IonQ stock surged 16% Friday after receiving regulatory clearance from the UK’s Investment Security Unit for its Oxford Ionics acquisition. The quantum computing company now has all approvals needed to complete the $1.075 billion deal.
The acquisition agreement was first announced in June 2024. The deal structure includes approximately $1.065 billion in IonQ stock plus $10 million in cash.
This regulatory approval removes the final hurdle for the transaction. The deal is now expected to close soon according to company statements.
IonQ shares have performed exceptionally well this year. The stock gained over 537% in the past 12 months before Friday’s jump.
Trading sentiment turned bullish on Stocktwits following the news. Retail investor message volume increased to “extremely high” levels from “normal” activity.
IonQ launched its federal division earlier this month. IonQ Federal consolidates the company’s quantum computing and networking services for government clients.
The division targets U.S. government agencies and allied partners. IonQ has already secured more than $100 million in government contracts through this unit.
Key clients include the U.S. Air Force Research Lab and DARPA. Oak Ridge National Laboratory and ARLIS also have active contracts with IonQ.
Robert Cardillo leads IonQ Federal as executive chairman. He previously directed the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and advised the U.S. president on intelligence matters.
The Oxford Ionics acquisition strengthens IonQ’s quantum computing technology. Oxford Ionics specializes in trapped-ion quantum computing systems.
This technology aligns with IonQ’s existing quantum computing platform. The combination should accelerate development of next-generation quantum computers.
CEO Niccolo de Masi said the company is positioning for quantum advantage at scale. The federal division provides a growth channel for government applications.
IonQ stock closed Friday at $54.32, representing a 15.71% gain for the session. The quantum computing sector has attracted increased investor interest this year.
The post IonQ Stock: Rallies 16% as UK Approves $1 Billion Oxford Ionics Acquisition appeared first on CoinCentral.
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