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International agencies highlight leadership in orbital launches and strength of Starlink, but point out uncertainties involving SpaceX’s high investments in artificial intelligence.
SpaceX reached a new financial milestone on Thursday, June 18, 2026. The company received, for the first time, investment grade ratings from the three main international risk assessment agencies.
According to Moody’s Ratings, Elon Musk’s company received a long-term credit rating of Baa1, accompanied by a stable outlook.
At the same time, Fitch Ratings assigned a BBB+ rating to the company. Meanwhile, S&P Global Ratings granted a BBB rating, also with a stable outlook.
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The ratings place SpaceX’s debt in a category considered moderate risk. Furthermore, they indicate adequate capacity for fulfilling the financial obligations assumed by the company.
SpaceX achieves investment grade
The rating granted by the agencies represents recognition of SpaceX’s position in the international space market.
According to Moody’s Ratings, the company maintains global leadership in orbital launches. Additionally, it operates the largest satellite internet network in low Earth orbit through Starlink.
Starlink has even become the company’s main cash generator. Thus, the service began to support revenue growth and the expansion of operating margins.
At the same time, the connectivity network allowed SpaceX to diversify its business. Thus, the company reduced its exclusive dependence on space launch services.
The ratings released on June 18 were distributed as follows:
- Moody’s Ratings: Baa1, with a stable outlook;
- Fitch Ratings: BBB+, with a stable outlook;
- S&P Global Ratings: BBB, with a stable outlook.
Although they use different scales, the three ratings classify SpaceX within the investment grade.
Starlink strengthens SpaceX’s business
The expansion of Starlink played a central role in the positive assessments. The network offers connection through satellites positioned in low Earth orbit.
According to Moody’s, this operation generates recurring revenues and strengthens the company’s financial capacity.
The activity complements the space launch segment, considered one of SpaceX’s main pillars.
S&P Global Ratings also highlighted the strength of the launch and connectivity operations. However, the agency pointed out uncertainties related to the artificial intelligence segment.
This front requires a high amount of capital. Additionally, SpaceX faces a highly competitive environment while expanding investments in this area.
Shares fall after debut on Nasdaq
Despite the positive ratings, SpaceX shares fell 1.1% in extended trading on June 18.
Before that, the shares had closed the regular session with a drop of nearly 4%.
The company debuted on Nasdaq on June 12, 2026. Shortly after, it surpassed the mark of US$ 2 trillion in market value.
In the first two days of trading, the shares registered strong appreciation. Subsequently, however, the shares gave back part of the initial gains.
The movement occurred as investors began to assess the relationship between the high market value and the investments needed for expansion.
Thus, although the ratings reinforce the agencies’ confidence in SpaceX’s financial structure, the costs related to artificial intelligence remain under market scrutiny.
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