The Trump administration is set to update America’s quantum computing strategy, reports Cyberscoop. This comes from executives and former national security officials. The plan may involve new executive orders and a national action plan. It will be like the White House’s July AI roadmap. This plan focuses on keeping U.S. leadership in new technologies.
Let’s explore what quantum computing really is, examine the market forecast, and highlight the stocks riding this emerging wave.
Quantum Computing: A Market on the Rise
Quantum computing is an emerging investment space with the potential to transform how information is processed. Experts believe that this technology could reshape cybersecurity, finance, defense, and global communications.
Unlike traditional computers that use bits as 0 or 1, quantum computers use qubits, which can exist in multiple states at once. This ability allows them to solve complex problems thousands of times faster than today’s supercomputers.
The networking system uses rules of quantum mechanics to create ultra-secure communication systems. Instead of relying on encryption that future quantum machines could break, it uses entanglement. It’s a process that links particles across long distances to transmit information instantly and securely.
Simply put, quantum networks deliver unconditional data protection and enable advanced tools like quantum teleportation, transforming how information moves.
Experts also predict that the quantum computing sector holds huge promise and could rival the impact of artificial intelligence (AI).
Carbon Footprint of Quantum Computing
A 2023 research report found that running large quantum simulations, like a 43-qubit system, could generate 48 times more CO₂ equivalent emissions than training a typical transformer-based machine learning model.
Quantum computing is more computationally efficient than classical supercomputers. This can reduce energy needs for future simulations and AI tasks. Scientists also say that if quantum processors utilize renewable energy and optimized algorithms, their carbon footprint may be much smaller than that of traditional high-performance computing centers.
Thus, to lessen the environmental impact of quantum technology, the industry needs:
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Sustainable manufacturing of quantum hardware
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Energy-efficient system designs
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Responsible sourcing of rare earth elements and other materials
Researchers are looking into “carbon-aware quantum computing.” This means tracking and managing the entire life-cycle carbon footprint of quantum technology.
As the industry aims to cut emissions, quantum computing is expected to help decarbonize other sectors.
Decarbonization Potential
Quantum computing supports low-carbon solutions by modeling materials, chemical reactions, and energy systems beyond classical limits. It enhances batteries, improves solar panels, optimizes carbon capture, and refines hydrogen processes. It also aids in creating cleaner cement and optimizing energy grids.
With faster and more accurate simulations, quantum computing can reduce emissions across industries and support the green transition.
U.S. Pushes Quantum Computing Overhaul as Industry Gains Billions
Cyberscoop further reported that the White House is weighing steps to push federal agencies toward post-quantum cryptographic protections. The urgency stems from a looming future in which quantum computers could crack today’s encryption, threatening financial systems, government databases, and defense communications.
The Office of Science and Technology Policy and the Department of Commerce are said to be leading these efforts. A senior executive in the field revealed that “everyone in the quantum industry has heard some version of the message that the White House wants to replicate for quantum what they did for AI in July.”
Paul Dabbar, a former Department of Energy official and now Commerce Deputy Secretary, is reportedly at the center of the initiative. Dabbar previously launched a quantum networking startup, giving him unique insight into both the research and commercial sides of the industry.
Cybersecurity and Geopolitics Drive Action
Washington has long recognized the risks of outdated encryption, pushing contractors for over a decade to adopt stronger post-quantum algorithms. But migration has been slow, sparking fears that the U.S. may fall behind in the global race for secure communications.
Rising geopolitical competition has intensified those concerns. With rival nations investing heavily in quantum research, U.S. leaders see a coordinated national strategy as critical to maintaining technological dominance.
If finalized, the federal push could deliver significant benefits for publicly traded quantum companies such as Rigetti Computing (RGTI), IONQ (IONQ), D-Wave Quantum (QBTS), and Quantum Computing Inc. (QUBT). Government contracts, clearer priorities, and investor confidence could drive further growth across the sector.
Quantum Computing Inc. (QUBT) Lands $500M, Shares Surge
Quantum Computing Inc. (QUBT) boosted the sector on September 21 by raising $500 million in a private placement that was oversubscribed. This is one of the largest quantum funding rounds this year. The deal boosted the Hoboken-based firm’s cash position to about $850 million.
The company will issue over 26.8 million shares to institutional investors. This includes support from major existing shareholders and a new global alternative asset manager. Following the news, QUBT shares jumped 26.8% to $23.27, increasing its market cap to $3.72 billion.
CEO Dr. Yuping Huang called the deal a strong vote of confidence. He noted it was priced at a premium compared to the last four offerings. Titan Partners Group, a division of American Capital Partners, managed the placement.
So far in 2025, QUBT stock has risen more than 40% year-to-date. This highlights growing investor enthusiasm for quantum optics and computing firms.
Rigetti Rides $5.8M Air Force Deal: RGTI Stock Surges
Meanwhile, Rigetti Computing is growing its government partnerships. On September 18, the company announced a three-year contract worth $5.8 million with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). This contract aims to advance superconducting quantum networking. Rigetti will collaborate with Dutch startup QphoX, known for its quantum transduction technology.
The project tackles a big challenge: changing microwave signals that control qubits into optical photons. These photons can travel long distances through fiber-optic cables. This advance could link smaller quantum processors. It would create distributed quantum systems, similar to classical high-performance computing clusters.
Rigetti CEO Dr. Subodh Kulkarni called the partnership a significant step forward. He highlighted the strengths of Rigetti, QphoX, and AFRL in building hybrid quantum networks.
The company’s market cap has climbed to $9.25 billion. It’s up 10.4% in the past month, showing strong investor interest as funding and commercial traction grow in 2025. The stock was trading near $28.37 as of September 22, 2025, after reaching a recent high of $29.59. This momentum comes from a major analyst price target upgrade and key contract wins.
Quantum technology is being adopted by organizations, defense departments, and global markets. Defense agencies are racing to use quantum systems for national security. Government funding is increasing. Corporate investment is picking up speed. Breakthrough research is underway. The industry is entering a crucial phase.
If the White House’s plans to launch a new quantum strategy succeed, it could boost U.S. cybersecurity. It would also send a clear message to investors and innovators: quantum is not just the future; it’s already here.
