Quantum Computing Stocks Surge as Trump Seeks Stake in Exchange for Federal Funding

Group 1 - Quantum computing stocks experienced significant gains following reports that the US government plans to acquire equity stakes in these companies and provide federal funding for their growth and innovation [1][2] - Companies such as IonQ, Rigetti Computing, D-Wave Quantum, and Quantum Computing saw notable increases in their share prices due to these developments [2] - The US Commerce Department is expected to invest a minimum of $10 million (£7.5 million) in these companies as part of a broader strategy to support national security [3] Group 2 - Despite initial gains, quantum computing stocks retraced some of their increases after the Commerce Department clarified that it is not currently negotiating equity stakes with these companies [4] - Rigetti Computing has been actively engaging with the US government regarding funding opportunities, reflecting ongoing interest in quantum computing from the Trump administration [5] - The Trump administration previously committed $1.2 billion (£900 million) for quantum research and an additional $2.7 billion (£2 billion) for developing practical quantum computing applications [5] Group 3 - In September, Rigetti Computing secured a $5.8 million (£4.3 million) contract with the US Air Force, while IonQ announced a partnership with the Department of Energy [6] - JPMorgan's announcement of a $1.5 trillion (£1.1 trillion) initiative to invest in industries critical to national security, including quantum computing, has contributed to the upward trend in quantum computing shares [6] - The US government has previously acquired stakes in companies like Intel, MP Materials, and Lithium Americas, indicating a strategic approach to investing in key industries [8]