The government now owns a 1% stake in the future of fusion power
U.S. fusion companies are trading equity for federal funding, raising questions about who really benefits.
The story
U.S. fusion startups are receiving government funding in exchange for non-voting shares, raising questions about the long-term implications for both the companies and public investment.
Source: techcrunch.com
Our reading
Helion’s 1% non-voting stake for $175 million feels like a deal that only a government could love—because it’s not about the money, it’s about the control. The government gets a slice of the future without the hassle of running a business.
Now, when Helion’s reactors finally work, the government will get a cut without having to build a single reactor. It’s like being paid to watch a friend’s startup succeed, but with more bureaucracy and less friendship.
the government’s stake is non-voting, which means it can’t interfere—but also can’t be held accountable. It’s a passive investment with all the perks of ownership.
