Rigetti Computing (NasdaqCM:RGTI) Selected For US$1M DARPA Quantum Benchmarking Initiative

In recent developments, Rigetti Computing (NasdaqCM:RGTI) announced its participation in DARPA's Quantum Benchmarking Initiative, a move that aligns with its strategic goals to advance quantum computing. This announcement comes amidst Rigetti's performance figures showing a slight 4% increase in its stock price over the past month, a period marked by significant volatility in broader markets. Despite a weak fourth-quarter earnings report revealing a substantial increase in net loss, the market appears buoyed by Rigetti's potential in innovative quantum technology, which may have provided a counterbalance. Meanwhile, major indices like Nasdaq experienced sharp declines due to global economic tensions heightened by new tariffs.

Be aware that Rigetti Computing is showing 4 risks in our investment analysis and 1 of those is significant.

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Over the last year, Rigetti Computing achieved a very large total return, including share price and dividends, outperforming both the US Semiconductor industry, which had a return of 3.9% decline, and the broader US Market, which returned 3.3%. Several significant events over this period helped shape investor perception. Notably, the launch of the Ankaa-3 Quantum System in December 2024, with its impressive hardware improvements, sparked interest in Rigetti's technological advancements. Additionally, its inclusion in the S&P Semiconductor Select Industry Index in December further enhanced visibility and credibility in the market. Finally, the company's participation in DARPA's Quantum Benchmarking Initiative, announced in April 2025, underscored Rigetti's position at the forefront of quantum computing.

Other impactful developments included strategic financial maneuvers such as the private placement in February 2025, raising approximately US$35 million. Debt financing adjustments, including repaying US$10.5 million in December 2024, provided more financial flexibility. Despite a weak earnings report revealed earlier, these actions and strategic initiatives bolstered investor confidence, contributing to Rigetti Computing's impressive performance over the past year.

Learn about Rigetti Computing's historical performance here.

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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