Starlink is making waves in the world of satellite internet, promising high-speed connectivity even in the most remote corners of the globe.
As a subsidiary of SpaceX, led by the visionary Elon Musk, Starlink has caught the attention of investors eager to be part of this groundbreaking venture.
But here’s the catch: Starlink isn’t a publicly traded company yet, so investing directly in its stock isn’t possible. Don’t worry, though! There are ways to get involved indirectly.
Why Starlink Is a Big Deal
Starlink is revolutionizing internet access with its network of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. Unlike traditional internet providers, Starlink beams high-speed, low-latency internet to areas where cable or fiber isn’t available.
Think rural towns, remote islands, or even ships at sea. As of 2025, Starlink operates over 7,600 satellites and serves around 4 million subscribers across 130 countries.
Its revenue has skyrocketed, hitting $7.7 billion in 2024, with projections of $11.8 billion in 2025. That’s some serious growth!
Investors are buzzing about Starlink because it’s part of SpaceX, a company valued at around $350 billion. The potential for Starlink to dominate the global internet market, especially in underserved regions, makes it a hot topic.
But since you can’t buy Starlink stock directly, let’s explore the indirect ways to invest and what you need to know.
Understanding Starlink’s Current Status
Before we get into the how-to, let’s clarify Starlink’s setup. Starlink is wholly owned by SpaceX, a private aerospace company.
This means it’s not listed on stock exchanges like the NYSE or NASDAQ, where you can easily buy shares of companies like Apple or Tesla.
SpaceX has raised funds through private investments, but these are typically reserved for big players like venture capital firms or accredited investors.
Elon Musk has hinted at a possible Starlink initial public offering (IPO) in the future, but as of July 2025, no official date has been set.
So, how can regular investors like you and me get a piece of the action? There are a few creative ways to gain exposure to Starlink’s growth without directly owning its stock.
Let’s break them down.
Indirect Ways to Invest in Starlink
Since Starlink isn’t public, you’ll need to think outside the box.
Here are the main strategies to consider:
- Invest in SpaceX through private marketplaces: If you’re an accredited investor (more on that later), you can buy SpaceX shares through secondary marketplaces like Forge Global or EquityZen. These platforms let early investors or employees sell their shares to qualified buyers.
- Buy into ETFs with SpaceX exposure: Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) like the XOVR ETF or ARK Space Exploration & Innovation ETF (ARKX) include SpaceX in their portfolios. These are accessible to retail investors and trade on public exchanges.
- Invest in companies tied to SpaceX: Some publicly traded companies, like Alphabet (Google’s parent company) or Bank of America, have small stakes in SpaceX. Buying their stock gives you indirect exposure to Starlink.
- Wait for a Starlink IPO: If SpaceX spins off Starlink into a separate public company, you could buy shares directly. Keep an eye on news from Elon Musk or SpaceX for IPO updates.
Each option has its pros and cons, so let’s dig deeper into how they work and what might suit you best.
Option 1: Private Marketplaces for Accredited Investors
If you’re an accredited investor, you have a unique opportunity to invest in SpaceX through secondary marketplaces.
To qualify as an accredited investor in the U.S., you need:
- An annual income of over $200,000 (or $300,000 with a spouse) for the past two years.
- A net worth exceeding $1 million, excluding your primary residence.
- Certain professional financial licenses, like Series 7 or Series 65.
If you meet these criteria, platforms like Forge Global or EquityZen allow you to buy SpaceX shares from existing shareholders, such as employees or early investors.
These shares give you a stake in SpaceX, which includes Starlink’s operations.
| Platform | Key Features | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Forge Global | Connects buyers with private shares | High minimum investment |
| EquityZen | Focuses on pre-IPO companies | Limited liquidity, company approval |
Pros: Direct exposure to SpaceX’s growth, including Starlink’s success.
Cons: High barriers to entry, limited liquidity, and transactions often require company approval.
Option 2: ETFs with SpaceX Exposure
For most retail investors, ETFs are the easiest way to invest in Starlink indirectly. ETFs are like baskets of stocks that trade on exchanges, and some include SpaceX in their holdings.
Here are two popular options:
- XOVR ETF: This fund allocates over 85% of its portfolio to the ER30TR Index, which includes SpaceX. It’s available on platforms like Schwab, Fidelity, and Robinhood, making it accessible to everyday investors.
