CoinDesk Podcast Network

THE MINING POD: Bitcoin Mining Isn't Dead w/ Steve Barbour

Nov 25, 2025
Steve Barbour, Founder and CEO of Upstream Data, shares insights on Bitcoin mining's evolving landscape. He discusses mining economics, emphasizing the critical role of energy partnerships and the impact of new ASIC models. Steve argues Bitcoin mining thrives at marginal energy sites and highlights the importance of operational efficiency and renewable energy in achieving sustainable business models. He also sheds light on the challenges of repurposing mining infrastructure for AI, and shares thoughts on the dynamics of oil markets and emerging technologies.
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INSIGHT

Reliability Beats Raw Efficiency

  • Miner reliability and dynamic capability matter more than raw $/TH when power quality is marginal.
  • Machines that survive thermal cycling and ramp flexibly win at edge energy sites.
INSIGHT

Current Hashprice Pressure

  • Hashprice is at historic lows and only the newest hardware yields gross margins today.
  • Expect a shakeout among miners and pressure on hosting spreads if low prices persist.
ADVICE

Protect Margins Or Lose Customers

  • Hosters must thin their spread or customers will shut off during sustained low hash prices.
  • Operators with marginal-cost power (e.g., gas at wells) are best positioned to ride out downturns.
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