Quantum computing has suddenly become a buzzword on Wall Street. Ever since Alphabet (NASDAQ: GOOG) (NASDAQ: GOOGL) reported that it hit a new milestone with Willow, its new quantum chip, quantum stocks have been soaring.

Trapped-ion quantum computing leader IonQ (NYSE: IONQ) is emerging as a potential leader in the commercialization of quantum computing through its trapped-ion technology approach. Unlike traditional superconducting quantum competitors,

Quantum computing stocks were red-hot recently, but Jensen Huang just offered optimistic investors a reality check.

Though investors saw this as disappointing, there is some reassuring news. Quantum computing is progressing, meaning these companies will likely report accomplishments and milestones in the months and years to come -- and these represent catalysts for quantum computer stocks to climb.

The stocks were slammed last week, when Nvidia’s CEO said it would take decades for the technology to become “very useful.”

Quantum stocks like Rigetti, IonQ and D-Wave Quantum saw steep losses after Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said quantum computers are decades away.

Also, in late November 2024, The Senate advanced the Department of Energy (DOE) Quantum Leadership Act of 2024, proposing $2.5 billion over 5 years to fuel US quantum R&D. Notably, the bipartisan bill emphasizes quantum networking, domestic manufacturing, and public-private partnerships to ramp up quantum innovation.