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Asymmetric Deep Dives

Asymmetric Deep Dives

Written by: Hamsa
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Asymmetric Deep Dives plunges into the heart of the stock market, delivering comprehensive analyses that go far beyond surface-level information. Each episode is a forensic examination of a single stock, revealing its business model, financial health, competitive landscape, and the critical factors that could lead to disproportionate returns. Whether you're a seasoned investor or building your knowledge, prepare to gain a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the companies you're tracking.

SAY 2025 Economics Personal Finance
Episodes
  • EP1 - ASTS Deep Dive

    EP1 - ASTS Deep Dive
    Jun 14 2025

    Episode Notes: AST SpaceMobile – Space-Based Cellular Broadband

    • 0:00 – Vision & Tech: AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ: ASTS) is building the first space-based cellular broadband network, connecting unmodified 5G/LTE phones directly from space. Their proprietary technology, with over 3,650 patent claims, aims to eliminate global cellular coverage gaps.
    • 1:15 – Market & Partners: The target market is valued at over $1.1 trillion annually, impacting 5.6 billion mobile devices. AST SpaceMobile partners with nearly 50 mobile network operators (MNOs) globally, including AT&T, Verizon, and Vodafone, representing almost 3 billion subscribers, leveraging a "super-wholesale revenue share model".
    • 2:30 – Manufacturing & ASICs: The company is 95% vertically integrated, with manufacturing facilities in Midland, TX, Barcelona, Spain, and Homestead, FL. A custom ASIC, developed with TSMC for approximately $45 million, enables up to 10,000 MHz processing and 120 Mbps peak data rates per satellite, expected in Block 2 BlueBirds during 2025.
    • 3:30 – Proven Milestones: BlueWalker 3 successfully demonstrated the first 2G voice call (April 2023), 4G LTE (June 2023), and 5G (Sept 2023). Two-way video calls using unmodified smartphones have been achieved, including the first in Europe (January 2025).
    • 4:15 – Deployment & Outlook: The first five Block 1 BlueBird satellites reached Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and are fully operational (September 2024). Production for 40 Block 2 satellites is underway, with launch capacity secured for over 60 satellites during 2025 and 2026. FCC Special Temporary Authorities (STAs) enable initial U.S. service, targeting approximately 100% nationwide coverage. Definitive agreements secure long-term access to 45 MHz of premium U.S. mid-band spectrum. Initial services with key MNOs and U.S. government contracts ($43M Space Development Agency, up to $20M Defense Innovation Unit) contribute to an expected $50-75 million revenue opportunity in the second half of 2025. The company has raised over $2 billion, with $874.5 million in cash.
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    17 mins
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