SEALSQ Announces Entry into a Memorandum of Understanding Regarding a Potential Strategic Investment and Acquisition of Quantum Computing Firm Quobly

Rhea-AI Summary

SEALSQ (NASDAQ: LAES) entered a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding to begin exclusive negotiations to make an initial minority investment and potentially acquire a majority stake in French quantum microelectronics firm Quobly. The multi-stage proposal contemplates a total investment of approximately $200M, is anchored in SEALSQ’s dedicated Quantum Fund, and aims to combine Quobly’s CMOS-compatible silicon quantum processors with SEALSQ’s post-quantum security technology to build secure, industrial-scale quantum systems for EU and US markets.

The transaction remains conditional on definitive agreements, financial, legal, technical and commercial due diligence, corporate and regulatory approvals, and other customary closing conditions.

Positive

• $200M proposed total investment
• Access to CMOS-compatible silicon quantum processors
• Backing from SEALSQ’s dedicated Quantum Fund
• Combined PQC Root-of-Trust and quantum hardware roadmap

Negative

• Agreement is non-binding and subject to approvals
• Transaction requires financial, legal, technical due diligence
• Multi-stage structure creates execution and timing uncertainty

News Market Reaction

%

57 alerts

% News Effect

+9.2% Peak in 4 hr 57 min

$874M Market Cap

1.5x Rel. Volume

On the day this news was published, LAES declined NaN%, reflecting a moderate negative market reaction. Argus tracked a peak move of +9.2% during that session. Our momentum scanner triggered 57 alerts that day, indicating high trading interest and price volatility.

Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.

Key Figures

Planned QUOBLY investment: $200M

1 metrics

Planned QUOBLY investment $200M Total investment by SEALSQ if QUOBLY transaction is completed for a majority stake

Market Reality Check

Price: $4.00 Vol: Volume 6,000,862 vs 20‑da...

normal vol

$4.00 Last Close

Volume Volume 6,000,862 vs 20‑day average 8,401,403, indicating lighter-than-normal trading ahead of this announcement. normal

Technical Price at $4.31 is trading above the $3.81 200-day moving average, after a -0.92% prior session move.

Peers on Argus

Peers show mixed, mostly modest moves (e.g., AIP +0.06%, NVEC -1.21%, SKYT -5.00...

Peers show mixed, mostly modest moves (e.g., AIP +0.06%, NVEC -1.21%, SKYT -5.00%), suggesting this quantum acquisition news is stock-specific rather than part of a broad semiconductor rotation.

Historical Context

5 past events · Latest: Jan 12 (Positive)

Pattern 5 events

Date	Event	Sentiment	Move	Catalyst
Jan 12	Conference appearance	Positive	+4.6%	Needham Growth Conference presentation and investor meeting access.
Jan 09	Strategic JV	Positive	+0.7%	Final JV agreement with Kaynes SemiCon for Indian post-quantum platform.
Jan 07	Tech demonstration	Positive	-2.4%	Announcement of Davos robotics proof of concept using post-quantum tech.
Jan 05	India roadshow	Positive	+2.6%	C-suite India visits to advance personalization center and quantum investments.
Dec 22	Year-end update	Positive	+5.2%	CEO letter outlining 2025 milestones, cash level, and Quantum Fund launch.

Pattern Detected

Recent strategic and promotional news has often coincided with positive price reactions, though individual events have shown both gains and occasional pullbacks.

Recent Company History

Over the past months, SEALSQ has highlighted expansion of its post-quantum ecosystem, from a C-suite roadshow in India (Jan 5–9, 2026) to a JV with Kaynes SemiCon and a Davos proof-of-concept robotics demo. A Needham conference appearance on Jan 15, 2026 and a year-end CEO letter citing cash above $440M and a $100M Quantum Fund underscored its strategic push in quantum-secure semiconductors. The current QUOBLY MOU extends this trajectory into silicon-based quantum computing.

Market Pulse Summary

This announcement outlines SEALSQ’s plan to deepen its quantum roadmap via a non-binding MOU to inve...

Analysis

This announcement outlines SEALSQ’s plan to deepen its quantum roadmap via a non-binding MOU to invest up to $200M for a potential majority stake in QUOBLY, a silicon-based quantum computing firm. It builds on earlier strategic moves, including IC’ALPS and WeCan transactions and the $100M Quantum Fund, to create secure, quantum-ready infrastructures. Investors may watch for definitive agreements, due diligence outcomes, regulatory approvals, and clarity on funding structure for the proposed multi-stage transaction.

