Latest news with #QKD
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Will IonQ Stock Rise on Capella Space Buyout and Quantum Ambitions?
IonQ. Inc. IONQ, a pioneer in quantum computing, is setting its sights far beyond Earth's surface. With the recent acquisition of Capella Space, a satellite technology firm known for synthetic aperture radar ('SAR') imaging, IonQ is accelerating its bold vision to build the first global space-based quantum key distribution ('QKD') network. The deal positions IonQ to not only lead in quantum computing but also in quantum-secure communications—a sector expected to become increasingly vital for both commercial and defense applications. Capella Acquisition Signals a New Quantum Frontier for IonQ The completed acquisition of Capella Space is not just a strategic expansion—it marks a foundational step toward realizing IonQ's quantum Internet ambitions. By integrating Capella's space-based infrastructure with its quantum hardware and software stack, IonQ is developing a QKD network that promises tamper-proof communication channels between satellites and ground stations. This could prove essential for national defense, cybersecurity, and even financial institutions where absolute data security is space-based QKD architecture would also support new capabilities in Earth observation, enhancing SAR imaging with quantum encryption for ultra-secure data transmission. IonQ's move effectively positions it as the first player in a new category: quantum-enabled geospatial intelligence. According to IonQ CEO Niccolo de Masi, the integration will not only enhance commercial applications but also expand the company's role in global defense and intelligence operations. IonQ's Partnerships Reinforce Strategic Depth Beyond Capella, IonQ has also forged key partnerships that reinforce its long-term vision. Its collaboration with ID Quantique, a leader in quantum-safe cryptography, and its quantum networking contracts with the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory and the Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence and Security highlight the growing demand for IonQ's technology in national security and enterprise use alliances help validate IonQ's platform and increase the likelihood of recurring revenue through long-term government engagements. With security concerns escalating globally and government agencies seeking resilient communications infrastructure, IonQ's offering stands to benefit from rising demand in the public sector. IONQ's Strong Share Price Momentum IonQ shares have surged 61% over the past three months, outpacing the 45.1% gain in the Zacks Computer-Integrated Systems industry and the 30.1% rise in the broader Zacks Computer and Technology sector. Even the S&P 500's robust 18.8% climb during the same period has lagged behind IonQ's performance. This momentum reflects investor enthusiasm around IonQ's strategic direction, particularly its leadership in quantum networking and government-backed projects. IONQ 3-Month Share Price Performance Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Yet with this rally comes a note of caution. The stock is currently trading at a lofty forward 12-month price-to-sales (P/S) ratio of 97.61, which is significantly higher than the industry average of 3.84. While IonQ operates in a highly specialized frontier market, the steep premium raises questions about whether the stock has already priced in too much of the company's long-term potential. IONQ Valuation Image Source: Zacks Investment Research IONQ's Revenue Outlook and Earnings Trend Despite the sky-high valuation, the company's growth trajectory appears robust. For 2025, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenue implies a near doubling year over year, at 97.3% growth. That said, analysts have become slightly more conservative in their projections for profitability. The consensus estimate for 2025's loss per share has widened over the past 30 days, although it still points to a much narrower loss than the $1.56 per share loss reported a year ago. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research This mixed sentiment suggests that investors are optimistic about revenue expansion but remain cautious about when IonQ will turn the corner on profitability. The company continues to invest heavily in R&D and infrastructure, particularly in its quantum-as-a-service (QaaS) and networking initiatives, which may delay earnings upside but could secure a first-mover advantage. Challenges Remain on the Path to Profitability for IonQ While IonQ's technological edge is compelling, the company is still in an early stage of commercial maturity. The quantum computing industry is years away from widespread enterprise adoption, and IonQ must demonstrate its ability to transition from R&D-driven partnerships to scalable, recurring commercial revenue. In the meantime, its burn rate and elevated valuation could limit investor patience if near-term milestones fall the intensifying competition from peers like International Business Machines Corporation IBM, Microsoft Corporation MSFT, and Rigetti Computing, Inc. RGTI could challenge IonQ's leadership if those firms scale more quickly or secure broader ecosystems. IBM's extensive hardware roadmap and global quantum network make it a key rival, while Microsoft's Azure Quantum is gaining traction with hybrid