Vodafone Group Public Limited Company provides telecommunication services in Europe and internationally. It offers mobile connectivity services comprising end-to-end services for mobile voice and data, messaging, device management, BYOx, and telecoms management, as well as professional and consulting services; and fixed line connectivity, such as fixed voice and data, broadband, software-defined networks, managed WAN, LAN, ethernet, and satellite; and financial services, as well as business and merchant services. The company also provides consumer Internet of Things (IoT) propositions, as well as security and insurance products; mobile services; logistics, fleet management, and smart metering services; WiFi; digital services comprising mobile application development, multi-access edge computing, worker insights, AI assistant, drone detection, visual inspection, and mixed reality, as well as Vodafone Analytics platform; and traditional IT hosting services, including colocation, managed hosting, security, hosting infrastructure, and flexible computing for government. In addition, it offers integrated business communication services, as well as fixed mobile convergence services; and carrier services, as well as IoT devices comprising managed tablets and integrated terminals. Further, it offers M-Pesa, an African mobile money platform to make payments and provide financial services; Vodafone Business multi-cloud platform; and productivity solutions, as well as operates digital cloud-based television platforms. It serves private and public sector customers in the manufacturing, retail, automotive, banking finance, healthcare, smart cities and public, agriculture, transport and logistics, and energy and utilities management industries. It offers its products and services through digital and physical channels. Vodafone Group Public Limited Company has a strategic partnership with Open Fiber. The company was incorporated in 1984 and is based in Newbury, the United Kingdom.

Vodafone Group Plc демонстрирует слабые фундаментальные показатели по сравнению с отраслевыми медиа-данными. Основные мультипликаторы, такие как P/E и P/S, отсутствуют, что затрудняет оценку. Тем не менее, долговая нагрузка компании превышает медианные значения, что указывает на потенциальные риски для инвесторов. Уровень ROE, ROA и чистая прибыль остаются на нуле, что также вызывает беспокойство. Дивидендная доходность снизилась в последние годы, что может повлиять на привлекательность акций. Напротив, текущий и быстрый коэффициенты находятся выше медианных значений, что свидетельствует о ликвидности компании. Однако отсутствие роста в выручке и операционной прибыли указывает на необходимость пересмотра бизнес-стратегий. В общем, текущая финансовая картина компании вызывает негативные ожидания, что сказывается на целевой цене акций.

Vodafone Group Plc

Key Points
All eyes are on SpaceX's upcoming IPO, but there are already two strong buys among space stocks out there.
AST SpaceMobile is quickly commercializing its satellite-based cellular broadband network.
While better known for its space launch division, Rocket Lab's main business and key opportunity is with its space systems segment.
Investors are champing at the bit about SpaceX's upcoming initial public offering (IPO), but trying to get in early on Elon Musk's space exploration venture isn't the only way to profit from the "final frontier" of investing.
In fact, there are several space stocks currently trading in the public markets that, irrespective of SpaceX going public, have strong long-term prospects. That said, the SpaceX IPO itself could serve as an additional catalyst for these names, as increased attention toward the private space exploration sector may lead to a broad rally.
Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue »
Among this group, the following two stand out as compelling space stock opportunities: AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ: ASTS) and RocketLab (NASDAQ: RKLB).
AST SpaceMobile is ready for liftoff, as commercialization commences
Space-based telecommunications is one of the strongest opportunities among satellite stocks and rocket stocks. While there may be numerous ways to invest, looking at companies that can deliver phone and internet service from outer space may be one of the best opportunities for immediate profitability.
AAST SpaceMobile is primarily focused on commercializing its space satellite-based cellular broadband network. The company has partnerships with several telecom companies, including AT&T, Verizon, and Vodafone.
AST SpaceMobile generated $4.4 million in revenue in 2024, growing that to $70.9 million in 2025. In the years ahead, however, revenue and profitability could increase exponentially. The consensus analyst forecast calls for the company to reach $777 million in revenue next year. Earnings per share (EPS) could reach nearly $4 by 2029. Execution risk notwithstanding, given this potential and additional upside from further commercialization efforts, AST SpaceMobile appears well worth the risk at current prices.
Rocket Lab is vying to become a space hardware leader
Rocket Lab may be best known for its launch services division, but the launching of commercial and government satellites represents just a portion of the company's overall business. Rocket Lab's ambitions may seem limited compared to those of SpaceX, but it's still looking to become a space hardware leader.
For years, sales for the company's space systems unit have dwarfed those of the launch unit. Both units continue to grow at a healthy clip. Last year, the launch segment grew by nearly 40%, while the space systems segment grew by just over 34%. However, when it comes to contract backlog, it's all about increasing orders for the company's spacecraft systems and satellite components.
At first glance, Rocket Lab's long-term plans may seem already highly factored into the stock's valuation. Despite not yet reaching profitability, the company has a $48 billion market cap and trades for over 73 times its trailing-12-month sales. Even so, analysts expect annualized sales growth to remain in the mid double digits during this year and the next. As sales scale up and Rocket Lab soars toward profitability, shares are likely to stay on their current upward trajectory.
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 $524,786!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,236,406!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 994% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 199% 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 April 20, 2026.
Thomas Niel has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends AST SpaceMobile and Rocket Lab. The Motley Fool recommends Verizon Communications and Vodafone Group Public. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

