Elon Musk has categorically denied rumors suggesting that SpaceX is in the process of raising funds at a staggering $800 billion valuation, labeling the information as untrue. He emphasized that SpaceX has enjoyed a positive cash flow for numerous years and routinely engages in stock repurchases. The potential increase in the company's valuation, according to Musk, will hinge on the advancements made in the Starship and Starlink projects, along with the acquisition of necessary spectrum. Furthermore, Musk disclosed that NASA's contribution to SpaceX's total revenue for the upcoming year will remain below 5%, with the commercialized Starlink project expected to be the largest revenue generator.
Sources with intimate knowledge of the situation have revealed that SpaceX is gearing up for an internal share sale, potentially valuing the company at up to $800 billion. Simultaneously, the company is also exploring the feasibility of launching an initial public offering (IPO) by the end of next year. The current discussion revolves around a share sale price exceeding $400 per share. Following the release of this news, EchoStar Communications witnessed a significant surge in its stock price, climbing by as much as 18%.
SpaceX has firmly established its dominance in the aerospace industry, thanks to its 'Falcon 9' rocket, and is leading the charge in the low-Earth orbit internet service sector with its innovative 'Starlink' system. Should SpaceX proceed with an IPO at the proposed $800 billion valuation, it would join the ranks of the top 20 largest publicly traded companies on a global scale.
Previously, SpaceX executives had floated the idea of spinning off the 'Starlink' division for a separate listing. However, Musk had expressed reservations about this move. Nevertheless, the company's Chief Financial Officer (CFO) has indicated that a spin-off and subsequent listing are more likely to materialize in the coming years. SpaceX is aiming to push for an overall IPO in the latter half of next year and plans to offer liquidity to its investors through mechanisms such as 'tender offers' or 'secondary sales'. Additionally, SpaceX remains committed to the development of a new Starship launch vehicle, further solidifying its position as a pioneer in the space exploration industry.
