Core Viewpoint - EchoStar is selling wireless spectrum licenses to AT&T for approximately $23 billion in an all-cash deal, which is part of efforts to address the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) inquiries regarding spectrum utilization [2][4]. Group 1: Transaction Details - The transaction will provide AT&T with about 50 megahertz of mid-band and low-band spectrum, covering over 400 markets across the U.S. [1] - The deal is anticipated to close in mid-2026, subject to regulatory approval [1]. Group 2: Market Reaction - Following the announcement, EchoStar's stock surged more than 80% [2]. - AT&T's shares experienced a slight increase of less than 1% after the news [4]. Group 3: Regulatory Context - The FCC is investigating EchoStar's compliance with federal requirements for building a 5G network, prompted by complaints from SpaceX regarding underutilization of valuable mid-band spectrum [2][3]. - The agreement includes an expansion of network services, allowing EchoStar to operate as a hybrid mobile network operator under the Boost Mobile brand, which is seen as a critical step in addressing FCC concerns [4]. Group 4: Executive Statements - EchoStar's Chairman, Charlie Ergen, emphasized that the spectrum sale and hybrid MNO agreement are essential for resolving FCC's spectrum utilization issues [4]. - AT&T's CEO, John Stankey, described the deal as a beneficial opportunity for customers and expressed confidence that regulators would view it positively [4].