Nvidia's Quantum Computing Comments Spark Stock Sell-Off
Wednesday, Jan 8, 2025 9:15 am ET
Nvidia's CEO Jensen Huang sparked a sell-off in quantum computing stocks after suggesting that the technology won't be "very useful" for 15-30 years. Huang's comments during Nvidia's analyst day event on Tuesday night led to a significant decline in the stocks of IonQ (IONQ), Rigetti Computing (RGTI), D-Wave Quantum (QBTS), and Quantum Computing (QUBT). IonQ stock dived 10.75%, while Rigetti and Quantum Computing skidded 12.9% each, and D-Wave Quantum stock lost 14.1%.
Huang's remarks came as a surprise to investors, who had been bullish on the potential of quantum computing following Google's chip breakthrough announcement in early December. The tech sector has been under pressure in recent weeks, with investors becoming increasingly risk-averse. Huang's comments, made in response to a question from Evercore analyst Mark Lipacis, highlighted the challenges and uncertainties facing the quantum computing sector.
Quantum computing stocks have skyrocketed since Google parent Alphabet (GOOGL) announced a chip breakthrough in early December. However, Huang's cautious outlook on the timeline for practical quantum computing advancements led investors to reevaluate their positions in the sector. The market reaction reflects a broader sentiment of uncertainty surrounding the future of quantum computing.

Nvidia's involvement in the quantum computing space is limited, as the company primarily focuses on graphics processing units (GPUs) and artificial intelligence (AI). However, Huang's comments may have spilled over into Nvidia's stock price, contributing to its recent decline. Investors may have been concerned about Nvidia's exposure to the quantum computing sector and the uncertainty surrounding the timeline for practical advancements in the technology.
In conclusion, Nvidia's CEO Jensen Huang's comments on the timeline for practical quantum computing advancements sparked a sell-off in quantum computing stocks. The market reaction reflects investor concerns about the long development timelines and uncertainties facing the sector. Nvidia's limited involvement in quantum computing may have contributed to its recent stock price decline, as investors reevaluate their positions in the company and the broader tech sector.