- CleanSpark, a sustainability-driven Bitcoin mining company, announced on Thursday its intent to merge with Griid Infrastructure, acquiring all of its common shares for $155 million.
- The value of Griid Infrastructure’s shares plummeted by 49% post-announcement, dipping to $1.20 per share. Despite this, the company’s shares have seen a 55% increase over the last month.
- According to CleanSpark, 20 megawatts (MW) of Griid’s existing power will soon be incorporated, with expectations to boost CleanSpark’s power capacity by over 400 MW within the next two years.
CleanSpark announces strategic merger with Griid Infrastructure to expand power capacity and solidify its market position.
CleanSpark to Merge with Griid Infrastructure in a $155 Million Deal
CleanSpark, renowned for its focus on sustainable Bitcoin mining, has revealed plans to merge with Griid Infrastructure. The acquisition, valued at $155 million, will see CleanSpark take ownership of all Griid’s common shares. This merger aims to leverage Griid’s energy assets, particularly its substantial infrastructure projects in Tennessee, to bolster CleanSpark’s operational capacity.
Immediate Market Reactions and Future Projections
Following the announcement, Griid Infrastructure’s stock price took a significant hit, dropping 49% to $1.20. However, it is worth noting that the company’s stock has surged by 55% over the past month. CleanSpark’s CEO, Zach Bradford, emphasized that this merger marks a major milestone, with Griid’s power assets in Tennessee complementing CleanSpark’s existing infrastructure in Georgia and Mississippi.
Strategic Expansion of CleanSpark’s Power Capacity
CleanSpark projects that the integration of Griid’s 20 MW of current power could eventually enhance CleanSpark’s power capacity by over 400 MW in the next two years. Bradford highlighted that their expansion strategy involves tapping into long-term power contracts, particularly in Georgia.
Financial Mechanics of the Deal
As part of the merger agreement, CleanSpark will inherit all of Griid’s outstanding debt. Additionally, CleanSpark is providing Griid with $5 million in working capital and a pay-down bridge loan of approximately $50.9 million to ensure smooth operations during the transition period. Established in 2018, Griid currently operates mining facilities in Watertown, New York, and several other locations in Tennessee. Griid’s approach is notably community-centric, focusing on establishing data centers that benefit local areas.
Broader Industry Implications
The merger between CleanSpark and Griid comes as a strategic response to the upcoming Bitcoin halving event slated for April. This event will halve the rate at which new Bitcoins are created, leading to increased scarcity and reduced profitability for miners. The announcement of this merger is part of a broader trend in the crypto-mining industry, where companies are seeking mergers and acquisitions to consolidate resources and adapt to the changing economic environment.
Conclusion
In summary, the CleanSpark-Griid merger is a significant strategic move aimed at scaling up power capacity and ensuring long-term growth amidst dynamic market conditions. With both companies’ boards aligning on the deal’s terms, the merger is set to conclude in the third quarter of this year, marking a new chapter in CleanSpark’s growth trajectory.
