Shares of quantum computing and artificial intelligence (AI) companies rose on Monday as investors anticipated that Nvidia’s upcoming announcements at its annual GTC AI conference could inject fresh momentum into these struggling sectors.

The five-day event, already underway, will dedicate an entire day to quantum computing, featuring executives from leading firms such as D-Wave Quantum and Rigetti Computing.

Quantum and AI Stocks See Gains

Several quantum computing stocks experienced significant jumps:

  • D-Wave Quantum surged 9.4%
  • Quantum Corp soared 23.1%
  • Quantum Computing climbed 15.5%

Other AI-related stocks also gained ground amid volatile trading:

  • SES AI skyrocketed 30%
  • Dell Technologies rose 3%

Investor Focus on Nvidia’s CEO Keynote

All eyes are now on Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang’s keynote on Tuesday, where investors hope to hear promising developments in AI and chip technology. The sector has lost some momentum due to concerns over competing AI advancements in China and the potential impact of U.S. tariffs.

David Morrison, senior analyst at Trade Nation, noted that the market is eagerly waiting for a catalyst to reignite interest in AI and quantum computing stocks.

“If tomorrow’s presentation is broadly positive, I don’t think it would take much to trigger major upward moves in AI and quantum computing stocks.”

The renewed focus on quantum computing marks a shift for Huang. In January, his remarks about quantum technology being decades away led to a sharp selloff in related stocks. Now, the sector is hoping for a more optimistic outlook from Nvidia.

“They call this the ‘Woodstock’ of AI,” said Ken Mahoney, CEO of Mahoney Asset Management. “If Huang delivers a more encouraging message, it could give these stocks a needed boost.”

Nvidia’s Expected Announcements

Nvidia is expected to:

  • Reveal details about its new chip system
  • Hint at expanding into other computing markets, including robotics
  • Provide updates on its Blackwell Ultra chip

Market Volatility Continues

Despite early optimism, trading remained volatile:

  • Rigetti Computing reversed its premarket gains
  • Nvidia’s stock, after an initial rise, fell 1.8%
  • Nvidia is down 11% this year, following a 171% surge in 2024

“To reignite excitement in AI, Nvidia needs to surprise the market and go beyond expectations,” Mahoney added.

As investors brace for Huang’s keynote, the industry awaits signals that could reshape AI and quantum computing’s trajectory in 2025.