Stocks in companies involved in quantum computing technology surged on Tuesday after US President Donald Trump unveiled a massive artificial intelligence infrastructure project called Stargate. The project, backed by SoftBank Group, Oracle, and other major tech firms, aims to invest $100 billion initially and up to $500 billion over the next four years.
Quantum Computing Stocks Climb
Shares of D-Wave Quantum (QBTS) jumped 19.4%, while Rigetti Computing (RGTI) saw a 42% gain, and IonQ’s stock advanced 16.5%. The move comes as investors consider long-range synergy between artificial intelligence and quantum computing.
Quantum computing technology requires enormous computing power, making it an attractive area for AI applications. Trump’s executive order cancellation has sparked concerns about the US government’s access to AI research. Stargate aims to fill this gap.
However, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang had expressed skepticism about quantum computing’s commercial viability, claiming it would be “very useful” in 15-30 years. Despite this, advances in quantum computing are expected to surpass electronic-chip-based supercomputers.
Trump has also named David Sacks as his artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency czar, further fueling speculation on AI investment. Microsoft recently launched Quantum Ready, a new program from its Azure cloud computing business, highlighting the growing interest in quantum technology.
Quantum computing startups are divided into two camps: those that represent quantum states as currents in superconducting loops and those that use individual ions suspended in a vacuum. The Willow quantum computing chip announcement by Alphabet’s Google earlier this year has boosted enthusiasm for the field.
The future of quantum computing holds promise, with potential applications in fields beyond AI research. As investors continue to weigh in on the technology, Stargate’s investment plan is likely to attract more attention.
Source: https://www.investors.com/news/technology/quantum-computing-stocks-trump-artificial-inteligence