There’s quite a buzz about this quantum computing company, but it seems to be more talk than substance.
Take stocks in companies like IonQ (NYSE:IONQ). Over the past year, its stock price has soared, leading to a market cap of $25 billion, despite the company pulling in less than $100 million in revenue. While quantum computing could significantly boost productivity in the future, IonQ remains a speculative investment with an unclear business model, making it a risky pick for investors.
In contrast, two companies are currently driving value—Remitly Global (RELY -3.13%) and Portillo’s (PTLO -2.76%). In five years, they could very well outpace IonQ, and here’s why you should consider adding them to your portfolio instead of chasing speculative quantum stocks.
Remitly’s Disruptive Opportunity
Unlike IonQ, Remitly Global saw a decline in its stock price in 2025. Although it dropped about 42% from its peak, IonQ has increased by 78% year-to-date, reaching new heights.
Investors are on edge regarding Remitly, mainly due to potential immigration restrictions in the U.S. that might curb cross-border payments to Mexico and other Latin American countries. This is essential for Remitly’s business, which aims to disrupt traditional players like Western Union. There’s also chatter about a new 1% tax on remittance payments, but it’s unclear how much of an effect that would really have.
Despite these worries, Remitly has shown impressive growth in 2025. Last quarter, its revenue climbed by 34% year-over-year, and sending volumes up by 40%. It seems like Remitly is not just weathering immigrants’ concerns but is also making significant headway against traditional businesses with its competitive fees and user-friendly app.
What’s more, Remitly is starting to become profitable, with a bottom line of $1.46 billion and earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) of $27 million. In comparison, IonQ’s operations are marked by huge losses and minimal revenue, which makes Remitly look like a much more viable investment.
Portillo’s Expansion Plans
Then there’s Portillo’s, a restaurant chain known for its Chicago-style street food like hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches. Following a slowdown in consumer spending in 2024, which affected some locations, the company is now looking to expand into new markets like Texas and Florida with mixed results.
Nonetheless, Portillo’s seems ready for significant growth. It’s gradually broadening its reach, introducing this well-loved Chicago brand to the national market. Last quarter, it saw an annual sales increase of just 3.6%—primarily because new store openings are slated for later in 2025. The company plans for around 100 restaurants by the end of this year, but there’s still a long way to go for more expansion.
Portillo’s market cap sits around $464 million, and some might think it’s far-fetched for the restaurant chain to match IonQ’s $25 billion valuation in five years. However, let’s really dig into the numbers that demonstrate IonQ’s overvaluation. In the last year, Portillo’s generated an EBIT of $65 million on $728 million in revenue, while IonQ only managed roughly $53 million in revenue and lost $351 million (never posting a profit). While Portillo’s might not hit a $25 billion cap in five years, its value will likely surpass IonQ’s, which doesn’t seem justified at that valuation.
So, consider investing in Remitly and Portillo’s while steering clear of IonQ and similar quantum computing stocks. Your portfolio may very well thank you down the line.
