Rigetti, D-Wave, IonQ Set To Disrupt Everything—Expert Goes All In

B. Riley analyst Craig Ellis significantly raised price targets for several quantum computing stocks, including IonQ (IONQ) to $100, Rigetti Computing (RGTI) to $35, and D-Wave Quantum (QBTS) to $33, maintaining Buy ratings across the board. This upward revision reflects the firm's view that the sector's technological advancements and commercialization are accelerating faster than anticipated, supported by strong government backing and recent company achievements like Rigetti's Air Force contract and IonQ's consistent revenue growth. The analyst's commentary highlights a transition of quantum computing from a frontier science to a commercially viable industry, attracting increased investor interest.

Analysis

A strongly positive analyst note from B. Riley's Craig Ellis has catalyzed upward momentum in the quantum computing sector, signaling that the industry's commercialization and technological progress are accelerating faster than prior optimistic forecasts. The firm raised price targets on key sector players, citing a confluence of strong government support and tangible corporate achievements. IonQ (IONQ) was identified as the revenue growth leader, having achieved 100% growth in each of the last three years, with its price target increased to a Street-high of $100, bolstered by the strategic acquisition of Oxford Ionics. Similarly, Rigetti Computing's (RGTI) price target was lifted to $35 from $19, coinciding with its win of a $5.8 million U.S. Air Force contract, which provides a concrete example of commercial and governmental validation. D-Wave Quantum (QBTS) also received a significant 50% price target increase to $33, reflecting the analyst's confidence in its leadership prospects. This commentary collectively frames the quantum sector's transition from a frontier scientific field to an industry with practical commercial capabilities and investable catalysts.

Key Decisions for Investors

• Investors with a bullish thesis on quantum computing could view this analyst upgrade as a validation to maintain or add to positions, focusing on the named leaders with demonstrated catalysts.
• It is crucial to differentiate between the drivers for each company; IonQ's strength lies in its reported revenue growth and strategic M&A, whereas Rigetti's recent momentum is tied to a specific government contract, which may suit different investment strategies.
• Given that high retail sentiment is a cited driver and valuations are rising, investors should monitor for signs of speculative excess and track whether the companies continue to deliver on the commercial and technological milestones that underpin these new, higher price targets.