Quantum Technologies Key Strategies and Opportunities for Financial Services Leaders 2025

3Quantum sensing The role of quantum sensing in the financial sector remains niche compared to other quantum technologies. Quantum sensing applications in financial services are limited compared to quantum computing, quantum security and quantum communications. While the technology excels in precision measurements, its role in the financial sector is primarily centred on quantum clocks that can enhance algorithmic trading by improving the accuracy and synchronization of HFT algorithms. This leads to better market predictions and improved execution timing.17 Additionally, quantum sensors will offer opportunities for enhanced infrastructure monitoring, e.g. through the detection of structural vulnerabilities in data centres and transaction systems. The niche applicability of quantum sensing, however, along with its lower scalability compared to quantum computing and security solutions, makes it a longer- term investment rather than an immediate priority for financial services firms. Another emerging opportunity lies in sustainability- focused investments, wherein quantum sensors can provide highly accurate environmental data to enhance environmental, social and governance (ESG) reporting and climate risk assessments. Investment firms can harness quantum sensing to improve sustainability transparency, attract environmentally conscious investors and influence stock valuations through ESG-aligned financial strategies. Furthermore, financial institutions can play a role in advancing quantum sensing technology by funding ventures in this area. Nevertheless, high setup and operation costs, combined with unclear performance advantages of quantum sensors over existing sensors, are currently hindering the technology from reaching its full potential.18 Unlike quantum computing, which offers well- defined applications in risk modelling and financial optimization, or quantum communication, which enhances cybersecurity, quantum sensing lacks a clear and immediate use case in financial service operations. Furthermore, integrating quantum sensors into existing information technology (IT) infrastructure requires significant technical modifications, as most financial systems are not equipped to handle quantum-enhanced data streams, leading to potential operational inefficiencies.19 While quantum sensing holds potential for financial market precision, infrastructure security and sustainability-focused investing in the long term, its current scalability limitations, high implementation costs and lack of immediate return on investment (ROI) make it a future consideration rather than a current strategic consideration. Financial services firms should continue monitoring quantum sensing developments while prioritizing more mature and impactful quantum technologies. An emerging opportunity lies in sustainability- focused investments, wherein quantum sensors can provide highly accurate environmental data. 11 Quantum Technologies: Key Strategies and Opportunities for Financial Services Leaders