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Rigetti Shares Whipsaw After U.S. Denies Talks on Quantum Equity Stakes

A Commerce Department denial undercut a WSJ-linked report of potential federal equity stakes, leaving the policy catalyst unconfirmed.

Overview

  • Rigetti jumped on Thursday on reports that the Trump administration was considering taking equity stakes in quantum firms, then fell after Commerce officials said no talks were underway.
  • For the week, Rigetti shares were down about 13.6% even as major indexes rose, reflecting sharp swings tied to policy headlines and trading momentum.
  • A rumor that CEO Subodh K. Kulkarni sold all his shares pressured the stock, but subsequent reporting said he still holds roughly 0.8% via options.
  • Commentary highlighted significant insider selling, including a director’s roughly $2.8 million sale, with Jim Cramer cautioning that heavy sales and ongoing losses raise risk.
  • Beyond headlines, Rigetti disclosed two quantum system sales totaling $5.7 million and cites partnerships with AWS, NASA, and Deloitte, though the company remains unprofitable.