2 Space Stocks That Are Quietly Becoming Some of the Market's Best Opportunities

Key Points
SpaceX's IPO could be the biggest in history, with the company targeting a valuation of up to $2 trillion.
Other space stocks could benefit from the attention on the industry.
AST SpaceMobile is just starting to commercialize its business and has signed on a number of major telecoms.
SpaceX is preparing to go public, and it could be the biggest IPO in history.
Elon Musk's space company filed confidentially to go public last week, and SpaceX is reportedly targeting a valuation of as much as $2 trillion and could raise $75 billion from the offering.
Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue »
The company is more than just rockets. SpaceX owns the Starlink satellite broadband business, as well as the social media site X and xAI, following the merger between SpaceX and xAI in February, which valued the combined company at $1.25 billion. Elon Musk has big plans for SpaceX's future as well, including sending data centers into space and eventually reaching Mars.
Investors can't buy shares of SpaceX on the open market yet, though there are ways to get exposure to the company.
However, SpaceX's entry into the public market is likely to shake up other stocks in the space industry and beyond, meaning there could be opportunities for investors before the stock hits the trading floor.
One stock that could be a winner is AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ: ASTS), and it could get a tailwind as soon as SpaceX's S-1 prospectus comes out, which is expected later in April or early May.
Why AST SpaceMobile could be a winner
AST SpaceMobile is one of the biggest publicly traded satellite broadband companies by market cap, and it's just getting ready to commercialize its business.
The company is planning to put 45 to 60 of its Bluebird satellites into orbit this year, and it specializes in direct-to-device cellular broadband service for standard smartphones, making it a direct competitor to Starlink.
I don't expect AST to catch up to Starlink, which is the leader in satellite broadband, but it doesn't have to. Instead, I think there's a good chance that SpaceX's debut will create a halo effect for other satellite broadband companies like AST, sparking investor interest in the sector as they get a clearer view of how big the potential market is.
It could also make it easier for AST to raise capital through the equity and debt markets as SpaceX establishes a precedent for its peers.
What we might learn from SpaceX's S-1
SpaceX hasn't publicly released any formal financial reports, but some of its numbers have been reported in the media. According to Reuters, the company brought in $15 billion-$16 billion in revenue last year, the vast majority of that coming from Starlink, and around $8 billion in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA).
In other words, Starlink is the anchor of the company's $2 trillion valuation, meaning it's trading at a huge multiple based on its results. In the filing, SpaceX is likely to hype all aspects of its business, and that includes Starlink. Investors will get a better sense of where Musk & co. see the satellite broadband industry going and what they think is possible for it in the filing. It will also shed further light on Starlink's financial performance and prospects.
While investor reaction to SpaceX's S-1 will depend on the numbers, the document is intended to sell shares of the company to investors by design, and management is likely to hype the opportunity in front of it.
Can AST take advantage?
AST appears to be in the best position to take advantage of any additional investor interest in the satellite broadband industry. It's already signed up major telecom partners, including Verizon, AT&T, Vodafone, Telus, and Japan's Rakuten, and its revenue, while still small, is expected to grow by triple digits this year and next.
AST is much smaller than Starlink, but it has some competitive advantages, including its partnership with major telecoms and the fact that consumers don't need any special hardware to use it, unlike Starlink, which requires a terminal dish.
AST now has an opportunity to take advantage of the investor interest in satellite broadband, and with its business just starting to gain momentum, the timing could be perfect.
We don't know when SpaceX will file its S-1, but if investor reaction to the report is positive, that could give a significant boost to AST SpaceMobile as well.
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 $532,929!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,091,848!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 928% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 186% 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 April 9, 2026.
Jeremy Bowman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends AST SpaceMobile. The Motley Fool recommends TELUS, Verizon Communications, and Vodafone Group Public. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Prediction: This Stock Could Soar When SpaceX's S-1 Drops

