“Intel’s Classiq deal proves deep-tech barriers have fallen,” says Entrée Capital’s Avi Eyal

Intel (INTC) agreed to acquire Israeli quantum-software company Classiq for about $2.3B, aiming to boost its quantum computing capabilities. The deal, expected to close in 2027, combines Intel's hardware with Classiq's software. Quantum computing stocks like IONQ, QBTS, RGTI, QUBT, and QNT have faced declines despite investor interest. Intel's move signals long-term strategic value in quantum computing, though commercial viability remains uncertain.

Intel (INTC) agreed to acquire Classiq for $2.3B, aiming to accelerate its quantum computing business. The deal could enhance competition with IonQ (IONQ), Rigetti (RGTI), and D-Wave (QBTS). INTC stock rose 3.61% to $93.74. Classiq's software enables businesses to develop quantum applications, with existing customers like BMW, Wells Fargo (WFC), and Merck (MRK). The acquisition is expected to close in early 2027, subject to approval.

Intel acquired Israeli startup Classiq for $2.2B to enter the quantum computing market, a move aimed at controlling the value chain. The acquisition is seen as a strategic bet, though investors are uncertain. Intel is the only Big Tech company to make a major quantum acquisition, with others like Google and Microsoft treating it as experimentation. Intel's financial health has improved under CEO Lip-Bu Tan, but its acquisition history is mixed.

Quantum computing stocks surged after Intel's $2.3B acquisition of Classiq. Rigetti (RGTI) +8.74%, IonQ (IONQ) +7.12%, and others rose. Intel aims to combine Classiq's software with its quantum hardware. Despite gains, many stocks are down year-to-date. The Nasdaq also rose 1.2%. Deal expected to close in 2027.

Intel plans to acquire Classiq, an Israeli quantum software company, to combine its hardware with Classiq's software and enterprise customers, aiming to commercialize its decade-long quantum research. The deal, expected to close in 2027, will maintain Classiq's support for competing quantum hardware. Intel did not disclose financial terms, but Calcalist reported a $2.3B valuation.

Intel confirmed its Raptor Lake Next processors, revealed through internal test drivers and shipping manifests. Four models were detailed, with specifications including core counts, base frequencies, and cache sizes. The processors are expected to launch on the LGA 1700 platform, with production starting in August 2026.