, indicating a strong value proposition for long-term investors [16][17] - The company is building its own data centers to support AI workloads, demonstrating a commitment to long-term infrastructure development rather than short-term cost-cutting [12]

Core Insights - Cameco (CCJ) reported a 14.7% year-over-year decline in revenues for Q3 2025, while adjusted earnings per share increased by 17% to CAD 0.07, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 75% [1][10]. Revenue Performance - Total revenues fell to CAD 615 million ($446 million) due to lower uranium and fuel sales [4][10]. - Uranium revenues decreased by 12.8% to CAD 523 million ($379 million), with a 16% drop in sales volume to 6.1 million pounds, partially offset by a 4% increase in the average realized price [3][4]. - Fuel services revenues dropped 24% to CAD 91 million (CAD 66 million), driven by a 46% decline in sales volume, despite a 42% increase in average realized prices [4]. Production and Costs - Uranium production increased by 2% to 4.4 million pounds, with Cigar Lake production up 47% to 2.2 million pounds, while McArthur River/Key Lake production fell 21% to 2.2 million pounds [2]. - Total cost of sales decreased by 20% to approximately CAD 385 million ($279 million), with uranium segment costs down 19% and fuel services costs down 24% [5]. Future Outlook - Cameco maintained its 2025 production guidance, expecting 9.8–10.5 million pounds from McArthur River and 9.8 million pounds from Cigar Lake, totaling 19.6-20.3 million pounds [8]. - The company revised its full-year target for uranium deliveries to 32–34 million pounds, up from 31-34 million pounds [9][11]. - Projected uranium revenues for 2025 are CAD 2.8–3.0 billion, with fuel services revenues expected at $500-$550 million [11]. Financial Position - At the end of Q3, Cameco had CAD 779 million ($565 million) in cash and cash equivalents, CAD 1 billion ($725 million) in long-term debt, and a $1 billion ($725 million) undrawn revolving credit facility [7]. Market Position and Valuation - Cameco's shares have gained 17.3% over the past three months, outperforming the industry but lagging behind peers like Energy Fuels, which gained 58.3% [18]. - The stock is trading at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 15.87, significantly higher than the industry's 1.45, indicating a stretched valuation [19]. Strategic Initiatives - The company is investing in increasing production capacity and extending the mine life at Cigar Lake to 2036, while also increasing production at McArthur River and Key Lake [22]. - Geopolitical events and rising low-carbon energy demand are expected to benefit the nuclear power industry, positioning Cameco favorably in the long term [22].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported third-quarter GAAP earnings of $2.97 per share and adjusted operating earnings of $3.04 per share, which is an increase of $0.30 per share compared to the same period last year [6][19]. - The company experienced fewer nuclear outage days, both planned and unplanned, compared to the same period last year, contributing to higher generation volumes and lower O&M expenses [19][20]. Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The nuclear fleet achieved a capacity factor of 96.8%, which is approximately 4% higher than the industry average, equating to the output of an additional reactor on a full-year basis [22]. - The renewable and natural gas fleets performed near plan, with renewable energy capture at 96.8% and power dispatch match at 95.5% [22]. Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted a strong performance in capacity revenues following the 2025-2026 capacity auction, with non-CMC units capturing almost all benefits from higher capacity prices [20]. - ZEC prices in both the Midwest and New York were lower compared to the third quarter of last year, impacting overall revenue [21]. Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on closing the Calpine transaction and integrating the two companies to enhance value for customers and shareholders [30]. - There is a strong public support for nuclear energy, with nearly three-quarters of the public supporting it and nine out of ten believing in extending licenses for existing plants [11][12]. - The company is exploring energy options for Maryland and the region, including a commitment to bring 835 megawatts through the restart of the Crane Clean Energy Center [16][17]. Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the ability to complete transactions in the data economy market, noting that customer sophistication has increased significantly [8][9]. - The company is optimistic about the future of nuclear energy, citing bipartisan support and recent government initiatives aimed at expanding nuclear capabilities [12][14]. - Management highlighted the importance of practical reforms to facilitate the interconnection of large loads to the grid, which is crucial for maintaining leadership in artificial intelligence [9]. Other Important Information - The company has reached a landmark agreement with the state of Maryland regarding the continued operation of the Conowingo Dam for the next 50 years [10]. - The company has executed a renewal and upsizing of its credit facilities, positioning itself for the close of the Calpine transaction with $14 billion of liquidity post-deal [27][28]. Q&A Session Summary Question: Confidence in announcing another hyperscale deal by year-end - Management is focused exclusively on front-of-the-meter deals and expects to complete transactions soon, potentially before the fourth quarter call [36][38]. Question: Potential delay in the Calpine asset sale process - Management feels confident about the timeline for divestiture and is not in a hurry to complete asset sales, as the market is supportive [49][51]. Question: Thoughts on power market dynamics and new entrants - Management sees significant growth in data center investments and believes the interest in new generation reflects a durable growth cycle [53][54]. Question: Update on Three Mile Island progress - Progress is going well, with critical items completed and no new challenges emerging [60][61]. Question: Impact of rising energy prices on contracts - Rising energy prices are favorable for the company, enhancing the environment for asset sales and contract negotiations [62][64]. Question: Specifics on natural gas capacity in Maryland - The company plans to relocate lightly used assets from the Midwest and New England to Maryland, which are state-of-the-art in terms of performance [72]. Question: Comfort level with new nuclear construction - Management remains cautious about new nuclear construction, emphasizing the need for durable PPAs and clear pricing before committing capital [73][76]. Question: Demand response initiatives and customer willingness - The company is seeing strong interest from industrial customers in demand response programs, with innovative product structures being developed [86][88]. Question: Retail margins in PJM - Retail margins are on the upper end of historical ranges, with stronger margins observed in sustainability-related products [90]. Question: Concerns about the ability to sign contracts for generation assets - Management is confident in executing transactions and believes that the demand response product offering anticipates market needs [96][98]. Question: Portfolio of generating assets for long-term PPAs - Management sees room for long-term deals and is focused on executing contracts to meet growing demand [105][106].

