QUBT Lags Peers Over Three Months: Are Widening Losses a Sell Signal?

Core Insights - Quantum Computing Inc. (QUBT) has underperformed compared to its peers, with shares declining 4.8% over the past three months, while the broader industry gained 10.3% [1][2] - Despite reporting technical and commercial milestones, QUBT's revenues remain modest at $61,000, down from $183,000 a year earlier, and net losses widened to $36 million [1][6][7] - The company relies heavily on early-stage and government contracts, which creates uncertainty in revenue visibility and growth potential [5] Financial Performance - QUBT's second-quarter 2025 revenues were $61,000, a significant decrease from $183,000 in the same quarter last year [6] - The net loss for the second quarter widened to $36 million from $5 million a year ago, influenced by a $28 million non-cash warrant-related loss and increased operating expenses [7][8] - Estimates for QUBT's losses have increased from a loss of 7 cents per share to a loss of 17 cents per share for 2025 over the past 30 days [14] Competitive Positioning - QUBT's major competitors, Rigetti Computing and D-Wave Quantum, have shown stronger performance, with Rigetti's shares gaining 46.4% and D-Wave's 8.9% [2][9] - Rigetti has launched its Cepheus-1 36-qubit system and has over $570 million in cash and investments, while D-Wave has introduced an open-source quantum AI toolkit [9] Growth Potential - QUBT's long-term growth is expected to come from its quantum machines and thin-film lithium niobate photonic chip foundry, with early sales indicating demand for its technology [10] - The new chip foundry in Tempe, AZ, is anticipated to contribute meaningfully to revenues within 12-18 months [11] - The company has $349 million in cash and is strengthening ties with government partners, enhancing its credibility [11] Market Outlook - QUBT is currently trading 18.5% below its average Zacks price target, indicating potential near-term upside [12] - The company's near-term outlook is challenged by declining revenues and widening losses, leading to a recommendation to sell QUBT stock for now [15]