Quantum computing is steadily moving from academic research into commercial reality as companies race to develop machines capable of solving complex problems beyond the reach of classical computers. In recent years, several startups have begun exploring public market listings to finance the next phase of development. French quantum computing company Pasqal has now announced plans to go public through a merger with a special purpose acquisition company, marking one of the most significant moves yet in Europe’s quantum technology sector.
Pasqal to go public through SPAC merger
Paris based Pasqal has entered into an agreement to merge with Bleichroeder Acquisition Corp II, a special purpose acquisition company. The transaction values Pasqal at a pre money valuation of approximately $2 billion and is expected to close in the second half of 2026.
Once completed, the combined company will be listed on the Nasdaq stock exchange in the United States. The transaction is also expected to support a potential dual listing in Europe on Euronext, providing broader access for international investors.
The deal could generate more than $600 million in additional capital for Pasqal. This funding is intended to accelerate the company’s development of quantum computing technologies while expanding its commercial operations worldwide.
A growing trend of quantum companies entering public markets
Pasqal’s planned listing reflects a wider trend within the quantum computing sector, where several startups have explored alternative pathways to public markets. Special purpose acquisition companies have become an increasingly popular route for technology firms seeking to raise large amounts of capital while scaling rapidly.
Quantum computing companies require substantial investment to build hardware, develop software platforms and establish commercial applications. Access to public markets can provide the financial resources necessary to support long term research and industrial deployment.
The transaction therefore represents an important milestone not only for Pasqal but also for the broader quantum computing industry as it continues to transition from experimental technology toward commercial infrastructure.
Neutral atom quantum technology
Founded in 2019, Pasqal develops full stack quantum computing systems designed to solve complex computational problems across industries. The company employs approximately 275 people and focuses on building quantum processors using arrays of ordered neutral atoms.
In this approach, individual atoms are trapped and arranged into two dimensional or three dimensional structures where they can be manipulated using laser technology. These atomic arrays act as qubits, the basic units of quantum information. By controlling large numbers of qubits simultaneously, quantum computers can theoretically perform calculations that would be extremely difficult or impossible for classical machines.
Pasqal’s technology aims to provide practical quantum advantages for organisations seeking to tackle challenges such as optimisation problems, advanced materials modelling, logistics planning and energy system simulation.
Strong backing from global investors
Since its founding, Pasqal has attracted significant support from institutional and strategic investors. Backers include Temasek, the European Innovation Council Fund and LG Electronics, reflecting international interest in the company’s technology and commercial potential.
The company was co founded by Alain Aspect, who received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2022 for his pioneering work in quantum mechanics. His research laid the foundation for many modern quantum technologies, including the principles that enable quantum computing systems.
Pasqal’s leadership believes the new funding will allow the company to strengthen its position within the rapidly evolving quantum computing market while expanding global deployment of its systems.
Expanding global quantum capabilities
Pasqal has already begun deploying quantum computers and working with customers on practical applications. The company is positioning itself as a global provider of quantum computing infrastructure, combining hardware development with software tools that allow businesses and researchers to run quantum algorithms.
With the proposed public listing and new capital, Pasqal intends to accelerate the commercial scaling of its technology while expanding its presence across international markets.
As quantum computing moves closer to real world applications, companies like Pasqal are working to transform breakthrough scientific discoveries into practical tools for industry. The planned public listing represents another step in the evolution of the quantum sector as it continues to attract investment and global attention.