VanEck Says Nuclear Power Could Boost AI and Ease Bitcoin Sell Pressure

VanEck CEO Jan van Eck has proposed a straightforward idea: expanding nuclear power could simultaneously benefit two distinct sectors, AI and Bitcoin. His argument hinges on the fact that both industries rely heavily on electricity, and cheaper, reliable energy could enhance their economics.

In a September 2025 interview, van Eck pointed to growing political support for nuclear power in the US, including plans to quadruple nuclear output over the next 25 years. He cited the expedited restart of a reactor at Three Mile Island, part of a deal between Microsoft and Constellation Energy, as evidence of this trend.

Matthew Sigel, head of digital assets research at VanEck, emphasized that Bitcoin miners are uniquely positioned due to their existing power infrastructure and long-term contracts. He suggested that miners, who often sell Bitcoin to cover electricity costs, could reduce this practice if they earn revenue from AI contracts, thereby easing sell pressure on Bitcoin.

VanEck itself has investments in both nuclear and Bitcoin, with its Uranium and Nuclear ETF (NLR) reportedly up 40% in the year and holding around $2.8 billion in assets by the end of 2025. The firm's commentary should be considered in light of its financial stake in both sectors.