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VEON Partners with Starlink for Multi-Market Direct-to-Cell Satellite Connectivity
## Opening U.S.-based **Starlink**, a subsidiary of **SpaceX**, has finalized a global direct-to-cell agreement with Amsterdam-based telecommunications provider **VEON Ltd. (NASDAQ: VEON)**. This landmark partnership aims to extend satellite-to-mobile connectivity to **VEON**'s extensive subscriber base across its operating markets, initiating a new phase of competition in the rapidly evolving direct satellite-to-phone cellular sector. ## The Event in Detail The agreement positions **Starlink** to integrate its direct-to-cell service into **VEON**'s existing networks, potentially reaching over **150 million** customers. Initial rollouts are slated for **VEON**'s operating companies, **Beeline** in Kazakhstan and **Kyivstar** in Ukraine. **Kyivstar** is expected to launch messaging services, followed by data, in the fourth quarter of 2025, with **Beeline Kazakhstan** commencing services in 2026. This multi-country framework agreement marks **VEON** as the first global telecom operator to enter such a broad arrangement with **Starlink**. Crucially, the agreement is non-exclusive, allowing **VEON** the flexibility to pursue similar partnerships with other satellite providers, including **Amazon's Project Kuiper** and **AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ: ASTS)**. ## Analysis of Market Reaction This strategic alliance is largely viewed as positive for both **Starlink** and **VEON**, underscoring a growing trend in the telecommunications industry to bridge connectivity gaps, particularly in remote and underserved regions. For **VEON**, the partnership enhances its service offering and expands its reach, leveraging **Starlink**'s advanced satellite technology. For **Starlink**, it represents its largest direct-to-cell deal to date, significantly broadening its potential customer base and reinforcing its position in the direct-to-cell market. The non-exclusive nature of the deal also implies that **VEON** is hedging its bets, maintaining optionality in a competitive and evolving technological landscape. This development is expected to heighten competition among satellite-to-smartphone providers, potentially impacting the valuations and strategic decisions of other players in the sector. ## Broader Context & Implications The direct satellite-to-phone cellular market is experiencing rapid expansion. Valued at approximately **$2.5 billion** in 2024, projections indicate a substantial increase to **$43.3 billion** by 2034, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of **32.7%** from 2025 to 2034. This growth is primarily fueled by the increasing demand for high-speed internet in remote areas and critical communication for government and public safety sectors. **Starlink** has been aggressive in securing partnerships, notably with **T-Mobile**, which launched its satellite messaging and location-sharing service using **Starlink** in January 2025. Similarly, **AST SpaceMobile** formed a strategic tie-up with **Vi** in September 2024 to bring satellite-to-smartphone connectivity to India. With over **7 million** global users as of 2025 and a revenue model heavily reliant on subscriptions, **Starlink**'s second-generation satellites are positioned to capitalize on this market expansion. **VEON**'s proactive move to integrate satellite connectivity reflects a broader industry recognition of the need for hybrid terrestrial and satellite solutions to serve vast and diverse customer bases. ## Looking Ahead The successful implementation of **Starlink** and **VEON**'s direct-to-cell services will depend on timely regulatory approvals in Kazakhstan and Ukraine, as well as the seamless integration of satellite technology with existing terrestrial infrastructure. The non-exclusive nature of **VEON**'s agreement suggests that the market could see further consolidation or diversification of partnerships as telecom operators seek to optimize their connectivity offerings. Investors and industry observers will closely monitor the operational launches in 2025 and 2026, the performance metrics of these services, and any subsequent announcements regarding additional partnerships by either **VEON** or **Starlink**. The pace of innovation and competitive responses from **Amazon's Project Kuiper**, **AST SpaceMobile**, and other emerging players will also be critical factors in shaping the future trajectory of this high-growth sector.

Centrus Energy Reports Mixed Q3 Results; Shares Decline Despite EPS Beat
## Centrus Energy Reports Mixed Q3 Performance Uranium enrichment and nuclear fuel company **Centrus Energy Corp. (LEU)** saw its shares decline by **12.5%** on the announcement of its third-quarter 2025 earnings. Despite reporting an earnings per share (EPS) of **$0.19**, which significantly exceeded analyst forecasts, a notable revenue miss appeared to weigh heavily on investor sentiment. ## Detailed Earnings Breakdown for Centrus Energy For the third quarter of 2025, Centrus Energy reported an EPS of **$0.19**, which represented a substantial beat of **137.5%** over market expectations. This performance contrasts sharply with the prior year's quarter, as the company achieved a net income of **$3.9 million**, a significant turnaround from a **$5 million loss** in the same period last year. Revenue for the quarter reached **$74.9 million**, marking a robust **30% year-over-year** increase. However, this figure still fell short of analyst projections by **4.16%**. Operational highlights included strong performance across both key segments: the LEU segment reported a **29%** increase, and the Technical Solutions segment grew by **31%**. Centrus Energy also boasts a substantial order backlog of **$3.9 billion**, extending its commitments through **2040**. The company is actively pursuing a **3.5 million SWU (Separative Work Unit)** capacity expansion and exploring various funding models for potential partnerships to support this growth. ## Market Reacts to Revenue Shortfall Despite EPS Beat Investor reaction to Centrus Energy's earnings report was predominantly negative, with shares declining **12.5%**. This market response highlights the discerning nature of investors, who often prioritize revenue performance and future guidance as indicators of a company's sustained growth trajectory. While the EPS beat indicated strong profitability relative to expectations, the revenue miss, even with considerable year-over-year growth, likely signaled concerns about top-line expansion or demand within its core markets. This