IonQ announced a definitive agreement to acquire cybersecurity firm Elisity in an all-stock transaction valued at up to $1.3 billion. IonQ will issue $1.15 billion in stock at closing. Elisity may receive up to $150 million in additional shares, based on its future performance.
The acquisition supports IonQ’s strategy to build a vertically integrated quantum computing and security platform. It would combine IonQ’s work in post-quantum cryptography with Elisity’s zero-trust security platform. The companies aim to address growing cyber threats from AI and the eventual risk that quantum computers could break current encryption methods.
IonQ shares fell as much as 10% after the announcement, amid concerns about dilution from the all-stock deal. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approval.