$ASTS: Building the Future of Direct-to-Cell Satellite Connectivity:
• $ASTS secured an operational license for its New Zealand gateway, another major regulatory milestone that strengthens its global network expansion and supports the commercial rollout of its direct-to-device satellite service.
• Despite losing BlueBird 7, the company successfully launched BlueBird 8, 9 and 10 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 on June 17, 2026. The mission restored investor confidence and keeps AST SpaceMobile on track to deploy around 45 satellites by the end of 2026.
• AST SpaceMobile also formed a nearly $1 billion joint venture with Rakuten in Japan, supported by up to $926 million in government subsidies. The partnership eases funding needs while creating a strong commercial model for nationwide direct-to-cell services.
Why investors are bullish:
1. Carrier-First Business Model
Instead of competing with telecom providers like Starlink, $ASTS partners with carriers such as AT&T, Verizon and Rakuten, giving it access to more than 3 billion existing mobile subscribers through a wholesale model.
2. Commercial Execution Is Becoming Reality
The company continues to secure key FCC approvals, moving from proof of concept toward fully authorized commercial direct-to-smartphone services in the U.S., a major milestone for its long-term growth story.
3. Powerful Long-Term Economics
While satellite deployment requires significant upfront investment, operating costs per user decline as the network scales, creating strong long-term operating leverage as subscriber adoption increases.
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