Should You Consider Quantum Computing Stocks in 2025

Last Updated on September 24, 2025

Key Takeaways

• Among quantum computing stocks are pure innovators and big tech companies, providing varied risk levels and potential for growth in the emerging market.
• Investors should acknowledge the role of enabling technologies — such as advanced hardware and specialized software — as key to propelling the quantum ecosystem.
• Government initiatives and public-private partnerships are supporting vital funding and strategic direction, in turn impacting the speed of quantum innovation and the potential of stocks.
• Market volatility and low liquidity come with the territory, so due diligence and risk mitigation are key to investing smartly in the quantum sector.
• Classic financial metrics won’t accurately reflect the potential of quantum companies. Looking at patent portfolios, technical roadmaps, and key people is important.
• For its part, investing in the supporting industries through a “picks and shovels” lens can provide a more stable route to gaining exposure to quantum’s evolution, but the research and new players will keep shifting the landscape.

Quantum computing stocks refer to stocks of companies engaged in quantum technology for high-speed computing and innovative solutions to complex challenges.

Others manufacture quantum chips or provide cloud access to quantum tools. Some others join forces with big tech or prioritize software for quantum.

To find out which stocks shine, see what they actually do and how they apply quantum concepts in practical work. The following passages provide specific cases.

What are Quantum Computing Stocks?

Quantum computing stocks refer to the stocks of companies that develop or employ quantum technologies. These firms come from a variety of industries, from hardware design to software and cloud services. Quantum computing stocks are tapping into the $170B market set to boom by 2040.

The vast majority of these companies are still in the research phase, and actual commercial products might be five to 10 years away. The stocks are typically volatile, having gone up or down after significant news or partnerships. Investors should have a long time horizon, as practical adoption remains distant.

Quantum computing has the potential to accelerate problem solving well beyond what standard computers can do today, which is why it’s become such a focus for startups and global tech giants alike. Early days still, and the sector will take billions to grow.

1. Pure-Play Innovators

IonQ is a pure-play quantum standout. It’s got trapped ion tech that yields great precision and stability in quantum operations. This provides IonQ a technical advantage, particularly for jobs that require consistent qubit management.

D-Wave Quantum, in contrast, has been famous for quantum annealing—a distinct methodology that aligns well with optimization issues. D-Wave’s niche is well defined, looking for solutions more than sweeping quantum applications.

By market cap, these companies are way smaller than big tech, but therefore have more potential to grow as the market grows. IonQ and D-Wave are both early-stage, with jumbo price swings post-earnings or news.

The battle between pure-plays is intensifying, as each attempts to demonstrate advances toward practical implementation to attract investors.

2. Diversified Giants

Microsoft and Alphabet both invest heavily in quantum research. Microsoft connects quantum tools straight into its cloud platform, Azure, allowing users to play around with quantum resources in a known environment.

Alphabet (Google’s parent) operates its own quantum labs, striving for innovations in hardware and algorithms. These giants’ stocks come with less risk than pure-plays, since quantum is only a small portion of their business.

They tend to offer steadier returns. Neither Microsoft nor Alphabet has a short-term plan — instead funding quantum teams and nurturing partnerships with universities and startups. They want to be prepared when quantum tech hits the mainstream.

3. Enabling Technologies

Quantum computing’s evolution is reliant on new chips, processors, and support hardware. Improvements in control electronics, error correction, and cryogenics are vital for scaling.

Hardware is only one piece; software is crucial too. Quantum algorithms and toolkits assist users in extracting value from quantum machines, despite hardware limitations. Infrastructure, such as data centers with specialized cooling, supports these emerging systems.

The supply chain, from chipmakers to software firms, is extensive and international.

4. Software and Cloud

Cloud platforms make quantum tools accessible, so even small firms or students can conduct experiments. Quantum software companies are writing code to improve logistics, finance and drug research.

Cloud providers assist disseminating research updates and allowing users to try new hardware when it goes online. Companies such as Zapata Computing and QC Ware are growing quickly, providing quantum-ready software and drawing in supernumerary talent.

The Government’s Quantum Bet

Governments around the world view quantum computing technology not just as a scientific achievement — it’s a key to future economic and security leadership. Their investment extends well beyond quantum computing research, setting the stage for companies in this space and global tech competition.

National Security

Quantum computing technology shifts cybersecurity standards significantly. Its capacity for rapid large number factorization can crack cryptographic codes safeguarding financial systems and state secrets. This is why agencies focus on ‘quantum-safe’ encryption and why they’re financing endeavors that reinforce digital defenses in the quantum computing industry.

