Jensen Huang’s optimistic timeline sparks investor enthusiasm, sending shares of QUBT, Rigetti, and IonQ sharply higher
Quantum computing stocks surged on Wednesday after Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang offered surprisingly upbeat remarks about the technology’s future at the company’s GTC Paris developer conference. The comments were seen as a significant shift in tone from Huang’s previous caution and sparked a sharp rally in related stocks.
Quantum Computing Inc. (QUBT) jumped more than 32% in early trading, while Rigetti Computing (RGTI) soared over 17% and IonQ (IONQ) rose 7%. These gains starkly contrasted with the broader market, where the S&P 500 was trading flat.
“We are within reach,” Huang said, referring to quantum computing’s ability to solve real-world problems in the coming years. “Quantum computing is reaching an inflection point.”
This marked a notable pivot from his earlier stance in January, when Huang told Wall Street analysts that “very useful quantum computers” were likely two decades away—a remark that sent quantum-related stocks tumbling at the time. He later walked back that timeline, and his latest comments appear to signal growing confidence in the sector’s near-term potential.
Huang’s bullishness followed an announcement from IBM just a day earlier, stating plans to build the world’s first large-scale quantum computer capable of operating without errors, targeting a 2029 launch. Current quantum systems, while promising, are still prone to instability and computational errors—major hurdles to mainstream adoption.
Unlike classical computers, which rely on linear algebra, quantum systems are based on quantum mechanics and complex mathematics. This makes them potentially far more powerful for specific applications, including cryptography, cybersecurity, and advanced chemistry. However, their fragility has kept most systems in the experimental phase.
Nvidia’s growing involvement in quantum computing, including hosting its first “Quantum Day” in March 2025 and building a research center in Boston, shows that the AI chipmaker sees long-term promise in the field.
Other tech giants are also advancing rapidly. Google, Amazon, and Microsoft have all unveiled quantum computing initiatives, including new chips and development roadmaps. Google’s Willow chip, introduced in December, was touted as a foundational step toward scalable, practical quantum machines.
With both Big Tech and investors now paying closer attention, quantum computing may be approaching a turning point.
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