Stocks of quantum computing companies jumped Wednesday after Microsoft declared this as “the year to become quantum-ready,” adding “we are at the advent of the reliable quantum computing era.” Shares of Rigetti Computing and D-Wave Quantum were both up more than 22 percent.

Though investors saw this as disappointing, there is some reassuring news. Quantum computing is progressing, meaning these companies will likely report accomplishments and milestones in the months and years to come -- and these represent catalysts for quantum computer stocks to climb.

Since Google broke onto the quantum scene with its Willow quantum chip, the quantum sector has also come under the microscope. Companies in this developing quantum era are positioning themselves for long-term growth and are being watched closely by investors and analysts alike.

Speculators are back on the hunt for early investments in quantum computing stocks after Microsoft’s President and Chief Operating Officer of Strategic Missions and Technologies, Mitra Azizirad, is now writing that 2025 is the year to become “quantum ready”.

Shares of quantum computing company IonQ ( IONQ 5.48%) raced higher this week. The stock was up by 28.5% as of Friday morning, according to data provided by S&P Global Market Intelligence.

Stocks and ETFs tied to quantum computing rose significantly Wednesday after Nvidia and Microsoft highlighted the industry's enormous potential.

Mitra Azijilard, head of MS's strategic missions and institutional sector, noted in a blog post that "2025 will be the year of preparing for quantum technology," adding, "We will see quantum computers solve meaningful problems and create business value.

Microsoft announced a program to help businesses prepare for the advent of the quantum computing era. Azizirad said this is a "critical and catalyzing time for business leaders to