Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported non-GAAP adjusted cash operating expenses of $44.9 million for Q1 2025, an increase from $40.8 million in Q4 2024, driven by higher R&D and administrative costs [27][28]. - Capital expenditures for Q1 2025 were approximately $124 million, up from $86 million in Q4 2024, primarily for materials and launch contracts [28][29]. - The company ended Q1 2025 with $874.5 million in cash, a significant increase from $567.5 million at the end of Q4 2024, due to successful financing initiatives [34][35]. Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company plans to deploy over 60 satellites during 2025 and 2026, with five orbital launches scheduled over the next six to nine months [7][17]. - Gateway equipment bookings reached $13.6 million in Q1 2025, with expectations of approximately $10 million in bookings per quarter throughout 2025 [20]. Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is focusing on key markets such as the United States, Europe, and Japan for initial service activation, leveraging partnerships with major mobile network operators [13][19]. - The company received special temporary authority from the FCC for FirstNet direct-to-device satellite connectivity, enhancing its service offerings for public safety [14][20]. Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is at an inflection point, accelerating the launch and scaling of its network while beginning to recognize revenue from commercial and government contracts [6][17]. - The strategy includes a dual approach of utilizing low-band spectrum in partnership with MNOs and acquiring mid-band spectrum to enhance service capabilities [61][62]. Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's position to execute at scale, citing strong demand for space-based cellular broadband connectivity [10][31]. - The company anticipates a revenue opportunity in 2025 ranging from $50 million to $75 million, contingent on successful satellite launches and gateway equipment sales [33]. Other Important Information - The company is working on non-dilutive financing options from quasi-governmental sources, with potential funding exceeding half a billion dollars [36]. - The company is also exploring an equipment loan facility of $50 million to $100 million to support manufacturing expansion [35]. Q&A Session Summary Question: Any further details to share on the Legato transaction? - The transaction involves acquiring usage rights for 45 megahertz of mid-band spectrum in the U.S., which is seen as crucial for enhancing service capabilities [39][40]. Question: What is the outlook for the defense use case? - Government demand for space-based solutions is surging, with several contract awards validating the technology and opening paths for revenue [42][43]. Question: Do you plan to submit any proposals for the $25 billion Golden Dome project? - The company believes its technology is well-positioned to contribute to national security goals outlined in the Golden Dome project [45][46]. Question: Are shareholders expected to be invited to future launches? - Shareholders will be invited to future launches, although the upcoming launch in India will not accommodate attendees [47]. Question: What are the short-term plans for Europe following recent communication outages? - The service aims to provide cellular broadband connectivity directly to devices, enhancing safety during emergencies [49][50]. Question: Can you give an update on the commercial launch in the U.S.? - A commercial service is expected to be available by early 2026, with ongoing discussions with carriers like AT&T and Verizon [96].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2025, non-GAAP adjusted cash operating expenses were $44.9 million, up from $40.8 million in Q4 2024, reflecting an increase of $4.1 million due to higher R&D and administrative costs [28][29] - Capital expenditures for Q1 2025 were approximately $124 million, compared to $86 million in Q4 2024, driven by costs related to satellite manufacturing and launch contracts [30] - The company ended Q1 2025 with $874.5 million in cash, a significant increase from $567.5 million at the end of Q4 2024, primarily due to funds raised from convertible notes and an ATM facility [36] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company plans to deploy over 60 satellites during 2025 and 2026, with five orbital launches scheduled over the next six to nine months [6][16] - Gateway equipment bookings in Q1 2025 amounted to $13.6 million, with expectations of approximately $10 million in bookings per quarter throughout 2025 [20] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is focusing on key markets such as the United States, Europe, and Japan for initial service activation, leveraging partnerships with major mobile network operators [13][19] - The company received special temporary authority from the FCC for FirstNet Direct to device satellite connectivity, enhancing its service offerings for public safety [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is at an inflection point, accelerating the launch and scaling of its network while beginning to recognize revenue from satellite services [5][16] - The strategy includes a focus on vertical integration and rapid satellite manufacturing to meet the growing demand for space-based cellular broadband connectivity [8][31] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's position to execute at scale, with expectations for revenue to ramp up towards the end of 2025 and into 2026, estimating a revenue opportunity of $50 million to $75 million for 2025 [34][38] - The management highlighted the importance of connectivity as a human right and the company's mission to provide reliable broadband services, especially in emergency situations [16][52] Other Important Information - The company is working on a strategic