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Jensen Huang's quantum mea culpa didn't convince Nvidia GTC panelists that he felt bad for trashing the tech

Jensen Huang's quantum mea culpa didn't convince Nvidia GTC panelists that he felt bad for trashing the tech

  • 23.03.2025 10:56
  • businessinsider.com
  • Keywords: quantum computing, quantum blockchain

Jensen Huang apologized for dismissing quantum computing during his keynote at Nvidia's GTC 2025, though not all attendees were convinced of his sincerity. Stocks in the sector remain impacted by his earlier remarks downplaying the technology's potential.

Microsoft NewsMicrosoft ServicesNvidia NewsNvidia ServicesNVDAsentiment_dissatisfiedIONQsentiment_satisfiedQBTSsentiment_neutralMSFTsentiment_neutralRGTIsentiment_satisfied

Estimated market influence

Nvidia

Nvidia

Negativesentiment_dissatisfied
Analyst rating: Strong buy

Huang's comments in January caused stock drops, but GTC event aimed to redeem.

Quantinuum

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Featured as an up-and-coming quantum company at GTC 2025.

IonQ

IonQ

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Participated in the Quantum Day panels, raising their profile.

SEEQC

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Featured quantum company at GTC 2025.

D-Wave

D-Wave

Neutralsentiment_neutral
Analyst rating: N/A

Mixed views on Huang's contrition, but showcased advancements in quantum blockchain.

Pasqual

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

CEO expressed excitement about increased exposure for quantum tech.

Microsoft

Microsoft

Neutralsentiment_neutral
Analyst rating: Strong buy

Announced quantum research advancements, no direct mention of impact on the article's context.

AWS

Neutralsentiment_neutral
Analyst rating: N/A

Same as Microsoft; advancements noted but no specific impact in this context.

Google

Neutralsentiment_neutral
Analyst rating: N/A

Announced quantum research advancements, no direct mention of impact on the article's context.

Rigetti

Rigetti

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

CEO highlighted the opportunity for showcasing work at GTC.

Context

Analysis of Jensen Huang's Quantum Mea Culpa and Market Implications

Overview

  • Event: Nvidia GTC 2025 featured its first-ever "Quantum Day," with Jensen Huang addressing his earlier dismissal of quantum computing as being 20 years away from practical use.
  • Key Statement: Huang acknowledged his previous comments, which caused significant stock damage in the sector.

Market Impact

  • Stock Reaction: Huang's January remarks sent quantum tech stocks tumbling. Despite the event, investor sentiment remained cautious.
  • Panel Discussions:
    • Positive Feedback: Pasqual CEO Loïc Henriet highlighted the exposure of quantum technology to a global audience as beneficial.
    • Skepticism: D-Wave CEO Alan Baratz questioned Huang's sincerity and suggested doubt in quantum computing's timeline.

Industry Advancements

  • D-Wave's Milestone: Achieved an industry benchmark for simulating magnetic materials discovery.
  • Recent Announcements:
    • Microsoft, AWS, and Google have made strides in quantum research.
    • Quantum tech is gaining momentum but has yet to fully realize its potential in drug discovery or chemical development.

Strategic Considerations

  • Panel Structure: Suggestions for separate panels for R&D-focused vs. commercial-stage companies (e.g., Rigetti vs. D-Wave).
  • Attendee Feedback: Baratz emphasized the importance of clear conversation goals and organization for future events.

Competitive Dynamics

  • Exposure Benefits: Quantum Day raised the profile of quantum computing, attracting developer interest.
  • Investor Sentiment: Despite advancements, investor confidence remains fragile due to Huang's earlier remarks.

Long-Term Effects

  • Industry Momentum: The sector is gaining traction, with growing interest in applications like blockchain and supply chain management.
  • Regulatory Impact: No immediate regulatory developments noted, but potential future implications could arise as the technology matures.

Conclusion

Nvidia's Quantum Day marked a significant step in promoting quantum computing, though skepticism persists. The event highlighted both the promise of the technology and the challenges in managing investor expectations and industry dynamics.