Quantum Technologies Key Strategies and Opportunities for Financial Services Leaders 2025

Developing and implementing quantum technologies in financial services will require a highly skilled workforce with expertise at the intersection of finance, quantum mechanics, engineering and software development. To prepare for this shift, the financial services industry must actively collaborate with academic institutions to build a pipeline of talent equipped to navigate this new frontier. As quantum technologies increasingly intersect with fields such as AI and cybersecurity, cross- disciplinary skills will become even more critical. Several early initiatives are already working to close the quantum skills gap. For example, QuantFi and QURECA (Quantum Resources and Careers), in collaboration with Strangeworks, have launched a training programme in the field of quantum computing applications for the financial sector – covering areas such as quantitative asset management and trading, financial engineering, risk management and applied research.43 Similarly, the Centre for Finance, Technology and Entrepreneurship (CFTE) has introduced specialized courses to help financial professionals understand the implications and opportunities of quantum technologies.44 Upskilling existing workers who have some of the needed skills is the fastest way to grow the pool of workers with relevant skills. HSBC, in collaboration with IBM, has invested in internal training programmes to equip its employees with the necessary knowledge and skills to understand and harness quantum computing.45 In Italy, national quantum strategies include expanding quantum-focused graduate programmes, launching industrial PhD programmes and retraining traditional IT professionals to transition into roles such as quantum software engineering and quantum algorithm design.465.5 Education and workforce development Education in quantum technologies across diverse graduate curricula will significantly advance the future development of this sector, particularly within the financial industry, where it is expected to have the largest number of quantum computing use cases. Davide Corbelletto, Distinguished Quantum Specialist, Intesa Sanpaolo Quantum Technologies: Key Strategies and Opportunities for Financial Services Leaders 21