The military views quantum sensors and communications as instruments of more robust operations, with applications ranging from identifying stealth aircraft to facilitating impervious communication. Defense agencies and quantum startups collaborate on intelligence and battlefield advantage — practical quantum computing programs with concrete outcomes.

The progress is risky, too, as competitors—especially China, which experts say is ahead in quantum networking—can use the technology to weaken existing safeguards in the quantum computing market.

Research Grants

Governments bet on quantum with targeted grants and national programs. The US, for instance, backs quantum research with the National Quantum Initiative Act and research funding from the National Science Foundation and Department of Energy.

These grants drive progress on both hardware and algorithms, helping transform academic breakthroughs into commercial products. For startups, government grants mitigate financial risks and help attract additional investment, and established firms deploy them to scale up research.

Some successful grant-funded projects include:

• Quantum communication infrastructure led by university labs
• Algorithms for quantum chemistry simulations developed by startup teams
• Secure quantum networks piloted in major cities
• Partnerships to build quantum hardware at national laboratories

Public-Private Partnerships

Government–private quantum joint ventures help fill these gaps in expertise, resources, and infrastructure. These collaborations have yielded prototypes and pilots that could not have been achieved through public or private endeavor alone.

For instance, national lab/tech giant collaborations have advanced quantum cloud services and quantum-secure communications. By collaborating with proven industry leaders, policymakers get boots-on-the-ground experience in what’s possible and imperative, spurring executive actions such as new national plans or executive orders that maintain the innovation tempo.

These alliances influence funding priorities and technical standards, providing its members an early mover advantage as new government contracts arise.

Navigating Market Volatility

Quantum computing stocks go up and down in ways that can seem random–much more so than in established tech sectors. Quantum firms’ market value remains minuscule, and most shareholders are wagering on what these companies could create one day, rather than what they make now. Explosive rallies do occur—sometimes a perfectly timed announcement can drive shares up almost 27%, only moments later to fall more than 30% if skepticism emerges about the quantum technology’s near-term trajectory.

World governments are injecting billions of dollars into quantum research — but the timeframe for useful, large-scale quantum machines is uncertain. Investors in this space need to think long term.

Hype Cycles

The quantum sector is hypersusceptible to hype cycles. A new research breakthrough or partnership or government grant gets investors all fired up, and valuations go up even when the fundamentals remain unchanged. Historically, quantum supremacy headlines or big corporate deals caused prices to spike, then suffer steep corrections as the hype subsided.

This dynamic is not unique to quantum; it’s what happened to early AI stocks. The investors’ challenge, then, is to detect the signal of true progress amid the noise of the market swings. Due diligence is important—reading technical papers, monitoring patent filings and competition can help investors avoid getting caught up in hype and make smarter bets.

Milestone-Driven

Milestones are a big deal when you’re talking quantum company valuations. Some key milestones include:

• Demonstrating error correction in a quantum processor
• Achieving a record number of stable qubits
• Securing a major contract with a government or multinational
• Releasing open-source quantum software toolkits
• Completing a successful funding round

When a company reaches one of these milestones, its stock can rocket as investors begin to look ahead. Tracking this kind of R&D progress keeps investors ahead of market action. That’s particularly critical because the sector’s timeline is extended and innovations can dramatically transform the competitive playing field in an instant.

Low Liquidity

Quantum stocks typically trade very low volumes, so a few small trades can send prices shooting up or down. Shallow markets are hard to trade without moving the price — thin volumes make it difficult to enter or exit positions at reasonable prices, and big orders create frantic gyrations.

Investors have to take this into account when determining purchase or exit strategies. By using limit orders and spreading trades over time, you can mitigate these risks. Comprehending liquidity is crucial, as it informs not only trading strategy but long-term investment success. It might make sense to size positions conservatively and not get too overexposed to single names when liquidity is lean.

Top three quantum computing company stocks to consider

When looking at the stock performance of quantum computing companies, IonQ (IONQ), D-Wave Quantum (QBTS), and Rigetti Computing (RGTI) all reflect the sector’s volatility but in different ways. IonQ’s stock, trading around $70, has surged over the past year as strong revenue growth and billion-dollar cash reserves boosted investor confidence, though steep quarterly losses temper enthusiasm. D-Wave’s shares, near $25, show more modest momentum; while revenue has grown steadily, the stock often swings sharply on product announcements or funding updates, reflecting investor caution about its niche quantum annealing approach. Rigetti’s stock, hovering around $28, remains highly speculative—its small revenue base and consistent losses have kept prices volatile, though recent progress in multi-chip architectures has occasionally sparked rallies. For regular investors, IonQ’s stock shows the highest growth-driven upside, D-Wave offers steadier albeit smaller gains tied to commercialization progress, and Rigetti trades as a high-risk, high-reward bet on breakthrough innovation.

