Analysis: What SpaceX’s IPO means for NZ telecommunications

Last week SpaceX launched what it hopes will be the largest stock market listing in history. The company aims to raise US$75 billion to fund its ambitious rocket and space travel development programme.Of more direct interest to New Zealand’s telecommunications sector, SpaceX also plans to expand Starlink, its low earth orbit satellite network.The IPO prospectus confirms that SpaceX no longer sees itself mainly as a launch company. It is pitching to potential investors in three areas: AI infrastructure, connectivity and space services.While all will affect New Zealand, Starlink's low earth orbit satellite connectivity matters most.Dominating the conversationStarlink already dominates connectivity conversations in rural New Zealand. Our rural geography, dispersed population and patchy mobile coverage create a fertile market for a broadband service that can reach almost anywhere.By some measures New Zealanders are the most enthusiastic buyers of Starlink services. The Commerce Commission…