A report from the World Economic Forum (WEF) in collaboration with Accenture underscores the transformative potential of quantum tech, predicting substantial economic shifts and technological advancements across industries. The report, Embracing the Quantum Economy: A Pathway for Business Leaders, highlights the rapid evolution of quantum computing, sensing, and communication, urging businesses and governments to prepare for an imminent technological revolution.
Quantum’s Accelerating Momentum
Quantum computing has advanced significantly, with global investment surpassing $40 billion in 2024. The report identifies quantum’s potential to drive economic growth, optimize financial models, revolutionize pharmaceutical research, and enhance cybersecurity. However, despite its promise, many organizations remain unprepared for the quantum-powered future.
“Quantum computing, sensing, and communication will redefine business landscapes. Companies that act now will lead in the quantum economy,” said Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director, WEF.
Industry-Wide Disruptions
The WEF outlines how quantum technology will reshape key industries, including:
- Finance – Enhancing risk assessment, fraud detection, and high-frequency trading optimization.
- Healthcare – Accelerating drug discovery, personalized medicine, and improving early disease detection.
- Energy & Utilities – Optimizing energy grids and enabling more efficient resource management.
- Aerospace & Automotive – Strengthening navigation systems, vehicle-to-grid (V2G) energy optimization, and autonomous vehicle development.
The report estimates that the combined value of quantum tech could reach $2 trillion by 2035, making it one of the most significant technological disruptions in modern history.
Security Challenges & First-Mover Advantages
While quantum computing holds massive economic potential, it also presents cybersecurity risks. Quantum-powered decryption could render today’s encryption methods obsolete, raising concerns about data security and national infrastructure protection.
“The gap between quantum potential and quantum security is dangerously wide. Governments and businesses must integrate quantum-safe encryption and build resilience before these threats materialize,” cautioned Adam Burden, Global Innovation Lead, Accenture.
At the same time, first-mover advantages are substantial. The report highlights that businesses investing early in quantum adoption will secure competitive advantages, gain intellectual property rights, and establish industry standards.
Also read: WEF Report Showcases India’s C4IR Tech Leadership
Call to Action: A Quantum Roadmap for Businesses
To navigate the quantum economy, WEF urges organizations to:
- Invest in Research & Development – Foster in-house quantum teams and collaborations.
- Develop Quantum-Ready Infrastructure – Upgrade cybersecurity frameworks and integrate quantum-safe cryptography.
- Launch Pilot Programs – Test quantum use cases in finance, healthcare, and logistics.
- Collaborate Across Industries – Form public-private partnerships to accelerate quantum adoption.
With 2025 declared the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, the report underscores that businesses and policymakers must act now to harness quantum’s potential and mitigate its risks.
As the quantum tech economy takes shape, companies that move swiftly stand to benefit from an unprecedented technological leap—one that could redefine industries and create new global economic frontiers.
