Quantum Computing Stocks Stumble After Nvidia CEO Dims Near-Term Prospects

Quantum computing stocks such as Rigetti Computing (RGTI), D-Wave Quantum (QBTS), and IonQ (IONQ) experienced major setbacks on January 8, 2025, after Nvidia (NVDA) CEO Jensen Huang made statements at CES 2025 that sent shockwaves through the sector.

CES 2025: Quantum Computing Stocks Plummet After Nvidia’s Huang Dims Immediate Prospects

Quantum computing stocks, such as Rigetti Computing (NASDAQ:RGTI), D-Wave Quantum (NYSE:QBTS), and IonQ (NYSE:IONQ), experienced a major setback on January 8, 2025, after Nvidia (NASDAQ:NVDA) CEO Jensen Huang made statements at CES that sent shockwaves through the sector.

Huang cautioned that “very useful” quantum computers are likely 15 to 20 years away, which dimmed the immediate prospects for these once-hot stocks. As a result, these stocks plummeted by as much as 40%-50%, leaving investors to reevaluate their positions.

Rigetti Computing Takes a Major Hit

California-based Rigetti Computing, known for developing quantum computers and its Forest quantum cloud platform, saw its shares plummet by 45% following Huang’s remarks. The stock dropped to just above $10, a significant decline from its 52-week high of $21.42.

This sharp fall in share price is a direct response to Huang’s assertion that the much-anticipated breakthroughs in quantum technology are still decades away.

Rigetti has been gaining attention in the quantum space with its Novera QPU, a 9-qubit quantum computer priced at $900,000. The company has positioned itself as a key player in the field, with a focus on research and development and forging crucial partnerships.

A notable collaboration with Nvidia was announced in 2022, aimed at developing hybrid GPU-QPU systems for climate modeling. Furthermore, Rigetti revealed in December 2024 that it had successfully calibrated a quantum computer incorporating Nvidia and Quantum Machines technology. These developments have fueled optimism among investors, but Huang’s warning dampened the enthusiasm.

Nvidia’s Role in Quantum Computing

Despite the blow to quantum stocks, Huang’s comments were not an outright dismissal of the technology. In fact, Nvidia continues to invest in quantum computing research and development and has established partnerships with almost every major quantum computing company, including Rigetti.

Huang’s remarks were based on the premise that while progress is being made, it will take decades for quantum computers to reach the level of commercial viability and practical use cases that would significantly impact industries.

This nuanced stance from Huang contrasts with the optimism surrounding quantum computing stocks that surged in early 2025. Investors were riding high on the belief that these technologies were nearing real-world applications and could soon lead to breakthroughs that would revolutionize industries from pharmaceuticals to finance. Huang’s statement, however, suggested that these quantum leaps may not be coming as quickly as many had hoped.

Rigetti Stock: What’s Next?

With Rigetti shares down 45%, investors are now asking whether the stock has become more attractive at the current price or if it’s wise to wait. On Wall Street, analysts still remain bullish on Rigetti, with a “Strong Buy” consensus. Four analysts have rated the stock as a “Strong Buy”, while one analyst has a “Moderate Buy” rating.

Even with the recent drop, Rigetti is trading above its mean price target of $5.20, but still significantly lower than the Street-high price target of $12. The price drop presents a conundrum for investors—those looking to take on more risk may find Rigetti stock appealing at $10, while those with a more conservative approach may prefer to stay on the sidelines until the company can demonstrate more tangible progress in quantum computing.

Risks and Opportunities in Quantum Computing

Quantum computing stocks have shown incredible potential, but with that potential comes volatility. Rigetti, along with D-Wave and IonQ, are all part of an emerging market with immense upside but also substantial risks.

While Huang’s comments may have sparked doubt about the near-term future of quantum computing, these companies continue to push the envelope in advancing the technology. As the industry progresses, and with continued support from tech giants like Nvidia, the quantum computing sector could experience resurgence, but only time will tell.

Investors in the quantum computing space will need to carefully weigh the timing of their investments against the backdrop of ongoing technological advancements and the financial realities of these high-risk, high-reward stocks.