In 2025, the quantum computing investment landscape experienced ups and downs, with pure-play stocks initially selling off before seeing upward momentum. IonQ and Rigetti Computing both saw declines from their October highs, with IonQ down 43% and Rigetti down 60%. The market’s risk appetite played a role in the sell-off. IonQ uses trapped ion qubits, achieving high accuracy levels, while Rigetti uses superconducting qubits. The success of quantum computing stocks in 2026 will depend on market risk appetite, with useful quantum computing still years away. DARPA’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative is evaluating quantum technologies.

Investing in quantum computing stocks is high-risk and speculative, with real business viability not expected until around 2030. Both IonQ and Rigetti face stiff competition and market mood fluctuations. DARPA’s initiative could influence their success. While IonQ was selected for Stage B, Rigetti wasn’t, affecting their stock potential. The success of quantum computing stocks in 2026 will depend on market risk appetite more than company successes. High-risk, high-reward investing may not be suitable for everyone, and an ETF approach may be more appropriate.

Considerations for investing in Rigetti Computing include the Motley Fool Stock Advisor not identifying it as one of the 10 best stocks to buy now. The Stock Advisor has a history of outperforming the market significantly. Rigetti Computing’s performance and future success remain uncertain. Stock Advisor returns indicate market-crushing outperformance compared to the S&P 500. The quantum computing market is volatile, with long-term success potential if companies can establish a foothold. Keithen Drury holds positions in Alphabet, with the Motley Fool recommending Alphabet, IonQ, and Microsoft.

Read more at Nasdaq: Better Quantum Computing Stock for 2026: IonQ or Rigetti Computing?