AST SpaceMobile, Inc.

Сильный индекс, значительно упал. Оптимистичный взгляд на свои позиции резко сменился на неуверенность.

Strong index, significantly down. An optimistic view of his position suddenly changed to uncertainty.

Сильный индекс, незначительно вырос. Рынок не поддерживает быков.

Strong index, slightly up. The market does not support the bulls.

Средний индекс, незначительно вырос. Отток средств из лонгов на высоком уровне.

Medium index, slightly up. Outflow of funds from longs at a high level.

Key Points
AST SpaceMobile is advancing a groundbreaking satellite-to-phone network with support from massive global telecommunications partners.
GE Aerospace has transformed into a focused aerospace leader with strong net income and a dominant market position.
Which aerospace and communications stock deserves a spot in your portfolio for 2026?
Choosing between a relatively new moonshot and a legacy industrial titan requires a clear look at risk and reward. Should you buy AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ:ASTS) or GE Aerospace(NYSE:GE) today?
AST SpaceMobile is building a cellular network from space, while GE Aerospace focuses on its high-performing aerospace division. These companies represent opposite ends of the investing spectrum, as one seeks to disrupt global telecommunications while the other dominates the skies with established jet engine technology.
The case for AST SpaceMobile
AST SpaceMobile focuses on building the first space-based cellular broadband network designed to connect directly to standard, unmodified smartphones without needing additional hardware. The company partners with major mobile network operators, including AT&T (NYSE:T) and Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ), to provide global coverage to nearly 3 billion potential subscribers. These commercial agreements include government applications through prime contractors, positioning the company to potentially capture a massive global audience of mobile users.
In FY 2025, revenue reached nearly $71 million, representing a massive increase of approximately 1,500% as the company began its initial satellite operations. Despite this growth, the company reported a net loss of close to $341.9 million and a net margin of roughly negative 480% for the same period. This reflects the early stage of its satellite constellation rollout, where heavy development costs still significantly outpace current service revenue.
Based on its December 2025 balance sheet, the company maintains a current ratio of roughly 16.4x, covering its short-term obligations with short-term assets. The debt-to-equity ratio is approximately 1.2x, which compares total debt to shareholder equity to show the company's financial leverage. Free cash flow was a net outflow of nearly $1.1 billion, representing cash from operations minus the capital expenditures required for its satellite network.
The case for GE Aerospace
GE Aerospace is focused on jet and turboprop engines and integrated systems for commercial, military, and general aviation aircraft. It was part of General Electric, which was split into three publicly traded businesses in 2024. GE Aerospace remains a primary engine supplier to major airlines and defense agencies in roughly 120 countries. This reinforces its prominent position among industrial stocks and its role in powering the global aviation infrastructure.
In FY 2025, revenue reached nearly $46 billion, an 18.5% increase compared to the previous year as demand for aviation services climbed. The company reported a net income of close to $8.7 billion, resulting in a net margin of approximately 19% for the fiscal period. This strong growth reflects high demand for its aerospace products and services across both commercial and military segments as flight volumes continue to rise globally.
As of the December 2025 balance sheet, the current ratio is roughly 1.0x, indicating that the company's current assets are approximately equal to its current liabilities. The debt-to-equity ratio is roughly 1.1x, which measures total debt relative to shareholders' equity and provides insight into the capital structure. Free cash flow was close to $7.3 billion, calculated as cash from operations minus capital expenditures, highlighting the company's ability to generate cash from its core business.
Risk profile comparison
AST SpaceMobile faces risks associated with its capital-intensive business model, which requires significant additional funding to launch its satellite constellation. It faces execution risk regarding its service development and relies on a limited number of launch providers. The competitive landscape includes satellite-based operators like Iridium Communications (NASDAQ:IRDM) and Globalstar (NASDAQ:GSAT).
GE Aerospace faces risks related to ongoing regulatory and legal exposure, including historic securities fraud litigation and export control violations. Operations are susceptible to global supply chain disruptions and the cyclical nature of the aerospace industry. The company also manages legal liabilities from past environmental and performance-related lawsuits.
Valuation comparison
GE Aerospace appears significantly cheaper based on its P/S ratio and Forward P/E. These metrics compare the stock price to revenue and future earnings estimates, respectively.
Forward P/E
186.0x
41.7x
P/S ratio
357.1x
7.5x
Valuation metrics sourced from Financial Modeling Prep (FMP) and may differ from other data providers.
Which stock would I buy in 2026?
AST SpaceMobile expects its space-based network to give it a significant business in a few years. Essentially, AST SpaceMobile is a direct-to-device play, providing full mobile phone compatibility with major carriers without the need for specialized equipment. Many of its potential clients are also equity holders in the company, including AT&T, Verizon, Vodafone (NASDAQ:VOD), Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:GOOGL), American Tower (NYSE:AMT), Bell Canada, Telus (NYSE:TU), and Rakuten in Japan.
By the end of the year, the company should have 45 satellites, which will allow it to fully service the U.S., and that should start to supercharge revenue growth. For fiscal 2026, Wall Street sees $149 million in sales, jumping to $725 million the following year, when the company is projected to turn its first modest profit. Free cash flow appears much more manageable, with analysts expecting positive free cash flow in 2029.
GE Aerospace is a market leader in aircraft engines, boasting the most installed engines "under wing," in industry parlance. The company has been focusing on increasing productivity and improving its supply chain by working closely with suppliers. These efforts have meaningfully improved the availability of components for GE Aerospace, helping it meet demand and increasing sales and margins.
Business continues to be good. Management expects growth from recent awards to produce engines for the new F-47 jet from Boeing Co (NYSE:BA), as well as a $1.4 billion award from the U.S. Marines. It also received commercial airline awards from United Airlines Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:UAL), American Airlines Group Inc. (NYSE:AA), and Delta Air Lines Inc., totaling over $1 billion.
Revenue for the current year, fiscal 2026, is seen growing more than 18% to $52.3 billion, though net income probably lags that pace, growing 5% to $9.1 billion.
On balance, it's difficult to argue with GE Aerospace's market position and continued growth. AST SpaceMobile is a compelling business model, but it is arguable that it has a narrower competitive moat than GE Aerospace. Plus, ASTS demands quite a premium in today's market. Much cheaper is GE Aerospace, as its forward P/E and P/S ratios show, so for long-term investors, it's the better buy.
Should you buy stock in AST SpaceMobile right now?
Before you buy stock in AST SpaceMobile, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and AST SpaceMobile wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $379,123!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,396,103!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 933% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 212% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of September 30, 2026.
Brendan Coffey has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends AST SpaceMobile, Alphabet, American Tower, Boeing, and GE Aerospace. The Motley Fool recommends Delta Air Lines, TELUS, Verizon Communications, and Vodafone Group Public. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