solutions and cloud accessibility. Both IBM and Microsoft have broader platforms and deeper enterprise reach. Rigetti, though smaller, competes closely with IonQ in hardware innovation. While IonQ's space-based QKD provides a differentiator, IBM and Microsoft, mentioned repeatedly in enterprise discussions, remain the more established players with vast resources and client ecosystems. Conclusion IonQ is making bold moves that reflect its ambition to shape the quantum future, from terrestrial computing to orbital communications. The Capella Space acquisition solidifies its leadership in quantum-secure networking and opens a new chapter in space-based infrastructure. With accelerating government interest, a clear roadmap toward the quantum Internet, and strong revenue prospects, IonQ offers a compelling growth with its valuation already stretched and earnings still in the red, investors should remain cautious. IonQ currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), which aligns with a prudent approach — hold the stock and monitor execution, especially as the company integrates Capella and ramps up commercial applications. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) : Free Stock Analysis Report International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) : Free Stock Analysis Report IonQ, Inc. (IONQ) : Free Stock Analysis Report Rigetti Computing, Inc. (RGTI) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
IonQ acquires Capella to boost space-based quantum communications
IonQ, a US-based quantum computing hardware and software company, has completed its acquisition of Capella Space to advance space-based quantum communications. Capella Space, which specialises in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and satellite solutions, will now operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of IonQ. The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. The acquisition is part of IonQ's strategy to develop a space-to-space and space-to-ground satellite quantum key distribution (QKD) network. Announced in May 2025, the deal seeks to merge IonQ's quantum computing technology with Capella Space's satellite systems. This is anticipated to enhance IonQ's capability to launch a QKD network for secure communication by preventing encryption key interception or duplication. The move also positions IonQ to play a significant role in building the quantum internet and expanding within the space economy. Following the deal, Capella Space's customers are expected to gain rapid and secure SAR and remote sensing capabilities via the first quantum-enabled Earth observation platform. Capella Space CEO Frank Backes said: 'Capella has been a long-time pioneer in space technology and we can now take actionable steps to push the boundaries further by building the first quantum-enabled Earth observation platform.' The acquisition complements IonQ's existing partnerships and acquisitions, including those with Qubitekk and ID Quantique. IonQ has also collaborated with institutions such as the Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence and Security and the US Air Force Research Laboratory. By utilising long-distance quantum repeaters alongside Capella Space's advanced sensing capabilities, IonQ aims to construct extensive quantum-secure networks. This expanded capacity supports developing sovereign-grade intelligence by integrating orbital sensing with quantum computing, enhancing Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance operations for US and allied governments. IonQ CEO Niccolo de Masi said: 'We have an exceptional opportunity to accelerate our vision for the quantum internet, where global QKD will play a foundational role in enabling secure communications. 'The integration of Capella's advanced space-based platform and proven constellation of deployed satellites - along with IonQ's quantum technologies - is expected to bolster commercial applications, global defence, and intelligence missions.' "IonQ acquires Capella to boost space-based quantum communications" was originally created and published by Verdict, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Business Times
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Times
New MAS programme to help financial institutions fast-track AI adoption, minimise guesswork
[SINGAPORE] Financial institutions in Singapore can now tap – a new programme that helps them adopt artificial intelligence (AI) more quickly and effectively. The programme features a curated library of AI use cases, industry validated solutions and best practices shared by industry peers, cutting down the time and effort needed to search, select and implement AI solutions. The initiative aims to support financial institutions in the earlier stages of their AI adoption journey, said Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) managing director Chia Der Jiun on Tuesday (Jul 15), at the release of the central bank's annual report. also connects participating firms with established training providers offering skills programmes aligned with their chosen AI tools and platforms. Twenty financial institutions have already joined the programme. These include Green Link Digital Bank, MUFG, Standard Chartered, Trust Bank, Ant International, Liquid Group, BoltTech, FWD, and Funding Societies. 