To understand quantum computing stocks and why they are important, it’s essential to first understand quantum physics, and the world of quantum physics is one of the most mind-bending topics ever. In quantum physics, particles can be in all positions at the same time, and in quantum computing, bits can be both a 1 and 0 at the same time. This leads to computing power that was previously unimaginable, and with China and the US taking major leaps in the field, it’s time to get involved. We will take you through why quantum computing matters to investors and what quantum computing stocks you need to watch. Let’s break it down below.
Why quantum computing matters to investors
Quantum computing is not just a scientific curiosity or a futuristic fantasy, it’s an inflection point in computational power with profound implications for industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to national defense. At its core, quantum computing uses quantum bits (qubits), which, unlike classical bits that are either 0 or 1, can exist in superposition, which is a state of both 0 and 1 simultaneously. This is similar to quantum physics, in which particles can exist in multiple positions at the same time until collapsing via an observation by an “observer.”
This allows quantum systems to perform complex calculations that would take millennia to accomplish, and the result is a paradigm shift that we might not even be ready for. Think about being able to break RSA encryption in minutes, accelerating drug discovery pipelines, or solving logistics problems in real time. Companies or nations that master quantum capabilities early could gain a computational and economic edge comparable to the first-mover advantage seen with the internet or AI.
Where quantum computing fits into today’s economic context
As we enter a new cycle of global innovation, quantum computing is drawing serious capital from both the public and private sectors. The U.S., China, and the EU have launched national quantum initiatives, with billions in funding, while corporations like IBM, Alphabet, and Amazon are embedding quantum systems into their cloud services. In 2025, we’re seeing the shift from theoretical research to early commercialization. Investors who understand the timing of quantum readiness, which is when the world is already using quantum computing on a mass scale, are already prepared. In fact, quantum computing is already being used by some industries right now.
Market growth projections for quantum computing
According to recent data, the quantum computing market is projected to more than double from 2023 to 2025 and continue expanding at a nearly exponential pace:
Real-world applications fueling quantum growth
Quantum computing’s applications aren’t just theoretical, they are currently being used by some of the top companies in the world as delineated below:
| Industry | Application | Notable Companies |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmaceuticals | Simulating molecular structures to shorten drug development timelines | Pfizer, Roche |
| Finance | Portfolio optimization, fraud detection, and Monte Carlo simulations | Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase |
| Energy | Improving battery chemistry and grid efficiency | ExxonMobil, BASF |
| Artificial Intelligence | Enhancing machine learning algorithms with quantum speed-ups | — |
| Cryptography | Developing post-quantum encryption standards | — |
As these industries begin to integrate quantum into their R&D and operations, demand for commercially viable quantum solutions will rise, and so will the value of companies providing them.
Strategic implications for investors and quantum computing stocks
Here’s what makes quantum computing especially relevant to investors right now:
Why it matters to investors
- Early positioning: We’re still in the early innings. The next 3–5 years will be critical for defining the competitive landscape.
- Tech convergence: Quantum won’t live in a vacuum. It will amplify AI, cybersecurity, materials science, and more. Public-private partnerships: Expect to see more cross-border collaborations and government contracts, especially as quantum computing becomes a national security issue.
- Scarcity of access: Many quantum players are still private. Getting exposure via public firms now may offer long-term advantage.
Quantum computing stocks to watch
In order to get a grasp of this sector from an investment perspective, it’s useful to separate the players into 2 camps: established tech giants with quantum research arms (Think Google owning Waymo as a subsidiary), or purely quantum firms focused on one single objective: to develop quantum computers.
The former offers scale, infrastructure, and balance sheet strength, while the latter brings focus, agility, and outsized growth potential. Understanding how these categories differ, in risk profile, business model, and technological approach, can help investors tailor their exposure based on conviction and risk appetite.
Big tech with quantum divisions
Major tech firms are not just dipping their toes into quantum, they are pouring billions of dollars into research to integrate quantum with their already existing cloud systems.
These firms offer the dual advantage of financial stability and first-mover infrastructure, making them attractive entry points for investors seeking quantum exposure without the volatility of smaller players.
