10 VLEO Technology Stocks and Startups to Watch in 2025

2. AST Spacemobile Inc. (NASDAQ:ASTS)

Latest Valuation/Funding Estimate: $6.43 billion market capitalization

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 18

AST SpaceMobile Inc. (NASDAQ:ASTS) is revolutionizing global connectivity by developing the first space-based cellular broadband network designed to provide direct-to-device internet access. The company’s technology allows standard mobile phones to connect directly to its VLEO satellites, eliminating the need for ground-based infrastructure in remote and underserved regions. This breakthrough has the potential to bridge the global digital divide, offering seamless coverage in areas where traditional cellular networks struggle to reach.

The company’s constellation, known as BlueBird, will operate in VLEO, significantly reducing signal latency compared to higher-altitude satellite networks. By maintaining a closer orbit to Earth, ASTS can provide faster data speeds and lower latency, making it a game-changer for mobile network operators looking to expand their coverage without costly terrestrial infrastructure. ASTS has already secured partnerships with leading telecom providers, including AT&T, Vodafone, and Rakuten, signaling strong industry demand for its services. It is one of the best VLEO stocks on our list.

From an investment standpoint, AST SpaceMobile Inc. (NASDAQ:ASTS) represents a high-risk, high-reward opportunity in the rapidly growing satellite communications sector. During the recent 3Q 2024 earnings call, management issued strong guidance and outlined some ambitious targets to accelerate the company’s growth – the company secured launch agreements with Blue Origin and SpaceX for up to approximately 60 satellites to be launched during 2025 and 2026, enabling continuous space-based cellular broadband service coverage in key markets including the United States, Europe, Japan, and other strategic markets. Financially, the company ended Q3 2024 with $518.9 million in cash, its highest cash balance to date, providing flexibility to pursue strategic objectives. The company ranked second on a recent list of 15 Hot Tech Stocks to Buy Right Now.