U.S. Denies Equity Talks with Quantum Firms as Market Reacts to Trump Speculation
The U.S. Commerce Department flatly denied reports of negotiations with quantum computing companies IonQ, Rigetti, and D-Wave regarding equity stakes. A spokesperson clarified to CNBC that no such discussions are taking place, contradicting a Wall Street Journal article suggesting the TRUMP administration had initiated talks.
Despite the denial, traders propelled quantum stocks upward. Rigetti and IonQ surged 7%, while D-Wave Quantum leapt 13%. Quantum Computing Inc. gained 5%. Market participants appeared indifferent to the veracity of the claims—the mere possibility of Trump-era intervention proved sufficient to MOVE valuations.
The administration has precedent for strategic equity acquisitions, having taken 10% of Intel and 15% of MP Materials this year. This marks a departure from decades of policy, with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick advocating for public stakes in private enterprises that benefit from taxpayer support.
