If You'd Invested $500 in D-Wave Quantum Stock 1 Year Ago, Here's How Much You'd Have Today

Early-stage technology companies tend to be high-risk, high-reward investments. D-Wave Quantum (NYSE: QBTS) is an example of the reward opportunities when you invest in one of these companies before they explode higher.

The quantum computing stock has gained 1,920% over the one-year period ending Nov. 7. If you'd invested $500 in D-Wave a year ago, you'd now have $10,100. It's an impressive return -- and it highlights an important point about putting your money in risky stocks.

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You don't need to bet big

Pure-play quantum computing stocks like D-Wave were unsure propositions a year ago and still are today, although the industry seems to be gaining steam. In D-Wave's case, revenue grew 100% year over year in the third quarter of 2025, but only to $3.7 million. It trades at a hefty 339 times trailing sales, and it reported a net loss of $140 million last quarter.

There's a much greater risk of losing money with this type of company than with more established tech players, like Nvidia or Microsoft. If you're planning to invest in D-Wave, or any other tech company that hasn't reached profitability yet, the safest choice is to start small. For example, you could start by making it no more than 1% of your investment portfolio.

If your investment doesn't work out, you haven't lost much. And if it takes off, you can still make a healthy profit. After all, D-Wave has turned $500 into $10,100.

Even with its recent growth, D-Wave is still in the category of high-risk investments. It's arguably riskier than it was a year ago -- with its current valuation, future growth is largely priced in. I wouldn't overcommit to it, but a small position could pay off if quantum computing lives up to the hype.

Lyle Daly has positions in Nvidia. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Microsoft and Nvidia. The Motley Fool recommends the following options: long January 2026 $395 calls on Microsoft and short January 2026 $405 calls on Microsoft. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.