acquisition of spectrum rights, which is expected to enhance its service capabilities in the U.S. market [41][42] - The company is also exploring non-dilutive financing options to support its operational plans, including potential funding from quasi-governmental sources [37] Q&A Session Summary Question: Any further details to share on the Legato transaction? - The company is acquiring usage rights for 45 megahertz of mid-band spectrum in the U.S., which is seen as crucial for enhancing service capabilities [41][42] Question: What is the outlook for the defense use case? - Government demand for space-based solutions is increasing, and the company has secured several contracts that validate its technology and open paths for revenue [44][45] Question: Do you plan to submit any proposals for the announced $25 billion Golden Dome project? - The company believes its technology can significantly contribute to the goals outlined in the Golden Dome project [46][47] Question: Are shareholders expected to be invited to future launches this fall? - The company plans to invite shareholders to future launches, although the upcoming launch in July will not include invitations due to logistical reasons [48][49] Question: What are the short-term plans for Europe following recent communication outages? - The company aims to provide cellular broadband connectivity directly to devices, enhancing safety during emergencies, and is working with Vodafone for service distribution in Europe [50][52] Question: Can you discuss the nature of the higher launch costs? - Higher launch costs are attributed to increased demand for rapid service deployment and tariff impacts on materials, but the company remains focused on expediting satellite launches [55][56] Question: How does the spectrum strategy impact MNO agreements? - The company maintains a focus on user experience while enhancing service capabilities through a combination of low-band and mid-band spectrum [66][67] Question: What is the status of beta tests with carrier partners? - Initial activations have begun in the U.S., Europe, and Japan, with successful video capabilities demonstrated, indicating readiness for broader service offerings [72][73] Question: When might we see a commercial launch in the U.S.? - A commercial service is expected to be available by early 2026, with ongoing discussions for agreements with major carriers [92][93]

Business Highlights - AST SpaceMobile achieved two-way video broadband calls using unmodified smartphones on its SpaceMobile network, enabled by a Block 1 BlueBird satellite, across the U S, Europe, and Japan[18, 29, 30] - The company anticipates second half 2025 revenue opportunity of $50 million to $75 million from advanced SpaceMobile network commercialization efforts[16] - Gateway equipment bookings reached $136 million in Q1 2025, with expected average quarterly bookings of approximately $10 million throughout 2025[26] - AST SpaceMobile contracted launches for over 60 satellites[15] Regulatory and Spectrum - The company received Special Temporary Approval (STA) from the FCC for FirstNet evaluation on public safety's Band 14 spectrum[34] - AST SpaceMobile established a coordination agreement with the U S National Science Foundation covering satellite and ground-based astronomy operations[34] - Definitive agreements were signed for long-term access to up to 45 MHz of premium lower mid-band spectrum in the U S for direct-to-device applications[34] Financial Status - AST SpaceMobile reported a robust balance sheet with $8745 million in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash as of March 31, 2025[18] - Adjusted operating expenses for Q1 2025 were $449 million, compared to $408 million in Q4 2024[39] - Capital expenditures increased to $1241 million in Q1 2025, from $860 million in Q4 2024[39]

The milestone means high-speed coverage is now available for Government customers in the Arctic, with commercial services planned throughout fiscal year 2026. The connectivity demands of governments, commercial mobility services and scientists over the Arctic region have been rapidly growing. These new payloads will expand the coverage area served by Viasat, further strengthening the company's global coverage capabilities with this dedicated capacity for the Arctic region. These payloads also support Viasat ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue increased by 6% to $60 million compared to $56.5 million in the prior year period [4] - Service revenue rose by 7%, primarily driven by wholesale capacity services [4] - Adjusted EBITDA increased by 3% to $30.4 million from $29.6 million in the prior year's first quarter [5] - Adjusted free cash flow reached $47.6 million, significantly up from $19.9 million in the prior year's first quarter [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The commercial IoT segment saw an increase in the average number of subscribers and high customer engagement [5] - The XCOM RAN product offering incurred higher cash costs, negatively impacting adjusted EBITDA by $1.3 million and adjusted EBITDA margin by approximately 200 basis points [5] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is well-positioned to minimize financial impacts from tariff changes due to strong relationships with manufacturing and logistics partners [6][7] - The company expects a relatively immaterial impact from global trade challenges in the near term [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on capturing opportunities for sustainable long-term growth through new partnerships and innovative products [9] - A new two-way satellite IoT solution was launched, expanding beyond traditional one-way tracking capabilities [10] - The opening of a new satellite operations control center enhances fleet management capabilities and positions the company for future constellation deployments [11] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains confident in navigating the dynamic global trade environment and unexpected headwinds [17] - The company reiterated its full-year 2025 outlook, expecting revenue in the range of $260 million to $285 million and an adjusted EBITDA margin of approximately 50% [8] - Management believes Globalstar is an underappreciated story with significant growth potential in both space and terrestrial networks [18] Other Important Information - The company appointed two seasoned executives to drive growth in key business segments [12][13] - A significant milestone was reached with MDA Space for building over 50 satellites under a CAD 1.1 billion contract [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you walk us through any more of the economics or assumptions regarding the XCOM RAN business? - Management indicated that while they are engaged with a large retailer as a primary customer, the sales cycle is long and they are confident in moving forward [21][22] Question: Is there progress in bringing more vendors into the ecosystem to reduce overall bill of materials? - Management confirmed that new radios were demonstrated at Mobile World Congress, which not only lower costs but also provide flexibility in terms of coverage [24] Question: When would the replenishment constellation be completed, and when might the 50 award satellites be launched? - Management has not announced specific launch dates but indicated that service fees will begin once the first batch of replacement satellites is operational [30][31]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenue increased by 6% to $60 million compared to $56.5 million in the prior year period [4] - Service revenue rose by 7%, primarily driven by wholesale capacity services [4] - Adjusted EBITDA increased by 3% to $30.4 million from $29.6 million in the prior year's first quarter [5] - Adjusted free cash flow reached $47.6 million, significantly up from $19.9 million in the prior year's first quarter [6] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The commercial IoT segment saw an increase in the average number of subscribers and high customer engagement [5] - The launch of a two-way satellite IoT solution marks a significant expansion beyond traditional one-way tracking capabilities [10] - The wholesale capacity business achieved a milestone with MDA Space for building over 50 satellites under a CAD 1.1 billion contract [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is well-positioned to minimize financial impacts from tariff changes due to established relationships with manufacturing and logistics partners [6][7] - The company anticipates a relatively immaterial impact from trade environment shifts in the near term [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on capturing long-term growth opportunities through new partnerships and innovative products [9] - A new satellite operations control center was opened to enhance fleet management capabilities and improve network performance [11] - The company is committed to expanding its terrestrial network business and has appointed new executives to drive growth in key segments [12][13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains confident in navigating the dynamic global trade environment and unexpected challenges [16] - The company reiterated its full-year 2025 revenue outlook in the range of $260 million to $285 million, with an anticipated adjusted EBITDA margin of approximately 50% [8] - Management expressed excitement about the growth opportunities in both space and terrestrial business lines [17][27] Other Important Information - The company has invested billions in satellite infrastructure, creating a powerful network supporting connectivity for hundreds of millions of devices worldwide [17] - The company is actively participating in several upcoming conferences to engage with investors and analysts [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you walk us through any more of the economics or assumptions regarding the XCOM RAN business? - Management indicated that they are engaged with a large retailer as their primary initial customer, but the sales cycle is long and uncertain [20][21] Question: Is there progress in bringing more vendors into the ecosystem to reduce overall bill of materials? - Management confirmed that they are working on new radios that will be commercially deployed, which will lower costs and provide flexibility in coverage [23] Question: When would the replenishment constellation be completed, and when might the 50 award satellites be launched? - Management has not announced specific launch dates but indicated that service fees tied to CapEx for replacement satellites will start once the first batch is operational [29][31]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue for the first quarter declined year over year to $25.4 million, primarily due to lower revenue from VSAT airtime service, including the loss of U.S. Coast Guard revenue [6][12] - Airtime gross margin increased to 31.5% from 28.2% in the prior quarter, with adjusted EBITDA for the quarter at $1 million [14][17] - Ending cash balance was $48.6 million, down approximately $2 million from the beginning of the quarter [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Subscriber base increased by 5%, reaching over 7,400 subscribing vessels, recovering from the decline experienced in 2023 [8][15] - Quarterly shipments of connectivity terminals exceeded 1,300 units, marking the fifth consecutive record quarter, with significant increases in Starlink terminals [7][10] - Product gross profit was breakeven compared to a positive $300,000 in the prior quarter, with expectations for product margins to remain about breakeven [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Starlink revenue continued to increase as a percentage of total revenue, driven