AST SpaceMobile vs. GE Aerospace: Which Industrials Stock Is a Better Buy in 2026?

Key Points
AST SpaceMobile is building a first-of-its-kind space-based cellular network that connects directly to standard smartphones.
Firefly Aerospace provides diversified space logistics, including launch vehicles and lunar landers for government and commercial use.
Which high-growth space stock is the better choice for your long-term portfolio in 2026?
As space-based infrastructure moves from theory to commercial reality, many investors are eyeing high-growth pioneers. Is AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ:ASTS) or Firefly Aerospace (NASDAQ:FLY) the better bet for your portfolio?
AST SpaceMobile aims to turn every smartphone into a satellite phone using its unique orbital network. Firefly Aerospace focuses on the logistics of space, providing launch vehicles and lunar landers for government and commercial clients. Both represent speculative plays in the growing space economy.
The case for AST SpaceMobile
AST SpaceMobile is building a space-based cellular network designed to connect directly with everyday smartphones. It has secured commercial agreements with major providers such as AT&T Corp (NYSE:T), Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ), and Vodafone (NASDAQ:VOD). The company is carving out a niche among communication stocks by focusing on direct-to-device connectivity. Partnerships with over 50 mobile network operators worldwide provide the company with access to a potential user base of nearly 3 billion subscribers.
In its latest annual report, filed for FY 2025, the company reported revenue of nearly $71 million. This represents growth of approximately 1,500% compared to the prior year. Despite the jump in sales, the company reported a net loss of roughly $342 million for the period. This resulted in a net margin of around negative 480% as the company continues to invest heavily in its orbital constellation.
As of its December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio is 1.2x. This metric compares a company's total debt to its shareholder equity, and a ratio above 1.0 indicates that liabilities exceed the net value owned by shareholders. The current ratio, which measures a company's ability to pay short-term debts with short-term assets, is a robust 16.4x. Free cash flow was nearly negative $1.1 billion, representing the cash a company generates after accounting for capital expenditures.
The case for Firefly Aerospace
Firefly Aerospace provides end-to-end space services, helping customers launch and operate vehicles in low Earth orbit and beyond. The company serves a diversified group of national security agencies and commercial entities. Key customers and collaborators include NASA and the U.S. Space Force, alongside industry giants like Lockheed Martin Corp (NYSE:LMT) and Northrop Grumman Corp (NYSE:NOC). This broad base is supported by a backlog of roughly $1.4 billion as of late 2025.
In its latest annual report, filed for FY 2025, revenue totaled nearly $160 million. This was an increase of approximately 160% over the previous fiscal year. The company reported a net loss of more than $298 million for the same period. This led to a net margin of approximately negative 190%, which is an improvement from the even deeper losses recorded in the previous year.
As of its December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio is approximately 0.3x. This figure indicates the company uses relatively low levels of debt compared to its equity. Its current ratio is roughly 4.5x, suggesting the firm has enough short-term assets to cover its immediate liabilities several times over. Free cash flow was close to negative $238 million, indicating the amount of cash used after accounting for spending on physical assets.
Risk profile comparison
The company faces significant risks related to the development of its SpaceMobile Service, which relies on untested technology and complex satellites. It also needs to raise substantial capital to fund its constellation beyond currently funded levels. The business faces intense competition from providers like Globalstar Corp (NASDAQ:GSAT) and Iridium Communications (NASDAQ:IRDM) in the race for mobile satellite dominance. Furthermore, it is navigating pending securities class action lawsuits alleging misleading statements.
Firefly Aerospace faces risks from potential launch failures or delays, such as the September 2025 testing event involving its Alpha rocket. Growth is heavily dependent on sustained government spending and the success of upcoming lunar missions. The business is also navigating federal securities class action lawsuits, which have increased legal scrutiny. Additionally, the company is subject to potential trade tariffs that could impact the cost and availability of critical aerospace components.
Valuation comparison
Firefly Aerospace appears to be the more conservatively valued option based on its lower Forward P/E relative to future earnings estimates.
The P/S ratio, which measures market value against sales over the past twelve months, also helps distinguish these two space firms.
Metric
AST SpaceMobile
Firefly Aerospace
Forward P/E
269.5x
21.9x
P/S ratio
149.2x
12.7x
Valuation metrics sourced from Financial Modeling Prep (FMP) and may differ from other data providers.
Which stock would I buy in 2026?
AST SpaceMobile expects its space-based network to give it a significant business in a few years. Essentially, AST SpaceMobile is a direct-to-device play, providing full mobile phone compatibility with major carriers without the need for specialized equipment. Many of its potential clients are also equity holders in the company, including AT&T, Verizon, Vodafone, Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG), American Tower (NYSE:AMT), Bell Canada, Telus (NYSE:TU), and Rakuten in Japan.
By the end of the year, the company should have 45 satellites, which will allow it to fully service the U.S., and that should start to supercharge revenue growth. For fiscal 2026, Wall Street sees $149 million in sales, jumping to $725 million the following year, when the company is projected to turn its first modest profit. Free cash flow appears much more manageable, with analysts expecting positive free cash flow in 2029.
Firefly went public in an initial public offering a little more than a year ago at $45 a share. Shares have spent much of the past year below that mark, reflecting typical post-IPO volatility.
More important is the company's recent business success. Firefly Aerospace is the only private company to achieve a successful lunar landing, doing so in March 2025 with its Blue Ghost Mission I. The success of that effort has ingratiated Firefly with NASA, which sent 10 payloads to the Moon with last year's mission. The company now plans annual missions to the Moon to deliver payloads for NASA as part of the agency's goal of constructing a permanent lunar base. Exciting stuff, and considering the attention the Space Exploration Technologies (NASDAQ:SPCX) IPO has been bringing to space businesses, that can only be another positive for Firefly.
While future projections are inherently speculative, Wall Street analysts expect Firefly to top $440 million this year and reach $1 billion in annual revenue in its fiscal 2028.
Both stocks are exciting opportunities to invest in space-based enterprises, but AST SpaceMobile looks just too rich right now given its forward P/E ratio and its P/S ratio. Firefly, much more reasonable with a forward P/E under 22, is the better buy in 2026.
Should you buy stock in AST SpaceMobile right now?
Before you buy stock in AST SpaceMobile, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and AST SpaceMobile wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $373,352!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,406,241!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 933% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 212% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of September 29, 2026.
Brendan Coffey has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends AST SpaceMobile, Alphabet, American Tower, Firefly Aerospace, and Lockheed Martin. The Motley Fool recommends TELUS, Verizon Communications, and Vodafone Group Public. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

