IBM and AMD have agreed to collaborate on quantum computing, creating a powerful tech duo amid growing optimism that the technology will have real-world implications sooner rather than later. Why it matters: Quantum computing could have huge implications for everything from drug discovery,

Shares of Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ:AMD) rose 2.8%, while International Business Machines (NYSE:IBM) gained 0.9% after the two technology leaders unveiled a new partnership focused on next-generation quantum-focused supercomputing systems.