Tezos-Powered Uranium.io Marketplace Launches for Retail Investors
Uranium.io has launched as a marketplace utilizing Tezos technology, transforming uranium trading by making it accessible to retail investors. Traditionally limited to institutional players, this decentralized application (dApp) now allows broader participation in the uranium market.
Curzon Uranium, a major player with over $1 billion in transactions, supports this initiative, which aligns with its established reputation in the nuclear value chain. Additionally, Archax, the first UK-regulated crypto exchange, integrates blockchain with traditional investment systems to enhance the platform.
Global demand for uranium is increasing due to two key factors: governments' focus on nuclear energy for net-zero emissions and significant corporate investments in nuclear technology to support AI infrastructure. Amazon's $500 million investment in X-Energy Reactor Company exemplifies this trend.
Uranium Trading Now Open to All Investors
Uranium trading has been largely inaccessible to everyday investors, with minimum lot sizes of 50,000 pounds costing around $4.2 million. Retail investors previously engaged only through ETFs, which rely on effective fund management. Uranium.io changes this by tokenizing physical uranium, allowing smaller-scale investors to participate without high entry costs. Arthur Breitman, co-founder of Tezos, stated,
“Real world assets on chain are compelling when they meaningfully reduce friction or enable new economic arrangements. The launch of uranium.io on Tezos is a perfect example – transforming a market previously restricted by massive lot sizes and OTC overhead into something accessible and composable.”
The platform utilizes Etherlink, an EVM-compatible Layer 2 blockchain powered by Tezos Smart Rollups, enabling users to connect wallets and purchase “yellowcake,” an intermediate form of uranium used in nuclear fuel production. The onboarding process includes robust Know Your Customer (KYC) verification.
Uranium.io Uses Blockchain for Secure, Transparent Trading
Physical uranium purchased through Uranium.io is stored in a regulated depository managed by Cameco, a leading uranium provider, ensuring transparency and institutional-grade services. Smart contracts automate trade settlements and custody transfers, minimizing counterparty risks and eliminating the need for intermediaries.
This development reflects a growing trend in real-world asset tokenization within the blockchain sector. The institutional tokenized assets market expanded from nearly zero in January 2023 to $300 million by September, according to Van Eck, while BlackRock is also moving to tokenize its asset portfolios.
Tezos, known for its energy efficiency, supports this innovation as a pioneering Proof of Stake blockchain recognized for governance, upgradability, and decentralized application support. Etherlink offers decentralized governance and security features, enhancing user experience.