Beyond Standard Financial Metrics

Standard financial metrics—revenue, profit margins, price-to-earnings ratios—don’t do a good job describing the potential of quantum computing companies. Most of the companies in this early-stage sector are pre-revenue, with expensive R&D and lengthy development cycles. Their worth is linked less to financials and more to technical breakthroughs, IP and strategic positioning.

With estimates that quantum computing could produce as much as $850 billion in economic value by 2040, investors have to think beyond standard financial metrics. Evaluating quantum stocks requires more than traditional financial metrics.

Patent Portfolio

A strong patent portfolio is still one of the best assets a quantum company can have, providing legal protection for core inventions and a moat against competitors. Patents protect quantum-specific innovations like qubit design, noise mitigation and entanglement methods, critical as the industry sprints toward reliable, large-scale machines.

This IP doesn’t just bolster a firm’s market position, it attracts partners and investors, who view patents as evidence of the company’s innovation pipeline. Take IBM and D-Wave, for instance, which have developed broad portfolios, establishing themselves as leaders and trusted partners in quantum ecosystems worldwide.

Technical Roadmap

Even beyond these standard financial metrics, a clear technical roadmap is an indicator of a company’s capacity to convert ambitious visions into functional products. Thoughtful positioning in quantum computing really is important because of the technical challenges this area faces — such as qubit stability and error correction — which are reminiscent of the classical computing era.

They look for specific milestones and innovation timelines, which are used to gauge a firm’s progress and credibility. Tying technical objectives to market demand—for example quantum-resistant cryptography by 2035 or drug discovery—cultivates confidence and long-term valuation.

Key Personnel

Leadership and technical expertise is key in quantum computing. The domain requires an unusual blend of physics, computer science and engineering genius. Top minds direct company culture, influence research focus, and fuel innovation.

Prominent names like John Martinis at Google or Michelle Simmons at Silicon Quantum Computing add legitimacy, draw investment and motivate top talent. Their history, however, typically indicates that a company’s going to be able to pull off ambitious technical objectives in a rapidly changing landscape.

Strategic Alliances

Through strategic alliances, quantum companies gain access to fresh research, markets and funding. Partnerships with universities, multinationals and government agencies are common, helping firms share risk and accelerate development.

Partnerships such as the IBM Q Network and Microsoft’s Quantum Network cultivate information sharing, push the frontier forward, and build a strong ecosystem to accelerate quantum applications at scale. Developing solid relationships and networks enables companies to remain in front as the industry scales up and regulations evolve.

The “Picks and Shovels” Play

The ‘picks and shovels’ play in quantum computing is to invest in the firms that manufacture the equipment, components, or software that people require to construct or operate quantum computers. It’s not about wagering on a single tribe to build the first major quantum computer. Instead, it focuses on those who make the foundational components and services that any quantum computing technology initiative requires to take flight.

The origins of this concept date back to the California Gold Rush when merchants selling mining equipment often prospered better than miners themselves. This historical analogy emphasizes the importance of supporting the entire quantum computing industry ecosystem rather than just a few prominent players.

It takes a look at the entire supply chain for quantum computing. Semiconductor makers come to mind. They manufacture chips, wafers, and other fundamental components that are used in classical and quantum systems alike. Companies such as TSMC and ASML are household names in this area, providing essential components for quantum processors.

They produce the machines and processes that assist in creating the minuscule circuits or unique materials that quantum chips require. These companies aren’t relying on the success of a single quantum project. Instead, they vend to a lot of teams investigating quantum computing research and other emerging technologies. Their revenue is less likely to oscillate up and down on the destiny of some singular quantum effort.

Beyond hardware, the “picks and shovels” play extends to those who develop the software and construct the tools that allow others to write and test quantum programs. Companies like Synopsys and Cadence Design Systems, for instance, provide software enabling engineers to simulate how circuits will function, which is crucial for advancing practical quantum computing.

In the quantum realm, this could translate to new tools for simulating qubits or executing quantum algorithms. These kinds of software will be required as the space expands, and their manufacturers can address a wide range of customers, from large tech companies to early-stage startups in the quantum computing market.

It’s an easy play because it’s often perceived, at least by investors, as being lower risk. Supporting a company serving dozens of quantum projects may be more secure than investing in a startup with a single quantum computer design. If one venture fizzles, the pick and shovel guy can still sell to someone else.

