Bitcoin mining companies have accumulated $12.7 billion in debt over the past year as they expand infrastructure for both Bitcoin and AI, according to VanEck's October ChainCheck report. The surge in debt financing comes as equity valuations decline and demand for AI services grows. Notable recent funding includes Bitfarms securing $588 million and TeraWulf obtaining $3.2 billion. Analysts highlight that the shift towards AI hosting services is helping miners stabilize cash flows and reduce dependency on Bitcoin rewards, especially in light of the upcoming April 2024 halving.