My top 10 things to watch Monday, Dec. 22 1. Stocks were headed for a higher open to kick off the holiday-shortened trading week . This follows a volatile week , during which the S & P 500 logged its third winning week in the past four. Still, there's doubt about whether a "Santa Claus Rally" will actually happen. The New York Stock Exchange will close early on Wednesday for Christmas Eve, and will be closed entirely on Thursday for Christmas Day. 2. Gold soared to another record high earlier this morning. ...

Core Insights - EdgeMode, in partnership with Blackberry Alternative Investment Fund (BAIF), has secured the necessary power supply for its large-scale AI data center platform in Spain, marking a significant operational milestone for the project [2][7] - The development includes five campus-style data center projects with a combined capacity exceeding 1.5 GW of IT power, positioning it as the largest AI data center development pipeline in Europe [3][7] Power Supply and Infrastructure - The successful securing of power supply is a critical achievement that enhances the viability of the digital infrastructure initiative [2][4] - All sites have secured land rights, dark fiber connectivity, and pre-approved construction permits, which collectively de-risk the execution of the AI data centers [8][7] Strategic Importance - The milestone is viewed as a clear inflection point for EdgeMode, allowing the company to shift discussions with clients and partners from future capacity to deliverable solutions [4] - The joint venture is strategically positioned to meet global demand for AI infrastructure while minimizing execution risks [4][7]

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Dec. 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EdgeMode (OTC: EDGM), a global Energy and AI data center infrastructure company, in a joint venture with Blackberry Alternative Investment Fund (BAIF), has announced a major operational milestone in the development of their large-scale AI data center platform in Spain: the necessary power supply required to support the full project pipeline has been successfully secured. This critical achievement materially advances the viability of one of the most am ...

RT Leonardo (@Leonardonclt)🚨NEW: AI Data Center Gold Rush Driven by Thousands of Newcomers🚨We analyzed thousands of data center operators. We found that newcomers are driving the AI gold rush - and it could have global economic consequences.🎁: https://t.co/R1gwyjbQur ...

Core Scientific, Inc. (NASDAQ:CORZ) is one of the AI Stocks on the Market’s Radar. On December 18, Citizens upgraded the stock from Market Perform to “Market Outperform” with a price target of $30.00. Firm analysts cite robust HPC growth upside and growth prospects for CORZ. “We are upgrading the shares of Core Scientific to Market Outperform from Market Perform and are establishing a price target of $30 per share, which represents ~19x estimated 2027 EV/EBITDA, reflecting the company’s robust growth pros ...

Core Viewpoint - Digital Realty Trust is poised for a significant comeback, driven by booming demand in the data center industry, with potential for stock price doubling within five years [2][15]. Company Overview - Digital Realty Trust specializes in data centers, owning over 300 facilities across more than 25 countries, distinguishing itself from traditional real estate investment trusts (REITs) [1][4]. - The company has been operational since 2004 and was the first data center REIT, attracting both growth-focused tech investors and those seeking income through dividends [4]. Industry Growth - The data center industry is expected to grow at an 11% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), indicating strong demand driven by advancements in technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing [5][6]. - Digital Realty's strategic acquisitions of land in key markets, particularly in the U.S., position it well for future expansion [7]. Financial Performance - In the first nine months of 2025, Digital Realty reported nearly $4.5 billion in revenue, reflecting a 9% year-over-year growth, while operating income surged by 66% [10]. - Funds from operations (FFO) income reached over $1.9 billion, marking a 17% increase compared to the same period in 2024, indicating strong cash flow [11]. Dividend and Valuation - Digital Realty offers a dividend yield of approximately 3.3%, significantly higher than the S&P 500 average of about 1.2%, despite not increasing its dividend since 2022 [8][13]. - The stock is currently trading at about 22 times its trailing FFO income, suggesting potential for multiple expansion as income and growth prospects improve [14]. Future Outlook - The combination of rising demand for data centers and lower interest rates could enhance Digital Realty's financial performance, supporting stock price growth [12][16]. - If the company can maintain double-digit growth in FFO income, it is well-positioned for stock price appreciation in the coming years [16].