AST SpaceMobile vs. Firefly Aerospace: Which Space Infrastructure Stock Is a Better Buy in 2026?

Key Points
The disposition involved 12,000 shares at a weighted average price of $58.89 per share, totaling ~$707,000.
The transaction size was equal to 3% of the equity stake held before the filing.
The sale was comprised entirely of directly held Class A Common Stock.
The activity occurred during a period where the stock recorded a 47% one-year return as of the September 16, 2026 transaction date.
Chief Operating Officer Shanti B. Gupta sold 12,000 shares of AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (NASDAQ:ASTS) on September 16, 2026, according to a recent SEC Form 4 filing.
Transaction summary
Transaction value
~$707,000
Shares sold
12,000
Post-transaction shares (directly held)
462,980
Post-transaction value
$27.44 million
Transaction value based on SEC Form 4 weighted average sale price ($58.89); post-transaction value based on September 16, 2026 market close ($59.27).
Key questions
What were the execution details of the transaction?
The shares were sold in multiple transactions at prices ranging from $58.87 to $58.93 per share. This weighted average execution of $58.89 occurred just below the September 16, 2026 market close of $59.27.
What is the insider's remaining equity exposure?
Following the sale, Shanti Gupta maintains direct ownership of 462,980 shares of Class A Common Stock. This remaining position has a market value of $29.03 million as of the September 17, 2026 market close.
How does this sale relate to the company's current valuation?
The transaction was executed with the company's market capitalization at $25.5 billion. AST SpaceMobile continues to operate its satellite-based cellular broadband network, which is designed to provide mobile internet access to remote locations without terrestrial coverage.
What is the broader ownership context for the company?
Insiders collectively hold 0.15% of the company. The recent 47% one-year return reflects performance through the transaction date for the Midland-based telecommunications services provider.
Company Overview
Share Price (as of market close 2026-09-17)
$62.71
Market Capitalization
$25.5 billion
Revenue (TTM)
$115.3 million
Net Income (TTM)
-$618.8 million
Company Snapshot
AST SpaceMobile operates a satellite-based cellular broadband network that delivers mobile internet access directly to standard mobile phones, with primary revenue generation through its SpaceMobile service offering connectivity to underserved and remote regions globally.
The company's business model centers on establishing and maintaining a proprietary satellite constellation infrastructure that enables direct-to-device cellular connectivity, generating revenue through service subscriptions and partnerships with mobile network operators seeking to expand coverage into previously unserved areas.
The company targets consumers and enterprises in remote locations, maritime environments, and international markets lacking traditional terrestrial mobile coverage, as well as aviation passengers requiring in-flight connectivity solutions.
AST SpaceMobile is a satellite communications infrastructure provider with a market cap of $25.5 billion, positioning itself as a transformative technology in global telecommunications connectivity. The company is in a capital-intensive growth phase, with TTM revenue of $115.3 million offset by significant net losses of $618.8 million as it scales its satellite constellation and service deployment.
The company's competitive differentiation lies in its direct-to-device satellite technology, which eliminates the need for specialized ground equipment and enables seamless integration with existing mobile devices across underserved geographies.
What this transaction means for investors
AST SpaceMobile COO Shanti Gupta's September 16 sale of company stock came after a one-year return of 47% as of his transaction date. Given the robust return, it makes sense he would dispose of some shares in this market-timed discretionary transaction, although that's little comfort to shareholders who have seen the stock plummet from a 52-week high of $133.86.
Post-disposal, Gupta retains 462,980 directly-held shares. This is a sizable equity stake, ensuring his continued alignment with shareholder interests.
AST SpaceMobile's stock has fallen since the one-year high reached in May as its revenue growth has not kept pace with its rapidly rising costs. In the second quarter, the company reported sales of $31.5 million, a strong improvement over the prior year's $1.2 million. However, its Q2 operating expenses skyrocketed to $329.1 million, leading to a massive net loss of $230.9 million compared to a $99.4 million loss in 2025.
Should you buy stock in AST SpaceMobile right now?
Before you buy stock in AST SpaceMobile, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and AST SpaceMobile wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $383,680!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,382,954!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 937% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 214% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of September 26, 2026.
Robert Izquierdo has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends AST SpaceMobile. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

