Majorana 1
Microsoft has introduced Majorana 1, a groundbreaking quantum computing chip based on a new Topological Core architecture. This chip is different from anything before because it uses topoconductors, a new kind of material that can control Majorana particles. These particles help create qubits, the building blocks of quantum computers, in a much more stable and scalable way.
Why This Matters
Think of qubits like the tiny transistors in your phone or computer. Regular computers use ones and zeros (bits) to process information. But qubits, thanks to quantum mechanics, can exist in multiple states at once, making them exponentially more powerful for certain types of problems.
However, qubits have a big problem: they are extremely fragile and prone to errors. That’s where Microsoft’s Majorana 1 chip comes in. It is designed to be more error-resistant and scalable, meaning that quantum computers could be more reliable and powerful than ever before.
With this breakthrough, these computers could solve problems that are impossible for today’s most powerful supercomputers. Microsoft believes we could have practical quantum computers in years instead of decades. This is in stark contrast to what Nvidia’s CEO, Jensen Huang said at the 2025 Consumer Electronics Show in early January.
What Could Quantum Computers Do?
A one-million-qubit quantum computer could revolutionize industries by:
- Developing self-healing materials – Imagine buildings, phone screens, or airplane parts that repair themselves when damaged.
- Breaking down microplastics – Quantum computers could find better ways to eliminate plastic pollution by designing custom catalysts to break them down into harmless materials.
- Advancing healthcare – They could help create better medicines, understand diseases, and improve agriculture to fight global hunger.
- Revolutionizing manufacturing – Quantum computing could allow companies to design new products perfectly the first time, eliminating costly trial-and-error processes.
How Did Microsoft Achieve This?
Microsoft spent nearly 20 years working on this unique approach to quantum computing. Unlike most companies, which use more common types of qubits, Microsoft focused on topological qubits. These qubits are more stable, smaller, and digitally controlled, making them easier to scale.
One of the biggest challenges was creating Majorana particles, which don’t exist naturally and require special materials and conditions. Microsoft’s success in creating and measuring these particles is a huge scientific breakthrough.
Impact on Quantum Computing and Stocks
This advancement positions Microsoft as a leader in quantum computing. Investors and businesses focused on quantum technology may see major changes in the coming years. Here’s why:
- Quantum Stocks Could Rise—As the technology moves closer to commercialization, Companies involved in quantum computing, including Microsoft and its partners (such as Quantinuum and Atom Computing), may see increased investment.
- Tech and AI Companies Benefit – Quantum computing could accelerate AI development, making companies that rely on AI (such as Google, NVIDIA, and OpenAI) even more powerful.
- New Industries Could Emerge—Quantum computing’s breakthroughs could benefit Businesses in materials science, healthcare, and environmental solutions.
Final Thoughts
Microsoft’s Majorana 1 chip is a major step toward practical, large-scale quantum computing. If successful, quantum computers could reshape industries, solve previously impossible problems, and create massive opportunities for businesses and investors. While challenges remain, this is a sign that the quantum era is approaching much faster than expected.
If you haven’t added quantum-related names to your portfolio, it’s time to consider emerging names. I would say established names, but quantum is truly new to the market. Microsoft (MSFT) is an obvious consideration here, as are names like Nvidia (NVDA) and Taiwan Semiconductors (TSM), but I’ve started reaching deep into research on smaller names like BTQ Technologies (BTQQF), Rigetti Computing (RGTI), and D-Wave Quantum (QBTS). I hold a little exposure to BTQQF currently, but until I have a better understanding of the quantum space as a whole, Streetlight is not making any official recommendations yet.