SEALSQ, the semiconductor arm of WISeKey International Holding AG, entered into a non‑binding memorandum of understanding on January 14 2026 to negotiate an exclusive investment and potential majority acquisition of Quobly SAS, a French company that develops silicon‑based quantum processors compatible with CMOS manufacturing processes. The memorandum could lead to a $200 million investment in exchange for a controlling stake in Quobly, subject to due diligence and regulatory approvals.
The transaction aligns with SEALSQ’s long‑term quantum strategy, which focuses on silicon‑based quantum computing that can be integrated into existing semiconductor fabs. By combining Quobly’s quantum‑chip technology with SEALSQ’s post‑quantum security expertise, the partnership aims to create a secure, industrial‑scale quantum computing platform that embeds hardware‑level security from the outset.
WISeKey’s balance sheet provides a solid foundation for the investment. As of October 10 2025, the company held $228 million in cash, and Quobly had raised €19 million in 2023 and €21 million in 2025, positioning it for a valuation that could be in the range of 10–12× revenue. The deal structure is expected to begin with a minority investment that could be expanded to a majority stake, allowing SEALSQ to maintain flexibility while securing a foothold in the quantum‑hardware market.
Carlos Moreira, founder and CEO of WISeKey, said the partnership “is fully aligned with our Quantum roadmap. As quantum computing becomes a strategic infrastructure, security must be embedded at the hardware level from day one.” Maud Vinet, co‑founder and CEO of Quobly, added that the transaction “marks an important step in QUOBLY’s industrial journey, accelerating our ability to bring secure, scalable silicon‑based quantum processors to market and expand internationally.”
Market reaction to the announcement was mixed. In pre‑market trading, WISeKey’s shares rose 4.5 % on the news of the MOU, reflecting investor enthusiasm for the strategic fit. However, the same day’s closing session saw a 7.61 % decline, indicating that some investors weighed the potential dilution and regulatory hurdles against the upside.
If completed, the acquisition would position WISeKey as a leading player in the emerging quantum‑hardware market, expanding its product portfolio beyond post‑quantum semiconductors into full quantum computing systems. The deal could open new revenue streams, strengthen the company’s competitive moat, and accelerate the deployment of secure quantum solutions across industry sectors. Regulatory approvals and due‑diligence milestones will determine the timeline, but the strategic alignment and financial backing suggest a high probability of eventual completion.
The content on BeyondSPX is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. We are not financial advisors. Consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Any actions you take based on information from this site are solely at your own risk.