Top 3 Quantum Computing Stocks Gaining Attention After October Deals 2026

Quantum computing stocks underperformed during the first nine months of 2026 as investors questioned whether technological breakthroughs and government support could translate into sustainable commercial growth.

However, a series of transactions and strategic partnerships in October 2026 has renewed attention on the industry. Developments involving acquisitions, manufacturing partnerships and real-world applications could help quantum computing companies strengthen their capabilities and accelerate commercialisation.

Here are three quantum computing stocks attracting attention following their October developments.

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1. IonQ, Inc. (NYSE: IONQ)

IonQ is expanding its capabilities beyond quantum computing through acquisitions and cybersecurity technologies.

On 12 October 2026, the company announced a definitive agreement to acquire Elisity, a Zero Trust cybersecurity company, through an all-stock transaction valued at up to US$1.3 billion.

The acquisition could expand IonQ's cybersecurity capabilities and create opportunities to combine its post-quantum cryptography and quantum key distribution technologies with Elisity's enterprise security platform.

The combination could also strengthen relationships with government and corporate customers while helping organisations prepare for emerging cyber threats associated with quantum computing and AI.

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Revenue Growth and Expansion

IonQ reported a 287% year-on-year revenue increase to US$80.1 million in Q2 2026. Following its acquisition of semiconductor manufacturer SkyWater Technology, the company raised its full-year 2026 revenue guidance to US$450–460 million.

The Elisity acquisition could further broaden IonQ's business and create cross-selling opportunities across enterprise security and quantum technologies.

2. Xanadu Quantum Technologies (NASDAQ: XNDU)

Xanadu Quantum Technologies develops photonic quantum computers and quantum software, positioning the company to benefit from advances in AI and high-performance computing.

On 6 October 2026, Xanadu announced a strategic, multi-year partnership with GlobalFoundries to scale up the production of advanced photonic components.

Under the partnership, Xanadu will use GlobalFoundries' 300 mm production line in New York to manufacture ultra-low-loss silicon nitride photonics and single-photon detectors.

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Manufacturing Partnership and Growth Potential

The partnership could help Xanadu move beyond laboratory prototypes towards industrial-scale manufacturing, improving its ability to develop faster and more scalable quantum systems for future applications.

Its PennyLane software platform also offers potential for growth by allowing developers to build quantum applications that run across different hardware systems.

Additionally, CA$195 million in Canadian government funding is intended to support the company's advanced photonics manufacturing facility.

Together, these developments could strengthen Xanadu's manufacturing capabilities and support the commercialisation of its photonic quantum technology.

3. D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NASDAQ: QBTS)

D-Wave Quantum aims to expand its business through quantum computing technologies designed to solve complex optimisation problems, including challenges relevant to supply chains and business operations.

On 5 October 2026, the company announced a collaboration with the Supply Chain Management Research Center at the University of Arkansas to establish the Quantum Supply Chain Initiative Support Fund.

The initiative will support research, education and practical applications of quantum computing across retail, transportation and national defence.

Commercial Applications and Customer Demand

The initiative could help D-Wave demonstrate how quantum computing can improve supply-chain efficiency as businesses increasingly use AI to optimise operations and manage complex decisions.

The company's commercial potential is also supported by enterprise applications and growing customer engagement.

According to its Q2 2026 investor update, D-Wave reported first-half bookings of US$35.5 million, compared with US$2.9 million in the corresponding prior-year period.

This increase in bookings highlights growing commercial engagement, although sustained demand and the conversion of bookings into revenue remain important factors to monitor.

Conclusion

IonQ, Xanadu Quantum Technologies and D-Wave Quantum are attracting attention following different developments in October 2026.

IonQ's proposed acquisition of Elisity could expand its cybersecurity business, Xanadu's GlobalFoundries partnership could support industrial-scale photonic manufacturing, and D-Wave's University of Arkansas initiative could help demonstrate practical quantum computing applications.

While these developments offer potential growth catalysts, investors should also consider commercialisation timelines, execution risks, competition and the ability of each company to translate technological progress into sustainable revenue.

Source: Company announcements.