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Quantum computing stocks continue to grab investor attention, mixing groundbreaking quantum innovation with the promise of high rewards as companies race to bring this game-changing technology to market.
While the industry remains young, pioneers like IonQ (IONQ) are emerging as frontrunners, drawing comparisons to early stage tech disruptors such as Nvidia (NVDA) in its formative years. IonQ has generated significant hype, achieving triple-digit stock growth last year thanks to its expanding customer base.
The company is set to announce its fourth-quarter results on Feb. 26 after the market closes. The earnings call promises fresh insights into IonQ’s commercial progress, future roadmap, and overall industry outlook. This upcoming announcement could serve as a key indicator of the next phase in the quantum computing revolution.
Let’s discuss what makes IonQ a standout player and why these results might be pivotal for quantum-minded investors.
About IONQ Stock
Founded in 2015, IonQ (IONQ) is a quantum tech company valued at $6.9 billion that focuses on building quantum processors using trapped-ion qubits, known for their nearly perfect accuracy. Its unique cryogenics-free architecture not only cuts costs dramatically, but also helps protect its intellectual property, solidifying the company’s leadership.
IonQ shares outperformed in the last year, gaining more than 200% over the past 52 weeks, This momentum has faltered in 2025 as shares have slipped 23% year-to-date. Investors should note that quantum computing stocks were soaring on hype and excitement for what is to come, despite the fact that many of these companies are still in research and development phases.
IONQ Delivered Strong Q3 Results
In the third quarter, IonQ reported revenue of $12.4 million, up 102% year-over-year. The company secured $63.5 million in new bookings, including a breakthrough $54.5 million contract with the U.S. Air Force Research Lab, and recently added Busan, South Korea’s technology hub, to its growing customer roster.
Despite the revenue surge, IonQ’s profitability remains a challenge. The company posted a net loss of $52.5 million in Q3, up from $44.8 million the previous year, with an adjusted EBITDA loss of $23.7 million.
Its balance sheet remains exceptionally strong, boasting total current assets of $395.4 million against liabilities of only $32 million. Moreover, the firm holds $30 million in cash and cash equivalents, ensuring robust liquidity to fund its aggressive expansion and technology investments.
“We are laser-focused on becoming profitable, and I firmly believe our sales will hit $1 billion by 2030,” CEO Peter Chapman said during the earnings conference, reflecting a bold vision for the future.
What to Expect from IONQ’s Q4 earnings report?
As IonQ’s Q4 earnings approach on Feb. 26, quantum computing enthusiasts have their eyes firmly fixed on the outcome. Management forecasts Q4 revenue to range between $7.1 million and $11.1 million, contributing to full-year 2024 guidance for revenue between $38.5 million and $42.5 million, a notable boost over previous periods.
Analysts, meanwhile, expect Q4 revenue to hit $10.28 million and project that the adjusted EPS loss will narrow slightly, from $0.20 per share last year to an estimated $0.19 per share in the upcoming quarter. Investors will be watching the Q4 call closely for further insights into cost management and margin enhancements, which could accelerate IonQ’s journey toward sustained profitability.
Analyst Opinions on IONQ Stock
The analyst community is moderately bullish on IonQ stock. Among the six analysts covering the stock, the consensus rating is a “Moderate Buy,” with a breakdown of three “Strong Buy” ratings, one “Moderate Buy,” and two “Hold” ratings.
The average 12-month price target of $39.67 suggests upside potential of more than 25% from current levels.
