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ASTS vs. QCOM: Which Connectivity Stock Has Better Growth Potential?
ZACKSยท 2025-08-21 15:11
Core Insights - AST SpaceMobile and Qualcomm are key players in the mobile connectivity sector, with AST SpaceMobile focusing on a global cellular broadband network in space and Qualcomm providing high-performance chip designs for various applications [1][2] AST SpaceMobile - AST SpaceMobile has launched its first five commercial satellites, known as Bluebird, which feature the largest commercial communications arrays at 693 square feet, providing non-continuous service across the U.S. with over 5,600 cells in the low-band spectrum [4] - The company plans to deploy 45 to 60 additional satellites by Q1 2026 and holds a patent portfolio of over 3,650 patents related to direct-to-cell satellite technology [4] - Partnerships with major carriers like AT&T and Verizon aim to enhance cellular coverage and eliminate dead zones in the U.S. [5] - AST SpaceMobile anticipates a staggering 1261% sales growth for 2025, although it faces challenges from macroeconomic conditions and competition from companies like SpaceX's Starlink [8][6] Qualcomm - Qualcomm is positioned for long-term revenue growth, driven by strong 5G adoption and a diversified revenue stream, with projected sales growth of 12.3% and EPS growth of 15.9% for 2025 [9][12] - The company has expanded its Snapdragon portfolio with new gaming chipsets and is focusing on AI integration across its product lines [9][10] - Qualcomm's operations in the automotive sector are also growing, with advancements in connected vehicles and digital cockpit solutions [10] - Despite facing competition from Intel in the AI PC market and challenges in the premium smartphone segment, Qualcomm's EPS estimates have been trending upward [11][12] Comparative Analysis - AST SpaceMobile has outperformed Qualcomm in price performance over the past year, gaining 32% compared to Qualcomm's decline of 8% [14] - From a valuation perspective, Qualcomm's shares trade at a price/sales ratio of 3.75, significantly lower than AST SpaceMobile's 67.77, indicating a more attractive valuation for Qualcomm [15] - Long-term earnings growth expectations are 26.1% for AST SpaceMobile versus 7.1% for Qualcomm, suggesting that AST SpaceMobile may be a better investment option despite its less favorable valuation metrics [20]