QTUM Stock: Defiance Quantum ETF Profile & Analysis (2026)
A premier thematic ETF providing targeted exposure to the global leaders in quantum computing, machine learning, and advanced AI infrastructure — Updated May 2026 with current AUM, expense ratio, holdings, and performance data.
QTUM stock represents the Defiance Quantum ETF, a specialized investment vehicle designed to capture the growth of companies at the forefront of the next computing revolution. The fund tracks the BlueStar Quantum Computing and Machine Learning Index, focusing on firms developing the hardware, software, and systems required for quantum processing. This ecosystem is heavily reliant on the advanced technologies found in the complete list of semiconductor companies, as traditional silicon reaches its physical limits and specialized chips take over.
Beyond pure-play tech, QTUM offers a diversified portfolio that touches on various high-tech industrial applications. Many of its holdings are involved in high-stakes security and simulation projects, often overlapping with the innovators found among small cap aerospace and defense stocks. By holding a basket of 88 global companies, QTUM provides investors a way to play the massive upside of artificial intelligence and quantum supremacy while mitigating the “single-stock” risk inherent in such an emerging and volatile sector.
Key Takeaways — QTUM Stock
QTUM targets the full value chain of quantum computing, from specialized hardware manufacturers to machine learning software developers.
As of mid-2026, QTUM has delivered a staggering 1-year return of 86%, fueled by the global acceleration in AI infrastructure spending.
With a 0.40% expense ratio, QTUM is one of the most cost-effective ways to access a highly specialized tech sub-sector compared to peers.
The fund spreads risk across 88 different holdings, including both established tech giants and emerging mid-cap disruptors.
QTUM — Live Price Chart
Real-time chart from TradingView.
QTUM ETF Vitals & Key Statistics
Core data as of May 2026.
| Data Point | Value | Data Point | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Defiance Quantum ETF | Ticker | QTUM |
| Issuer | Defiance ETFs | Asset Class | Equities / Technology |
| Index Tracked | BlueStar Quantum Computing and Machine Learning Index | Structure | ETF (Open-End Fund) |
| Expense Ratio | 0.40% | AUM | $6.02B |
| Inception Date | September 4, 2018 | Exchange | NASDAQ |
| No. of Holdings | 88 | Dividend Yield | 0.70% |
| 52-Week High | $170.00 | 52-Week Low | $86.01 |
| Avg Daily Volume | 1.14M | YTD Return | 45% |
| 1-Year Return | 86% | 5-Year Return | 28.45% |
| Category | Quantum Computing & AI | Dividend Frequency | Quarterly |
QTUM Top 10 Holdings (May 2026)
Largest positions by weight. Click columns to sort.
| Rank | Ticker | Company Name | Sector | Weight % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MU | Micron Technology | Semiconductors | 3.34% |
| 2 | INTC | Intel | Semiconductors | 2.28% |
| 3 | MRVL | Marvell Technology | Semiconductors | 2.02% |
| 4 | AMD | Advanced Micro Devices | Semiconductors | 1.95% |
| 5 | ON | ON Semiconductor | Semiconductors | 1.87% |
| 6 | TSEM | Tower Semiconductor | Semiconductors | 1.69% |
| 7 | ALAB | Astera Labs Inc. | Technology Hardware | 1.65% |
| 8 | COHR | Coherent Corp | Electronic Components | 1.65% |
| 9 | LRCX | Lam Research | Semiconductor Equipment | 1.60% |
| 10 | MKSI | MKS Instruments | Electronic Components | 1.60% |
QTUM — Pros & Cons
✓ Future-Proof Strategy
Quantum computing is expected to solve problems traditional computers cannot; QTUM provides early-stage exposure to this structural shift.
✗ High Volatility
Thematic tech funds are prone to massive price swings based on interest rates and general tech sentiment.
✓ Operational Efficiency
The 0.40% expense ratio is highly competitive for a “Next Gen” tech fund, allowing more capital to stay invested.
✗ Growth-Bias Risk
The fund is heavily tilted toward growth stocks with high P/E ratios, which may underperform in a “value” rotation.
✓ Diversified “Pick and Shovel”
Rather than betting on one quantum winner, it owns the companies building the lasers, cooling systems, and specialized chips.
✗ Technological Uncertainty
Commercial quantum supremacy is still years away; many holdings are current machine-learning plays that may or may not lead in quantum.
Who Should Consider QTUM?
Aggressive growth investors and tech enthusiasts who want to be early to the next paradigm shift in high-performance computing.
Income-focused retirees or conservative investors who cannot stomach 20-30% drawdowns in a single quarter.
You believe that artificial intelligence demand will eventually outpace traditional data center capabilities and require quantum solutions.
Tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs are preferred, as growth stocks can generate significant capital gains during rebalancing cycles.
QTUM vs Similar ETFs
Key metrics comparison.
| ETF | Full Name | Expense Ratio | AUM | Holdings | Div Yield | YTD | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| QTUM ★ | Defiance Quantum ETF | 0.40% | $6.02B | 88 | 0.70% | 45% | Broad Quantum/AI |
| QUAN | Global X Quantum Computing ETF | 0.50% | $1.1B | 40 | 0.45% | 38% | Pure-Play Selection |
| QAI | Defiance Next Gen & Quantum Computing ETF | 0.49% | $450M | 70 | 0.60% | 41% | Broader Tech Blend |
| QNTM | First Trust Indxx Quantum Computing & Comm | 0.60% | $820M | 65 | 0.52% | 32% | Computing/Comm Blend |
QTUM Technical Analysis
Real-time buy/sell signals.
QTUM — Risks & Considerations
Geopolitical Chip Wars
Many holdings are in the semiconductor space; trade restrictions between the US and China can significantly impact supply chains and revenue.
Hype vs. Reality
While machine learning is currently profitable, many “Quantum” projects are still in the R&D phase and may not generate earnings for years.
Concentration in Hardware
The fund is heavily dependent on the semiconductor industry. A downturn in global electronics demand would disproportionately hurt the ETF.
High Valuations
In a high-return year like 2026, many holdings trade at extreme price-to-earnings multiples, leaving little room for error in quarterly reports.