Key Points NuScale’s stock has dropped more than 60% from its all-time high. Its stock looks expensive relative to its near-term growth potential. However, its stock could soar as it deploys its first commercial reactors. 10 stocks we like better than NuScale Power › NuScale Power (NYSE: SMR), a developer of small modular reactors (SMRs) for nuclear power plants, went public through a merger with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) in May 2022. Its stock opened at $10.70 on the first day, ...

Key Takeaways AI is positioned as a larger technological shift than the internet.The rapid AI-buildout is driving a surge in electricity demand.Small Modular Reactors are becoming the energy source of choice for the Trump Administration.AI: The Most Significant Breakthrough Since the InternetWhether it is large language models, healthcare, software, shopping, or education applications, artificial intelligence is becoming the most significant technological breakthrough since the internet, and arguably the la ...

This year's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) has emerged as a perhaps surprising catalyst for the nuclear energy sector, reinforcing the "nuclear renaissance†investment theme. The passage of the fiscal year 2026 defense policy bill marks a key moment for the nuclear energy sector, as the U.S. government increasingly views nuclear power through the lens of national security and reindustrialization. Military Adoption of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) nuclear energy Content HubNUKZRange Fund The final ...

Core Viewpoint - Oklo is positioned to benefit from the increasing recognition of nuclear power, particularly small modular reactors (SMRs), as essential for powering the rapidly growing artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, following supportive comments from Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang [1][2]. Company Overview - Oklo specializes in next-generation nuclear technology that is safer and cleaner, aiming to meet the energy demands of the expanding AI industry [2]. - The company is currently pre-revenue and is expected to have its operational plant ready by late 2027 or early 2028, with stock prices having increased over 385% year-to-date due to the anticipated energy needs tied to AI [5][7]. Market Dynamics - AI's energy demands are projected to triple or quadruple by 2030, with data centers consuming more energy than some countries, positioning Oklo as a potential default provider of nuclear power for large corporations and governments [3]. - The nuclear sector is experiencing a resurgence, but Oklo must demonstrate its technology's scalability to capitalize on this trend [6]. Financial Position - Oklo is currently incurring significant operating expenses, exceeding $82 million through the first three quarters of 2025, but holds a strong cash and marketable securities position of nearly $1.2 billion [7]. - The company is considered speculative, with future stock performance likely tied to AI sentiment and energy demand, as revenue generation is still in the intermediate future [8][12]. Regulatory Environment - Recent support from the Department of Energy may alleviate regulatory concerns, and there are opportunities for collaboration with governments seeking clean energy solutions [9][10]. Competitive Landscape - Oklo faces competition from traditional utility providers and other companies like NuScale Power, which are also developing SMRs, as well as alternative energy sources that could impact its market share [11]. Future Outlook - If nuclear power is deemed necessary for AI expansion, Oklo's prospects may improve as it approaches a full launch in 2026, benefiting from a first-mover advantage in serving the AI industry's energy needs [12]. - Future stock performance may be driven by excitement and market sentiment rather than immediate revenue, but operational capabilities could materialize within a few years [13].

Core Insights - The International Energy Agency's (IEA) World Energy Outlook (WEO) indicates a global resurgence of nuclear power, with significant growth projected in the coming years [2][12]. Nuclear Capacity Growth - Over 40 countries are incorporating nuclear power into their energy strategies, with 31 countries committing to triple their nuclear capacity by 2050 [3][11]. - More than 70 gigawatts (GW) of new nuclear capacity is currently under construction, with approximately half of this capacity being developed in China, marking one of the highest levels of activity in three decades [4][11]. - The IEA forecasts a minimum increase of one-third in nuclear capacity by 2035, a notable shift after 25 years of relatively flat operable nuclear reactors globally [5][11]. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) - The IEA reports that technology companies have expressed interest in developing 30 GW of SMRs, primarily for data centers, with over 120 SMRs currently under development worldwide [6][11]. - GE Vernova is constructing the first SMR in North America, with four units of the GE Vernova Hitachi BWRX-300 being built at the Darlington site, on schedule and within budget [7][11]. - The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) has received a $400 million grant for its Clinch River project, which will utilize the BWRX-300 technology [8]. Investment Opportunities - The WEO suggests that nuclear power could be a valuable addition to investment portfolios, given the multi-year growth outlook [9][12]. - The Range Nuclear Renaissance Index (NUKZX) offers diversified exposure to nuclear energy across various categories, minimizing exposure to the historically volatile uranium mining sector [10].

