TLDR
- Rigetti Computing stock gained 15.95% following the announcement of $5.7 million in purchase orders for quantum computing systems
- The sale represents 72% of the company’s $7.9 million in total revenue over the past 12 months
- Two 9-qubit Novera quantum computing systems were sold to an Asian technology manufacturing company and a California-based startup
- Both systems are scheduled for delivery in the first half of 2026
- Options trading volume increased alongside heightened implied volatility, though market sentiment remains mixed
Rigetti Computing stock climbed for three straight days this week. The quantum computing company saw its shares jump 15.95% following Tuesday’s announcement.
The company disclosed $5.7 million in purchase orders for two quantum computing systems. One buyer is an Asian technology manufacturing company. The other is a California-based applied physics and artificial intelligence startup.
The sale involves two 9-qubit Novera quantum computing systems. These represent a small portion of Rigetti’s product line, which ranges from 24 to 84 qubits.
The financial context makes this announcement particularly interesting. Over the last 12 months, Rigetti’s total sales reached just $7.9 million. This single-day booking represents roughly 72% of the company’s annual revenue.
Rigetti CEO Dr. Subodh Kulkarni commented on the announcement. He said the company is excited to see increased demand for on-premises quantum computing systems as the industry matures.
The timing of these sales could prove important for Rigetti’s 2026 performance. Both quantum computers are expected to deliver in the first half of 2026. This secures a chunk of revenue early in the year.
Market Response and Trading Activity
The stock experienced increased options trading volume alongside the price movement. Implied volatility rose as traders positioned themselves around the news. Mixed options sentiment suggests some investors remain cautious about the company’s valuation.
Rigetti currently trades at a market cap of $9.68 billion. That represents more than 1,300 times its trailing 12-month sales. The company remains unprofitable.
The year-to-date price performance shows gains of 49.25%. Average trading volume stands at 53,533,092 shares. Technical sentiment indicators currently flash a buy signal.
Revenue Concentration Raises Questions
The $5.7 million sale highlights the company’s current revenue scale. For context, booking nearly three-quarters of annual revenue in a single day is unusual. It shows both the potential and the challenges facing the quantum computing sector.
Rigetti operates as a full-stack quantum computing company. It sells on-premises quantum computing systems to national laboratories and quantum computing centers. The company positions itself as a pioneer in the field.
The buyers represent different market segments. The Asian technology manufacturer suggests international interest in quantum computing infrastructure. The California startup points to domestic demand from emerging tech companies.
The 9-qubit Novera systems sit at the lower end of Rigetti’s qubit range. This could indicate market preference for smaller, more affordable systems. Or it might reflect where current quantum computing applications stand in terms of practical requirements.
The stock’s three-day rally came during a week of uncertainty around a potential U.S. government shutdown. Rigetti managed to gain ground despite broader market concerns. This suggests strong investor interest in the quantum computing sector.
The first half 2026 delivery timeline gives Rigetti several months to prepare for system deployment. It also means the revenue won’t hit the books until next year. The company’s 2025 performance will depend on securing additional orders.