Core Insights - Wells Fargo Investment Institute is optimistic about nuclear energy as a key solution to meet rising U.S. power demand, aligning with views from Cathie Wood's Ark Invest [1][5] Group 1: Power Demand Projections - U.S. power demand is projected to increase by 25% over the next decade, with a near-term annual growth rate of 2% to 2.5% expected over the next five years [2][3] - The primary driver of this demand surge is artificial intelligence, with states like Texas and California already facing challenges in meeting peak usage demands [3] Group 2: Nuclear Energy as a Solution - Wells Fargo suggests that nuclear energy, particularly through advanced technologies like small modular reactors (SMRs), is a viable option to address the anticipated power demand [4][5] - The full deployment of SMRs is estimated to be at least five years away, but companies in the Industrials sector developing this technology are viewed favorably by Wells Fargo [5] Group 3: Market Performance of Nuclear-Linked Stocks - Significant market gains have been observed in nuclear-linked stocks, with Oklo Inc. rising over 454%, Lightbridge Corp. up over 354%, and Nuscale Power Corp. increasing by 114% year-to-date [6][7] - Nuclear-focused ETFs have also performed well, with the VanEck Uranium and Nuclear ETF and the Range Nuclear Renaissance Index ETF both up over 68% year-to-date [7][9] Group 4: Favorable Outlook for Utilities Sector - Wells Fargo anticipates that the Utilities sector will benefit from increased power demand and pricing, with natural-gas turbines from Industrials companies currently bridging the immediate power gap for data centers [10]