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] Investment Opportunity - A specific company is highlighted as a potential investment opportunity, possessing critical energy infrastructure assets that are essential for meeting the increasing energy demands of AI data centers [3][7] - This company is not a chipmaker or cloud platform but is positioned to benefit significantly from the anticipated surge in electricity demand driven by AI technologies [3][6] Energy Demand and Infrastructure - AI technologies, particularly large language models like ChatGPT, are extremely energy-intensive, with data centers consuming as much energy as small cities [2] - The company in focus is involved in the U.S. LNG exportation sector, which is expected to grow under the current administration's energy policies [7] Financial Position - The company is noted for being completely debt-free and holding a substantial cash reserve, amounting to nearly one-third of its market capitalization [8] - It is trading at a low valuation of less than 7 times earnings, making it an attractive investment compared to other firms in the energy sector [10] Market Trends - The article discusses the broader trends of onshoring and tariffs that are influencing the energy and manufacturing sectors, positioning this company favorably within these dynamics [5][14] - The influx of talent into the AI sector is expected to drive continuous innovation and advancements, further solidifying the importance of energy infrastructure [12] Conclusion - The company is portrayed as a key player in the intersection of AI and energy, with significant growth potential as the demand for AI technologies escalates [11][13]

Core Insights - Applied Digital is experiencing significant momentum due to billions in long-term AI data center leases, which are expected to reshape its financial future [1] - The surge in demand for computing resources is driving the company's transition towards high-margin recurring revenue, potentially unlocking substantial upside for investors [1] Company Summary - Applied Digital's recent contracts are positioned to catalyze one of the largest AI infrastructure rallies in the decade [1] - The company's strategic shift towards recurring revenue models is aligned with the increasing demand for AI and data center capabilities [1]

Company Overview - Applied Digital (NASDAQ:APLD) shares increased by 16.5% following a previous decline of 17.5%, driven by investor concerns over rising debt levels in the AI data center sector [1][4] - The company reported $687 million in current and long-term debt, with only $74 million in cash and equivalents [4][7] Recent Developments - The rebound in Applied Digital's stock was largely attributed to Micron Technology's stronger-than-expected fiscal first-quarter results, indicating robust AI memory demand [2] - Applied Digital announced a development loan facility with Macquarie Group, providing up to $100 million to fund pre-lease costs for new AI-optimized data center campuses [3][7] Debt and Financial Strategy - In November, a subsidiary of Applied Digital issued $2.35 billion in 9.25% senior secured notes due 2030 to finance new facilities and refinance obligations [5][7] - The company’s reliance on debt for expansion is evident, particularly with campuses like Polaris Forge that depend on long-term leases to generate revenue [5] Industry Context - The broader sector is facing scrutiny due to hyperscalers issuing $121 billion in bonds in the third quarter for AI infrastructure, significantly exceeding the previous five-year annual average [6][7] - Other companies in the sector, such as IREN (NASDAQ:IREN) and Cipher Mining (NASDAQ:CIFR), are also experiencing concerns over heavy borrowing in this capital-intensive industry [6]

Core Insights - Applied Digital Corp. (NASDAQ: APLD) has shown strong performance, with a 16.53% increase in stock price, closing at $27.85, as investors positioned themselves ahead of upcoming earnings results [1] - The company is set to announce its second quarter earnings for fiscal year 2026 on January 7, 2026, after market close, followed by an investor call [2] - Applied Digital successfully raised $100 million through a term loan facility with Macquarie Group, aimed at pre-lease development of new data center projects [3] - The company is in negotiations with another investment-grade hyperscaler for potential leasing of several campuses [4] Financial Developments - The $100 million raised will enhance the company's ability to quickly develop high-quality sites while maintaining capital flexibility [3] - The upcoming earnings announcement is anticipated to provide further insights into the company's financial health and operational strategy [2] Strategic Initiatives - The focus on data center development indicates a strategic move to capitalize on growing demand in the digital infrastructure sector [3][4] - Negotiations with hyperscalers suggest a proactive approach to securing long-term revenue streams through leasing agreements [4]