As generative and agentic AI advance, the computational power demanded exceeds classical systems’ capabilities. This makes quantum computing the next logical leap.  

And that’s why quantum computing stocks have been on fire in 2025. Investors sense a unique opportunity as this sector transitions from pure research to commercial adoption.  

It’s still in its early stages, but the science is backed by accelerating technical breakthroughs and substantial government and corporate funding. With 2025 marking a tipping point for quantum technology commercialization, early positions in promising quantum stocks like Rigetti Computing (NASDAQ: RGTI), D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS), and IonQ Inc. (NYSE: IONQ) could yield strong long-term gains. 

What is Quantum Computing?

Quantum computing harnesses principles of quantum mechanics (i.e,, superposition and entanglement) to perform complex calculations exponentially faster than classical computers. This capability is expected to transform AI by optimizing machine learning model training and solving problems currently deemed infeasible, like large-scale cryptography and molecular simulations.  

The possibilities offered by quantum computing are enticing, specifically in an area like drug discovery. However, just like AI, quantum computing will have to respond to threats that will arise in areas like cybersecurity.  

Many companies are attempting to tackle these problems today. However, realistically, fault-tolerant quantum computers capable of delivering “quantum advantage” are not anticipated to be available until around 2030. However, incremental advances in noisy intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) devices are already driving niche applications today, creating near-term revenue streams and adoption pathways. 

Quantum Computing Stock #1: Rigetti Computing 

Rigetti Computing is a pioneering full-stack quantum computing company focusing on superconducting gate-based processors. Its recent introduction of the 84-qubit Ankaa-3 chip and multi-chip Cepheus-1-36Q system, along with cutting error rates to 99.5% fidelity on two-qubit gates, signal meaningful hardware progress.  

Supported by a $350 million equity raise this year, Rigetti enjoys a strong cash position fueled by government contracts like the $5.8 million Department of Air Force research award. Strategic partnerships with Taiwan’s Quanta Computer boost manufacturing scale prospects.  

For all this activity, investors should take note that Rigotti is not profitable and generates very little revenue. That hasn’t stopped retail investors (like you and me) to drive up the stock price, but real revenue is years away and profit will take even longer.  

There’s good and bad to that. The bad news is that as of October 30, RGTI stock is extremely overvalued and trading approximately 33% above analysts’ consensus price target. This could be a time to take profits. 

On the other hand, if RGTI stock does correct, you’ll have a more enticing entry point. You’ll have to be patient, but the payoff could be worth it. Adding validity to that is that 35% of Rigetti stock is owned by institutional investors. In the last three months, buying has outpaced selling nearly 3:1. This means the “big money” believes there’s a story developing.  

While still speculative, Rigetti’s robust research pipeline and expanding commercial contracts make it an attractive investment for those seeking exposure to quantum hardware breakthroughs in the near to medium term. 

Quantum Computing Stock #2: D-Wave Quantum 

D-Wave Quantum is unique in offering both quantum annealing and gate-model systems, serving different optimization and computational needs. Its recently launched Advantage2 system with over 4,400 qubits significantly enhances computational capabilities, tackling real-world problems in logistics, finance, and materials science.  

D-Wave is benefiting from growing commercial customer adoption, demonstrated by a projected 181.5% revenue increase in 2025, and strategic expansions in quantum software and cloud-accessible platforms. Despite historical challenges meeting earnings expectations, October’s 45% stock surge reflects renewed investor confidence.  

But it also shows how overvalued QBTS stock is. The recent surge has sent the stock price to $36.02, more than 20% above the consensus price target of analysts.  

Like Rigetti, D-Wave Quantum is not profitable, has very little revenue and is years away from having either. That said, also like Rigetti, D-Wave has significant institutional ownership around 42%. The fact that institutions are buying multiple quantum stocks, however, shows that they’re hedging their bets on which company may come out ahead.  

Quantum Computing Stock #3: IonQ  

IonQ stands out as the most established pure-play quantum computing company with a diversified approach centered on trapped-ion technology, offering scalability and high coherence. It has forged key cloud partnerships with AWS and NVIDIA, enabling commercial access to quantum processors supporting enterprise and government projects. 

This means that IonQ, while not profitable, does have some revenue coming in the door. Whether or not that gives the company a significant lead over its competitors remains to be seen. However, IonQ’s ambitious roadmap targets quantum machines with millions of qubits by 2030, which could unlock revolutionary applications in cryptography, drug discovery, and advanced AI.  

IONQ stock hit an all-time high in October, buoyed by strong investor momentum and strategic acquisitions. However, it’s down about 20% since hitting that high as traders take profits.  

That’s another healthy reminder about quantum computing stocks. Right now, they are being targeted by traders who have no intention of holding them for anything but a momentum trade. If you’re looking at quantum stocks for the long haul, you’ll have to accept, and manage, this volatility.