What Is One of the Best Quantum Computing Stocks to Buy Right Now?
Key Points
Quantum computing’s real-world impact could be years -- or decades -- away.
Pure-play quantum stock valuations currently look extremely inflated.
Alphabet is positioned to lead in this area, and the downside for the tech titan is limited.
- 10 stocks we like better than Alphabet ›
Quantum computing has captured investor imagination with its potential to solve problems that would take classical computers millennia to crack--from designing new materials to breaking encryption codes. But the gap between laboratory breakthroughs and commercial applications is vast.
Pure-play quantum stocks like IonQ and D-Wave Quantum have soared on expectations of near-term commercialization, but there's plenty of reason to believe investors are getting ahead of themselves.
Where to invest $1,000 right now? Our analyst team just revealed what they believe are the 10 best stocks to buy right now. Continue »
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Alphabet's long-term edge in quantum computing
That could be a big problem for quantum start-ups; it won't be for Alphabet (NASDAQ: GOOG) (NASDAQ: GOOGL). The company took the long view on quantum computing when others were still skeptical. Beginning in the early 2010s, the company committed substantial resources to building a world-class quantum research operation, investing not just money but years of development time. That, in my opinion, is the sort of approach most likely to win out here.
Unlike its smaller competitors, Alphabet has the resources to continue to pursue research and development of useful quantum technology, no matter how long it takes. If it doesn't pay off in the coming years, it won't have much of an impact on Alphabet -- not so for the likes of D-Wave and Rigetti. For these companies, the risk is existential. If and when quantum computers truly take off, Alphabet will be at the forefront, whether through its own efforts or through strategic acquisitions.
Should you invest $1,000 in Alphabet right now?
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Johnny Rice has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
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