Tech giant IBM (IBM) says it has made a real breakthrough in quantum computing by using its system to accurately simulate how magnetic materials behave. Importantly, the results matched real data from national laboratory experiments. According to IBM, this shows that quantum computers are starting to solve real-world scientific problems, not just theoretical ones. Indeed, the system was able to recreate results from neutron scattering experiments, which are very difficult for traditional computers to model correctly.
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New trading tool for IBM bullsRight away, this suggests that quantum computing is beginning to move from theory into practical use. To make this happen, IBM worked with researchers from U.S. national labs and universities to study how a magnetic material behaves at a very small, quantum level. Normally, this type of problem is extremely hard to solve because traditional computers rely on approximations that often miss important details. However, by combining quantum computing with classical computing methods, the team was able to closely match real experimental results.
IBM explained that improvements in error reduction, along with new “quantum-centric” computing methods, are helping make these results possible and more reliable. Over time, this could be useful in areas like energy, materials design, medical imaging, and drug development. So while quantum computing is still developing, this result shows that it is already starting to deliver real progress.
Is IBM a Buy, Sell, or Hold?
Turning to Wall Street, analysts have a Moderate Buy consensus rating on IBM stock based on 11 Buys, six Holds, and zero Sells assigned in the past three months, as indicated by the graphic below. Furthermore, the average IBM price target of $332.94 per share implies 40.1% upside potential.