outcome provides a contrast to other recent earnings reports. For instance, **LegalZoom (LZ)** experienced a **2.62%** stock rise in aftermarket trading, closing at **$9.92**, despite an EPS miss, because its revenue of **$190 million** surpassed forecasts and demonstrated **13% year-over-year growth**. Conversely, **Kelly Services (KELYA)** saw its stock tumble **16.04%** to **$9.58** after missing both revenue and adjusted EPS expectations, reporting a **9.9% year-over-year revenue decline** and adjusted EPS of **$0.18** well below analyst expectations of **$0.38**. ## Broader Implications and Company Trajectory The divergent market reactions to mixed earnings reports underscore the principle that while profit metrics are crucial, sustained revenue growth is often seen as a more fundamental driver of long-term value. For Centrus Energy, the focus now shifts to how it will convert its substantial backlog and planned capacity expansion into consistent revenue growth that meets or exceeds analyst expectations. Centrus Energy's stock decline places it closer to its **52-week low** than its high, reflecting a cautious investor outlook despite its operational achievements. The company's ability to maintain and expand its market share in the critical nuclear fuel sector, coupled with its financial stability, as evidenced by the turnaround to net income, will be key factors in rebuilding investor confidence. ## Analyst Perspectives on Earnings Impact Financial analysts frequently emphasize that while short-term stock movements can be volatile following earnings releases, sustained trends in revenue, profits, and cash flow are more indicative of a company's long-term health. As highlighted by market observers: > "Companies that consistently grow their revenue, profits, and cash flow tend to see their stock prices rise over time. A company that increases its revenue steadily is usually seen as more sustainable and capable of driving long-term value." In the case of Centrus Energy, the disconnect between a strong EPS beat and a revenue miss, leading to a stock decline, suggests that the market may be signaling a preference for top-line growth confidence over immediate profitability metrics in this particular instance. ## Outlook and Future Drivers for Centrus Energy Looking ahead, the market will closely monitor Centrus Energy's progress on its **3.5 million SWU capacity expansion** and the realization of its **$3.9 billion backlog**. The company's ability to effectively manage its projects, secure partnerships for funding its expansion, and translate its strategic initiatives into predictable revenue streams will be paramount. Upcoming quarterly reports and any updates on market demand for nuclear fuel will be critical factors influencing **LEU**'s performance in the coming quarters. Investors will be seeking clear indications that the company can align its operational strengths with consistent financial outperformance.

MDU Resources Group Reports Mixed Third Quarter 2025 Results Amidst Strong Pipeline Segment Performance
## Third Quarter 2025 Financial Performance U.S. utility and construction services firm **MDU Resources Group, Inc. (MDU)** announced its third-quarter 2025 financial results on November 6, 2025, presenting a mixed financial picture to investors. The company reported **earnings per share (EPS)** of **$0.09**, which was **$0.02** below the analyst consensus estimate of **$0.11**. Conversely, **revenue** for the quarter totaled **$315.10 million**, significantly surpassing the consensus estimate of **$228.55 million** by **$10.09 million**. Despite a notable year-over-year revenue decline of 70%, the reported figure still exceeded market expectations, highlighting a divergence between top-line and bottom-line performance. ## Segmental Performance Highlights The company's **Pipeline segment** was a key driver of positive results, demonstrating robust growth with record third-quarter earnings of **$16.8 million**. This represents an **11.3% increase** from **$15.1 million** reported in the third quarter of 2024. This strong performance was primarily attributed to higher transportation revenue stemming from growth projects, including the **Wahpeton Expansion Project**, which were placed into service in late 2024. Furthermore, increased customer demand for short-term firm natural gas transportation contracts contributed significantly to the segment's earnings growth, with Pipeline segment revenue also increasing by **11.5%** year-over-year. The positive financial impact from the Pipeline segment was partially offset by an increase in operating costs, notably higher payroll-related expenses, along with elevated property taxes and depreciation across the company. ## Market Reaction and Broader Context The mixed financial results, characterized by an EPS miss alongside a revenue beat, have contributed to an **"Uncertain"** market sentiment regarding **MDU Resources (MDU)**, potentially leading to short-term volatility in the stock price. Despite this quarter's mixed report, **MDU** stock has shown positive longer-term performance, with its share price closing at **$19.69**. The stock has advanced **19.26%** over the last three months and **15.93%** over the past 12 months, indicating underlying investor confidence or broader market trends supporting the company prior to this earnings release. Analyst sentiment leading into the report was also divided, with the last 90 days seeing one positive and one negative EPS revision, reflecting differing expert views on the company's short-term earnings outlook. The strong performance in MDU's natural gas pipeline operations aligns with broader industry trends, as evidenced by **TC Energy Corporation (TRP)**, which also reported robust North American energy fundamentals and growth in its natural gas and power portfolio, sanctioning over $5 billion in new growth projects. This context suggests a supportive environment for energy infrastructure companies with strong natural gas transportation assets. ## Outlook and Future Initiatives Looking ahead, **MDU Resources Group** management continues to evaluate additional expansion opportunities within its pipeline segment. These initiatives are designed to align with evolving customer and market needs, suggesting a strategic focus on leveraging its strong infrastructure assets to drive future revenue growth. The company's ability to effectively manage its operating costs while capitalizing on sustained demand for natural gas transportation will be critical in shaping its financial performance in upcoming quarters and sustaining its longer-term growth trajectory.
