Intel Leads Quantum Stocks With 247.8% YTD Gain as AI Optimism Lifts Turnaround Bet
Updated
Updated · Barchart · Jun 28
Intel Leads Quantum Stocks With 247.8% YTD Gain as AI Optimism Lifts Turnaround Bet
3 articles · Updated · Barchart · Jun 28
Summary
Intel has become 2026’s top-performing quantum computing stock, up 247.8% year to date and 470.3% over 52 weeks, far ahead of the Defiance Quantum ETF’s 42.2% and 71.68% gains.
AI-driven optimism, improving data-center trends and a broader turnaround narrative fueled the rally, while Intel’s quantum effort remains early-stage through Intel Labs and its Tunnel Falls silicon spin qubit chip.
Q1 revenue rose 7% to $13.58 billion, non-GAAP operating margin expanded 6.9 points to 12.3%, and non-GAAP EPS jumped 123% to $0.29, reinforcing expectations for a sharp earnings rebound.
Valuation has stretched with Intel trading at 117.47 times forward adjusted earnings versus a 23.79 industry average; the stock is also 9.3% below its June 22 high of $141.45.
Wall Street still leans positive but cautious: 46 analysts rate Intel a Moderate Buy overall, with a $97.79 consensus target below current levels even as Bank of America’s Street-high target reaches $160.
Is Intel's 470% stock surge a quantum leap in valuation or a speculative bubble set to pop?
Can America's decentralized innovation outpace China's state-driven strategy in the high-stakes race for quantum supremacy?
With quantum advantage now a reality, which major industry will be the first to be completely transformed?
Intel’s 2026 Rally: 225% Stock Growth Driven by Quantum Computing and Landmark Apple Partnership
Overview
In 2026, Intel achieved a remarkable stock rally, becoming the best-performing quantum computing stock of the year. This surge was fueled by Intel’s strong focus and advancements in quantum computing, which gained significant market confidence. A major driver behind this momentum was robust support from the U.S. government, with the Trump administration actively promoting the development and expansion of quantum technologies. This created a highly favorable environment for Intel, positioning the company at the forefront of the quantum computing race and reinforcing its leadership in this critical technological field.