Key Points
AST plans to expand its LEO satellite constellation over the next few years.
But its near-term gains could be limited in this wobbly market.
AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ: ASTS), a producer of low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites, saw its stock soar by more than 3,000% over the past two years. Let's see why it skyrocketed and whether it's still worth chasing this year in this unpredictable market.
Why did AST SpaceMobile's stock blast off?
AST's LEO satellites can beam 2G, 4G, and 5G cellular signals directly to mobile devices. It helps telecom leaders -- including AT&T (NYSE: T), Verizon (NYSE: VZ), and Vodafone (NASDAQ: VOD) -- extend their wireless networks to rural areas that terrestrial cellular towers can't reach. The U.S. Missile Defense Agency also recently chose AST as a prime contractor for its Scalable Homeland Innovative Enterprise Layered Defense (SHIELD) program.
Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue »
When AST went public by merging with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) five years ago, it was considered a speculative space stock. But in 2024, it finally launched its first five Block 1 BlueBird (BB1) commercial satellites. Last December, it launched its first four Block 2 BlueBird (BB2) satellites, which are 3.5 times larger but process roughly ten times more data.
AST aims to have 45-60 satellites in orbit by the end of 2026 and expand that constellation to more than 240 satellites over the long term. However, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) hasn't approved that massive expansion yet.
Can AST SpaceMobile maintain that momentum?
From 2024 to 2025, AST's revenue surged from $4 million to $71 million as it launched its BB1 and BB2 satellites for its telecom customers. But it's still unprofitable, and its expenses are soaring as it scales its business and launches more satellites.
From 2025 to 2028, analysts expect its revenue to surge to $1.92 billion. They also expect its adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) to turn positive in 2027 and nearly quadruple to $1.30 billion in 2028 as economies of scale kick in.
That bullish outlook hinges on the FCC's approval of its expanded satellite constellation, its SHIELD contract, and new telecom and government contracts. But with a market cap of $28.1 billion, AST already trades at 15 times its projected 2028 sales.
That valuation might seem reasonable relative to its long-term growth potential, but a single delay could drive away the bulls and cut its stock in half. As a result, AST could remain out of favor this year as the Iran War and other macro headwinds drive investors toward safer stocks. So while AST is still worth nibbling on as a long-term space play, I wouldn't go all-in just yet.
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 $497,659!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,095,404!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 912% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 185% 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 March 26, 2026.
Leo Sun has positions in Verizon Communications. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends AST SpaceMobile. The Motley Fool recommends Verizon Communications and Vodafone Group Public. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Amid High Profile Deals, Is AST SpaceMobile's Stock a Buy in 2026?

