Race for cryptocurrency mining causing shortage of graphics cards
The increasing popularity of cryptocurrency mining is causing a shortage of graphic cards, according to reports from US distributors. Card manufacturer AMD is seeing "solid demand" for its old and newer products. Although there have been complaints regarding raised transaction fees within the bitcoin network, Ethereum's mining ecosystem is still accessible for both miners and users of the platforms alike, hence the cards' popularity.
A resurgence in cryptocurrency mining is causing a shortage of graphics cards, several US distributors report.

AMD, which manufactures cards traditionally used throughout consumer computing and beyond, is seeing what it calls “solid demand” for both its new and older products.

"The gaming market remains our priority. We are seeing solid demand for our Polaris-based offerings in the gaming and newly resurgent cryptocurrency mining markets based on the strong performance we are delivering," a spokesperson told CNBC Monday.

A renewed uptick in prices which has caused both Bitcoin and top altcoin Ethereum (ETH) to reach new all-time highs is no doubt fuelling appetite to get a piece of the action.

Despite users complaining bitterly about the increased transaction fees associated with the Bitcoin network, Ethereum’s mining ecosystem is still comparatively accessible for users and lucrative for miners.

A survey of major retailers Newegg, Amazon and Best Buy revealed all are almost sold out of the majority of AMD graphics card models required for crypto operations.

“Not surprisingly, [eBay] auction sellers are taking advantage of the trend by adding cryptocurrency names to their product listings,” it added.

Cointelegraph reported last week that Bitcoin mining farms in China’s Szechuan province, where power costs are cheap but regulation lacking, are being forced to close down or relocate, ostensibly to avoid potential legal complications.