Shares of quantum computing companies, including Rigetti Computing (RGTI), D-Wave Computing (QBTS), and IonQ Inc. (IONQ) are surging in pre-market trading. According to The Wall Street Journal, the U.S. government is weighing the possibility of acquiring equity stakes in these firms in exchange for federal funding.
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The move reflects higher confidence in quantum technology and positions the sector as a critical component of the modern economy. In 2025, the industry has gained significant momentum, driven by institutional investments, measurable commercial achievements, and strong support from both governments and corporations.
Details of the Possible Equity Deal
Sources indicate that Rigetti, IonQ, and D-Wave are talking about getting at least $10 million each in funding from Washington. These firms are in discussions with the Commerce Department about taking a shareholder role in exchange for funding meant for promising tech firms. Other firms such as Quantum Computing (QUBT) and privately-held Atom Computing, are also likely to compete for the money.
The agreements with the quantum companies are not yet final and could still change. A Commerce Department document cited by The Wall Street Journal states that the deals could also include warrants, IP licenses, royalties, or revenue sharing, along with equity stakes.
President Trump’s decision to take equity stakes in American companies stems from the belief that taxpayers should share in potential returns when federal funds provide both financial support and public endorsement. The initiative resembles a similar deal with chipmaker Intel (INTC), in which the government agreed to take a 10% stake in exchange for converting almost $9 billion in previously awarded grants into equity.
Why Is Quantum Computing Gaining Prominence?
Quantum computers can perform tasks far beyond the reach of today’s most powerful supercomputers. The technology is viewed as the next major leap following the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). Companies and the government are betting on quantum computing technology’s power to effectively develop new drugs, materials, and chemicals, while improving efficiency across all sectors of the economy.
Meanwhile, major tech firms like IBM (IBM) and Alphabet (GOOGL) are also making significant strides in the field. Google announced recently that its Willow quantum chip achieved the first verifiable quantum advantage, running the Quantum Echoes algorithm 13,000 times faster than the world’s fastest supercomputer.
What Is the Best Quantum Computing Stock?
We used the TipRanks Stock Comparison Tool to determine which stock is currently favored by analysts.
All three stocks have earned Wall Street’s “Strong Buy” consensus rating, with IONQ stock offering the highest upside potential over the next twelve months.