(RTTNews) - Swisscom (SCMN.SW) said Fastweb + Vodafone has given notice of termination of the Master Service Agreement with Infrastrutture Wireless Italiane, or INWIT. The decision to terminate the MSA stems from INWIT's tower costs being above market level. Fastweb + Vodafone confirmed that all actions undertaken are in full compliance with the Master Service Agreement, including the right to terminate the agreement with two years' prior notice, effective end of March?2028. Also, Fastweb + Vodafone has filed an action before the competent courts to assert its contractual right to terminate the MSA.
Fastweb + Vodafone will initiate talks with INWIT to agree on a migration plan that will span over multiple years as per the provisions of the MSA and to ensure operational continuity until and after March 2028.
Swisscom shares are trading at 698.00 Swiss francs, down 0.43%.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Fastweb + Vodafone To Terminate MSA With INWIT; To Initiate Talks On Migration Plan

Key Points
Alphabet, Google's parent company, was an early investor in AST SpaceMobile and currently holds 8.9 million shares.
AST SpaceMobile is a satellite company looking to provide global cellular coverage from low Earth orbit.
It aims to launch a constellation of 45 to 60 satellites for continuous coverage in key markets by the end of the year.
Many investors may know Alphabet (NASDAQ: GOOG)(NASDAQ: GOOGL) as the parent company of Google, YouTube, and its artificial intelligence (AI) model, Gemini. But the company also has an investment arm that invests in high-growth companies across AI, healthcare, infrastructure, and even space.
The technology giant has a portfolio of 29 stocks, according to its most recent 13F filing, and the space company AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ: ASTS) tops the list as its largest public stock investment, with 8.9 million shares worth $903 million as of this writing. Here's what investors need to know about the satellite company and Alphabet's investment in it.
Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue »
Alphabet was an early investor in AST SpaceMobile
AST SpaceMobile is an early-stage satellite company that has moved past research and development and into commercial operations. The company is developing a global cellular-broadband network in low Earth orbit to provide high-speed connectivity to standard mobile devices.
Alphabet first invested in AST SpaceMobile through convertible notes in early 2024. Alphabet, along with AT&T and Vodafone, was an early investor in these convertible notes, which were convertible into common stock at $5.75 per share.
As part of the agreement, AST SpaceMobile could force conversion if the stock price traded at 130% above the conversion price for 30 days, which it did in early 2025. As a result, the company told shareholders, including Alphabet, that it would convert these notes into nearly 26 million shares. Alphabet's portion of this represented the 8.9 million shares that it continues to hold today.
In recent years, the company has secured major commercial and government contracts with 50 mobile operators that serve 3 billion subscribers worldwide. It has also secured contracts with the U.S. government, including a $43 million contract to support the Space Development Agency (SDA) and a $20 million contract with the Defense Innovation Unit through a prime contractor to support communications over land, sea, and air.
What's next for AST SpaceMobile in 2026
AST SpaceMobile has done a good job securing major deals with communications providers and the U.S. government. Next up for the satellite operator will be deploying its satellite constellation to enable continuous coverage across key markets in the U.S., Europe, and Japan. To accomplish this, the company aims to have between 45 and 60 satellites in orbit by the end of this year.
So far, the company has deployed six of its BlueBird satellites into space. Five of those are its smaller satellites with a 693 square-foot communications array. At the end of last year, the company launched its sixth satellite, a next-generation 2,400 square-foot model that is currently the largest communications satellite array deployed in low Earth orbit. A seventh satellite was encapsulated with Blue Origin's New Glenn launch vehicle, which was scheduled to launch this month.
Longer term, AST SpaceMobile aims to build a constellation of satellites providing continuous coverage across key markets, with the goal of deploying 90 to 100 satellites in low Earth orbit. Getting there will require significant capital, as each BlueBird satellite costs between $21 million and $23 million.
The good news for investors is that AST SpaceMobile has built up its war chest. At the end of last year, the company had nearly $2.8 billion in cash and equivalents. It raised another $1 billion in February through convertible senior notes and has $80 million in liquidity remaining under its existing at-the-money equity facility.
Is AST SpaceMobile stock right for you?
Looking ahead, analysts covering the stock expect AST SpaceMobile to generate $178 million in revenue this year, $805 million in 2027, and $2 billion by 2028. Those analysts also expect the company to turn a full-year profit by 2028.
AST SpaceMobile has strengthened its balance sheet, and management told investors during its most recentearnings callthat it is now fully funded to manufacture and launch a constellation of 100 satellites, which would be enough to provide continuous cell service across the globe. The fact that the company is now fully funded is a good sign for investors.
That said, the stock isn't cheap by any means, and it currently trades at 155 times this year's projected sales and around 81 times the company's projected 2028 earnings. For that reason, AST SpaceMobile stock is best left to aggressive investors betting on its growth ahead who can stomach the volatility that comes with it.
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 $534,008!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,090,073!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 949% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 192% 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 March 7, 2026.
Courtney Carlsen has positions in Alphabet. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends AST SpaceMobile and Alphabet. The Motley Fool recommends Vodafone Group Public. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Alphabet Owns 8.9 Million Shares of This Hot Space Stock. Is It a Buy?

