Table Of Content
What Is Starlink?
Starlink is a satellite internet service developed by SpaceX, aiming to provide high-speed, low-latency internet access globally—especially in rural and underserved areas.
It uses a growing network of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to beam internet down to Earth.
As of 2025, Starlink has expanded across dozens of countries and supports over 2 million customers, including residential users, businesses, RV travelers, and even remote military operations.
Its scalable infrastructure and SpaceX’s proven launch capabilities position Starlink as a disruptive force in global broadband delivery.
Can You Buy Starlink Stock Pre-IPO?
Starlink is not publicly traded as a standalone company. It remains a division of SpaceX, which is privately held.
While Elon Musk has hinted at a potential Starlink IPO in the future, no official timeline has been confirmed. Therefore, everyday investors cannot buy Starlink stock directly before its IPO.
Pre-IPO shares of SpaceX are typically available only to institutional investors or through private equity secondary markets, which often require high net worth and come with liquidity risks.
How to Invest In Starlink Stock Indirectly?
You can’t buy Starlink stock directly yet, but there are a few indirect ways to gain exposure to its growth potential:
-
Invest in Companies With SpaceX Exposure
Alphabet (GOOGL) and Fidelity both invested in SpaceX. Buying shares in these firms offers partial exposure to Starlink’s valuation growth.
For example, Alphabet participated in a $1 billion funding round for SpaceX in 2015.
-
Private Equity Platforms
Accredited investors can explore platforms like Forge Global or EquityZen to find secondary shares in SpaceX.
These are high-risk, illiquid investments, but some investors use them to access startups like SpaceX before IPO.
-
Thematic ETFs
Consider ETFs focused on space innovation. For instance, ARK Space Exploration & Innovation ETF (ARKX) includes companies supporting satellite infrastructure or partnering with SpaceX.
While ARKX doesn’t hold SpaceX directly, it reflects broader industry trends Starlink may drive.
-
Invest in Satellite Suppliers or Partners
Companies such as Viasat or Maxar Technologies have technologies that support satellite internet infrastructure.
For example, Maxar provided imaging data for SpaceX projects in the past, and suppliers like these often benefit from industry tailwinds created by Starlink’s expansion.
Invest in Similar Publicly Traded Space Stocks
Although Starlink isn’t publicly traded yet, several space-related companies operate in overlapping sectors—such as satellite internet, launch services, and space infrastructure.
These publicly listed firms offer retail investors a way to capitalize on the growing commercial space economy shaped by players like Starlink and SpaceX.
Here are some examples:
-
Iridium Communications (IRDM)
Iridium operates a global satellite network for voice and data communications, targeting government, maritime, and aviation clients.
Unlike Starlink, which focuses on high-bandwidth internet, Iridium specializes in reliable connectivity for mission-critical industries.
-
Viasat (VSAT)
Viasat delivers satellite broadband and has existing service contracts with airlines like JetBlue and American Airlines.
While slower than Starlink’s LEO satellites, Viasat serves many in-flight connectivity and rural internet markets.
In 2023, it acquired Inmarsat to expand its global network—showing how traditional players are adapting to compete with newer models like Starlink
-
Rocket Lab (RKLB)
This small satellite launch provider is gaining traction as a lower-cost alternative to SpaceX for launching payloads. It’s expanding into satellite manufacturing through its Photon platform.
For instance, NASA and commercial firms use Rocket Lab for small satellite launches that complement Starlink’s mission of building space-based infrastructure.
-
Boeing (BA)
Boeing has a long history in space exploration and satellite systems through its Boeing Defense, Space & Security division.
The company manufactures satellites, space capsules (like the CST-100 Starliner), and provides launch support.
Boeing is also part of United Launch Alliance (ULA)—a joint venture with Lockheed Martin—which provides satellite launches using rockets like the Atlas V.
FAQ
Retail investors can’t directly buy SpaceX stock unless they access private equity platforms, which typically require accreditation and high capital.
As of 2025, Starlink is reportedly generating positive cash flow in some markets, especially in rural broadband and commercial contracts.
Yes, companies like Alphabet or satellite suppliers may benefit from Starlink’s growth, but they’re also influenced by many unrelated business factors.
Thematic ETFs like ARKX include companies involved in space technology, offering partial exposure to trends Starlink supports.
Telecom, aviation, maritime, and defense sectors benefit from Starlink’s internet solutions, especially in remote or underserved regions.
Investing in space-related firms tied to Starlink may offer long-term potential, but it's a speculative area with evolving technology and regulation.
International investors can invest in U.S.-listed companies with ties to Starlink, or in global ETFs that include space infrastructure players.
Minimums vary, but private platforms like EquityZen often require tens of thousands of dollars and verification as an accredited investor.
Yes, Starlink has secured contracts with U.S. defense agencies and other governments to deliver secure, global internet coverage.