'We welcome more financial institutions to join the programme,' said Chia. As financial institutions expand the scale and scope of AI adoption, they must also strengthen governance and risk management to ensure responsible use, he added. BT in your inbox Start and end each day with the latest news stories and analyses delivered straight to your inbox. Sign Up Sign Up To support this, MAS is developing supervisory guidance for financial institutions. This includes a set of guidelines on managing AI-related risks, which is currently in progress. 'There are key risks around model, data, technology and third-party risks,' said Chia. 'Poor management of these risks can result in wrong or even harmful information used in internal decision-making or advice given to customers and investors.' Completion of QKD sandbox On Tuesday, Chia also announced that MAS has successfully completed its sandbox trial for quantum key distribution (QKD) – a secure method for exchanging cryptographic keys. The sandbox, launched in August 2024, tested how QKD can be used to protect sensitive financial data against future cybersecurity threats posed by quantum computing. A technical report detailing the results and key findings will be published soon. 'The report will also highlight challenges for future work,' said Chia. 'We are confident that further work by the industry can address these challenges and enable wider adoption of QKD in time to come.' MAS has also begun working with financial institutions to prepare for a 'quantum-safe' transition, as future advances in quantum computing could render today's encryption standards obsolete. The central bank will review how financial institutions manage their cryptographic inventory and identify critical assets that should be prioritised for quantum-safe migration, said Chia. They 'should kick-start their preparation early', he added. 'Given the complexity and scale, a full transition is expected to take time and significant effort.'
Yahoo
02-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
QUBT Soars on Quantum Communication Breakthrough: More Upside Ahead?
In June 2025, Quantum Computing Inc. QUBT achieved a pivotal milestone with the shipment of its first commercial entangled photon source. This marked the company's formal entry into the emerging market of quantum communication and cybersecurity. This product, built on Spontaneous Parametric Down-Conversion (SPDC) using a bulk-format lithium niobate (PPLN) structure, operates in the C-band telecommunication range and is fully compatible with today's fiber optic infrastructure, making it suitable for integration into quantum networking testbeds and secure communications research environments. Quantum Computing's shipment to a leading South Korean research institution marks a key step in the quantum communication and cybersecurity market. This milestone validates both the technical readiness and global demand for QUBT's quantum platform and sets the stage for broader adoption in quantum-secure networking and Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), a critical solution as traditional encryption faces quantum threats. Quantum Computing plans to miniaturize future versions using its thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) technology at its Tempe foundry, enhancing both performance and integration. This will not only boost its quantum communication offering but also support internal demand for its TFLN foundry. D-Wave Quantum QBTS: The company is gaining strong commercial traction, reporting $15 million in first-quarter 2025 revenues, a 509% year-over-year surge, and emerging as one of the top-performing quantum stocks of the year. Its Advantage2 system, featuring over 4,400 qubits, is cloud-accessible and underpins its leadership in quantum annealing. D-Wave is also branching into gate-model computing and has raised $400 million to accelerate growth and acquisitions. With key partnerships like Mastercard, Ford and a growing patent portfolio, D-Wave poses a serious competitive threat in real-world quantum optimization. IonQ IONQ: It is accelerating its leadership in trapped-ion quantum computing through strategic moves, including the acquisition of Lightsynq to boost photonic interconnects and a $1.075 billion deal to acquire Oxford Ionics to advance modular, high-fidelity systems. Backed by the Texas Quantum Initiative and expanding cloud integrations, IonQ is positioning itself for fault-tolerant computing and quantum networking, directly challenging QUBT as both companies scale in photonics and communication technologies. Quantum Computing has rallied 50.3% in a month compared with the industry's 6.3% growth and the sector's 7.3% rise. The S&P 500 index, meanwhile, has improved 4.1% during the said period. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Based on short-term price targets, Quantum Computing is currently trading 14.8% below its average Zacks price target. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research QUBT currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Quantum Computing Inc. (QUBT) : Free Stock Analysis Report IonQ, Inc. (IONQ) : Free Stock Analysis Report D-Wave Quantum Inc. (QBTS) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research Sign in to access your portfolio
Globe and Mail
01-07-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Can IonQ Maintain Its Quantum Edge With China Advancing Fast?
