ETFs Load Up on SpaceX Despite Price Hikes

Following SpaceX's initial public offering on June 12, 2026, exchange-traded funds have been steadily acquiring shares as more become available. The Vanguard Communication Services ETF has been particularly active, dramatically increasing its SpaceX holdings. Initially, only about 5% of SpaceX shares were tradable on the Nasdaq. This gradual unlocking of shares allows funds like Vanguard's to increase their positions. As of August 31, 2026, the Vanguard Communication Services ETF held 1,170,398 SpaceX shares, an 85.2% increase in two months, making SpaceX the fund's eighth-largest holding. This rapid accumulation suggests SpaceX could soon become a top-three holding in the ETF as its float continues to grow. Other Vanguard ETFs, such as the Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF and Vanguard Total World Stock ETF, are also increasing their SpaceX positions, though at a slower pace, reflecting SpaceX's growing market cap of $2 trillion. Sector-specific ETFs, like the Vanguard Communication Services ETF, offer concentrated exposure to major companies within their industry.