SpaceX is aiming for a blockbuster initial public offering that could value the rocket and satellite company at roughly $1.8 trillion, with a listing on the Nasdaq planned by June 2026, according to people familiar with the matter.
The valuation target
At $1.8 trillion, SpaceX would instantly become one of the most valuable publicly traded companies in the world, rivaling giants like Apple and Microsoft. The figure is based on internal projections and discussions with potential underwriters, though the final valuation will depend on market conditions closer to the offering date.
Investors have long speculated about when Elon Musk's space venture would go public. The company has been private since its founding in 2002 and has raised billions from venture capital and strategic investors. An IPO at that level would dwarf the current market caps of established aerospace and defense contractors.
Timeline and listing venue
SpaceX has selected Nasdaq as its exchange over the New York Stock Exchange, according to the same sources. The target window of June 2026 gives the company roughly two years to complete all regulatory filings, roadshows, and pricing.
The company has not yet formally filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, but preparations are underway. A successful IPO at that valuation would require SpaceX to demonstrate sustained revenue growth from its Starlink satellite internet service and its reusable rocket launches.
Retail investors who have been unable to buy SpaceX shares on the private market would finally get a chance. The company's stock has traded in secondary markets at valuations well below $1.8 trillion, meaning the IPO price could represent a substantial premium.
The offering is expected to include both new shares to raise capital for the company and secondary shares sold by existing investors. SpaceX has said it needs additional funding for its Starship program and to expand Starlink coverage globally.
Challenges ahead
An IPO at any valuation carries risks. SpaceX faces regulatory hurdles for Starship launches, competition from Amazon's Project Kuiper, and the inherent volatility of space ventures. A $1.8 trillion price tag would require investors to bet that SpaceX's revenue will grow exponentially over the next decade.
Musk's other public company, Tesla, has seen its stock soar and crash multiple times. Some analysts question whether SpaceX can maintain its technological lead as rivals catch up. The company also has not disclosed its full financial results, leaving outside investors guessing about profit margins.
The question now is whether SpaceX can hit that June 2026 target without a major delay or a downward revision of its ambitions.