AT&T, Inc. T introduces a Connected AI solution to expedite smart manufacturing processes. The Connected AI solution features advanced, Gen AI-powered modeling and analytics.
The solution finds out bottlenecks in the process, identifies root causes and also provides recommendations to fix them. Its integrated edge AI monitors the effectiveness of machines, figures out faults, and provides actionable insights and optimized maintenance planning. The solution comes with predictive maintenance that helps prevent problems and reduce downtime.
The solution’s AI-powered cybersecurity swiftly flags any issues, and speeds up detection and threat minimization processes. Gen-AI-powered knowledge management feature retains and retrieves institutional knowledge and uses the technical know-how at the right places to streamline operations. The feature addresses one of the key issues of the manufacturing companies, which is the loss of vast knowledge when a long-term employee retires.
The lack of a unified data sharing system and disjointed operations led to delayed insights, and reactive maintenance led to high downtime and inefficient manufacturing practices. AT&T’s leading-edge platform, which integrates 5G, edge AI and a generative AI platform, effectively addresses these issues.
The company has collaborated with industry leaders, such as MicroAI, NVIDIA and Microsoft in this venture. NVIDIA is offering fast video analytics and conversational AI capabilities. Generative AI at the edge is powered by Microsoft’s Azure Open AI. Pilot test results have shown significant improvement across several parameters.
How Are Competitors Faring?
AT&T faces competition from Verizon Communications, Inc. VZ and Vodafone Group Plc. VOD in the industrial IoT and smart manufacturing space. Verizon is rapidly expanding into private 5G networks and industrial automation solutions. Verizon is also collaborating with AWS to develop fiber and edge network infrastructure for AI applications.
Vodafone has a strong presence in the European private 5G market. The company is a major player in global IoT connectivity, automotive telematics and logistics. However, despite a strong presence in other regions, Vodafone lacks a presence in the U.S. market.
T’s Price Performance, Valuation & Estimates
AT&T’s stock has gained 2.1% over the past year against the Wireless National industry’s decline of 7.2%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Going by the forward price to earnings ratio, the company’s shares currently trade at 12.01 forward earnings, lower than the industry’s 13.14.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Earnings estimates for 2025 and 2026 have moved upward in the past 60 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
AT&T currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Beyond Nvidia: AI's Second Wave Is Here
The AI revolution has already minted millionaires. But the stocks everyone knows about aren't likely to keep delivering the biggest profits. Little-known AI firms tackling the world's biggest problems may be more lucrative in the coming months and years.
See
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

T Introduces Smart Manufacturing Solution: Will it Boost Prospects?

