HSBC Says It Has Made Progress in Quantum-Powered Trading

In a first for the financial sector, HSBC, one of the largest banks in the world, claims to have successfully tested quantum computing...

Quick overview

  • HSBC has successfully tested quantum computing in algorithmic trading, marking a first for the financial sector.
  • The trial demonstrated a 34% improvement in predicting bond deal completions, enhancing efficiency and reducing slippage.
  • Quantum technology could revolutionize bond trading by increasing price prediction accuracy and managing complex data instantly.
  • While quantum advancements pose potential risks to cryptocurrencies, current systems remain secure, and the race for quantum-safe security is underway.

In a first for the financial sector, HSBC, one of the largest banks in the world, claims to have successfully tested quantum computing in algorithmic trading. According to the September 25, 2025, report, quantum technology may soon have a significant impact on international banking.

HSBC’s actions

The IBM’s quantum computing team team up with the bank to look at the potential of quantum computers to enhance algorithmic bond trading. In markets such as corporate bonds where buyers and sellers negotiate directly rather than through a central exchange. This kind of trading use computer models and rules to automatically price and execute contracts.

In the test HSBC used both quantum processors and conventional computing. In terms of predicting whether bond deals will be filled at the indicated price, the findings were impressive a 34% improvement. This would reduce slippage and increase efficiency by allowing the bank’s systems to make more accurate calls.

According to Philip Intallura, Group Head of Quantum Technologies at HSBC, the trial showed “how today’s quantum computers could solve a real-world business problem at scale” and was a “ground-breaking world-first.” He went on to say that this shows quantum is not simply a futuristic concept but is beginning to show promise.

Why This Is Important for Finance

Bond trading is a complex process. Due to the speed at which prices move traders often have to react instantly to several bids and market signals. Even though they can run difficult algorithms classical computers have trouble when there are too many variables. On the other hand quantum computers are capable of much more complex information processing, which could provide banks with a competitive advantage.

Financial organizations may soon benefit from quantum machines, according to HSBC’s trial:

  • Increase the accuracy of your price predictions
  • Lower the risks associated with transactions
  • Deal with complicated data instantly

According to IBM’s Vice President of Quantum, Jay Gambetta, the experiment shows the potential of combining “deep financial expertise with cutting-edge algorithms,” and he thinks quantum may open up new opportunities in a variety of industries.

Cryptocurrencies and Quantum Computing

While the crypto industry has mixed feelings about quantum advancements, banks celebrate it. This is due to the fact that cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin depend on encryption, which an advanced quantum machine might eventually crack.

The question of when quantum computers will be able to read contemporary cryptography, or “Q-Day,” is up for debate. According to some, it might happen by 2030, but others believe it might not happen until 2040 or later. Although developers are under increasing pressure to create quantum-resistant systems, Bitcoin and other digital assets are still safe for the time being.

When Chinese researchers claimed in late 2024 that quantum hardware decrypted encryption keys, it raised alarms. Yet, subsequent investigation revealed that the technology only worked on extremely weak keys, significantly weaker than those used in banking or Bitcoin.

The Road Ahead

Even with HSBC’s innovation, current systems won’t be completely replaced by quantum trading. Quantum computers nowadays still have limitations in terms of size and functionality. However, this exam is useful in the real world now, not only in theory.

The way banks, companies, and even governments manage data, transactions, and security may change as quantum technology advances. It might become an essential tool for finance in quicker, more intelligent, and more effective markets.

This serves as a reminder to cryptocurrency like Bitcoin that the race to reach quantum-safe security has already begun.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR See More
Arslan Butt
Lead Markets Analyst – Multi-Asset (FX, Commodities, Crypto)
Arslan Butt serves as the Lead Commodities and Indices Analyst, bringing a wealth of expertise to the field. With an MBA in Behavioral Finance and active progress towards a Ph.D., Arslan possesses a deep understanding of market dynamics. His professional journey includes a significant role as a senior analyst at a leading brokerage firm, complementing his extensive experience as a market analyst and day trader. Adept in educating others, Arslan has a commendable track record as an instructor and public speaker. His incisive analyses, particularly within the realms of cryptocurrency and forex markets, are showcased across esteemed financial publications such as ForexCrunch, InsideBitcoins, and EconomyWatch, solidifying his reputation in the financial community.

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