Quantum Computing News: U.S. Policy and New Capital Push Quantum Closer to Data Center Adoption - TipRanks

Welcome all to Thursday’s update on quantum computing. As 2026 progresses, the focus keeps moving from theory toward funding, policy, and early systems that can shape future markets. This update covers new physics research, fresh private funding, public space work, and a major U.S. policy push.Valentine's Day Sale - 70% OffUnlock hedge fund-level data and powerful investing tools for smarter, sharper decisions Stay ahead of the market with the latest news and analysis and maximize your portfolio's potential Let’s begin. 1.

Quantum Physics Links Vacuum Theory to Real Matter We begin with new research from Brookhaven National Laboratory that sheds light on how matter forms at the quantum level. Using data from the STAR Collaboration at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider, scientists found that certain particles keep spin links from the quantum vacuum after high-energy collisions. When lambda and antilambda particles appear close together, their spins are fully aligned, matching the behavior of virtual quark pairs. Zhoudunming Tu of Brookhaven said, “This work gives us a unique window into the quantum vacuum.” While this work is basic science, it supports long-term progress in quantum systems and quantum data theory. 2. Diraq Secures $20 million for Silicon Quantum Systems Next, Australian quantum firm Diraq raised $20 million from the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation. The company aims to deliver a utility-scale quantum computer with real advantage by 2029. Diraq uses silicon-based qubits that fit current chip-making tools, which may lower power use and size.

Founder Andrew Dzurak said the goal is to move quantum from lab to market scale. Diraq also works with Dell Technologies (DELL) and NVIDIA (NVDA), which highlights growing ties between quantum hardware and data center firms. 3. NASA Backs Quantum Space Links Meanwhile, NASA awarded a $750,000 grant to Montana State University to improve quantum laser links between space and Earth. The project targets signal loss caused by air effects, which can break quantum data.

The team will use photonic chips to adjust light paths in real time with low power use. John Roudas of Montana State said the work will support future quantum space networks. Over time, these systems may support secure links for satellites and sensors. 4. Europe Launches €1 billion Deep Tech Fund In Europe, a new €1 billion deep-tech fund led by Kembara has reached a first close of €750 million. The fund plans to invest €40 million per deal in growth-stage firms. The goal is to keep key tech firms from being sold abroad and to close a late-stage funding gap. The founding team includes investors with past stakes in SpaceX, OpenAI, and Groq. This move adds support for European quantum and chip firms that often struggle to scale. 5. U.S.

Draft Order Pushes National Quantum Strategy Finally, a draft U.S. executive order dated February 3, 2026, signals a major push on quantum policy. The order calls for a new national strategy and a quantum computer for science led by the Department of Energy. It also focuses on supply chains, trade access, and workforce growth. Agencies are told to submit five-year plans for quantum sensors and networks. The aim is to keep the U.S. competitive as quantum tools move closer to use. We used TipRanks’ Comparison Tool to line up all the notable publicly traded quantum computing stocks. It’s a quick way to see how they stack up and where the field could be heading.