Quantum computing might just be the hottest ticket on the artificial intelligence (AI) train. Throughout 2025, shares of the Defiance Quantum ETF have gained nearly 40% -- almost double that of the Invesco QQQ Trust , which tracks the Nasdaq-100 .

Among the most popular quantum computing pure-play stocks is IonQ ( IONQ +0.15% ) , whose shares have soared by 39% over the last year. While IonQ has quite a bit of momentum behind it, I predict that shares will plummet next year.

Let's explore what fueled IonQ stock to begin with, and then assess why the stock could be headed for a sharp correction in 2026.

Why IonQ stock soared in 2025

From a macro perspective, quantum computing stocks took off this year as growth investors looked to rotate capital into new AI-driven th

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