Why Rigetti Computing Stock Just Popped

Quantum computing stock Rigetti Computing (RGTI +6.71%) jumped a lucky 7.7% through 11:50 a.m. ET Monday morning -- and in part, it's got a competitor to thank for it. This morning, rival quantum stock D-Wave Quantum (QBTS +15.36%) announced that AT&T (T +1.30%) will use D-Wave's technology "to address complex optimization challenges across its network operations." Image source: Getty Images. Why AT&T loves quantum computing AT&T will use D-Wave's "annealing quantum computing technology" to find optimal solutions to complex mathematical problems, aiming to make AT&T's AI agents more efficient when optimizing data traffic and detecting network outages. AT&T is also evaluating other quantum computing technologies to improve its network, which may signal openness to using Rigetti's quantum systems as well. And that's not the only good news at Rigetti today. As StreetInsider reports, Benchmark analyst David Williams just initiated coverage of Rigetti stock with a buy rating and a $25 price target, indicating he sees potential for Rigetti to gain another 67% on top of the 7% it has already gained today! ExpandNASDAQ: RGTIRigetti ComputingToday's Change(6.71%) $0.95Current Price$15.10Key Data PointsMarket Cap$4.7BMarket cap calculated using publicly traded shares outstanding only. Does not include unlisted, private, or dual-class non-traded shares. Implied market cap may vary.Day's Range$14.88 - $16.1252wk Range$12.53 - $58.15Volume865.5KAvg Vol38.7MGross Margin-5945.49% Why Benchmark loves Rigetti Computing D-Wave's reaping the good news today, but Williams reminds that "quantum computing ... is NOT a 'winner-takes-all' situation." Different approaches to quantum could offer different advantages, and various approaches might work together complementarily to increase overall effectiveness. At this early stage, it's hard to tell how everything will play out. Thus, the analyst recommends taking a "portfolio approach to investing in the sector" -- buying a little of all the quantum stocks so as not to miss out entirely on any winners. That seems good advice. Most analysts agree that most quantum computing companies remain five or more years away from profitability. Rigetti might end up as one of the winners. Betting on the stock to rocket 67% in a year is probably overoptimistic.Read NextJul 27, 2026 •By Anthony Di PizioPrediction: This Quantum Computing Stock Is Going to Plummet After Aug. 6Jul 27, 2026 •By Alex CarchidiWhat's Next For Rigetti Computing Stock?Jul 26, 2026 •By Alex CarchidiThinking About Buying Rigetti Computing Stock? Here's What You Need to KnowJul 24, 2026 •By Dave KovaleskiRigetti Computing Is Trading Under $15: Is Now the Time to Buy?Jul 22, 2026 •By Anders BylundWhich Quantum Computing Stocks Get the Most Government Funding – and Does it Matter?Jul 17, 2026 •By Rick OrfordRigetti Could Be a Huge Winner in Sovereign Quantum HardwareAbout the AuthorRich Smith is a contributing Motley Fool defense and stock market analyst covering publicly traded and emerging companies in defense, space, aerospace, and other sectors. Prior to The Motley Fool, Rich practiced international corporate law for Clifford Chance in Russia, and for the Russian-Ukrainian Legal Group in Moscow, Kyiv, and Washington, D.C. He holds a bachelor’s degree in international relations from the College of William & Mary, a law degree from the University of Baltimore, and a language certification from the International Institute of Russian Language & Culture in Tver, Russian Federation. The Globe and Mail once featured him as “one of the best stock pickers since 2009.”TMFDittyX@RichSmithFoolStocks MentionedRigetti ComputingNASDAQ: RGTI$15.05(+6.36%)+$0.90Motley Fool Stock Advisor’s Latest PickGet Access---% Avg ReturnAT&TNYSE: T$24.47(+1.41%)+$0.34D-Wave QuantumNYSE: QBTS$18.66(+15.08%)+$2.45*Average returns of all recommendations since inception. Cost basis and return based on previous market day close.