AST SpaceMobile COO Dumps 12,000 Shares for $707,000 Amid a 47% One-Year Return

Key Points
AST SpaceMobile is building a satellite-based broadband network, but it recently delayed the launch of 45 satellites.
The company also raised an additional $1.15 billion, bringing its liquidity position to around $3.7 billion.
AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ: ASTS) is taking on Space Exploration Technologies (NASDAQ: SPCX) and its Starlink service. That's a tall task, given that SpaceX has a fully functioning satellite network and AST SpaceMobile is still building its network out. With the launch delay of 45 satellites until 2027, AST SpaceMobile shareholders should worry about whether there's enough cash on hand to fund the business. Management is already on it.
AST SpaceMobile is behind, but ready to hit the ground running
While AST SpaceMobile doesn't have its planned satellite network fully up and running yet, its technology works with existing cellphones. And it has agreements with large cellphone service providers to offer the satellite service to their customers. That gives AST SpaceMobile a built-in customer base for when it finally offers a robust service. The problem is getting from here to there, since building and launching satellites isn't easy.
Missed AI’s "Act 1"? Act 2 Could Be 15x Bigger. Most investors think they missed the AI boat because they didn't buy Nvidia in 2005. But according to our analysts, we’re only at the end of "Act 1"—the R&D phase. "Act 2" is the global rollout. Continue »
The company is aware that it needs cash, which is why it raised $1.15 billion via a convertible bond sale after the second quarter ended. According to the company, this brings its liquidity position up to $3.7 billion. That's good because the company ate through roughly $145 million with its operating activities in the first half of 2026, and another $1 billion was spent on capital investments (building satellites is really expensive).
At this rate of spend, AST SpaceMobile's $3.7 billion will last about a year and a half. That might be an aggressive view, since the company used only about $1.6 billion in cash for operating and investing activities in 2025. But, even then, the cash it has today would only last a bit over two years. The good news is that, regardless of whether you take the more stringent or more generous view of cash use here, the company is likely to have more than enough cash to get its 45 satellites into orbit.
Should you buy stock in AST SpaceMobile right now?
Before you buy stock in AST SpaceMobile, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and AST SpaceMobile wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $389,154!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,406,303!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 949% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 214% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of September 23, 2026.
Reuben Gregg Brewer has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends AST SpaceMobile. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

AST SpaceMobile Pushed Commercial Launch to 2027. Here's How Long Its Cash Lasts Until Then

