Cryptocurrencies have been a winning bet this year, but the chip makers who play a key role in the market are still playing their hands very cautiously. The exploding value of cryptocurrencies this year has created a strong incentive for “miners” who use high-end computers that match and update cryptocurrency transactions in return for rewards. Mining for many of the fastest-rising currencies, including ethereum, is powered by graphics processors from companies like Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices. These chips, also called...

Source: Wall Street Journal December 25, 2017 13:52 UTC