Key Points
Nio’s EV sales are soaring in China and Europe.
AST SpaceMobile will continue expanding its LEO satellite constellation.
With the S&P 500 trading near its all-time highs, it might not seem like an ideal time to invest in speculative, high-growth stocks. However, much of the index's rally was driven by a handful of mega-cap tech stocks rather than a broader mix of sectors and companies.
If we look beyond those Magnificent Seven stocks, we'll notice there are plenty of high-growth stocks that could easily double your money yet don't attract too much attention. Let's take a closer look at two of those stocks -- Nio (NYSE: NIO) and AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ: ASTS) -- and see why they might be worth nibbling in this frothy market.
Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue »
Nio
Nio, a major electric vehicle (EV) producer in China, sells a wide range of electric sedans and SUVs. It also sells cheaper SUVs and compact cars, respectively, through its smaller Onvo and Firefly sub-brands. Nio differentiates itself from competitors with swappable batteries, which can be quickly replaced at more than 3,500 battery swap stations. It's also expanding into Europe to reduce its dependence on the saturated and fragmented Chinese EV market.
Nio's annual deliveries more than doubled in 2020 and 2021, then rose 34% in 2022, 31% in 2023, and 39% to 221,970 vehicles in 2024. For 2025, it expects its deliveries to rise by as much as 58% to 351,221 cars -- driven by Nio's premium ET-series sedans, Onvo SUVs, and Firefly smart cars. It also expects to post its first-ever profit in the fourth quarter of 2025.
From 2024 to 2027, analysts expect Nio's revenue to grow at a 30% CAGR. That's a stellar outlook for a stock that trades at less than 1 times this year's sales.
For now, Nio's valuations are likely being compressed by macro headwinds in China, persistent trade tensions between the U.S. and China, and concerns about the cooling EV market. But if Nio overcomes those issues, grows its market share in China, and continues its bold expansion there, its valuation could soar, propelling its unloved stock toward fresh all-time highs.
AST SpaceMobile
AST produces low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellites that directly beam 2G, 4G, and 5G cellular signals to smartphones and other mobile devices. These satellites can help telecom companies reach rural areas that aren't adequately covered by terrestrial cellular towers.
AST's LEO satellites mainly use low- to mid-band spectra, which deliver data at lower speeds but offer a broader range than the high-band spectra used by SpaceX's Starlink. It's already secured partnerships with AT&T (NYSE: T), Verizon (NYSE: VZ), Vodafone (NASDAQ: VOD), and Rakuten (OTC: RKUNY) to expand their 5G satellite networks. It was also recently selected as a prime contractor for the U.S. Missile Defense Agency's SHIELD program, suggesting it could diversify its business away from telecom companies and toward more government contracts.
AST launched its first five Block 1 BlueBird (BB1) commercial satellites in 2024. Last December, the company launched its first four Block 2 BlueBird (BB2) satellites, which are 3.5 times larger than its BB1 satellites and process roughly ten times as much data.
It plans to have 45-60 satellites in orbit by the end of 2026. Over the next few years, it aims to expand that constellation to 243 satellites -- but that ambitious plan requires broader FCC approval.
From 2024 to 2027, analysts expect AST's revenue to surge from just $4 million to $699 million as it launches more satellites. They also expect it to turn profitable by the final year. AST's stock might seem expensive at 34 times its projected 2027 sales, but it could grow much larger over the next few years as the LEO satellite market expands.
Should you buy stock in Nio right now?
Before you buy stock in Nio, 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 Nio 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 $414,554!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,120,663!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 884% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 193% 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 February 16, 2026.
Leo Sun has positions in Verizon Communications. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends AST SpaceMobile. The Motley Fool recommends Verizon Communications and Vodafone Group Public. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Got $2,000? 2 Top Growth Stocks to Buy That Could Double Your Money

(RTTNews) - Vodafone Group Plc on Wednesday said it has reached a final settlement with Vodafone Idea Limited (Vi) under the Contingent Liability Adjustment Mechanism (CLAM), closing all remaining material disputes between the two companies.
The CLAM, established during the 2017 merger of Vodafone India and Idea Cellular, covered pre-merger legal, regulatory and tax liabilities. Vodafone's exposure under the mechanism was originally capped at 83.69 billion Indian rupees and later reduced to 63.94 billion Indian rupees.
Under the agreement, Vodafone will settle the CLAM through a 219 million euros cash payment and by setting aside 3.28 billion Vi shares, equivalent to a 3.03% stake.
However, Vodafone said the settlement results in no net cash outflow, as Vi will offset the 219 million euros against outstanding Vodafone Group service charges. Vodafone currently holds a 16.07% stake in Vi.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Vodafone Reaches Agreement With Vi On Ahead Of CLAM Expiry