- ARK Space Exploration & Innovation ETF (ARKX): Managed by ARK Invest, this ETF focuses on space-related companies, including SpaceX. It’s a good choice if you want exposure to the broader space industry.
| ETF | SpaceX Exposure | Fees (Expense Ratio) | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| XOVR | High (~85%) | Low | Major platforms (e.g., Fidelity) |
| ARKX | Moderate (~3.5%) | Higher | Broadly available |
Pros: Easy to buy through brokerage accounts, no accreditation needed, daily liquidity.
Cons: SpaceX is just one part of the portfolio, so your investment isn’t solely tied to Starlink.
Option 3: Companies with SpaceX Ties
Some publicly traded companies have invested in SpaceX, offering a small, indirect way to gain exposure to Starlink.
For example:
- Alphabet Inc. (GOOGL): Google’s parent company invested $900 million in SpaceX in 2015. While this is a tiny fraction of Alphabet’s $2.4 trillion market cap, it’s a way to get some exposure.
- Bank of America (BAC) and Fidelity Investments: These firms manage funds with SpaceX stakes, so buying their stock gives you a sliver of SpaceX’s growth.
Pros: Easy to invest through any brokerage, no accreditation required.
Cons: SpaceX exposure is minimal, so Starlink’s success won’t significantly impact these stocks.
Option 4: Waiting for a Starlink IPO
Elon Musk has teased a Starlink IPO since 2021, saying it might happen once the company’s cash flow is more predictable.
With Starlink’s revenue projected to hit $11.8 billion in 2025, an IPO could be on the horizon.
If Starlink goes public, you could buy shares directly through a brokerage account, just like any other stock.
Pros: Direct investment in Starlink, potentially high returns if the IPO is successful.
Cons: No guaranteed timeline, and much of Starlink’s value may already be priced into SpaceX’s private valuation.
Things to Consider Before Investing
Investing in Starlink, even indirectly, comes with risks.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
- High valuation: SpaceX’s $350 billion valuation means much of Starlink’s growth may already be priced in for private investors.
- Market risks: The satellite internet industry is competitive, with players like Amazon’s Project Kuiper entering the fray.
- Liquidity issues: Private shares in SpaceX are hard to sell, and even ETFs can be volatile.
- Regulatory hurdles: Starlink faces scrutiny over satellite congestion and political controversies, which could impact its growth.
Before investing, talk to a financial advisor to ensure your strategy aligns with your goals and risk tolerance.
How to Stay Updated on Starlink Opportunities
Starlink’s plans can change quickly, so staying informed is key.
Here are some tips:
- Follow Elon Musk and SpaceX on social media for IPO hints.
- Check financial news outlets like Forbes or Bloomberg for updates on SpaceX.
- Monitor secondary marketplaces for new share offerings.
- Subscribe to newsletters from ETF providers like ARK Invest.
FAQs About How to Invest in Starlink
Q. Can I buy Starlink stock directly?
No, Starlink is not publicly traded. It’s a subsidiary of SpaceX, a private company. You can invest indirectly through ETFs, private marketplaces, or companies with SpaceX ties.
Q. What is an accredited investor, and why does it matter?
An accredited investor meets SEC criteria, like earning over $200,000 annually or having a net worth over $1 million. This status is required to buy SpaceX shares on secondary marketplaces.
Q. When will Starlink go public?
There’s no confirmed IPO date, but Elon Musk has suggested it could happen once Starlink’s cash flow is stable, possibly in 2025 or later.
Q. Are ETFs like XOVR a safe way to invest in Starlink?
ETFs like XOVR offer exposure to SpaceX but come with risks, as they include other stocks and can be volatile. Research the ETF’s holdings and consult a financial advisor.
Conclusion
Starlink is an exciting opportunity for investors, with its mission to connect the world through satellite internet. While you can’t buy Starlink stock directly, options like ETFs, private marketplaces, or investing in SpaceX-linked companies give you a way to get involved.
Each method has its own risks and rewards, so do your homework and consider your financial goals. Whether you’re eyeing an ETF like XOVR or waiting for a potential IPO, staying informed will help you make smart choices.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and not financial advice. Investing involves risks, including the potential loss of capital. Consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.
Savita is a passionate finance writer with a strong background in the world of money management and financial planning. With over 4 years of blogging experience, she has been helping readers simplify complex financial topics and make smarter money decisions.
