WSJ Tech News Briefing – TNB Tech Minute: Quantum-Computing Firms in Talks to Give U.S. Equity Stakes

Date: October 23, 2025
Host: Zoe Culkin

Episode Overview

This Tech Minute provides a swift yet comprehensive update on several pressing tech sector developments, focusing on exclusive news regarding quantum computing companies negotiating government equity stakes, new automation technologies from Amazon, and China’s latest self-sufficiency economic strategy.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Quantum Computing Firms Offer Equity For Federal Investment

• Major Scoop:

  • Several quantum computing startups—including IonQ, Rigetti Computing, and D-Wave Quantum—are in advanced discussions to give the U.S. Commerce Department equity stakes in exchange for federal funding.

  • Atom Computing and Quantum Computing, Inc. are also considering similar arrangements.

  • The Commerce Department would become a shareholder, with each company expected to receive a minimum of $10 million in federal funds.

  • This move continues the Trump administration's pattern of direct interventions in sectors deemed strategically vital to national interests.

  • Notable Quote:

    • “A move that would mark another intervention by the Trump administration in what it sees as critical sectors of the economy.”
      — Zoe Culkin (00:13)

2. Amazon Showcases Next-Gen Automation for Logistics

• Automation Innovation:

  • Amazon unveils three technologies, set for deployment in warehouses and delivery operations:

    • Bluejay: a robotic arm designed for package sorting.
    • Eluna: an AI agent developed to help managers optimize staffing and prevent workflow blockages.
    • Augmented Reality Glasses: wearable tech for delivery drivers, providing real-time information in the field.

  • These developments are part of Amazon’s ongoing effort to automate warehouse functions.

  • Currently, robots are involved in about 75% of all Amazon deliveries.

  • Notable Quote:

    • “Currently, about three quarters of Amazon's deliveries are assisted by robots, according to the company.”
      — Zoe Culkin (00:38)

3. China’s New Five-Year Plan: Toward Technological Self-Sufficiency

• Policy Shift:

  • China’s ruling Communist Party releases a five-year plan underscoring the country’s intention to become more technologically self-reliant and less dependent on the U.S.

  • The blueprint aims to increase domestic consumption and reduce reliance on export-driven economic growth.

  • The plan signals persistent friction and competition with Washington.

  • Notable Quote:

    • "China has released a five year plan that includes becoming more self-sufficient technologically... and it nods at priorities that Western economists and US Officials have long called for, including boosting consumption in an attempt to lessen its reliance on export driven growth."
      — Zoe Culkin (00:48)

Memorable Moments and Quotes

• “We're exclusively reporting several quantum computing companies are in talks to give the Commerce Department equity stakes in exchange for federal funding…”
  — Zoe Culkin (00:08)
• “Companies like IonQ, Rigetti Computing and D-Wave Quantum are discussing the government becoming a shareholder in order to secure federal funding.” — Zoe Culkin (00:14)
• “Amazon has revealed a trio of new technologies... This is the latest initiative in a years long effort by Amazon to automate more of its warehouse tasks.”
  — Zoe Culkin (00:29)
• “The economic plan looks to reduce China's reliance on the US and it nods at priorities... boosting consumption in an attempt to lessen its reliance on export driven growth.”
  — Zoe Culkin (00:51)

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:08 – Quantum computing companies negotiating equity deals with the Commerce Department
• 00:29 – Amazon’s new warehouse robotics, staffing AI, and AR glasses for delivery
• 00:48 – China’s new 5-year plan for technological independence and increased domestic consumption

Conclusion

This Tech Minute provides exclusive and timely insight into the intersection of technology, policy, and global economics. Federal intervention in quantum computing, Amazon’s automation drive, and China’s strategic pivot all signal the intensifying competition and innovation shaping the future of the tech industry. The episode is brisk, fact-filled, and positioned as a must-listen for those tracking the evolving dynamics of technology and policy.