Company Overview - Energy Fuels is a US-based uranium miner and processor, uniquely positioned as the only US conventional uranium mill with a fully licensed mill at its White Mesa Mill in Utah [1] - The company is expanding into rare earth elements (REEs) and other critical minerals projects [1] Industry Trends - The demand for nuclear energy is rising due to the increasing energy needs of data centers, which have seen load growth triple over the past decade and are projected to double or triple by 2028 [2] - Nuclear energy is recognized as a clean, reliable, and cost-effective energy source, with government support aimed at removing regulatory barriers to accelerate nuclear energy development [3] Rare Earth Elements - The trade dynamics between the US and China regarding rare earth elements are significant, with the US likely to pursue decoupling from China to secure REEs essential for modern products [4] Technical Analysis - UUUU shares are approaching the rising 50-day moving average, indicating an attractive reward-to-risk scenario [5] Strategic Positioning - Energy Fuels has a strategic advantage in US uranium mining, with the dual benefit of rising nuclear demand and diversification into REE expansion [6] Conclusion - Energy Fuels is positioned at the intersection of two major trends: the growing demand for clean nuclear power to support AI data centers and the geopolitical drive to secure rare earth elements [8]

Core Insights - The partnership between Westinghouse and the US government aims to invest at least $80 billion in new nuclear reactors, positioning nuclear energy as a key component of the US strategy for energy security and technological leadership [4][15][21] - There is a significant and accelerating demand for power driven by electrification, reindustrialization, and the needs of hyperscalers, necessitating diverse energy solutions including nuclear, solar, wind, and hydro [2][3][12] - The company reported strong financial results with $302 million in funds from operations (FFO), a 10% increase year-over-year, and is on track to meet its growth targets [3][26] Nuclear Energy Opportunities - The strategic partnership with the US government will support the construction of 10 large-scale reactors by 2030, enhancing Westinghouse's market position and expected earnings growth [15][19][21] - Westinghouse is positioned to benefit from the growing global nuclear market, with its technology being used in over two-thirds of operating reactors worldwide [16][19] - The partnership is expected to create long-term recurring cash flows through fuel and maintenance services once the reactors are operational [21][20] Financial Performance - The company generated $302 million in FFO during the quarter, with a strong performance in the hydroelectric segment, which saw a 20% increase in FFO year-over-year [26][27] - The wind and solar segments contributed $107 million in FFO, supported by recent acquisitions and organic growth [27][28] - The company maintains a strong liquidity position of $4.7 billion and executed $7.7 billion in financings during the quarter, reflecting robust investor demand [29][30] Growth Strategies - The company is actively pursuing opportunities in battery storage, with costs decreasing by over 50% in the past year, and has advanced its global battery development strategy [11] - There is a growing trend of hyperscalers seeking hydro capacity for its reliability and clean characteristics, leading to new contracts with major tech companies [7][9] - The company is focused on capital recycling, having sold assets worth $1.1 billion since acquiring Nayeon, and plans to continue this strategy to capitalize on high demand for renewable assets [32][70] Market Dynamics - The demand for energy solutions is expected to grow significantly, with the company well-positioned to meet this demand through its diverse energy portfolio [2][12] - The partnership with the US government is seen as a catalyst for further investment in the nuclear supply chain, potentially lowering costs and increasing the pace of new reactor builds [21][22] - The company anticipates that nuclear energy could grow as a percentage of its business, although it currently represents about 5% of FFO [72]

Group 1: Lemonade (LMND) - Lemonade's shares increased by approximately 20%, or $11, following the release of stronger than expected earnings [3] - The company reported an EPS loss of 51 cents, which exceeded estimates by 19 cents, and revenue of $194.5 million, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 42.4% [3][9] - Lemonade raised its 2025 revenue guidance to a range of $727 million to $732 million, up from the previous guidance of $710 million to $716 million, and narrowed its adjusted EBITDA loss guidance to $127 million to $130 million from $135 million to $140 million [4][9] Group 2: Nvidia (NVDA) - Nvidia's stock is gaining momentum ahead of earnings, supported by multiple analyst upgrades [5][6] - Loop Capital raised its price target for Nvidia to $350, projecting that GPU shipments could double to 2.1 million units by January 2026 [6][9] - Goldman Sachs also reiterated a buy rating on Nvidia, increasing its price target from $210 to $240, citing rising investor expectations driven by AI infrastructure announcements [7] Group 3: Lumentum Holdings (LITE) - Lumentum's shares rose about 21%, or $40, following its earnings report [8] - The company reported an EPS of $1.10, beating estimates by seven cents, and revenue of $533.8 million, which was up 58.4% year-over-year and exceeded estimates by $7.34 million [8]