IonQ (IONQ) reveals in its latest filing to the SEC that its planned deal with SkyWater Technology (SKYT) is facing a delay after a new request from U.S. regulators.
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The company disclosed that both firms received a “Second Request” from the Federal Trade Commission. This request asks for more data as part of the agency’s review of the merger.
As a result, the waiting period for the deal is now extended. Under the rules, the deal can only close 30 days after both sides fully respond to the request.
Meanwhile, IONQ shares rose 2.69% on Monday, closing at $43.84. However, the stock dropped by more than 3% in pre-market trading.
Deal Timeline Now Less Certain
IonQ said it still expects the deal to close in the second or third quarter of 2026. However, the added step means the timeline could shift depending on how long the review takes.
The merger, first announced in January, would bring SkyWater under IonQ as a full unit. The move is meant to expand IonQ’s reach into chip work and support its quantum tech plans.
For now, IonQ said it will “continue to work cooperatively with the FTC” as the review moves forward.
A Second Request does not mean the deal will fail. However, it often signals a deeper review, which can take time and add risk.
Is IONQ a Good Stock to Buy?
On the Street, IonQ Inc. has a Strong Buy consensus, based on 13 analysts’ ratings. The average IONQ stock price target is $65, implying a 48.27% upside from the current price.
