US eyes quantum computing investments amid rising national security stakes

The United States is reportedly in early discussions with quantum computing companies to provide direct financial assistance, utilizing funds allocated under the CHIPS Act. This move is driven by national security concerns and the desire to maintain competitiveness against China's technological capabilities. Officials suggest that any government financing would likely require an exchange, potentially involving an equity stake in the recipient companies, similar to a deal previously offered to Intel. However, this approach faces criticism, with some economists arguing it steers the US toward a "centrally planned economy." The urgency stems from quantum computers' potential to break current encryption standards vital for finance, medicine, and military applications. While experts debate the timeline for "Q-Day"—when quantum computers can break existing encryption—some warn that "harvest now, decrypt later" attacks are already a threat, allowing adversaries to store encrypted data now for future decryption.

(Source：Cointelegraph)