Radio Spectra as Telecommunications Assets

Radio spectra are more than invisible waves; they are crucial economic assets. A new analysis finds that including radio spectra in the national balance sheet adds $2 trillion to U.S. wealth in 2022 alone. While these spectra don’t wear out like traditional infrastructure, how they are allocated, whether sold at auction or given for free, shapes competition in telecommunications. Tracking these allocations properly could improve how we understand industry assets, government policy, and even future innovation in connectivity.