(RTTNews) - Monday, Spirent Communications, a part of Keysight Technologies, Inc. (KEYS), announced that Vodafone Group Public Limited Company (VOD) has selected it as a partner to automate and streamline the integration of new 5G software across the latter's pan-European core voice mobile networks.
With this partnership, Vodafone expects to enhance its core voice network and deliver services to customers more quickly while maintaining quality and addressing any bugs beforehand.
Dougie Rankin, Vice President, International Sales, Spirent, commented, "By working with Spirent to fully automate its testing capabilities, Vodafone is now able to accelerate delivery of new network products, version upgrades and features to its customers, while ensuring strict compliance and benefitting from efficiency gains."
Currently, KEYS is trading at $209.05, up 0.11 percent on the New York Stock Exchange.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Vodafone Picks Spirent Communications To Streamline Pan-European 5G Networks

Key Points
AST SpaceMobile is trying to build a satellite internet constellation that beams internet directly to smartphones.
The company is generating minimal revenue right now, but has a lot of promise to grow once its constellation is turned on.
Shares of AST SpaceMobile stock have begun to recover in December, and look pricey compared to its financial potential.
Shares of AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ: ASTS) sank 30% in November, according to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence. A disruptive mover in the satellite internet space, AST SpaceMobile is aiming to build a constellation of satellites that will beam high-speed internet directly to smartphones.
It has a promising technology, which investors are excited about. However, it currently generates minimal revenue vs. its market capitalization, making it a risky and volatile stock to own. Here's why shares of AST SpaceMobile fell last month.
Where to invest $1,000 right now? Our analyst team just revealed what they believe are the 10 best stocks to buy right now, when you join Stock Advisor. See the stocks »
Satellite innovation, heavy upfront losses
SpaceX and its satellite internet service Starlink have changed the game, as the service can provide fast internet anywhere globally. The only problem for customers is the need to lug around a satellite terminal to get the service to work.
AST SpaceMobile believes it can solve the terminal issue, building a satellite internet constellation that can connect smartphones directly to the internet. It is doing so with gigantic satellite arrays. A new version set to launch this month is 2,400 square feet, for reference. By the end of 2026, AST SpaceMobile expects to have 45-60 satellites launched, with internet connectivity ready to go for its telecommunications partners like Verizon and Vodafone.
Today, the company has just five satellites in orbit, meaning there is much progress left to manufacture these satellites and launch them. With that being the case, it is not surprising that AST SpaceMobile stock gave back a lot of its recent gains -- the stock price has gone from under $5 in 2024 to over $70 today -- in a month where the broad stock market took a tumble.
Time to buy AST SpaceMobile stock?
In just a few short trading days in December, AST SpaceMobile has recovered a lot of its November losses. The stock is getting close to hitting its all-time high of $80 as of this writing on December 6th, 2025.
Does that mean it is time to hop back in and buy AST SpaceMobile stock? When looking at this business, it has a lot of future promise, as long as the satellite constellation and underlying technology work. With large contracts signed with smartphone carriers like Verizon, the company may be able to quickly gain millions of customers looking for direct-to-device internet. Sprinkle in some contracts with the U.S. government, and this could be a business that quickly grows to $1 billion in annual revenue.
Today, the stock has a market cap of $27 billion, which is still expensive if the company reaches these revenue milestones. It has diluted shareholders by raising money to cover its upfront spending through common stock offerings, and when combined with a rising share price, the market cap has gone into the stratosphere.
Avoid buying AST SpaceMobile stock today. The stock looks overvalued even if its business plan is a total success.
Should you invest $1,000 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 $540,587!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,118,210!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 991% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 195% for the S&P 500. Don’t miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join Stock Advisor.
*Stock Advisor returns as of December 1, 2025
Brett Schafer has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Verizon Communications and Vodafone Group Public. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Vodafone Group Plc

Options Strategies