# Why Hut 8 (HUT) Is Up 31.8% After Google AI Deal And $10 Billion Data Center Plan
In a remarkable turn of events in early April 2026, Hut 8 Mining Corp (HUT) has seen its stock surge by an impressive 31.8%. This surge follows the announcement of a strategic partnership with tech giant Google, which includes a monumental 15-year leasing deal that could yield up to $17.70 billion in revenue. Additionally, Hut 8 is advancing its ambitious River Bend data center project, a $10 billion venture poised to significantly enhance its operational capacity and positioning in the rapidly evolving hybrid Bitcoin mining and AI infrastructure landscape.
A Strategic Pivot Toward AI and Compute Infrastructure
Hut 8 has made headlines in recent months for its aggressive pivot towards artificial intelligence and high-performance computing. The company's River Bend data center, with a capacity of 245 megawatts, is a key element of this strategy. This facility is expected to not only bolster Hut 8’s cryptocurrency mining operations but also serve as a critical infrastructure hub for AI applications.
The strategic partnership with Google is particularly intriguing. Under the terms of the deal, Hut 8 will lease substantial compute capacity to Google, allowing the tech giant to expand its AI capabilities while providing Hut 8 with a stable revenue stream. Analysts view this collaboration as a win-win, as it positions Hut 8 at the intersection of two booming sectors: cryptocurrency and AI.