IBM quantum computing profile
IBM is a quantum pioneer with decades of research experience. Through its IBM Quantum platform, the company is offering enterprise-grade access to quantum systems and plans to launch one of the world’s most powerful quantum computers called Condor, by 2025
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Revenue (2024) | $61.1 billion |
| Quantum focus | Superconducting qubits |
| Platform/Initiative | IBM Quantum |
| Notable | Offers access to quantum systems via IBM Q Experience |
| Stock YTD (2025) | +8.2% |
Alphabet quantum computing profile
Alphabet, via its Google Quantum AI division, made waves with its early quantum supremacy claims. Today, it continues developing its Sycamore processor with long-term ambitions to solve real-world challenges like clean energy and advanced materials.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Revenue (2024) | $342.1 billion |
| Quantum focus | Superconducting circuits |
| Platform/Initiative | Google Quantum AI / Sycamore |
| Notable | Intends to solve real-world problems like battery chemistry for EVs |
| Stock YTD (2025) | +12.7% |
Microsoft quantum computing profile
Microsoft brings a platform-first approach to quantum. While still refining its topological qubit hardware, it’s leveraging Azure Quantum to deliver hybrid solutions and tools for researchers, startups, and enterprises across multiple industries.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Revenue (2024) | $260.1 billion |
| Quantum focus | Topological qubits, software stack, Azure Quantum platform |
| Platform/Initiative | Azure Quantum |
| Notable | Investing heavily in quantum algorithms for enterprise solutions |
| Stock YTD (2025) | +6.4% |
Quantum computing stocks: Companies that focus only on quantum
These firms offer some of the highest upside in the quantum space, with the potential for exponential growth as the technology matures and demand accelerates. That being said, that opportunity comes at a cost: pure-play quantum companies are still navigating the chasm between research and revenue. Just like most AI companies continue to lose money and are not profitable, many of the new startups in the quantum field exhibit the same behavior.
Most remain in the pre-profit or even pre-revenue stage, relying heavily on venture funding, government grants, and strategic partnerships to stay afloat. Their success hinges not only on continued technical breakthroughs but also on their ability to convert scientific progress into scalable, commercially viable products. In layman’s terms: high conviction plays with high volatility,well-suited for investors who can stomach long-term horizons and short-term uncertainty.
IonQ quantum computing profile
IonQ is a first-mover among pure-play quantum companies and leads in trapped-ion architecture. It’s focused on building commercially viable quantum systems and expanding access through cloud platforms like AWS and Azure.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Market Cap (2025) | ~$2.3 billion |
| Revenue (2024) | $28 million |
| Platform | IonQ Aria (25 algorithmic qubits) |
| Forecast | Promises 64 algorithmic qubits by 2026 |
| Notable | Partnerships with AWS and Microsoft Azure |
Rigetti quantum computing profile
Rigetti is building full-stack quantum systems using superconducting qubits. Though smaller than its peers, it’s positioning itself as a key quantum-as-a-service provider, especially after streamlining operations in 2024.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Market Cap (2025) | ~$150 million |
| Revenue (2024) | $13.1 million |
| Quantum focus | Superconducting qubits |
| Platform | Full-stack quantum-as-a-service |
| Notable | Refocusing strategy and cost-cutting to stabilize growth |
QUBT quantum computing profile
Quantum Computing Inc. (QUBT) is taking a software-first route, focusing on hybrid algorithms to solve industry-specific problems. While still pre-revenue, its emphasis on AI and logistics optimization places it firmly in the speculative, high-upside category.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Market Cap (2025) | ~$75 million |
| Revenue (2024) | Pre-revenue |
| Quantum focus | Hybrid quantum algorithms |
| Use case focus | Solutions for logistics, finance, and AI optimization |
| Risk profile | High volatility, highly speculative |
Balancing risk and reward in the quantum computing space
So, is quantum computing going to change all of our lives and create free energy and unlimited abundance? Maybe, but there are some other considerations we need to take into account, like cyborg robots taking over Earth and enslaving the human race. (Joke, kind of). All joking aside, below are some of the benefits and risks in the quantum computing world
Risks and rewards in quantum investing
Quantum computing isn’t all flowers and gravy, below are some of the downsides and upsides o consider.
