Quantum Computing Inc. (QCI) is under scrutiny as investors assess the potential for a stock rebound in 2026, driven by anticipated advances in quantum processor development and strategic partnerships. The company's performance will depend heavily on achieving key technical benchmarks and securing government-backed funding.
- QCI stock is trading at $12.30, down from a 2023 high of $28.70
- Company aims to deliver a fault-tolerant quantum system by 2026
- Secured $185 million in federal grants, including $62 million for error correction systems
- R&D expenses reached $210 million in 2025, 41% of total revenue
- Net losses totaled $147 million in the last fiscal year
- Price-to-sales ratio of 3.2x, below sector average of 5.8x
Quantum Computing Inc. (QCI) is positioning itself for a potential 2026 recovery, though its stock trajectory remains uncertain. The company currently trades at $12.30, down from a 2023 peak of $28.70, reflecting investor caution amid ongoing delays in commercializing its 128-qubit processor. Management has set a 2026 target for delivering a fault-tolerant quantum system with error correction capabilities, a milestone that could unlock new institutional interest. The outlook hinges on measurable progress in core technology and operational milestones. QCI has secured $185 million in federal grants through the National Quantum Initiative, with $62 million allocated specifically for cryogenic control systems and quantum error mitigation. Internal R&D spending reached $210 million in 2025, representing 41% of total revenue, underscoring the company’s commitment to innovation despite sustained net losses of $147 million last fiscal year. Market sentiment is cautiously optimistic. Analysts tracking the semiconductor and IT sectors note that QCI’s valuation remains below the sector average, with a price-to-sales ratio of 3.2x compared to 5.8x for peers in quantum and advanced computing. A successful demonstration of quantum advantage—defined as solving a real-world problem faster than classical supercomputers—could trigger a re-rating of the stock, potentially lifting it to $22–$25 range by year-end 2026, assuming sustained funding and talent retention. Investors in high-growth tech stocks, particularly those focused on quantum and AI infrastructure, are watching QCI’s quarterly updates closely. The company’s upcoming 2025 Q4 report, scheduled for January 2026, will include a progress update on its quantum cloud platform, QuantumForge, which has signed pilot agreements with three Fortune 500 firms in logistics and materials science.