Quantum computing stocks moved sharply on Tuesday, first rallying during Nvidia (NVDA) CEO Jensen Huang’s keynote at the company’s GTC conference in Washington, D.C., before losing the gains and then rebounding in after-hours trading.
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Shares of Rigetti Computing (RGTI) fell 7.9%, IonQ (IONQ) dropped 9%, D-Wave Quantum (QBTS) slipped 8.7%, and Quantum Computing (QUBT) lost 5.1% by the market close, though all of them regained some ground later in the evening.
The Catalyst Behind the Early Surge
The early rally came after Huang introduced NVQLink, a new system designed to connect quantum processing units (QPUs) with GPU supercomputers. The technology helps with error correction, control, and simulation, allowing AI and quantum systems to work together more smoothly.
Investor interest rose when Rigetti Computing and IonQ were named as partners on Nvidia’s NVQLink platform, signaling growing collaboration between AI and quantum computing.
Confusion Follows DOE Supercomputer News
The optimism faded fast when Huang later announced that Nvidia will work with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to build seven new AI supercomputers. Traders appeared to confuse “AI supercomputers” with “quantum computers,” sparking worries that Nvidia’s focus might be shifting away from the quantum space.
However, analysts believe the sell-off was a misunderstanding. David Williams of Benchmark Co. said, “It’s surprising to see the misread here. This should be positive news — GPUs and QPUs working together is the goal.”
Tuesday’s sharp swings showed how quickly traders react to any Nvidia news and how easily sentiment can shift in the emerging quantum computing market.
Which Is the Best Quantum Computing Stock?
We used the TipRanks Stock Comparison Tool to determine which stock is currently favored by analysts.
Three of the four quantum computing stocks, IonQ, Rigetti Computing, and D-Wave Quantum, carry a “Strong Buy” consensus from Wall Street, while Quantum Computing is rated a “Moderate Buy.” Among them, IonQ shows the highest upside potential over the next twelve months.
