NuScale Power Corporation (SMR) saw its stock rise by 2.29% to close at $20.13 on January 10, 2025, despite a backdrop of competitive pressures and regulatory challenges in the nuclear energy sector. The stock opened at $19.55 and reached a high of $20.25, with trading volume at 6,940,133 shares, which is 57.98% of its average daily volume. The upward movement comes amid a lawsuit filed by Texas, Utah, and Last Energy against the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), challenging the stringent licensing requirements for small modular reactors (SMRs). This legal action, if successful, could significantly alter the regulatory landscape for SMRs, potentially benefiting companies like NuScale by easing the path to market for their technologies.
Additionally, NuScale's unique position in the market, bolstered by its regulatory approval for SMRs in the U.S., continues to attract investor interest. The company's reactors are seen as crucial for meeting the growing power demands of AI data centers and fulfilling climate pledges. However, the speculative nature of the stock, with no profits yet and significant cash burn, suggests that it remains suitable for aggressive investors only. The ongoing developments in Texas and Utah, along with the potential regulatory changes, are likely contributing to the positive sentiment around NuScale's stock.