As China accelerates its progress in quantum communications—mainly with space-based quantum key distribution (QKD)— IonQ, Inc. IONQ is racing to fortify its global leadership. The first-quarter 2025 earnings call showed that IonQ is not just keeping pace but expanding aggressively across compute, networking, and space applications, making bold moves that could entrench its competitive edge for years. IonQ's strategy hinges on its ability to scale quantum computing through a networked, multicore architecture, enabled by photonic interconnects and powered by key acquisitions. The recent buyouts of Lightsynq and Capella are pivotal. Lightsynq brings quantum memory and repeater technology that can stretch quantum networks hundreds of miles, while Capella adds satellite-based QKD capabilities and classified project access, directly addressing the frontier where China is surging ahead. Meanwhile, IonQ's expansion isn't just technical, it's commercial. The company sold a $22 million Forte Enterprise system to EPB, marking the first U.S. deployment combining a quantum computer and network. It also closed the ID Quantique deal, adding four commercial quantum networks in the telecom and defense sectors. Despite reporting a net loss of $32.3 million in the first quarter, IonQ remains well-capitalized with nearly $700 million in cash. With DARPA partnerships, cloud access via AWS, and breakthroughs in quantum machine learning, IonQ is staking its claim as the full-stack quantum leader. While China looms as a formidable rival, IonQ's integrated approach across ground, cloud, and space gives it a real shot at long-term supremacy in the quantum race. Rivals in the Race: IBM and Alphabet Deepen Quantum Push Two of IonQ's most relevant competitors in the global quantum race are International Business Machines Corporation IBM and Alphabet Inc. GOOGL, both of which are heavily investing in quantum computing and encryption technologies. IBM, a long-standing player, has built one of the most mature quantum platforms with its IBM Quantum program. It recently announced plans for a 100,000-qubit machine within a decade, emphasizing error correction and scalable architectures. While IBM leads in industrial partnerships and open-access quantum development, it lags IonQ in photonic interconnect innovation and commercial quantum networking. Alphabet, via its Google Quantum AI division, also poses a major challenge. Known for achieving "quantum supremacy" in 2019, Google is pursuing superconducting qubit systems and has laid out a roadmap toward fault-tolerant quantum computing. However, it remains focused on in-house research rather than commercializing quantum networking, where IonQ currently holds a distinctive first-mover advantage. IONQ's Price Performance, Valuation and Estimates IonQ shares have gained 71.6% in the past three months, outperforming the Zacks Computer - Integrated Systems industry. IonQ's forward 12-month price/sales ratio of 102.99 is far above the industry average of 3.89. For IONQ, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 loss per share has narrowed over the past 60 days, as you can see below, depicting analysts' optimism. The estimated figure indicates a much narrower loss than the year-ago reported loss of $1.56 per share. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 revenues implies year-over-year growth of 97.3%. IONQ stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Only $1 to See All Zacks' Buys and Sells We're not kidding. Several years ago, we shocked our members by offering them 30-day access to all our picks for the total sum of only $1. No obligation to spend another cent. Thousands have taken advantage of this opportunity. Thousands did not - they thought there must be a catch. Yes, we do have a reason. We want you to get acquainted with our portfolio services like Surprise Trader, Stocks Under $10, Technology Innovators, and more, that closed 256 positions with double- and triple-digit gains in 2024 alone. See Stocks Now >> Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Alphabet Inc. (GOOGL): Free Stock Analysis Report IonQ, Inc. (IONQ): Free Stock Analysis Report