by strong demand in commercial and leisure markets [6][8] - The company is seeing significant interest in OneWeb terminals, especially outside the U.S. [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is transitioning from a GEO-focused business model to a primarily LEO-based mobile connectivity market, with ongoing double-digit annual growth in subscribers [18] - The launch of the Commvox Edge Secure Suite aims to enhance cybersecurity for vessel communications [10][11] - The company is managing GEO bandwidth commitments carefully, anticipating continued pressure on GEO margins while focusing on strong LEO margins [18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's strategic initiatives, highlighting record-breaking subscriber growth and increased product shipments [13][14] - The company is optimistic about generating positive cash flow moving forward, despite challenges in the GEO segment [18] Other Important Information - The company expects to close the sale of its headquarters before the end of the quarter and anticipates the factory sale to close in Q3 [12] - Share buybacks were initiated, with over 30,000 shares purchased at a cost of approximately $163,000 [13] Q&A Session Summary Question: LEO margins breakdown - The majority of the margin comes from actual airtime, with strong underlying LEO bandwidth margins [20][21] Question: Optimization of plans for customers - Current plans are well optimized, but changes in pricing and terminal access charges are expected later this year [22][23] Question: Potential saturation in the maritime market - The market is much larger than before, and saturation is not anticipated in the foreseeable future [25][26] Question: Expansion beyond maritime applications - The existing sales team is handling land-based applications, with no new hires but efforts to identify service providers for land opportunities [27][28] Question: Coast Guard contract revenue roll-off - Negative variance from the Coast Guard contract is expected through the third quarter, with minimal revenue in the fourth quarter [29][32] Question: Future buyback efforts - The company is continuing to buy back shares, with larger numbers expected to be disclosed in the next quarter [33]

Core Viewpoint - AST SpaceMobile, Inc. is expected to report its first-quarter 2025 results on May 12, with anticipated revenue growth and a potential earnings beat based on recent agreements and FCC authorization [1][5][6]. Group 1: Recent Developments - AST SpaceMobile signed an agreement with Ligado Networks to enhance space-based network coverage, gaining access to up to 40 MHz of L-band mobile satellite spectrum in the U.S. and Canada, which will support future processing bandwidth of up to 10,000 MHz per satellite [2]. - Vodafone Group Plc partnered with AST SpaceMobile to create a jointly-owned European satellite service business, SatCo, aimed at providing 100% geographic coverage via space-based cellular broadband for mobile network operators [3]. - The company received special authorization from the FCC for testing services in the U.S., aligning with efforts to bridge the digital divide and enhance emergency communication capabilities [4]. Group 2: Financial Expectations - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for total revenues in the March quarter is $4.33 million, reflecting significant year-over-year growth from $0.50 million [5]. - The consensus estimate for adjusted earnings per share indicates a loss of 15 cents, compared to a loss of 16 cents per share in the same quarter last year [5]. - The earnings ESP for AST SpaceMobile is +2.17%, suggesting a strong likelihood of an earnings beat [6]. Group 3: Company Ranking - AST SpaceMobile currently holds a Zacks Rank of 3, indicating a hold position in the market [7].

MCLEAN, Va., May 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Iridium Communications Inc. (Nasdaq: IRDM), a leading provider of global voice and data satellite communications, today announced a special U.S. government version of the Iridium® 9603 module built for Enhanced Short Burst Data (ESBD). ESBD is a low-latency and secure messaging service designed to provide optimal transmission security (TRANSEC) for the U.S. government and approved allies. Iridium Satellite Network The ESBD version can act as a drop-in replacemen ...

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of identifying stocks that can exceed market expectations during earnings season, highlighting a selection of companies likely to outperform [1][4]. Stock Selection Criteria - A screening process identified five stocks: Fox (FOXA), Newmont (NEM), Affirm (AFRM), HealthStream (HSTM), and Iridium Communications (IRDM) as potential earnings beaters [1][10]. - The selection criteria included: - Last EPS Surprise greater than or equal to 10% [7] - Average EPS Surprise in the last four quarters greater than 20% [7] - Average EPS Surprise in the last two quarters greater than 20% [8] - Zacks Rank less than or equal to 2 [8] - Earnings ESP greater than zero [9] - Next 3–5 Years Estimated EPS Growth (Per Year) greater than 10% [10] - Average 20-day Volume greater than 100,000 [10] Company Profiles - **Fox (FOXA)**: A Zacks Rank 1 company with an average earnings surprise of 24.20% over the past four quarters [11]. - **Newmont (NEM)**: A Zacks Rank 2 company, one of the largest gold producers globally, with an average earnings surprise of 32.41% [11]. - **Affirm (AFRM)**: A Zacks Rank 1 financial technology company specializing in payment solutions, boasting an average earnings surprise of 84.09% [12]. - **HealthStream (HSTM)**: A Zacks Rank 1 company providing workforce development solutions in healthcare, with an average earnings surprise of 42.02% [13]. - **Iridium Communications (IRDM)**: A Zacks Rank 2 satellite communications company, achieving an average earnings surprise of 40.90% [14].