Cathie Wood Just Poured Millions Into 2 Nuclear Stocks -- and Neither Was NuScale Power

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Why Ark Invest’s Nuclear Bets Bypass NuScale Power

Ark Invest’s move into lesser-known nuclear firms signals a bold shift with mixed implications for SA investors.

Ark Invest recently poured over $7 million into two nuclear startups, X-Energy and Oklo, skipping NuScale Power despite its regulatory edge. This suggests Ark is chasing growth in broader nuclear tech like fuel production and recycling, not just small modular reactors (SMRs). For South Africa, where energy infrastructure and ESG pressures are rising, these bets highlight the nuclear sector’s potential but also its risks. Sasol could indirectly benefit if nuclear eases power constraints locally, while the rand (USD/ZAR) might stay volatile as global energy shifts play out. Still, these companies haven't started commercial operations, raising the risk Ark’s timing could be premature. If conventional nuclear firms like NuScale gain ground first, this speculative move might falter. That said, investors willing to watch nuclear innovation closely should consider this emerging niche. this is just our opinion and not financial advice