New York, Jan 28, 2026, 15:21 EST — Regular session
- GSAT climbed roughly 7% to near $68 in afternoon session, following a Tuesday close at $63.44
- AST SpaceMobile led gains among other satellite communications stocks
- Up next: Globalstar’s earnings report and call, set for Feb. 26
Shares of Globalstar, Inc. surged 7.1% to $67.92 Wednesday, lifting the satellite operator amid heavy afternoon action. The stock swung between $63.47 and $68.67, with roughly 607,000 shares changing hands by mid-afternoon.
This shift is crucial as the “direct-to-device” trend—satellites connecting directly to regular smartphones without needing special handsets—is making space-and-spectrum stocks fast-moving stand-ins for a market still taking shape. Timelines and capacity are key, and traders have been quick to respond to even minor changes in forecasts.
Globalstar is right at the heart of this trade. Linked to Apple’s satellite messaging and emergency services, its stock has become a barometer for how quickly satellite-to-phone features move beyond simple emergency functions.
The broader group climbed Wednesday. AST SpaceMobile jumped roughly 9.6%, EchoStar added around 3.2%, and Iridium Communications slipped about 0.2%.
A report Tuesday highlighted why launch timing is under scrutiny. Light Reading noted AST SpaceMobile’s next satellite launch aboard Blue Origin’s New Glenn won’t happen before late February. Satellite analyst Tim Farrar from TMF Associates flatly rejected AST’s near-term goals, saying, “That’s not happening.” (Light Reading)
Globalstar’s connection to Apple acts as both a lifeline and a potential vulnerability. Apple committed up to $1.5 billion, comprising $1.1 billion in cash and a $400 million buy for a 20% stake. In return, Globalstar plans to dedicate 85% of its network capacity to Apple. (Reuters)
Investors can expect the next official update in late February. According to Public.com, Globalstar is set to release its next report on Feb. 26, following its last earnings on Nov. 6. Traders will be paying close attention to any shifts in spending or timeline updates related to its network expansion. (Public)
Still, the risks run both ways. Delays in satellite deployment, a lag in launching satellite-to-phone services, or a change in a major partner’s focus could spook investors fast in a stock that’s already seen a steep revaluation over the last year.
Globalstar’s earnings report and conference call set for Feb. 26 is the next event on the calendar. Investors will be watching closely for clear updates on network progress, capacity commitments, and any immediate cash requirements.
