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Nuclear Power Stock Oklo Soars with Sam Altman’s Backing: Is It a Smart Buy for 2025?

Hannah Perry | January 6, 2025

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This Sam Altman-Backed Nuclear Power Stock Just Got a Big Boost

As we head into the new year, the spotlight is on nuclear power stocks, spurred by the surging energy demands of artificial intelligence (AI). Major tech companies like Nvidia NVDA, Alphabet GOOGL, and Amazon AMZN are compelled to seek robust energy solutions to power their burgeoning AI technologies, which range from data centers to chatbots and complex AI models. This nationwide push toward sustainable energy usage has not only boosted traditional utility companies’ stock prices but also drawn increased investments into nuclear power firms, among which Oklo stands out.

Founded in California, Oklo, which went public in May 2024, has seen its shares soar an impressive 153% over the last year and nearly 190% within just three months. The stock received a significant boost of more than 20% on January 3rd, following President Joe Biden’s update on tax credit eligibility for nuclear power firms. With both recent developments and a strong demand for energy driven by AI, investors are left pondering whether Oklo stock is a wise buy for 2025. Let’s explore further.

About Oklo Stock

Oklo is an advanced nuclear technology company specializing in developing fast nuclear reactors designed to provide clean and cost-efficient energy. The company’s main product line is the Aurora nuclear reactor, which aims to supply energy via small-scale power plants that utilize fast neutron reactors. These compact powerhouses have applications across various domains, such as providing electricity to data centers, military bases, industrial locations, and even remote communities that operate without access to traditional power grids.

One notable figure in Oklo’s leadership is OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, who serves as the chairman of the company and holds a 2.6% stake in Oklo based on the latest filings.

Oklo Records a 200% Increase in Customer Pipeline

Although Oklo has not generated any revenue yet, the company recently reported its third-quarter results for November, showcasing significant strides in research and development. Among the highlights, Oklo successfully onboarded two new data center customers in Q3, contributing to a remarkable 200% increase in its customer pipeline, which now stands at a projected power generation capacity of 2,100 megawatts.

Furthermore, Oklo has made notable advancements, including securing regulatory approval to commence work on its inaugural powerhouse in Idaho and executing a $25 million acquisition of Atomic Alchemy. This acquisition opens new avenues for Oklo by leveraging radioisotope extraction technology, popular in cancer treatment and clean energy generation. In its communication to shareholders, Oklo emphasized its readiness to capitalize on the escalating energy demands propelled by artificial intelligence.

Biden Administration Gives OKLO Stock a Boost

Beyond the influence of AI, the Biden Administration’s recent announcement on January 3rd regarding tax credit changes offers promising news for the nuclear power industry. Under the updated rules, nuclear facilities generating clean hydrogen will find themselves eligible for various tax benefits. This initiative aims to help mitigate the risk of nuclear power plants shutting down while also incentivizing others to resume operations. Over the past 12 years, the U.S. has seen the closure of 12 nuclear plants due primarily to high operational costs, public apprehension regarding nuclear energy, and aging infrastructure. Constellation Energy CEG, the leading nuclear power company in the U.S., has described this regulatory change as a significant victory for itself and others in the sector.

What Do Analysts Think About Oklo?

Despite Oklo’s rapid growth and its auspicious market positioning, shares have already eclipsed both the mean price target of $21 and the Street-high price target of $27. That said, analysts currently hold a positive outlook on Oklo, assigning it a “Moderate Buy” rating. They opine that recent developments, such as the news from January 3, could potentially lead to revised, higher price targets in the future.

Conclusion

In summary, the nuclear power sector has garnered considerable investor interest, particularly in light of the rising energy demands driven by AI technologies. With the significant backing of influential figures like Sam Altman and supportive government regulations, Oklo appears to be on a promising growth trajectory, making it a stock to watch as we navigate through 2025. Whether you are considering entering this emerging market or already have a vested interest, Now could be an opportune time to analyze your position in Oklo and its broader implications on nuclear power’s role in a sustainable energy future.