After Core Scientific, Another Bitcoin Miner Flags Default Risks

Bhushan Akolkar
November 3, 2022
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Bitcoin Miner Bitfarms Seeks to Acquire Stronghold In A $164 Million Deal

Amid the Bitcoin price crash and rising energy costs this year, Bitcoin miners are having a very tough time. Last week, public-listed Bitcoin miner Core Scientific (NASDAQ: CORZ) announced chances of potential bankruptcy very soon. Now, another BTC miner Iris Energy (NASDAQ: IREN) is flagging risks of a potential default.

The Sydney-based green crypto miner is now in debt trouble. In a statement on Wednesday, November 2, Iris energy said that some of its mining equipment isn’t making enough cash to cover its debt-financing obligations.

The firm has acquired $103 million in debt against mining rigs. Iris energy acquired this debt via a few wholly-owned special-purpose vehicles. However, the Bitcoin miner is not willing to provide any further financial support or a refinancing agreement for the vehicles. If so, Iris Energy could default on its scheduled payment on November 8.

Bitcoin Miners Losing Profits

Bitcoin miners have been facing the heat from all ends over the last year. Firstly, Bitcoin’s 70% price correction from its all-time high forced miners to sell their holdings at lower profit margins. On the other hand, the cost of mining is growing with rising energy costs as well as rising Bitcoin hashrate.

On top of all this, the Fed has resolved to tighten monetary policy that has increased rates on loans. This squeeze of profits from all ends has led miners to sell off their Bitcoin holdings massively. Over the last month, Core Scientific sold close to 1,500 BTC and is now holding only 24 BTC.

Iris Energy said that they are currently having restructuring discussions with the lender for the special-purpose vehicles. It said that in addition to setting up new vehicles, the company’s goal was to achieve “prudent risk management to protect the underlying business and data center infrastructure”.

As of now, Iris Energy is currently holding $53 million cash in bank. On Wednesday, November 2, the Iris Energy stock (NASDAQ: IREN) collapsed 15% ending the trading at $2.88.

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Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
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Why Trust CoinGape

CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights Read more…to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.

About Author
About Author
Bhushan is a seasoned crypto writer with over eight years of experience spanning more than 10,000 contributions across multiple platforms like CoinGape, CoinSpeaker, Bitcoinist, Crypto News Flash, and others. Being a Fintech enthusiast, he loves reporting across Crypto, Blockchain, DeFi, Global Macros with a keen understanding in financial markets. 

He is committed to continuous learning and stays motivated by sharing the knowledge he acquires. In his free time, Bhushan enjoys reading thriller fiction novels and occasionally explores his culinary skills. Bhushan has a bachelors degree in electronics engineering, however, his interest in finance and economics drives him to crypto and blockchain.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.