The Motley Fool·2025-12-13 00:03Core Viewpoint - Rigetti Computing has seen a significant stock price increase, but D-Wave Quantum may present a more favorable investment opportunity due to its stronger recent performance and commercialization potential in quantum computing [1][4][9]. Company Performance - Rigetti Computing's stock price has surged approximately 300% over the past year and around 2,540% over the last three years [1]. - In the third quarter, Rigetti's revenue declined 18% year over year to about $1.95 million, with total sales for the first nine months of the year at $5.22 million, down from $8.52 million in the same period last year [5]. - D-Wave Quantum reported third-quarter sales of $3.7 million, representing a 100% increase, and total revenue of $15.3 million for the first nine months, reflecting a growth of 235% [5]. Technology and Market Approach - Rigetti Computing is focused on long-term technological advancements in quantum computing, which may yield better payoffs but is considered more speculative [4][9]. - D-Wave Quantum employs a quantum-annealing approach that appears to offer better near-term commercialization opportunities, leading to more rapid sales growth [4][8]. Future Outlook - Rigetti's growth trajectory is uncertain, hinging on the success of its less developed quantum technologies and partnerships [7]. - D-Wave's recent sales gains are seen as indicative of a more promising growth trajectory, supported by its focus on quantum-annealing technology [8].