IonQ acquires Elisity for up to 1.3 billion USD

IonQ, a company specializing in quantum computing based in Maryland, has acquired cybersecurity company Elisity in a deal that may reach a value of 1.3 billion USD in stock. This acquisition aims to enhance its security arm against AI-supported attacks and future threats from quantum computing. Founded in 2019, Elisity develops software that prevents attackers and ransomware from moving within corporate networks, with key clients including hospitals and healthcare companies.

IonQ reports that Elisity has over 100 clients, including a growing number of Fortune 500 companies, and that its sales and customer base have doubled over the past year without losing any clients. James Winbrunner will continue to manage the company, and the deal is expected to close by the end of the year pending regulatory approval. Nicolò di Masi, CEO of IonQ, stated that the acquisition will better position the company to help clients protect critical infrastructure and enterprise networks during the transition to the quantum era.

Winbrunner added that clients need to prioritize quantum-resistant encryption initiatives while securing their existing assets. IonQ is the largest publicly traded company focused solely on quantum computing, valued at approximately 16 billion USD. In January, it acquired SkyWater for 1.8 billion USD and last year bought British company Oxford Ionics for 1.1 billion USD.

Reported by Tech-WD.