CoinDesk Podcast Network THE MINING POD: Crusoe / Upstream Data Patent Ruling, Lancium’s Stargate Deal, and 2024 Year-in-Review
Jan 24, 2025
Khan Ferrani, an Analyst at Luxor and Hashrate Index, dives into the complex world of Bitcoin mining. He breaks down a surprising ruling in the Crusoe and Upstream Data patent dispute, highlighting its industry implications. The conversation also touches on Lancium’s ambitious Project Stargate, aimed at integrating AI into mining efficiency. Ferrani provides a comprehensive recap of 2024's milestones, including trends in miner performance, institutional adoption, and the impact of ASIC chip production by TSMC on the mining landscape.
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Crusoe vs. Upstream Ruling
- Crusoe Energy and Upstream Data fought a patent dispute over gas-powered Bitcoin mining.
- The ruling allows Upstream to patent design features, but not the core concept.
Difficulty Adjustment Forecast
- Bitcoin mining difficulty is expected to decrease due to a cold snap across the US.
- This follows eight consecutive upward adjustments, a trend not seen since the China mining ban.
Diverging Paths in Bitcoin Mining
- Crusoe Energy's success story leverages "green energy" narratives, unlike Upstream Data.
- Bitcoin mining technology is converging with general computing.