BUZZ-SpaceX drives mobile network development, US tower operators' stock prices rise

October 23 - ** According to Bloomberg, (link) SpaceX is in negotiations with Crown Castle to obtain usage rights for at least 80 thousand US mobile communication towers, aiming to become the fourth nationwide wireless operator. Boosted by this news, shares of US mobile tower operators surged in pre-market trading.

** Bernstein stated that if SpaceX builds a mobile network, it will not only create substantial leasing opportunities for tower operators, but may also intensify competition among existing telecom operators and increase their costs.

** Crown Castle (CCI.N) rose by 7.3% to $84.60, and American Tower (AMT.N) increased by 5.7% to $191.96. If these gains hold, the opening prices of both companies will reach a four-month high.

** Telecom operators AT&T T.N, Verizon VZ.N, and T-Mobile TMUS.O saw declines ranging from 3.1% to 3.7%.

** Citigroup noted that US wireless operators would have at least three to five years to strengthen their networks, adjust marketing strategies, and cut costs before SpaceX enters the mobile communications market.

** The brokerage suggested that for SpaceX, acquiring an existing nationwide telecom operator might be more cost-effective. Given their fiber broadband assets, AT&T and Verizon may have more advantages than T-Mobile.

** Crown Castle, American Tower, and SpaceX have not immediately responded to requests for comment from Reuters.

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