Summary of Key Points from the Nuclear Industry Conference Call Industry Overview - The conference call focuses on the nuclear industry, particularly the outlook for 2026 and beyond, including supply and demand forecasts, pricing, and investor positioning in nuclear equities [1][2]. Core Themes and Insights 1. **US Government Investment in Nuclear** - The US government has partnered with Cameco (CCJ), Westinghouse, and Brookfield, committing over $80 billion to support new large-scale nuclear projects [2][3]. - This investment aims to jumpstart supply chains and mitigate costs for initial projects, addressing concerns from utilities about previous project overruns, such as the Vogtle project, which exceeded its budget by approximately $17 billion [3]. 2. **Future Nuclear Projects and Technology** - The announcement of new nuclear Final Investment Decisions (FIDs) is expected to correlate with available capital and the risk profile of developers. Larger projects, particularly AP1000 technology, are favored over Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) due to established data and government backing [4][6]. - The first large nuclear reactor FID in the US could be announced as early as the first half of 2026 [6]. 3. **Uranium Pricing Outlook** - Uranium prices are projected to rise, with long-term prices increasing from $80/lb to $86/lb since August 2025, driven by renewed nuclear power demand and contracting activity [9][41]. - Spot prices are expected to reach approximately $91/lb by the end of 2026, up from around $76/lb currently [9]. 4. **Nuclear Fuel Supply Chain Developments** - Urenco plans to add 700,000 SWU/year capacity at its New Mexico facility by 2025, and Orano is investing $1.8 billion to increase enrichment capacity by 2.5 million SWU by 2028 [10]. - Updates on uranium refining and conversion capacity expansions are anticipated in 2026 [10]. 5. **Policy and Regulatory Issues** - A final ruling on a Section 232 investigation into uranium imports is pending, which could impact uranium pricing depending on the outcome [11]. - Historical context includes a previous investigation in 2019 that did not result in restrictions but highlighted national security concerns regarding the nuclear fuel supply chain [13]. 6. **Catalysts for SMR Companies** - 2026 is expected to see an acceleration of catalysts for SMR companies, including customer contracts and progress on the DOE's reactor pilot programs targeting criticality for at least three SMR projects by July 2026 [14]. - The European Commission's Strategic Action Plan for SMRs is also anticipated in early 2026 [14]. 7. **Uranium Supply Updates** - Key updates include a public hearing on NexGen's Rook 1 project, which could significantly impact uranium supply in the 2030s [15]. - Kazatomprom has revised its 2026 production guidance down by approximately 10% [16]. Additional Insights - The cumulative uranium deficit is projected to reach 1,914 million lbs between 2025-2045, indicating a structural supply-demand imbalance [24]. - The nuclear sector has seen significant equity performance, with Goldman Sachs' nuclear coverage outperforming the S&P 500 by 124% year-to-date [45]. - Investor interest has shifted towards upstream uranium producers like CCJ and UEC, with expectations of continued upward pressure on uranium prices due to increasing demand from new reactor builds [52]. Conclusion - The nuclear industry is poised for significant growth driven by government investments, rising uranium prices, and a focus on large-scale reactor construction. The landscape for SMRs and uranium supply chains will be critical to monitor as developments unfold in 2026 and beyond [1][50].

Core Insights - Duke Energy (DUK) is heavily investing in renewable energy and modernizing its power grid to meet long-term decarbonization goals and support new electricity demands [1][8] - The company plans to invest $190-$200 billion over the next decade, with significant allocations for clean energy projects [3][8] - Duke Energy is participating in a $400 million Department of Energy initiative to accelerate the deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) [2][8] Investment Plans - Duke Energy's planned investment of $190-$200 billion over the next decade includes $95-$105 billion specifically from 2026 to 2030 [3] - In the first nine months of 2025, Duke Energy has already invested $9.88 billion and is on track to reach approximately $15 billion for the full year [4] Market Demand and Growth - The investments are aimed at boosting clean energy capacity, supporting increased electricity demand, and enhancing the overall system [4] - The company is expected to benefit from rising demand for reliable, low-carbon electricity, creating new growth and revenue opportunities [1] Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate indicates a year-over-year EPS increase of 7.12% for 2025 and 6.19% for 2026 [7][9] Competitive Landscape - Other utilities are also making significant investments; for example, NextEra Energy plans to invest nearly $74 billion through 2029, while Exelon Corporation plans to invest nearly $38 billion from 2025 to 2028 [5][6] Stock Performance - Duke Energy's stock is trading at a premium with a forward 12-month price-to-earnings ratio of 17.04X compared to the industry average of 14.75X [10] - Over the past year, Duke Energy's shares have increased by 4.8%, while the industry has seen an 18.5% growth [12]

Core Insights - The solar industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by decreasing costs and increased demand, particularly in China, the US, India, and Brazil [3][6][10] - Renewables have overtaken coal in power generation for the first time, with solar, wind, and hydropower accounting for 34% of generation compared to coal's 31% [10][11] - The global power industry saw a decline in the number of deals but an increase in total deal value, particularly in North America [26][27] Group 1: Solar Industry Developments - Solar module prices have decreased, with average project costs dropping 81% since 2010 and expected to fall another 21% in the next five years [1] - The solar supply chain is currently oversupplied, with production capabilities nearly double the demand for polysilicon, wafers, cells, and modules [2] - GlobalData projects that global solar capacity will reach nearly 3 terawatts (TW) by the end of 2025 and exceed 8 TW within the next decade [6] Group 2: Renewable Energy Trends - Renewables accounted for nearly half of the cumulative capacity mix this year, with solar PV contributing 64.1% and wind 16.4% [4] - Despite challenges, renewables continue to expand due to entrenched economics and supportive policies, with long-term frameworks like the US Inflation Reduction Act and EU Green Deal fostering project pipelines [11] - Coal remains a significant source of electricity, projected to contribute 85% of South Africa's power mix in 2025, highlighting the uneven pace of the transition [14] Group 3: Market Dynamics and Employment - The global power industry recorded 16% fewer deals in 2025 compared to 2024, but total deal value surged by 15%, with North America leading in both deal count and value [26][27] - Employment in the power sector saw dramatic fluctuations, peaking in Q1 and declining through Q4 due to various pressures, including regulatory changes and weather conditions [33][36] - Job postings related to tariffs increased by 657%, reflecting the impact of US trade policies on the energy market [37]