Key Points
AST SpaceMobile is targeting 45 to 60 satellites by the end of 2026, with a larger deployment planned for early 2027.
Beta service with AT&T and Verizon could give investors their first real test of AST's technology at scale.
A partnership with Rakuten in Japan adds a second growth market and up to $1 billion in government-backed funding.
The space industry could be entering a new growth phase, and AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ: ASTS) is one of the most interesting companies to watch. With its satellite network expanding and direct-to-device service increasingly a reality, AST has several major catalysts ahead. If those catalysts play out, the stock could distinguish itself as one of the sector's top performers heading into 2027.
For years, AST has largely been a prove-it story, centered on whether it can launch enough satellites to deliver meaningful cellular coverage and turn that technology into a viable business. The company is already clearing many of those hurdles.
Missed AI’s "Act 1"? Act 2 Could Be 15x Bigger. Most investors think they missed the AI boat because they didn't buy Nvidia in 2005. But according to our analysts, we’re only at the end of "Act 1"—the R&D phase. "Act 2" is the global rollout. Continue »
AST has successfully launched its next-generation BlueBird satellites, including three in August, bringing the total number of BlueBird spacecraft launched to 13.
The bigger opportunity has yet to come. AST has pushed its target for a larger satellite deployment to early 2027, meaning the coming year could be when investors finally see whether the company can scale its network. Perhaps more importantly, AST is already showing meaningful progress on that front today.
The company says it's targeting to launch between 45 and 60 satellites by the end of 2026. Meanwhile, additional satellites are already in different stages of production. That means AST is moving closer to the coverage and capacity that a commercially useful network needs.
With more satellites coming online, AST is getting closer to putting its technology into the hands of real users.
AST moves closer to launching beta service
The next major catalyst is actual customer usage. AST is preparing a beta service with select mobile network partners, starting with AT&T and Verizon.
The company has already activated thousands of digital cells across the U.S. as it prepares its service. That could be a major turning point for the investment thesis. Until now, much of the bull case for AST has rested on whether its technology can work at scale. As a result, a successful beta service would finally give investors something tangible to evaluate.
Not only that, the company already has agreements with more than 60 mobile network operators covering billions of subscribers, giving it a distribution network that would be extremely difficult for a smaller space company to replace on its own. But AST doesn't need to convince billions of consumers to download a new app or buy a new device. The mobile operators already have the customers; AST is simply providing the network in space to serve them.
And beyond the U.S., AST could expand into another key market.
Japan could become a second major market
AST and Rakuten were selected for Japan's J-LEO initiative, which is expected to receive as much as $1 billion in government capital. That funding could support satellite communications infrastructure in Japan without leaning too heavily on AST's own finances.
AST says the partnership is part of its broader push to establish direct-to-device service in Japan. That matters because Japan gives AST another large, developed telecom market, with applications ranging from rural coverage to emergency communications. It could also give investors proof that the business model works outside the U.S.
If the Rakuten service launches as planned and J-LEO progresses, Japan could become a key market, creating another growth engine beyond the U.S. It could also prove that AST's business model can scale internationally, adding new revenue sources as its satellite network expands.
With a growing constellation, a real shot at beta service, and now an international foothold taking shape, the pieces are starting to line up.
Why AST could be the top space stock of 2027
AST SpaceMobile is entering 2027 with several catalysts lining up: a growing satellite constellation, beta service, and international expansion. If the company executes well and turns its technology into a working commercial network, the market could start valuing AST very differently, which is exactly why this could be the best-performing space stock of the year.
Should you buy stock in AST SpaceMobile right now?
Before you buy stock in AST SpaceMobile, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and AST SpaceMobile wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $387,158!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,365,749!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 932% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 211% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of September 22, 2026.
Rick Orford has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends AST SpaceMobile. The Motley Fool recommends Verizon Communications. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Prediction: AST SpaceMobile Will Be the Best-Performing Space Stock of 2027