The market for such tools will expand as quantum computing’s demand increases. A few investors prefer this reliable revenue stream, as it helps result in fewer price fluctuations and more obvious avenues for expansion within the quantum computing industry.

A couple of companies demonstrate how this plays out in the real world. ASML, for instance, has been off to a robust start as the dominant supplier of lithography machines to chip makers.

In the quantum space, companies such as Oxford Instruments manufacture cryogenic systems required to cool quantum chips to close to absolute zero. These picks and shovels will be required regardless of who wins the quantum-best-computer race, meaning demand is poised to increase as the industry evolves and new quantum computing technologies emerge.

Future Investment Landscape

Quantum computing stocks are attracting worldwide interest as the quantum computing industry pivots from theory to practice. Today, billions in capital are flowing into both private and public firms, underscoring the increasing belief that quantum breakthroughs may define the next generation of digital markets. Governments, too, are devoting significant amounts, as quantum machines offer new national security benefits. This expenditure indicates that quantum is no longer a physicist’s niche.

The new investment landscape is a mix of public policy, global rivalry, and private innovation, much like the early days of AI. The speed of change implies that investors need to watch both incumbents and insurgents. Legacy tech giants are increasing their quantum computing investments, but tiny startups, frequently spun out of university labs, are advancing the frontier of quantum computing technology.

A decade ago, no one could have predicted AI be the infrastructure for trillion dollar companies. Now, quantum computing is in a similar position, with numerous startups looking to revolutionize areas like cryptography and drug discovery. The danger is genuine — a lot of these projects will never scale up commercially soon. The potential upside is difficult to ignore — any breakthrough could rapidly reshuffle the competitive landscape.

Patience will be essential, as timelines to develop usable, fault-tolerant quantum machines are uncertain and could extend for years. Continuous R&D is a major factor in what’s next. Any such progress–be it quantum error correction, new algorithms, or hardware advances–can alter the worth of existing investments. For instance, superconducting qubits, trapped ions, and photonic approaches could potentially all win certain use cases.

Other investors will back broad technology portfolios to bet against this uncertainty. The geopolitical side of these advances is worth noting. China vs. U.S. vs. Europe blocs are all racing, hoping to win government contracts and global influence. This contest may reshape where capital goes and which companies have the first shot at big projects in the quantum computing market.

Staying informed is more than helpful; it’s imperative for the quantum stock speculator. News of a research breakthrough, a big government contract, or a new patent can turn market expectations on a dime. Investors who look past headlines and follow the details of technical progress are better positioned to evaluate both risk and potential.

The sector remains in its infancy, and the argument for early positioning in groundbreaking quantum firms is bolstered by everything from the rapid pace of research to what we know from prior tech waves.

Conclusion

Quantum computing stocks continue to attract attention globally. Smart investors no longer focus solely on sales or antiquated charts. They eyeball new tech, monitor government movements and follow the next plays from major labs. Some look to the companies that make the equipment and supplies—such as chip manufacturers or freezing companies—because these tend to remain robust as the industry expands. Risks accompany the promise, but so do genuine opportunities to craft the next tech wave. To dig deeper, try reading up on key players or tracking the newest deals. Be smart. Quantum’s next big leap might not wait long. Keen to stay abreast? Follow our blog for concise guides and trusted news.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are quantum computing stocks?

Quantum computing stocks represent shares in companies advancing quantum computing technology, including quantum processors and software, aiming to solve complex problems faster than classical computers.

Why are governments investing in quantum computing?

Governments view quantum computing technology as essential for national security, research, and economic development, with investments in the quantum computing industry spurring innovation and sustaining long-term growth.

How volatile are quantum computing stocks?

Quantum computing stocks, such as those of Rigetti Computing, remain nascent, and market sentiment can shift swiftly, reflecting the volatility in the quantum computing industry.

What should investors consider besides financial metrics?

Investors should pay attention to patents and research partnerships, as well as leadership teams, as these indicators reflect future growth potential in the rapidly evolving quantum computing industry.

What does “picks and shovels” mean in quantum investing?

‘Picks and shovels’ means investing in companies that provide the tools, materials, or software for quantum computing technology, instead of the quantum computer makers themselves.

Are quantum computing stocks suitable for long-term investment?

Quantum computing stocks, particularly those related to Rigetti Computing, might be suitable for risk-taking long-term investors. As this quantum computing industry is in its early stages, growth may take a few years.

How can I research quantum computing companies?

Start by reading company reports, industry news, and research papers on quantum computing technology. Identify companies with robust collaborations, cutting-edge patents, and a definitive growth trajectory in the quantum computing industry.

Featured Image by Pete Linforth from Pixabay