D-Wave Quantum Shares Drop 6.8% Despite Positive Analyst Sentiment

Quantum computing company faces short-term volatility despite strong customer contracts and technology progress

Jan. 29, 2026 at 6:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Shares of D-Wave Quantum (NYSE:QBTS) fell 6.8% on Thursday, despite positive analyst sentiment and recent business wins. The company has seen multiple analysts reaffirm "buy" ratings and high price targets, as well as secure a $20 million purchase order from Florida Atlantic University and a $10 million deal with a Fortune 100 company. However, the stock's fundamentals and valuation concerns, along with short-term profit-taking, have contributed to the share price decline.

Why it matters

D-Wave's performance is closely watched as it represents the progress and commercial viability of quantum computing technology. The company's ability to secure large customer contracts and demonstrate technological advancements is seen as a positive sign for the industry, but its profitability and valuation remain concerns for investors.

The details

D-Wave Quantum's share price dropped 6.8% on Thursday, trading as low as $22.47 before closing at $23.26. The decline came despite the company receiving positive analyst coverage, with Needham setting a $48 target, Rosenblatt setting a $43 target, and Roth MKM reiterating a buy rating. The company also announced a $20 million purchase order from Florida Atlantic University and a separate $10 million deal with a Fortune 100 company, validating its commercial push. Additionally, D-Wave's relocation of its corporate headquarters and R&D expansion to Boca Raton, Florida, and its advancements in both annealing and gate-model quantum systems, have been viewed positively by the market.

  • D-Wave Quantum's share price dropped 6.8% on Thursday, January 29, 2026.

The players

D-Wave Quantum Inc.

An American quantum computing company that develops and provides quantum computing systems, software, and services focused on quantum annealing technology.

Florida Atlantic University

A public research university located in Boca Raton, Florida, that has placed a $20 million purchase order for D-Wave's quantum computing technology.

Fortune 100 company

An unnamed large, multinational corporation that has signed a $10 million deal with D-Wave Quantum.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.