Quantum computing stocks surge as Trump administration eyes stakes
Shares of major quantum computing firms jumped Thursday after reports that the Trump administration is exploring equity stakes in the sector in exchange for federal funding, News.Az reports, citing CNBC.
According to the Wall Street Journal, which cited anonymous sources, the Commerce Department is in talks with companies including IonQ, Rigetti Computing, and D-Wave Quantum. Other firms, such as Quantum Computing Inc. and Atom Computing, are reportedly considering similar arrangements.
The stock market reacted quickly: IonQ and D-Wave rose 9%, Rigetti gained 7%, and Quantum Computing climbed 11% in early trading.
This move is part of broader efforts by Washington to acquire stakes in strategic industries critical to U.S. national security, particularly companies receiving federal funding.
During Trump’s second term, similar actions included the Defense Department investing $400 million in rare earths company MP Materials for a roughly 15% stake and taking a 10% stake in Intel, the only U.S. manufacturer capable of producing advanced AI processors domestically.
Experts say these investments are designed to strengthen U.S. leadership in cutting-edge technologies like quantum computing, semiconductors, and critical materials, ensuring strategic industries remain under American influence.
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