The nuclear energy startup is scheduled to report fourth-quarter results after the markets close on Thursday.NuScale Power (SMR +6.75%) wants you to believe the adage that good things can come in small packages.The company focuses on small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) designed for various uses, including powering data centers and desalination plants. It's scheduled to report fourth-quarter results after the markets close Thursday.NuScale's shares are down more than 33% over the past 12 months and more th ...

Core Insights - The commercialization of small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) is intensifying, with Oklo Inc. and NANO Nuclear Energy leading the charge in the clean-energy sector [1][2] - Both companies are targeting the growing demand for carbon-free energy, particularly from AI data centers, but they have different strategies and stages of development [1][2] Company Overview Oklo Inc. (OKLO) - OKLO is pursuing a vertically integrated model that includes nuclear power generation and fuel recycling, focusing on high-demand sectors like data centers and military installations [4][6] - The company’s Aurora microreactors aim to provide clean, reliable power with minimal waste, aligning with the increasing energy consumption driven by the AI boom [4] - OKLO has established partnerships with organizations like newcleo and the U.S. Department of Energy, enhancing its credibility and supporting its fuel development initiatives [5][8] - Despite its ambitious plans, OKLO is currently a pre-revenue company with significant operating losses and a long wait for commercialization, expected around 2027-2028 [6][10] NANO Nuclear Energy (NNE) - NNE adopts a diversified approach, focusing on microreactor design, fuel logistics, and deployment services, rather than solely on plant ownership [7][9] - The company’s KRONOS and LOKI programs target modular, transportable units for various applications, including remote communities and defense sites [7] - NNE boasts a strong financial position, supported by partnerships with the Idaho National Laboratory and the University of Illinois, which helps mitigate risks associated with its technology roadmap [9][10] Market Performance - OKLO's stock has surged nearly 600%, significantly outperforming NANO Nuclear's 131% gain, indicating higher retail and institutional speculation around OKLO [11] - NNE's steadier performance suggests a more stable investor base, potentially lowering downside risk if market sentiment shifts [11] Valuation Metrics - OKLO trades at over 26 times book value, reflecting an aggressive premium compared to NNE's 7.82 times, making NNE's valuation appear more defensible given the high-risk nature of both companies [12] - The high valuation of OKLO leaves little room for error, particularly if there are delays in timelines or increases in financing costs [12] Earnings Outlook - OKLO's expected EPS growth of 32.4% in 2025 is followed by a decline of 10.9% in 2026, while NNE anticipates a steeper decline exceeding 200% this year [14][17] - Both companies face uncertainties due to the lack of current revenues, but OKLO's partnerships with the DOE may provide a slight edge in achieving commercialization milestones sooner [18] Conclusion - Both OKLO and NANO Nuclear represent speculative investments in advanced nuclear power, with OKLO slightly better positioned due to its strong governmental partnerships and integrated model [19] - NANO Nuclear offers diversification and a robust balance sheet, making it a steadier, albeit slower, investment option [19]