InterDigital, Inc. IDCC recently raised its quarterly dividend, signaling confidence in its cash-generation capabilities despite persistent market volatility and uncertain business conditions. Strong licensing momentum, record recurring revenues and an upbeat 2026 outlook strengthen the investment case. However, elevated volatility warrants some caution.
Dividend Hike Reflects Financial Confidence
InterDigital raised its quarterly cash dividend 7.1% to 75 cents per share from 70 cents. The increased payout will take effect in the fourth quarter of 2026, with the next dividend scheduled to be paid out on Oct. 28 to shareholders of record as of Oct. 14. The hike takes the annualized dividend to $3 per share.
The latest increase continues IDCC’s shareholder-friendly approach. Its quarterly payout was just 45 cents at the beginning of 2025 before multiple increases pushed it to the current level. While IDCC’s forward dividend yield of about 0.9% is not particularly high, steadily increasing payouts underscore management’s confidence in the durability of its licensing-driven cash flows.
Licensing Momentum Bodes Well
InterDigital’s fundamentals remain encouraging. Annualized recurring revenues reached a record $625.7 million in the second quarter of 2026, up 13% year over year. Momentum was aided by an agreement with Amazon.com, Inc. AMZN, which expanded IDCC’s exposure to streaming and cloud services.
Buoyed by stronger business momentum, management raised its 2026 revenue guidance to $775-$845 million from $675-$775 million. Adjusted EBITDA is projected between $469 million and $529 million, while non-GAAP earnings are expected in the range of $10.85-$12.81 per share.
The expansion beyond traditional smartphone licensing into streaming, cloud, IoT and connected-device markets should also diversify InterDigital’s long-term revenue opportunities.
IDCC shares have gained 3.7% over the past six months against the industry’s decline of 3.4%. It has outperformed peers like AST SpaceMobile, Inc. ASTS and Ericsson ERIC over this period. ASTS has plummeted 33.8% and Ericsson is down 10.1%.
Six-Month IDCC Stock Price Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Estimate Trend
Earnings estimates for IDCC for 2026 have moved up 27.1% to $11.15 over the past 60 days. The positive estimate revision signals bullish sentiment about the stock’s growth potential and suggests improving business momentum.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Should You Buy IDCC Now?
InterDigital’s rising dividend, record recurring revenues and expanding licensing opportunities portray an encouraging fundamental picture. The landmark Amazon agreement, expansion into streaming, cloud and IoT markets and significantly raised 2026 guidance offer compelling reasons to remain optimistic. Rising earnings estimates further suggest that analysts are becoming more bullish about InterDigital’s long-term growth prospects.
IDCC currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
With a favorable Zacks Rank and solid demand trends, InterDigital appears primed for healthy long-term growth. Consequently, investors seeking exposure to wireless, video, AI and connected-device licensing opportunities may consider buying the stock on market pullbacks.
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Key Points
AST SpaceMobile is building the first space-based cellular broadband network designed to connect directly to standard smartphones.
Redwire provides a broad range of mission-critical space infrastructure and hardware for government and commercial customers.
Which of these two space-tech players offers the better risk-to-reward balance for your 2026 portfolio?
The space economy is expanding rapidly, leaving many investors wondering which companies will lead the next frontier. Choosing between AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ:ASTS) and Redwire Corp (NYSE:RDW) requires weighing disruptive potential against established infrastructure.
AST SpaceMobile aims to eliminate global dead zones by connecting standard smartphones to satellites. Redwire operates as a diverse supplier of hardware for satellites and space stations. While both belong to the growing group of communication stocks and aerospace firms, their business models offer very different paths to potential growth.
The case for AST SpaceMobile
AST SpaceMobile builds a space-based cellular broadband network that connects standard, unmodified mobile phones directly from space. The company has secured definitive commercial agreements with major partners like AT&T Corp (NYSE:T), Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ), and Vodafone Group (NASDAQ:VOD) to provide direct-to-cellular service. Customer concentration like this adds a layer of risk to the business, as revenue depends on a few heavy hitters.
In FY 2025, revenue reached approximately $70.9 million, a substantial jump from the $4.4 million reported in the prior fiscal year. The company reported a net loss of nearly $342 million for the period. While revenue growth is accelerating as the company begins its commercial rollout, profitability remains a distant goal during this build-out phase.This resulted in a net margin of negative 482%, illustrating the high costs associated with launching a satellite constellation before reaching full operational scale.
The current debt-to-equity ratio is roughly 1.2x, showing the company relies more on debt than equity to fund its operations. Based on the December 2025 balance sheet, the so-called current ratio is roughly 16.4x. This indicates a high level of liquid assets relative to near-term liabilities. Free cash flow, which is cash flow from operations minus capital expenditures, was more than negative $1.1 billion for FY 2025, as the firm invested heavily in its proprietary manufacturing and launch capabilities.
The case for Redwire Corp
Redwire develops mission-critical solutions including spacecraft infrastructure, sensors, and autonomous systems. It serves a diverse customer base where national security agencies account for nearly 47% revenue. The company derives a high percentage of revenue from a limited number of customers, with the top two customers accounting for approximately 39% of total revenue in 2025.
In FY 2025, revenue reached approximately $335.4 million, showing a growth of just about 10% from the previous year. The company reported a net loss of nearly $226.6 million. Net margin, which indicates how much of each dollar of revenue remains after all expenses, for the fiscal year ended in December 2025 was rnegative 68%.
As of its December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio is approximately 0.2x. The so-called current ratio stands at nearly 1.6x, indicating the company has enough assets to cover its immediate liabilities. Free cash flow was roughly around negative $198 million, showing the company is still spending more on capital and operations than it generates in cash.
Risk profile comparison
AST SpaceMobile faces risks related to the developmental nature of its service and potential for delays in satellite production. It competes with well-capitalized entities like Space Exploration Technlogies Corp.'s (NASDAQ:SPCX) Starlink and other satellite operators. The company also faces financial risks including a history of operating losses and uncertainties regarding the pending Ligado transaction.
Redwire relies heavily on U.S. government contracts which are subject to funding volatility and rigorous audits. It faces stiff competition from larger aerospace contractors such as The Boeing Co (NYSE:BA) and Northrop Grumman Corp (NYSE:NOC). Additionally, the company must manage operational complexities from its recent acquisition of Edge Autonomy and address material weaknesses in internal controls.
Valuation comparison
Redwire appears more reasonably priced based on its lower sales multiple, while AST SpaceMobile carries a premium valuation due to its high growth expectations. Neither company has a forward price-to-earnings ratio because they are not anticipated to turn a profit in their coming fiscal years.
Forward P/E
n/a
n/a
P/S ratio
149.3x
4.5x
Valuation metrics sourced from Financial Modeling Prep (FMP) and may differ from other data providers.
Which stock would I buy in 2026?
In April, Redwire was selected as one of 14 vendors (out of a total of 32 bids) on the Space Systems Command $1.8 billion 10-year Andromeda Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity, or IDIQ contract. That's a project to replace aging GPS satellites and upgrade the U.S. space infrastructure to counter emerging threats. The IDIQ win is something management feels moves Redwire 'up the food chain' with the Department of Defense. It could mean significantly more revenue, since U.S. Space Systems Command provided a notice of its intent to raise the total shared ceiling for the Andromeda IDIQ to more than $6 billion to meet increased demand.
In the near-term, Redwire expects fiscal 2026 revenue to come in around $475 million, growth of about 40% over the prior year. In addition, the business has an order backlog of $498 million. The business is still expected to post net losses for the foreseeable future, but they are trending in the right direction.
AST SpaceMobile, meanwhile, expects its space-based network to give it a significant business in a few years. Essentially, AST SpaceMobile is a direct-to-device play to provide full mobile phone compatibility for major carriers without the need for specialized equipment. Many of its potential clients are also equity holders in the company, including AT&T, Verizon, Bell Canada, Rakuten, Vodafone, Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:GOOGL), American Tower Corp,(NYSE:AMT) and Telus Corp (NYSE:TU).
By the end of 2026, the company should have 45 satellites, which will allow it to fully service the U.S., and that should start to supercharge revenue growth. For fiscal 2026, Wall Street sees $149 million in sales, jumping to $725 million the following year, when the company is projected to turn its first modest profit. Free cash flow appears much more manageable, with analysts expecting positive free cash flow in 2029.
Both of these are exciting stocks for the space infrastructure age that is developing, but Redwire gets the nod for its quite reasonable P/S ratio for investors right now under the adage of buy good companies at good prices.
Should you buy stock in AST SpaceMobile right now?
Before you buy stock in AST SpaceMobile, consider this:
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Brendan Coffey has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends AST SpaceMobile, Alphabet, American Tower, and Boeing. The Motley Fool recommends TELUS, Verizon Communications, and Vodafone Group Public. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

