- Antpool, associated with Bitmain, overtakes Foundry USA in monthly Bitcoin block mining output.
- Bitmain’s strategic import of mining power to the U.S. aligns with Antpool’s rising hashrate, reshaping the crypto mining landscape.
In a remarkable twist within the Bitcoin mining sector, Antpool, closely linked to the industry giant Bitmain, has achieved a milestone by securing the top spot in Bitcoin block mining. This marks the first time since January 2022 that Antpool has surpassed Foundry USA in terms of monthly block mining output, signifying a noteworthy transformation in the cryptocurrency mining arena.
Symbiotic Growth with Bitmain’s Expansion
Antpool’s surge in mining capabilities is not a standalone occurrence but rather closely connected to Bitmain’s strategic decision to import a substantial 37 exahashes per second (EH/s) in mining power, primarily in the form of Antminer S19XP models, to its subsidiary in the United States. This import, totalling over 4,800 metric tons, took place between June and November, as reported by TheMinerMag.
This substantial influx of high-performance mining equipment serves as a clear indication of Bitmain’s dedication to fortifying its mining operations within the U.S. The timing of these imports, synchronized with Antpool’s rising hashrate, suggests a deliberate effort to boost Antpool’s mining capacity.
Complexities in Mining Data
While Antpool appears to dominate in the number of blocks mined, there persists an intriguing divergence when analyzing real-time hashrate data. Reports from BTC.com reveal that Antpool’s self-reported real-time hashrate consistently lags behind Foundry USA’s figures. This incongruity raises questions regarding potential variations in mining luck or potential underreporting issues.
Broader Implications
Antpool’s elevation to the forefront of Bitcoin mining signifies more than just operational efficiency; it reflects a broader trend in the global mining landscape. Following China’s crackdown on cryptocurrency mining in 2021, North America has emerged as a new epicentre for Bitcoin mining activities. The previous dominance of Foundry USA was a direct outcome of this geographic shift in mining operations.
In conclusion, Antpool’s recent achievement underscores the dynamic and evolving nature of the Bitcoin mining industry. As the landscape continues to evolve, the strategies and technological advancements of major players such as Bitmain and Antpool will unquestionably mould the future of cryptocurrency mining.
