Core Scientific (CORZ) Pivots From Bitcoin Mining to AI/HPC Infrastructure, Targeting $1 Billion in EBITDA by Fiscal 2027

Core Scientific, Inc. (NASDAQ:CORZ) is undergoing a significant transformation, pivoting from its primary focus on Bitcoin mining to a more diversified business model that includes artificial intelligence and high-performance computing (AI/HPC) infrastructure.

Core Scientific, Inc. (NASDAQ:CORZ) is undergoing a significant transformation, pivoting from its primary focus on Bitcoin mining to a more diversified business model that includes artificial intelligence and high-performance computing (AI/HPC) infrastructure. This strategic shift has driven remarkable results, with InvestingPro data showing a 352% return year-to-date and a current market capitalization of $4.34 billion. This shift has caught the attention of analysts and investors alike, as Core Scientific leverages its substantial power infrastructure to capitalize on the growing demand for AI computing resources.

Strategic Shift to AI/HPC

Core Scientific has made a bold move by reallocating 100 megawatts (MW) of its power capacity from Bitcoin mining to AI/HPC operations. This reallocation has increased the company's total AI/HPC capacity to 800 MW, with 700 MW already contracted to CoreWeave, a private AI infrastructure company. The partnership with CoreWeave marks a significant milestone in Core Scientific's transition, potentially reshaping its revenue streams and market position.

The CoreWeave contract is particularly noteworthy, as it is expected to contribute substantially to Core Scientific's bottom line. Analysts project that once fully operational, this deal could generate over $600 million in EBITDA, with the full impact expected to be realized in fiscal year 2027. This long-term, high-margin contract provides Core Scientific with a stable revenue base, potentially reducing its exposure to the volatility associated with cryptocurrency mining.

Expansion Plans and Market Opportunities

Core Scientific's ambitions extend beyond its current capacity. The company is actively exploring expansion opportunities that could add up to an additional 700 MW of power capacity. This expansion strategy includes both the enhancement of existing sites and the acquisition of new locations. Analysts estimate that potential expansion at existing sites could add 300 MW, potentially generating $430 million in revenue and approximately $350 million in EBITDA annually.

Furthermore, the company has already made moves to secure new locations, including an 11 MW data center in Alabama with options for expansion and purchase. New site acquisitions could potentially add another 400 MW of capacity, which analysts suggest could translate to $580 million in revenue and roughly $460 million in EBITDA annually.

These expansion plans are particularly significant given the current market dynamics. The scarcity of power across the U.S. grid has made Core Scientific's assets increasingly valuable. The company's existing infrastructure and access to power provide a competitive advantage in the rapidly growing AI/HPC sector, where energy resources are becoming a critical bottleneck for expansion.

Financial Performance and Projections

While Core Scientific continues to benefit from its Bitcoin mining operations, the company's financial outlook is increasingly tied to its AI/HPC initiatives. In October 2024, the company mined 369 Bitcoin, generating approximately $24.2 million in sales. According to InvestingPro data, the company's total revenue reached $557.68M in the last twelve months, with a healthy current ratio of 3.63, indicating strong liquidity. InvestingPro analysis suggests the stock is currently trading above its Fair Value, with analyst targets ranging from $17 to $26 per share.

Want deeper insights? InvestingPro offers 14 additional investment tips for CORZ, including detailed analysis of its financial health and growth potential. Unlock comprehensive Pro Research Reports covering 1,400+ top stocks to make more informed investment decisions. However, the focus is shifting towards the potential of the AI/HPC business.

Analysts project that Core Scientific's revenue for the fiscal year 2024 will be around $492.2 million, with an expected increase to $522.9 million in fiscal year 2025. EBITDA projections for the same periods are $144.5 million and $145.0 million, respectively. These projections reflect the transitional period as the company scales its AI/HPC operations.

The market's reaction to Core Scientific's strategic pivot has been generally positive, with several analysts revising their price targets upward. The stock has seen significant appreciation, moving from lows of $2.61 to trading above $14 in recent months. However, analysts suggest that the market has not fully priced in the potential of the CoreWeave contract or the broader AI/HPC business beyond this initial partnership.

Market Position and Competitive Landscape

Core Scientific's transition positions it uniquely within both the cryptocurrency mining and AI/HPC sectors. The company's first-mover advantage in repurposing Bitcoin mining infrastructure for AI workloads could prove crucial as the AI revolution continues to accelerate. InvestingPro metrics highlight the company's financial stability with moderate debt levels and liquid assets exceeding short-term obligations, positioning it well for this strategic pivot.

Discover how