Kyivstar Moves Closer to US Stock Exchange Listing and Partners with Starlink for Direct-to-Cell Satellite Service

Kyivstar, Ukraine’s largest mobile operator, is taking significant steps towards a US stock exchange listing and enhancing its network capabilities through a partnership with Starlink.

US Stock Exchange Listing

VEON, Kyivstar‘s parent company, has signed a letter of intent with the US investment firm Cohen Circle, paving the way for Kyivstar’s listing on the Nasdaq stock exchange. This move would make Kyivstar one of the first Ukrainian companies to be listed on a US stock exchange, opening it up to international investors.

“For me, this is not just about business. It is an opportunity to bring our story to thousands of people and draw their attention to the realities, resilience and new opportunities in Ukraine – to invest in its recovery and reconstruction now, without waiting for the final end of the war,” said Oleksandr Komarov, CEO of Kyivstar.

This announcement follows an earlier statement by VEON CEO Kaan Terzioglu in November 2024, where he indicated the company’s openness to exploring an IPO for its local assets, including Kyivstar.

Partnership with Starlink

In a separate development, Kyivstar has signed an agreement with Starlink to implement its Direct to Cell satellite service in Ukraine. This technology will allow any 4G-enabled smartphone to connect to the Starlink network, providing mobile coverage in areas without traditional cellular service or where the ground network is disrupted due to war or other factors.

“The innovative Direct to Cell service is capable of providing mobile communications on any 4G smartphone using a satellite signal where there is no traditional coverage from operators, or if the ground network is not working due to military or man-made factors,” Komarov explained.

Kyivstar expects Ukraine to be one of the first countries in the world to implement Starlink’s Direct to Cell technology by the end of 2025.

This partnership follows a previous agreement between VEON and OneWeb to integrate satellite services with its ground network in Ukraine.

Key Takeaways

• Kyivstar is moving closer to a US stock exchange listing, potentially opening up new investment opportunities.
• The company is partnering with Starlink to bring Direct to Cell satellite service to Ukraine, enhancing network coverage and resilience.
• These developments highlight Kyivstar’s commitment to innovation and its role in the rebuilding and development of Ukraine’s digital infrastructure.

Source: DEV.ua