In a recent interview on CNBC’s “The Exchange,” IonQ CEO Niccolò De Masi outlined the company’s ambitious roadmap to become a leader in quantum computing, drawing parallels to NVIDIA’s dominance in AI. The discussion, set against the backdrop of President Trump’s executive orders on nuclear energy and science, highlighted IonQ’s strategic position and technological advancements.

De Masi emphasized the transformative potential of quantum computing, stating, “Quantum computing is going to positively impact every aspect of applied science. We’ve been 30 years in the making, and we are not just a leading quantum computing company, but also the leading quantum networking company.” This dual focus, he explained, creates a “virtuous circle” where advancements in computing power necessitate and are complemented by quantum networking capabilities.

The CEO pointed to IonQ’s recent strategic acquisitions, including Qubitekk, ID Quantique, Lightsynq, and Capella, as critical steps in expanding its market presence. “These acquisitions accelerate our leadership in quantum computing and networking, potentially enabling us to scale quantum computers to millions of qubits,” De Masi noted. This move is part of IonQ’s broader vision to dominate the quantum technology landscape, doubling its total addressable market (TAM) from computing alone to include networking.

Financially, IonQ is on a growth trajectory, with De Masi highlighting the company’s revenue projections. “We are seeing our revenue double year on year, with estimates reaching $75 million by 2025,” he said, underscoring the company’s scaling efforts and market potential. The stock’s performance, up 2.23% on the interview day and significantly higher since its public debut, reflects investor confidence in IonQ’s strategy.

De Masi also addressed the technological leap quantum computing represents. “Our machines are becoming more powerful at a double exponential rate, unlike Moore’s Law in classical computing. This means a 240 million times increase in power with each new system,” he explained. This advancement is crucial for tackling complex problems across industries, from drug discovery to energy distribution, where IonQ’s technology is already delivering a 12% commercial advantage for customers like Ansys.

The interview also touched on the broader implications of President Trump’s policies. “The executive orders on nuclear energy and science create an environment that fosters innovation and investment in advanced technologies like quantum computing,” De Masi remarked. This political support, combined with IonQ’s technological prowess, positions the company to lead the quantum revolution.

Looking forward, De Masi envisions a future where IonQ not only advances quantum computing but also secures the digital world through quantum networking. “We are building ecosystems that will transition from narrow commercial advantages to broad quantum advantages and eventually quantum supremacy,” he said. “Our goal is to keep your information safe, banking processes secure, and telecommunications protected, as the modern world relies on these networks.”

In conclusion, Niccolò De Masi’s interview paints a picture of IonQ as a pioner in the quantum computing space, leveraging political and technological trends to expand its influence. With a clear vision, strategic acquisitions, and significant technological advancements, IonQ aims to mirror NVIDIA’s success in AI, positioning itself as the “800-pound gorilla” in both quantum computing and networking.