REWARDS
- Companies like IBM and IonQ are already deploying quantum platforms to enterprise clients.
- Partnerships with AWS, Microsoft, and U.S. government agencies bring credibility and long-term stability.
- Quantum can unlock new applications across AI, energy, biotech, and finance.
- Early investors could benefit from outsized gains if commercial breakthroughs accelerate adoption.
RISK
- Widespread adoption may still be 5–10 years away, testing investor patience and capital.
- Hardware challenges like qubit stability and error correction remain unresolved.
- Valuations for many pure quantum companies are speculative and not tied to near-term revenue.
- Geopolitical risks could impact cross-border collaboration and regulation.
How to gain exposure to quantum computing stocks
So, if you believe in the future of quantum computing, then the next step is to get some exposure to it in the markets. Just like if you believed in car accidents increasing in the United States, and therefore car accident lawyers might be worth investing in, if you believe in quantum computing, here are some ways to get exposure. Below are some ways you can gain exposure at this very moment.
ETFs for retail and growth-focused investors
If you’re a retail investor looking for diversified, liquid exposure without betting on a single name, ETFs are the easiest entry point.
- The Defiance Quantum ETF (QTUM): Focuses on quantum computing and machine learning-related firms, balancing pure plays with adjacent AI and semiconductor exposure. Suitable for growth-oriented investors who want direct thematic exposure with lower volatility.
- Broader tech ETFs (e.g., ARKQ, Global X Future Analytics): These funds invest across next-gen technologies—AI, robotics, quantum, and advanced computing. Ideal for investors who believe in tech convergence but prefer a more diversified thematic play.
Direct stock picking for high-conviction, high-risk investors
Active investors with a deep understanding of quantum trends, or the willingness to follow company developments closely ,may prefer building a custom basket of both big tech quantum players and pure-play firms.
This strategy may offer higher upside but requires patience, due diligence, and the ability to tolerate short-term volatility. It fits investors who treat emerging tech as a long-term thesis rather than a quick trade.
Venture capital and pre-IPO funds for accredited investors
For those with access to private markets, venture capital exposure offers a seat at the table before companies go public. Startups like PsiQuantum, Xanadu, and Rigetti (pre-SPAC) have raised hundreds of millions in funding from institutional investors betting on quantum’s long game.
Private funds often require accreditation, higher minimums, and lock-up periods—but they also provide access to bleeding-edge innovation that isn’t yet available on public markets. Ideal for high-net-worth individuals or family offices seeking asymmetric returns and willing to accept illiquidity in exchange for early access.
So what’s the future of quantum computing stocks?
Quantum computing is here to stay, and it’s only going to get more powerful. Many scientists argue that consciousness itself is a quantum state, and thus being able to compute at the highest level in a quantum realm gives rise to some interesting possibilities. At this stage, you have the big tech firms investing money as well as the startups that are striving for breakthroughs with models that are not exactly profitable. It doesn’t matter. Like any new, groundbreaking industry, things need to level out, and companies will succeed and fail. It could also be so powerful that it’s not useful for retail users just looking to list their Airbnb online or order tacos for delivery. Why would they need quantum power to be able to do that?
Overall, if you want exposure to quantum, diversification is the name of the game. Consider investing in a mix of both big tech firms that have quantum computing capabilities, or startups that might be so novel, it might result in a huge paradigm shit regarding what’s possible in the future.
FAQ
What makes quantum computing different from classical high-performance computing (HPC)?
Quantum computing isn’t just faster—it operates on a fundamentally different paradigm. While classical HPC scales power through parallelism, quantum systems use qubits that can exist in superposition, allowing them to process exponentially complex calculations that would be intractable for even the fastest supercomputers. It’s not about speed alonl it’s about solving problems classical systems can’t touch.
Are there any revenue-generating quantum products available today?
Yes, but they’re limited. Companies like IBM and IonQ are offering early-stage quantum computing via cloud platforms for enterprise experimentation, particularly in logistics, optimization, and chemistry. However, most current revenue is tied to research partnerships and cloud access rather than scalable commercial products.