AST SpaceMobile vs. Redwire: Which Space Infrastructure Stock Is a Better Buy in 2026?

Looking at options trading activity among components of the Russell 3000 index, there is noteworthy activity today in Bank of America Corp (Symbol: BAC), where a total volume of 205,601 contracts has been traded thus far today, a contract volume which is representative of approximately 20.6 million underlying shares (given that every 1 contract represents 100 underlying shares). That number works out to 68.2% of BAC's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 30.1 million shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $62 strike call option expiring September 18, 2026, with 17,414 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 1.7 million underlying shares of BAC. Below is a chart showing BAC's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $62 strike highlighted in orange:
Strategy Inc (Symbol: MSTR) options are showing a volume of 187,392 contracts thus far today. That number of contracts represents approximately 18.7 million underlying shares, working out to a sizeable 65.6% of MSTR's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 28.6 million shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $140 strike call option expiring September 18, 2026, with 11,457 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 1.1 million underlying shares of MSTR. Below is a chart showing MSTR's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $140 strike highlighted in orange:
And AST SpaceMobile Inc (Symbol: ASTS) options are showing a volume of 61,837 contracts thus far today. That number of contracts represents approximately 6.2 million underlying shares, working out to a sizeable 65.6% of ASTS's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 9.4 million shares. Especially high volume was seen for the $65 strike call option expiring September 18, 2026, with 2,552 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 255,200 underlying shares of ASTS. Below is a chart showing ASTS's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $65 strike highlighted in orange:
For the various different available expirations for BAC options, MSTR options, or ASTS options, visit StockOptionsChannel.com.
Further BAC Research:

