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Better Quantum Computing Stock: IonQ vs. Rigetti Computing
The Motley Foolยท2025-07-27 19:09

Core Viewpoint - The quantum computing industry presents significant investment opportunities, with IonQ and Rigetti Computing as key players, each employing different technologies to develop quantum computers [1][2]. Company Summaries IonQ - IonQ utilizes ion-based technology for its quantum machines, which can operate at room temperature and have lower error correction rates, making scalability more feasible [10][12]. - The company reported a Q1 operating loss of $75.7 million on revenue of $7.6 million, an increase from the previous year's loss of $52.9 million [12]. - IonQ aims for revenue growth, projecting sales of $75 million to $95 million in 2025, a significant increase from 2024's revenue of $43.1 million, which saw a 95% year-over-year rise [12][17]. - IonQ's stock is considered a better value compared to Rigetti, despite its high price-to-sales (P/S) ratio exceeding 200 [15][17]. Rigetti Computing - Rigetti employs superconducting qubits, a well-established method that allows for faster calculations but requires expensive cryogenic equipment to maintain operational stability [5][7]. - The company faced a Q1 operating loss of $21.6 million on sales of $1.5 million, with a 52% year-over-year revenue decline [8]. - Rigetti executed a $350 million equity offering, resulting in a cash reserve of $575 million with no debt as of June 11, which is expected to support its operations in the short term [8][9]. - The stock's price-to-sales (P/S) ratio has surged, indicating it may be overpriced compared to IonQ [15]. Industry Insights - The quantum computing market was valued at $4 billion in 2024, with projections estimating growth to $72 billion by 2035, highlighting the industry's potential [16].