As a seasoned crypto investor with a keen interest in the Bitcoin mining industry, I view Riot’s intention to acquire Bitfarms as a strategic and financially sound move. The proposed merger would create the world’s largest publicly listed Bitcoin miner, offering geographical diversification and long-term growth potential.


Leading cryptocurrency mining company, Riot Platforms Inc., has made public its plans to purchase Bitfarms Ltd., a notable figure in the Bitcoin mining sector.

As a crypto investor, I would put it this way: Riot Games, which currently holds a 9.25% share in Bitfarms, has announced its intention to make a formal takeover bid, disregarding the recent refusal of Bitfarms’ board.

Global Bitcoin Mining Giant

Riot has put forth a proposal to acquire Bitfarms for $2.30 in cash and stocks, which translates to an estimated equity value of around $950 million for the company. According to Riot’s Executive Chairman, Benjamin Yi, this merger holds significant strategic importance as it would result in the formation of the world’s largest publicly-traded Bitcoin mining firm. With our combined operations, we will have a geographically diverse presence that sets us up well for long-term expansion.

Based on Riot’s announcement, this deal would result in the formation of the globe’s most powerful Bitcoin mining entity. With a total power capability of 1 gigawatt (GW) and a mining speed of 19.6 exahashes per second (EH/s,) this operation is set to expand by year-end, reaching a capacity of 1.5 GW and 52 EH/s in power and mining output respectively.

“This arrangement brings about significant advantages in terms of strategy and finance. It opens up opportunities for increased expansion and improved access to capital markets. The enlarged business would manage 15 locations in the US, Canada, Paraguay, and Argentina.”

Riot’s robust financial situation, marked by little debt, more than $700 million in cash reserves, and approximately 8,872 Bitcoin, significantly influences the proposed acquisition of Bitfarms. This financially sound position is anticipated to foster Bitfarms’ expansion and provide improved access to capital markets.

On April 22, Riot put forth its proposal to Bitfarms’ board, yet the proposal was rejected without entering into significant negotiations. Based on the agreement, Bitfarms’ shareholders were expected to own around 17% of the combined entity.

Riot plans to propose a separate gathering for shareholders to vote on the addition of new, unbiased board members after Bitfarms’ annual meeting on May 31 has concluded.

Consolidation Pressure Post-Halving

At a pivotal moment for the Bitcoin mining sector, the suggested takeover holds significance. This industry is undergoing swift consolidation due to the halving event, which reduces miner rewards for each new block. Consequently, smaller players may struggle financially and larger firms are responding by pursuing mergers and acquisitions to boost their competitive position.

Larger mining companies such as Riot have prospered after the halving event with substantial financial reserves at their disposal. In contrast, smaller miners face challenges due to their weak bargaining power and limited access to capital. For instance, Stronghold Digital Mining Inc. is considering various strategies, one of which is a possible sale.

In North America, Riot is the largest Bitcoin miner with a capacity of 700 MW in Texas, aiming to build an additional 1 GW site. This mining activity powers homes for approximately 200,000 Texans but encounters challenges from the region’s harsh weather and escalating energy costs. In contrast, Bitfarms has been broadening its reach on a global scale, focusing significantly on South America, where electricity expenses are more affordable.

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2024-05-31 01:14