Notable Monday Option Activity: BAC, MSTR, ASTS

AST SpaceMobile, Inc. ASTS and Jabil Inc. JBL are key players in the communications-technology ecosystem with exposure to next-generation communications infrastructure. AST SpaceMobile is building the world’s first and only global cellular broadband network in space, accessible directly by standard smartphones (4G-LTE/5G devices) for commercial and government use, leveraging its extensive intellectual property and patent portfolio. The SpaceMobile Service is provided by a constellation of high-powered, large phased-array satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) using low-band and mid-band spectrum controlled by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in areas lacking terrestrial network coverage.
Jabil is one of the largest global suppliers of electronics manufacturing services (EMS) solutions and operates in the broader communications and space-infrastructure ecosystem. It offers advanced manufacturing for networking, communications and space systems.
Let us delve a little deeper into the companies’ competitive dynamics to understand which of the two is relatively better placed in the industry.
The Case for ASTS
AST SpaceMobile is reportedly on track to deploy approximately 45 BlueBird satellites in orbit by early 2027. The company has already deployed 13 commercial satellites (dubbed BlueBird) in LEO, marking a key advancement in developing a space-based mobile network infrastructure. BlueBird 14, 15 and 16 satellites are currently prepared and scheduled to ship for launch, while BlueBird satellites 17 through 46 are in various stages of production and assembly. Utilizing large phased array antennas measuring approximately 2,400 square feet, AST SpaceMobile's technology is backed by more than 3,800 patents and patent-pending claims. This design aims to deliver global cellular coverage by eliminating dead zones and providing space-based connectivity to areas without broadband service.
The SpaceMobile service is compatible with all major brands available in the market and connects directly to everyday mobile phones. It delivers broadband connectivity from space to unmodified mobile devices, providing a service to fill cellular coverage gaps in a differentiated approach compared to other space-based communication services. AST SpaceMobile has partnered with leading carriers such as AT&T Inc. T and Verizon Communications Inc. VZ to tap into a pre-existing pool of cell customers and raise funds to help build a worldwide satellite network. This has enhanced cellular coverage in the United States, essentially eliminating dead zones and empowering remote areas of the country with space-based connectivity.
However, elevated spending has overshadowed the company’s progress in satellite deployment and commercial partnerships. Unfavorable macroeconomic conditions, including rising inflation, higher interest rates, capital market volatility and geopolitical conflicts, have adversely impacted the company’s operations. These have led to continued fluctuations in satellite material prices, resulting in increased capital costs and pressure on the company’s financial performance. In addition, AST SpaceMobile faces severe competition from existing and new industry leaders like SpaceX’s Starlink and Globalstar, which are developing satellite communications technology using LEO constellations. To combat such competitive pressure, ASTS has to continuously customize its network offerings, enhance the cost-effectiveness of its products and services and boost the satellite data networks, which increases operating costs and reduces margins.
The Case for JBL
With a presence across 100 locations in 30 countries, Jabil is likely to gain from secular growth drivers with strong margins and cash flow dynamics. Moreover, its unmatched end-market experience, technical and design capabilities, manufacturing know-how, supply-chain insights and global product management expertise have put it in good stead.
Management’s focus on improving working capital management and integrating sophisticated AI and ML capabilities to enhance the efficiency of its internal processes is a major tailwind. Jabil’s top line is expected to benefit from strength in AI data center infrastructure, capital equipment and warehouse automation markets. The company is likely to gain from the rapid adoption of 5G wireless and cloud computing in the long run. It is benefiting from solid demand in key end markets, together with excellent operational execution and skillful management of supply-chain dynamics.
However, Jabil operates in a highly competitive environment, facing competition from both domestic and international electronic manufacturers, manufacturing service providers and designers like Sanmina Corporation SANM. The tense geopolitical situation between the United States and China, and the wars in Europe and the Middle East remain headwinds. Against the backdrop of this global uncertainty, low demand in some consumer-centric markets is negatively impacting its margins.
How Do Zacks Estimates Compare for ASTS & JBL?
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for AST SpaceMobile’s 2026 sales implies year-over-year growth of 129.2%, while that of EPS suggests a decline of 69.4%. The EPS estimates have been lowered 53.4% over the past 60 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for JBL’s 2026 sales indicates year-over-year growth of 17.3%, while that for EPS suggests an improvement of 30.7%. The EPS estimates have remained stable at $12.74 over the past 60 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Price Performance & Valuation of ASTS & JBL
Over the past year, AST SpaceMobile has gained 54.7% compared with the industry’s growth of 21.8%. JBL has surged 41.4% over the same period.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
JBL looks more attractive than AST SpaceMobile from a valuation standpoint. Going by the price/sales ratio, JBL’s shares currently trade at 0.75 forward sales, significantly lower than AST SpaceMobile’s 44.49.
ASTS or JBL: Which is a Better Pick?
Both AST SpaceMobile and JBL carry a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Both companies expect their sales to improve in 2026. However, ASTS’ earnings are likely to decline significantly, while JBL’s bottom line is expected to witness modest growth. JBL has shown relatively steady revenue growth for years, while AST SpaceMobile has been facing a bumpy road. In terms of price performance, AST SpaceMobile has outperformed JBL but is trading at a premium compared to the latter. With improved estimate revisions, JBL is relatively better placed than AST SpaceMobile and seems to be a better investment option at the moment.
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AST SpaceMobile vs. Jabil: Which Connectivity Stock is a Better Buy?

Key Points
AST’s stock has risen more than fivefold since its market debut.
It could soar higher as it expands its constellation of LEO satellites.
AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ: ASTS), a developer of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, went public through a merger with a special purpose acquisition company in April 2021. It's risen more than fivefold since its market debut, but could it deliver millionaire-making gains?
Why did AST's stock soar?
AST's LEO satellites, which are much larger than SpaceX's (NASDAQ: SPCX) Starlink satellites, help telecom companies expand their wireless networks to remote areas. It's launched 13 of its BlueBird satellites so far, and 12 of them are currently in orbit.
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AST aims to expand its constellation to 45 satellites by early 2027, and to more than 248 satellites over the next few years. It's already working with more than 60 carriers worldwide, including AT&T and Verizon, to reach over 3 billion wireless subscribers.
AST's backlog reached $1.3 billion at the end of the second quarter of 2026, which is equivalent to nearly eight times its projected revenue of $169 million for the full year. By 2028, analysts expect its revenue to reach $1.73 billion as more carriers use satellite-based connections.
But with a market cap of $18.7 billion, AST already trades at 11 times its 2028 sales. It could deliver multibagger gains over the next decade as it expands, but it probably won't turn a fresh $10,000 investment into $1 million with a 100-bagger gain. Instead, investors should consider it a volatile -- but promising play -- on the nascent market for LEO satellites.
Should you buy stock in AST SpaceMobile right now?
Before you buy stock in AST SpaceMobile, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and AST SpaceMobile wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $421,997!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,413,876!*
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Leo Sun has positions in Verizon Communications. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends AST SpaceMobile. The Motley Fool recommends Verizon Communications. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Founded in 1993 in Alexandria, VA., by brothers David and Tom Gardner, The Motley Fool is a multimedia financial-services company dedicated to building the world's greatest investment community. Reaching millions of people each month through its website, books, newspaper column, radio show, television appearances, and subscription newsletter services, The Motley Fool champions shareholder values and advocates tirelessly for the individual investor. The company's name was taken from Shakespeare, whose wise fools both instructed and amused, and could speak the truth to the king -- without getting their heads lopped off.