Advancements in quantum computing promise to supercharge the development of AI.  The two technologies may appear similar, but they are fundamentally different– AI is a software function using data patterns for predictions; quantum computing is hardware built on the principles of quantum physics that may disrupt even the biggest industries.

Tipping Point in Quantum Computing

A defining moment in the evolution of quantum computing occurred in 2025. Enterprise users collectively spent $300 million on quantum initiatives last year, more than governments and research laboratories combined.  Corporate investment is starting to propel the technology, with companies testing applications in finance, insurance, health care, and pharma.  Some companies are engaging with quantum computing to keep pace with emerging trends, while others are smarting from missing the AI boom.

Quantum computing has the potential to reshape entire industries and redefine competitive advantages.  The technology promises to unlock entirely new ways to solve business problems that today are computationally infeasible using traditional computer architectures- and that includes current AI models, folks!

Stop there for a moment- How is that possible?

Let’s talk about how this all works.  The computers that we have trusted for decades are defined as Classical Computers, even systems running the most advanced AI models.  Quantum computing is a newer way to process information that leverages the principles of quantum physics to solve problems well beyond the capabilities of even the most advanced supercomputers.  This analytical power is achieved using qubits, the basic units of information used in quantum computing.  Classical computers operate on bits, represented as either 0 or 1.  Qubits include the 0 and 1, and all the values in between, all at once.  Put another way, classical computers solve problems by trying options sequentially while quantum computing evaluates all options at once.

While classical computers operate using digital bits represented as either 0 and 1, quantum computers operate using quantum bits (qubits), which include the 0 and 1, and all the values in between, all at once; image WSJ, March 17, 2026.

With decades of industry research, several companies are at advanced stages of quantum hardware development that may solve the riddle of making a commercially viable machine.  When this time comes, problems that a classical computer would need trillions (that’s not a typo) of years to complete will be solved by a quantum computer in minutes.  A recent demonstration by IBM and University of Chicago researchers solved a problem in about fifteen minutes that leading classical methods could not practically reproduce.

The Coming Transformation of Cybersecurity- The Challenge is Not Theoretical

No discussion of quantum computing is complete without addressing its implications for encryption and cybersecurity.   The math behind standard encryption will be no match for quantum computers, which will force organizations to rethink cybersecurity.

Banks, government agencies, healthcare providers, and global enterprises are increasingly preparing for a post-quantum security environment.  It may sound like science fiction, but sensitive data stolen today could potentially be decrypted in the future by sufficiently powerful quantum systems.  This is prompting some organizations to begin transitioning toward quantum-resistant cryptographic standards now, though most businesses have yet to create a roadmap.

For many enterprises, particularly within financial services, investment in quantum technologies is as much about protecting future resilience as it is about creating future value.

The research and financial resources put into quantum computing may supercharge a host of groundbreaking efforts currently being pushed forward by AI.  Referring to a past Leadership Matrix post (Will the AI Revolution Turn into Dr. Jekyll or Mr. Hyde?), we know new technology possesses both benefits and risks.  Remember, AI may have the spotlight, but keep an eye on quantum!

For a more detailed perspective, I have included an extensive report on quantum technology below.  I’ve also included a link to the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP), a first-of-its-kind campus for quantum scale-up and other related quantum and advanced microelectronics research and development being built in South Chicago.

What are your thoughts on the risks and rewards of quantum computing?  Click here to send me an email!

~ Brian Kasal- The Leadership Matrix

Click here- McKinsey Technology Quantum Technology Monitor

Click here- Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP)

P.S.- Did you see my last Leadership Matrix post?  Click here to see it- The Cost of Questioning AI

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