Investing.com -- Quantum computing represents a groundbreaking advancement in technology, with the capability to process information in ways that classical computing cannot.
This innovative approach to computing utilizes principles of quantum mechanics, such as superposition and entanglement, allowing it to tackle complex problems that are currently beyond the reach of traditional computers.
“Unlike classical bits, qubits enable parallel computation, akin to searching a 100-million-page phone book all at once rather than page by page,” Bernstein analysts explained in a note.
“Crucially, quantum and classical systems are complementary: quantum excels at specialized tasks like molecular simulation or cryptography, while classical handles daily
operations. Think of it as a rocket versus a car—each optimized for distinct purposes,” they added.
But while quantum computing offers substantial promise, it is still in the developmental stages with significant challenges to overcome.
These include hardware limitations, such as qubit instability at temperatures above near-absolute-zero, and the need for scalability, with over a million qubits required for practical applications.
Moreover, there is a lag in software development, with a shortage of quantum algorithms capable of addressing real-world problems.
Nonetheless, Bernstein holds an optimistic view about the long-term prospects of quantum computing, suggesting that it could revolutionize a range of industries, from AI and cybersecurity to drug discovery and finance.
However, they caution that the realization of quantum computing’s full potential is likely a vision for 2050, given the scientific innovations still required to achieve fault-tolerant, full-scale practical usage.
As for the investment opportunities in the field of quantum computing, Bernstein analysts believe they are expected to be event-driven for the foreseeable future.
The investment bank points to two main types of companies that stand to benefit: established corporations like Google (NASDAQ:GOOGL), Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT), IBM (NYSE:IBM), Intel (NASDAQ:INTC), and Honeywell (NASDAQ:HON), which are investing in quantum computing, and specialized startups such as Rigetti Computing (NASDAQ:RGTI), D Wave Quantum Inc (NYSE:QBTS), IONQ (NYSE:IONQ), and China’s QuantumCTek (SS:688027).
“These companies can experience significant stock price volatility in response to breakthroughs, as evidenced by Rigetti’s substantial stock surge following Google’s advancements,” analysts said.
While major breakthroughs by large corporations may have a significant impact on their stock prices, smaller dedicated quantum computing firms could experience even more pronounced effects, albeit accompanied by higher volatility, they added.