Summary of GE Vernova Investor Update - December 09, 2025 Company Overview - **Company**: GE Vernova (NYSE: GEV) - **Industry**: Energy and Electrification Key Themes and Insights 1. **Growth Opportunities**: The company is experiencing accelerated growth driven by several factors including AI, U.S. reindustrialization, global industrial growth, electrification of buildings, and transportation [6][22][24] 2. **Infrastructure Challenges**: The transition to a larger market will take time due to the complexities of infrastructure development, permitting, and construction [6][7] 3. **Market Position**: GE Vernova is well-positioned with the largest installed base, providing over 50% of the electrons consumed in the U.S. and a third globally (excluding China) [7][8] 4. **Energy Market Dynamics**: The global energy market is valued at over $1.5 trillion, with only 20% currently from electric power. This proportion is expected to grow significantly [9][10] 5. **Contract Wins**: The company secured 18 gigawatts of new gas contracts in the current quarter, with expectations to end the year with approximately 80 gigawatts on contract [10][11] Financial Outlook 1. **Revenue Projections**: GE Vernova projects at least $52 billion in revenue by 2028, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 20% [17][38] 2. **Free Cash Flow**: Cumulative free cash flow is expected to reach $22 billion from 2025 to 2028, after investing $10 billion in capital expenditures and R&D [17][34] 3. **Capital Allocation**: The company plans to return $3.6 billion to shareholders in 2025, primarily through stock buybacks, and has increased its buyback program from $6 billion to $10 billion [20][35] Segment Performance 1. **Gas Power**: The gas power segment is expected to achieve a run rate of 20 gigawatts annualized by mid-2026, with significant productivity improvements anticipated [26][27] 2. **Electrification**: This segment is projected to grow mid-20% in 2025, with a backlog that has increased fourfold since the end of 2022 [18][30] 3. **Wind Energy**: While wind revenue is expected to decline, the company anticipates improved EBITDA losses in 2026 due to productivity gains [27][33] Strategic Initiatives 1. **Acquisitions**: The planned acquisition of Prolec GE is expected to enhance the company's capabilities in low voltage and grid reliability solutions [8][19] 2. **Nuclear Investments**: GE Vernova is actively working with the U.S. government to re-establish a nuclear industry, with a memorandum of understanding for up to $100 billion in small modular reactor (SMR) industrialization [14][48] 3. **Innovation and R&D**: The company is investing in new technologies such as carbon capture and solid-state transformers, with expectations for commercialization in the coming years [50][51] Cultural and Operational Focus 1. **Workforce Development**: GE Vernova emphasizes the importance of attracting young talent and fostering a strong company culture to drive future growth [52][53] 2. **Lean Operations**: The company is implementing lean practices across its manufacturing processes to enhance productivity and reduce costs [32][31] Conclusion - GE Vernova is positioned for significant growth in the energy sector, with a strong focus on electrification, gas power, and innovative technologies. The company aims to leverage its market position and operational efficiencies to achieve its ambitious financial targets by 2028 and beyond [58][59]

Financial Outlook & Strategy - GE Vernova expects revenue to reach $52 billion by 2028, a $7 billion increase from prior estimates[23] - The company anticipates an adjusted EBITDA margin of 20% by 2028, a 6 percentage point increase[23] - Cumulative free cash flow from 2025 to 2028 is projected to be $22 billion or more, an $8 billion increase from previous forecasts[23] - GE Vernova is targeting at least 1/3 of cash generation to be returned to shareholders[29] Business Segment Performance - Power and Electrification segments are expected to see revenue growth in the high teens from 2025 to 2028[27] - Power and Electrification segments are expected to achieve a 22% adjusted EBITDA margin by 2028, a 6 percentage point increase[23] - Wind segment's adjusted EBITDA margin is expected to be 6% by 2028, a decrease of 4 percentage points[23] Growth & Capacity - Gas turbine deliveries are projected to reach 20 GW annualized output by mid-2026, increasing to approximately 24 GW in 2028[27] - The company has signed contracts for 18 GW of new gas power contracts and expects to have approximately 80 GW under contract by the end of 2025[20] - Electrification backlog is expected to double by 2028, reaching approximately $60 billion[90] Prolec GE Acquisition - The acquisition of the remaining 50% stake of Prolec GE is expected to close by mid-2026[3] - Prolec GE is projected to have revenue of $4.2 billion and an adjusted EBITDA of $1.1 billion by 2028[95]