The AI revolution is real and will transform virtually every aspect of modern life. But a new revolution is brewing: Quantum Computing (QC). QC is expected to complement AI, but it’s also an industry unto itself (albeit a nascent one).
Most people probably hadn’t heard of AI until ChatGPT’s release. Then, all of a sudden, AI became a global phenomenon.QC not only has the potential to revolutionize whole industries, but it can also revolutionize AI itself.
What Can Quantum Computers Do?
Quantum computers could transform numerous industries, including artificial intelligence, financial modeling, drug discovery, aerospace, and semiconductor manufacturing. According to McKinsey, quantum computing could generate up to $2.7 trillion in economic value globally by 2035.
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What Is Quantum Computing?
Unlike traditional computers that use binary digits, or bits, which can only represent 0 or 1, quantum computers use quantum bits, or qubits. Qubits rely on quantum effects such as superposition, where particles can exist in multiple states simultaneously, and entanglement, where particles remain interconnected even when physically separated.
These properties enable quantum computers to process information exponentially faster than conventional machines and could revolutionize industries by solving problems currently impossible to tackle.
However, qubits are extremely fragile and can maintain their quantum states for only tiny fractions of a second, so they quickly lose the information they store. They also must be kept extremely cold. Experts estimate that quantum computers will need millions of qubits to run commercially useful applications.
Quantum Players and Developments
Alphabet/Google (GOOG): In December 2024, Google introduced its Willow quantum processor and reported progress in error correction. It also reported completing a specialized benchmark in under five minutes that it estimated would take a leading classical supercomputer an extraordinarily long time.
That result applied to a specific benchmark, not everyday computing tasks.
In October 2025, Google announced its Quantum Echoes research, describing it as a demonstration of verifiable quantum advantage for a specific algorithm.
Microsoft (MSFT): In February 2025, Microsoft introduced Majorana 1, presenting it as a step toward quantum computing based on a topological architecture. The approach aims to make quantum information more error-resistant. The announcement marked a research and engineering milestone, not a commercially proven, large-scale system.
Amazon (AMZN): Amazon introduced its Ocelot research chip in February 2025. It used specialized “cat qubits” as part of an approach designed to reduce the resources required for quantum error correction.
NVIDIA (NVDA): NVIDIA’s work has emphasized connecting quantum processors with GPUs and conventional supercomputing systems.
In April 2026, the company released its Ising family of open AI models for quantum-processor calibration and error-correction research. This illustrated one connection between the fields: AI tools helping develop quantum computers.
Quantum Computing Goes Mainstream
Quantum computing stocks surged last May after the US government announced $2 billion in grants to nine quantum computing companies in exchange for minority equity stakes. In June, President Trump signed two companion executive orders on quantum technology, marking the biggest federal quantum policy initiative in years.
Which Companies Are Working on Quantum Computing?
Some of the world’s largest technology companies (mentioned above) and governments are also investing billions of dollars in the field. Smaller pure-play quantum companies such as Rigetti Computing (RGTI), D-Wave Quantum (QBTS), and IonQ (IONQ) are not expected to be profitable in the near term, and their shares tend to trade largely on headlines.
When Will the Technology Become Practically Useful?
In October 2025, Google said it had demonstrated “verifiable quantum advantage.” CEO Sundar Pichai believes quantum computing today is “where maybe AI was five years ago.”
IBM CEO Arvind Krishna recently said the company’s quantum computing investments should begin to have “a measurable impact” on revenue and earnings by 2028 or 2029.
Mark Notes
Because it is still too early to identify the long-term winners, a diversified ETF approach may make more sense for most investors. Because the industry is still early, broad exposure can reduce company-specific risk while letting investors participate in the theme’s long-term growth potential.
The Defiance Quantum ETF (QTUM) invests in the global quantum computing and machine learning industries. It is up more than 500% since its inception in 2018, significantly outperforming the S&P 500’s 185% return. The fund has amassed $5.2 billion in assets and charges a 0.40% expense ratio.
The WisdomTree Quantum Computing Fund (WQTM) debuted in October last year. It provides exposure to companies driving innovation across the emerging quantum ecosystem by combining pure-play pioneers with diversified global leaders. The fund manages $290 million in assets and charges a 0.45% expense ratio.
This article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as financial advice, investment guidance, or a recommendation to buy or sell any security. The content reflects publicly available information and broad market commentary. Readers should conduct their own research and consult a licensed financial professional before making investment decisions.
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