The quantum hardware sector, including companies like IonQ and D-Wave, is viewed as a long-term prospect. Analysts note these firms are securing government contracts and cloud integrations but may not be immediate earnings drivers by 2026. In contrast, quantum enablers—established companies generating current revenues through infrastructure and technology—present near-term investment opportunities, with Intel, Broadcom, and Teradyne projected to report over 40% earnings growth in 2026. Intel expects 83.4% earnings growth, Broadcom 42.5%, and Teradyne nearly 45%.
Lockheed Martin is also advancing its role as a quantum enabler, working on a U.S. Department of Defense contract that aims to prototype a quantum-enabled navigation system, projecting 34.8% earnings growth for 2026. Meanwhile, SEALSQ Corp.’s focus on post-quantum cryptography illustrates immediate demand, with expected 66.7% earnings growth in 2026, driven by the race for quantum-resilient data security solutions.
