Sometimes, earning profits is all about timing and being positioned advantageously. Right now, there’s one sector that could be the sweet spot for investors.
I’m talking about quantum computing. This revolutionary area leverages the fascinating concepts of quantum mechanics to solve problems in a fraction of the time it would take even the fastest supercomputers today.
Getting involved early in such a transformative technology could be a textbook case of profiting from being in the right place at the right moment. In particular, these three quantum computing stocks may represent a rare investment chance.
Image credit: Getty Images.
1. IonQ
First up is the largest among these emerging quantum computing companies. IonQ ( IONQ 4.17%) now commands a $20 billion market valuation after its shares surged more than sixfold in the past year.
IonQ claims its trapped-ion technology provides multiple benefits compared to its main competitor, superconducting quantum computers. Notably, IonQ’s systems are less expensive to produce and require simpler infrastructure.
In the past few weeks, IonQ has reached two significant milestones in quantum computing. The company set a new record with an algorithmic qubit score of #AQ 64, meaning its quantum computer can process over 18 quintillion (264) possible results at once. IonQ also managed to shift photon frequencies from visible light to telecom wavelengths, paving the way for connecting quantum computers over long distances using existing fiber optic networks.
IonQ has already attracted several major clients. Its customer roster features pharmaceutical leader AstraZeneca ( AZN 1.98%), aerospace giant General Dynamics ( GD 0.82%), and the U.S. Air Force.
IonQ is also broadening its reach through targeted acquisitions. In recent months, it has acquired Lightsynq, Capella, and Oxford Ionics, and announced its intention to purchase Vector Atomic, a top developer of advanced quantum sensors for positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) applications.
2. Rigetti Computing
Rigetti Computing ( RGTI 14.27%) has outperformed even IonQ over the last year, with its stock price soaring more than 38 times. Like IonQ, Rigetti may still have significant growth potential ahead.
While IonQ highlights the strengths of its own approach, Rigetti maintains that superconducting technology is the superior path for quantum computers. The company emphasizes the advantages of using established semiconductor manufacturing processes with superconductors.
In July 2025, Rigetti set a new benchmark by reducing its previous error rate by half using a 36-qubit system. This system, Cepheus-1-36Q, is currently the largest multi-chip quantum computer available.
Rigetti, like IonQ, boasts an impressive list of clients and collaborators. Its quantum hardware is utilized by the U.K.’s National Computing Centre and Fermilab’s Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems Center. The company is working with ADIA Lab, HSBC ( HSBC 1.75%), Moody's ( MCO 0.97%), and Standard Chartered Bank ( SCBF.Y 1.42%) to explore quantum solutions for finance. Its quantum computers are also accessible via Amazon ( AMZN -1.25%) AWS and Microsoft ( MSFT 0.35%) Azure cloud services.
3. D-Wave Quantum
D-Wave Quantum ( QBTS 11.25%) is the smallest of these three quantum computing innovators, with a market capitalization near $8.8 billion. Nevertheless, early backers have already seen substantial returns, as the stock has soared over 2,500% in the past year.
Don’t let D-Wave’s smaller size fool you—its quantum computing credentials are impressive. D-Wave was the first company to commercialize quantum computing and to implement quantum solutions in real-world production settings.
Unlike IonQ and Rigetti, which use gate-based quantum computers, D-Wave employs quantum annealing. The key advantage of quantum annealing is its current ability to tackle practical, real-world challenges. For example, D-Wave’s Advantage2 system can be applied in artificial intelligence (AI), optimization, and materials simulation.
D-Wave, like its competitors, has attracted a strong customer base. Its clients include Accenture ( ACN 0.27%), BASF (OTC:BASFY), and Mastercard ( MA 0.35%).
