MSCI Inc. announced it has added AST SpaceMobile to its All Country World Index, marking a significant milestone for the satellite communications company competing with Starlink. The index addition comes as AST joins 63 new securities in the index while 61 were removed.

The inclusion makes AST SpaceMobile the largest addition by market capitalization among the new entries, alongside Coherent Inc. and FTAI Aviation Ltd. Index additions typically benefit stocks as they attract buying from index funds and increase corporate visibility. AST shares showed modest gains in after-hours trading following the announcement, despite earlier session volatility.

AST has been positioning itself as a major competitor in the space-based cellular broadband network sector, signing partnerships with major telecom providers including AT&T and Verizon Communications. The company's stock has faced pressure recently after SpaceX signaled plans for an IPO of its Starlink division, which could bring additional funding and intensify competition in the satellite internet market. MSCI's decision to include AST reflects growing investor interest in the satellite communications sector and validates the company's strategic position against established players like Starlink.