Below is a list of the most popular Quantum Computing stocks. In December 2024, Google announced it had developed a state-of-the-art quantum chip called Willow.
As a result, many quantum computing stocks began rising by more than 500% because investors didn’t want to miss an opportunity to invest in a technology that could change computing as we see it.
Unfortunately, in January 2025, NVIDIA’s CEO, Jensen Huang, warned the tech community that commercial quantum computing is still 15-30 years away. This comment caused the price of quantum computing stocks to crash.
Although their prices have been very volatile, many institutional investors are very bullish on this technology and compare it to the rise of Bitcoin over 10 years ago. Here is everything you need to know about quantum computing and trading stocks in this industry.
Best Quantum Computing Stocks 2026
| Symbol | Name |
|---|---|
| QBTS | D-Wave Quantum |
| IONQ | IonQ |
| QUBT | Quantum Computing Inc. |
| RGTI | Rigetti Computing |
| IBM | IBM |
| NVDA | Nvidia |
| MSFT | Microsoft |
What Are Quantum Computing Stocks? (Introduction)
Quantum computers use quantum mechanics principles to perform complex calculations faster than regular computers.
It employs qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously, unlike binary bits (0s and 1s).
Quantum computers process large amounts of information and solve certain problems exponentially faster than regular computers.
Quantum computing has numerous revolutionary applications across various industries. Here are a few examples.
- Artificial intelligence: Quantum computers can accelerate AI algorithms, potentially improving image recognition and natural language processing tasks.
- Drug discovery: Quantum simulations could model complex molecular interactions, speeding up the development of new and more efficient medications.
- Financial modeling: Quantum algorithms can optimize large portfolios and analyze global financial trends faster and more efficiently than classical computers.
- Cybersecurity: Quantum computers could enhance encryption, creating more secure data protection systems.
- Weather forecasting: Quantum computers can improve climate models and weather predictions.
Quantum Computing Benefits and Risks
Similar to AI, quantum computing is receiving large amounts of funding for R&D because it has the potential to revolutionize multiple industries.
Some of the biggest tech companies in the world (Google, Microsoft, NVIDIA, IBM, Intel, etc.) are teaming up and pouring money into this technology with hopes of finding a breakthrough. There is a lot of hype both from investors and companies.
Quantum computing’s true potential is still uncertain. We do not have a clear idea of when the technology will be at its peak or what its commercial consequences will be (positive or negative). However, hackers can use it maliciously since it can quickly solve queries.
This is where cybersecurity companies will come in with their use of quantum computing. We can find a negative counterpart for every positive aspect this technology brings.
Quantum Computing Stocks Breakdown
IonQ (NYSE: IONQ)
First on the quantum computing stocks list is IonQ, a quantum computing pioneer offering a unique approach that sets it apart from competitors (I don’t understand the technology – trapped ytterbium atoms – to be honest). The company has developed a quantum computer that can perform complex calculations faster than classic computers.
IonQ’s technology has shown promising results. Its systems demonstrate some of the industry’s best results for Quantum Computing as a Service (QCaaS). The company offers access to its quantum systems through major cloud providers like AWS and Azure.
IonQ’s QCaaS services can be applied to various industries (pharmaceuticals, materials science, optimization problems, and potentially AI). The company plans to increase the number of qubits in its systems, aiming to double the count annually, which could lead to exponential growth in computing power.
In recent years, its revenues have grown quickly, even doubling. The hype surrounding this stock is justified, and things seem even more promising. However, there will be volatility.
Rigetti Computing (NASDAQ: RGTI)
We move on to Rigetti, which designs and fabricates quantum chips, integrates them with control architecture, and develops software for programmers to build quantum algorithms.
The company operates a cloud computing platform called Forest, which allows developers to access quantum processors and write quantum algorithms for testing.
Rigetti is looking to launch a 36-qubit system by mid-2025, a 100-qubit system, and a 336-qubit system.
Quantum Computing Inc. (NASDAQ: QUBT)
Quantum Computing builds powerful computing systems with low power requirements. These systems are more practical and cost-effective than other quantum computing solutions that require extreme cooling.
Quantum Computing’s product portfolio aims to offer solutions for optimization problems and applications in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and remote sensing.
These technologies have potential uses in financial modeling, drug discovery, and materials science. The stock has been extremely volatile recently, and there is still no evidence that it will succeed.
D-Wave Quantum (NYSE: QBTS)
We conclude this quantum computing stocks list with D-Wave Quantum, which develops and delivers quantum computing systems, software, and services.
The company focuses on creating practical quantum computing solutions that can be applied to real-world business problems in various industries (manufacturing, logistics, financial services, and life sciences).
Its Advantage quantum computer has over 5000 qubits and is designed to handle large-scale, complex problems.
D-Wave’s practical, commercial, and viable solutions have attracted customers such as Volkswagen, Toyota, and Lockheed Martin, who have developed hundreds of quantum applications for their specific needs.
Cybersecurity Companies
Cybersecurity companies will be crucial in developing and implementing quantum-resistant security measures. Their primary objectives will be to protect sensitive data and communications from potential threats.
This industry is very popular among investors, and cybersecurity stock prices should continue increasing over the years and decades.
Quantum Computing ETFs
- Defiance Quantum ETF (QTUM): QTUM focuses on investing in companies involved in quantum computing, machine learning, cloud computing, and advanced hardware. In this ETF, there are established tech giants (NVIDIA and Google) and smaller companies (Rigetti Computing, D-Wave Quantum, and IonQ). If disruptive and transformative technologies interest you, take a look at QTUM.
- ARK Next Generation Internet ETF (ARKW): Cathie Wood leads ARKW and invests in next-generation Internet technologies (AI, deep learning, big data, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and blockchain technology).
QTUM ETF Performance (2026 YTD)
| Year | Performance | 2026 (YTD) | +7.1% |
|---|---|
| 2025 | +29.3% |
| 2024 | +26.4% |
| 2023 | +37.8% |
| 2022 | -32.1% |
Final Thoughts: Quantum Computing Stocks
To conclude, quantum computing was a distant dream for a long time. We knew about it but didn’t have a timeline for its commercialization. In the last few months, many influential people and companies in this field have had their say. As a result, many stocks in this industry have seen significant gains, followed by steep losses in short periods.
It’s the next big thing for many, similar to AI or Bitcoin. There is a lot of FOMO surrounding quantum computing. Still, there will likely be many more ups and downs until we understand this technology’s commercialization possibilities. Please do not trade any of the securities on this quantum computing stocks list unless you know how to trade.
