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AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (NASDAQ:ASTS), a company specializing in communication services with a market capitalization of $9.3 billion, announced on Monday that it has entered into a series of agreements aimed at expanding its space-based network capabilities. The agreements are part of a strategic collaboration with Ligado Networks LLC following Ligado’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing earlier this year. According to InvestingPro data, ASTS has shown remarkable market performance with an 831% return over the past year, though the stock has experienced significant volatility with an 8.24% decline in the past week.
On March 22, 2025, AST SpaceMobile, through its subsidiary AST & Science, LLC, finalized a Framework Agreement and related definitive agreements with Ligado Networks LLC. These agreements grant AST SpaceMobile long-term access to up to 45 MHz of lower mid-band spectrum in the United States and Canada, which is expected to enhance the company’s direct-to-device satellite applications.
The transaction, which is subject to approval by the United States Bankruptcy Court, includes an annual payment from AST SpaceMobile to Ligado Networks LLC of at least $80 million, with potential additional payments based on revenue share from the use of the L-band spectrum and North American operations. The agreement also stipulates an upfront payment of $350 million in cash and an option for an additional $200 million in cash or convertible notes.
In addition to the Framework Agreement, AST SpaceMobile has issued approximately 4.7 million warrants exercisable for shares of its Class A common stock at an exercise price of $0.01 per share, subject to a 12-month lock-up.
The collaboration also involves a Spectrum Usage Rights Agreement with One Dot Six LLC, providing AST SpaceMobile with access to additional spectrum for space to ground use on a preemptable basis. The agreement includes an option for AST SpaceMobile to purchase spectrum rights under certain conditions.
Furthermore, a Governance Side Letter has been signed with Cerberus Capital Management, L.P. and Fortress Credit Advisors LLC, granting them observer rights on the AST SpaceMobile Board and its Network and Spectrum Planning Committee.
The strategic collaboration with Ligado Networks is expected to significantly bolster AST SpaceMobile’s satellite communication infrastructure and market position. The company’s expansion into mid-band spectrum complements its existing low-band spectrum plans, providing a more robust network offering.
The details of these agreements reflect AST SpaceMobile’s commitment to advancing its technology and service capabilities. The information provided is based on a press release statement.
In other recent news, AST SpaceMobile reported its fourth-quarter 2024 earnings, surpassing analysts’ expectations with a narrower-than-expected loss. The company’s earnings per share (EPS) came in at -$0.18, beating the forecast of -$0.21, while revenue exceeded expectations, reaching $4.42 million against the anticipated $3.22 million. UBS analyst Chris Schoell raised the price target for AST SpaceMobile shares to $38.00 from $31.00, maintaining a Buy rating, citing successful satellite tests and new carrier agreements as reasons for optimism. AST SpaceMobile has expanded its agreements to approximately 50 carriers, covering nearly 3 billion subscribers, with additional potential through a joint venture with Vodafone (NASDAQ:VOD) in Europe.
The company has secured launch capacity for 60 satellites for 2025 and 2026, and plans to increase satellite production to six per month by the second half of 2025. UBS projects AST SpaceMobile will achieve continuous coverage in its target areas by 2026, with revenue estimates adjusted to $465 million for that year, eventually growing to $2.0 billion by 2028. The company’s financial resources have been bolstered by a $460 million convertible senior note offering, positioning it well for future satellite production and launch plans. AST SpaceMobile is also exploring $500 million in quasi-government funding to support its expansion. These recent developments reflect growing confidence in the company’s strategic direction and financial health.
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