Axe's Take: Nuclear Renaissance or Another Fukushima Waiting to Happen?

Fukushima Fallout: From Zero to Hero?

Alright folks Axe here. Goldman Sachs those masters of the universe are saying nuclear power is back in the game. After years of being in the doghouse thanks to that lovely Fukushima incident – you know the one that made beachfront property in Japan slightly less appealing – suddenly everyone's hot for atoms again. Seems like these 'Green Initiatives' are so desperate they will take what they can get. They are probably the kind of people that think lab grown burgers and plant based chicken is good eating. Figures.

Uranium Rush: Is Cameco the New Black?

First up Cameco. Uranium miners baby! Goldman's drooling all over them. They've got mines in Canada Kazakhstan. The best part? They own a big chunk of Westinghouse which means they're in the reactor building business. Goldman says 'buy' with an 11% upside. Not bad. But remember what I always say: 'What's the point of having fuck you money if you can't say fuck you?' 11% doesn't quite get you there.

Small Reactors Big Dreams: NuScale's Gamble

Then there's NuScale. These guys are betting on small modular reactors. The idea is smaller cheaper faster deployment. Sounds good on paper. But Goldman is 'neutral' and sees a 21% downside. Ouch. I don't like those odds. As I've said before 'I am not running a goddamn charity here.' I am not Chuck Rhoades either.

GE Vernova: Diversification or Diversion?

GE Vernova. They are the diversified player with a modular reactor design approved in Canada. Goldman's bullish predicting a 7% upside. Not bad but let's be honest GE is like that company with a hundred different divisions and none of them are killing it. Reminds me of a certain someone I know who can never close the deal. That 7% might need to be hedged. Heavily.

Vistra: Data Centers and Nuclear Deals: Power Play?

Vistra owns a bunch of power plants including some nuclear ones. Goldman thinks they might strike a deal with a data center. Everyone is power hungry. They are going to need power for something. They have me wondering if this is another case of being 'long innovation short application.' Goldman's neutral with a 15% downside. Pass.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries: Fukushima Redemption Arc?

Last but not least Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. These guys are trying to get those Japanese plants back online. Goldman thinks restarts and maintenance will lift them. It is not the most exciting story but there is something to be said for slow and steady. It is almost like they are trying to 'prove value' to their investors. Something I can respect.