Quantum Computing Stocks IonQ, Rigetti Computing, and D-Wave Quantum Have a Date With History in 2026

Core Insights - The quantum computing sector is gaining attention, with significant stock price increases for companies like IonQ, Rigetti Computing, D-Wave Quantum, and Quantum Computing Inc. over the past year, outperforming the Nasdaq Composite index [2][10] - The addressable market for quantum computing is projected to reach $1 trillion by 2035, with potential global economic value creation of up to $850 billion by 2040, attracting investor interest [3][8] - Historical trends suggest that the current enthusiasm for quantum computing stocks may lead to a bubble, with a potential downturn expected around 2026 [10][19] Company Performance - IonQ, Rigetti, D-Wave, and Quantum Computing Inc. have seen stock price increases of 43%, 545%, 458%, and 67% respectively over the past year, indicating strong market interest [2] - Rigetti Computing has a market cap of $9 billion, while IonQ's market cap stands at $19 billion, reflecting their significant positions in the market [7][14] - Despite the stock price growth, these companies are still in the early commercialization phase, with analysts suggesting practical applications of quantum computing may not be realized until the end of the decade [15][19] Market Trends - JPMorgan Chase has initiated a $1.5 trillion, 10-year investment plan that includes up to $10 billion for quantum computing, highlighting the sector's importance for national economic security [8] - The current price-to-sales (P/S) ratios for these companies are above 30, which historically indicates unsustainable valuations and potential for a market correction [17][19] - The historical pattern of overhyped technologies suggests that the quantum computing sector may face a similar fate as past trends, such as the dot-com bubble [12][19] Future Outlook - The quantum computing industry is expected to experience significant sales growth by 2026, but the sustainability of this growth is uncertain due to high valuations and competition from larger tech companies [15][20] - The first-mover advantage of current quantum computing companies may be challenged as larger firms with more resources enter the market [20]