Trump Administration Denies Equity Stake Plans in Quantum Computing Firms

The TRUMP administration has officially denied reports of plans to take equity stakes in quantum computing companies, including D-Wave Quantum (QBTS), Rigetti Computing (RGTI), and IonQ (IONQ). Earlier speculation had driven significant price movements in quantum-related stocks, but the Commerce Department clarified it is "not currently negotiating" such deals.

Market reactions had been volatile following initial media reports suggesting the U.S. government might replicate its Intel (INTC) investment strategy in quantum firms. The Commerce Department's statement explicitly rejects claims of discussions about $10 million funding awards in exchange for equity positions.

While the administration previously justified public stakes in strategic tech companies—citing taxpayer benefits—this position isn't being extended to quantum computing. The sector's stocks, particularly D-Wave, had surged on October 23 amid the rumors before the official denial.