AST SpaceMobile Inc (NASDAQ:ASTS) shares are pushing higher on Thursday, extending a strong multi‑month run. Additionally, the Nasdaq up 0.06% and the S&P 500 higher by 0.09%, providing a steady backdrop for the stock.

MIAMI, May 21, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Defiance ETFs today announced the launch of the  Defiance Daily Target 2X Long ASTS ETF (ASTY) , expanding its lineup of single-stock leveraged ETFs designed for active traders seeking amplified exposure to innovative growth companies. ASTY is designed for traders seeking magnified, short-term bullish exposure to AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (Nasdaq: ASTS), a satellite designer and manufacturer developing a space-based cellular broadband network aimed at connecting standard mobile phones directly to spaceborne platforms.

Rocket Lab is becoming a diversified space services player. AST SpaceMobile is building one of the first space-based cellular broadband networks.

AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (ASTS) Presents at J.P. Morgan 54th Annual Global Technology, Media and Communications Conference Transcript

While what could be the largest IPO on record looms, two smaller publicly traded space names have quietly built real revenue and accelerating customer demand.

AST SpaceMobile targets underserved coverage with direct-to-smartphone satellite broadband, riding rising 5G demand and big telecom ties.

A trio of mega-cap communication services providers just announced a joint venture to extend mobile connectivity for wireless customers by using satellite-based, direct-to-service technologies.

Inside: five software stocks that map which businesses survive the AI Boom and which ones do not

Brian Macauley highlights opportunities beyond mega-cap AI names, pointing to Applied Materials (AMAT) and Altus Group Limited. He also flags emerging plays like AST SpaceMobile (ASTS) and Shenandoah Telecommunications (SHEN).

AST SpaceMobile Inc (NASDAQ:ASTS) is trading 1.6% higher at $88.21 this afternoon, headed for its fifth-straight pop.