$MARA vs $RIOT: Bitcoin Miners Positioning for AI and HPC Growth Both MARA and RIOT are Bitcoin miners pivoting toward artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC) data centers to diversify beyond volatile crypto revenue. RIOT has locked in large, long-duration compute contracts, including a reported $9.1 billion, 20-year agreement with AI firm Anthropic, giving it a more contracted revenue profile. MARA is scaling an energy and digital infrastructure platform, with a power portfolio targeting roughly 4.8 gigawatts (GW) and major land and power acquisitions. Both companies posted net losses in recent quarters and carry elevated beta (a measure of volatility) and significant exposure to Bitcoin price swings. Analyst sentiment is generally constructive on both, though RIOT currently carries a stronger consensus rating and higher average price target relative to its price.