Key Terms

post-quantum cryptography (pqc), quantum microelectronics, silicon-based quantum processors, quantum computers, +3 more

7 terms

post-quantum cryptography (pqc) technical

"a global leader in semiconductors security and Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) solutions"

Post-quantum cryptography (PQC) involves developing new security methods designed to protect digital information against the future threat of powerful quantum computers. These advanced computers could potentially break current encryption techniques, making data vulnerable. For investors, PQC is important because it aims to safeguard sensitive financial and personal information in a world where quantum technology might eventually become a reality.

quantum microelectronics technical

"Quobly is a pioneer in quantum microelectronics, developing silicon-based quantum processors"

Quantum microelectronics is the design and production of tiny electronic components that use quantum effects—such as particles existing in multiple states at once or passing through barriers—to process information, sense signals, or secure communications. For investors it matters because these components can enable large performance gains and new product categories, but they demand specialized factories, long development times and significant capital, making them a high‑risk, potentially high‑reward area similar to the early days of modern semiconductors.

silicon-based quantum processors technical

"developing silicon-based quantum processors using proven semiconductor manufacturing processes"

Silicon-based quantum processors are computer chips built from silicon that use quantum bits, or qubits, rather than ordinary bits to carry out calculations. Think of qubits as tiny switches that can hold more than one position at once, letting certain hard problems be explored much faster than with regular chips; for investors, progress or setbacks in this technology can signal potential breakthroughs in computing power, new markets, and shifts in valuation for firms working on next-generation hardware.

quantum computers technical

"pioneering the development of silicon-based quantum computers (“QUOBLY”)"

Quantum computers are a new type of computer that use the odd behavior of tiny particles to process information in ways classical computers cannot, allowing them to test many possibilities at once—think of trying many keys on a lock simultaneously instead of one by one. For investors, they matter because they could dramatically speed up tasks like drug discovery, materials design, complex logistics and code-breaking, reshaping competitive advantage, costs and risks across industries.

quantum-resistant security technical

"define how quantum-resistant security can be embedded directly into future quantum infrastructures"

Encryption and other protective measures designed to remain secure even if powerful quantum computers can break today’s codes. Think of it as replacing a house lock with one a new kind of master key can’t open; for investors, quantum-resistant security matters because it protects customer data, transaction integrity and intellectual property, reduces regulatory and remediation costs, and preserves a company’s trust and competitive value as computing power advances.

root-of-trust technical

"SEALSQ’s post-quantum Root-of-Trust capabilities, creates a unique platform"

A root-of-trust is the foundational security element—often a small dedicated chip or protected software module—that ensures a device or system only starts and runs with authentic, approved code and keys. For investors, it matters because a strong root-of-trust reduces the risk of hacks, data breaches, regulatory problems and product recalls, protecting a company's reputation and value much like a building’s solid foundation and locks protect everything inside.

cmos-compatible technical

"QUOBLY’s CMOS-compatible quantum technology, combined with SEALSQ’s post-quantum"

CMOS-compatible describes a device or design that can be made using the same widely used semiconductor manufacturing methods or that operates at the same voltage and logic standards as mainstream CMOS chips. For investors it signals easier and cheaper scaling, smoother integration into existing products and supply chains, and lower development risk — like a new part that fits straight onto an established factory assembly line or into a common power socket.

AI-generated analysis. Not financial advice.

Geneva, Switzerland, Jan. 14, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

Quobly is a pioneer in quantum microelectronics, developing silicon-based quantum processors using proven semiconductor manufacturing processes

SEALSQ Corp (NASDAQ: LAES) ("SEALSQ" or "Company"), a global leader in semiconductors security and Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) solutions, today announced that it has entered into a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding leading to exclusive negotiations with the shareholders of Quobly SAS, a leading French technology company pioneering the development of silicon-based quantum computers (“QUOBLY”), to make an initial minority investment and then potentially acquire a majority stake in QUOBLY.   The proposed transaction remains subject to the negotiation and execution of definitive agreements, completion of financial, legal, technical and commercial due diligence, receipt of required corporate and regulatory approvals, and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions.

These exclusive negotiations result from the execution of a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding that contemplates a multi-stage transaction.

This transaction is anchored within SEALSQ’s Quantum strategy and supported in part by its dedicated Quantum Fund designed to accelerate the emergence of sovereign, secure, and industrial-scale quantum technologies across Europe. If completed, the transaction would result in a total investment of approximately $200M by SEALSQ in return for a majority stake in QUOBLY.

The entering into exclusive negotiations with QUOBLY follows the ongoing strategic collaboration between SEALSQ and QUOBLY, announced on November 21, 2025. The collaboration as proposed to be expanded, plans to deliver accelerated benefits, including joint leadership in trustworthy and industrialized quantum computers and enhance EU and US market expansion.

SEALSQ and QUOBLY aim to establish a reference platform for secure-by-design quantum computing to define how quantum-resistant security can be embedded directly into future quantum infrastructures serving defense, intelligence, financial services, pharmaceuticals, and other mission-critical sectors.

Maud Vinet, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of QUOBLY, commented: “This proposed transaction by SEALSQ marks an important step in QUOBLY’s industrial journey. Joining forces with a global leader in post-quantum security and semiconductor expert accelerates our ability to bring secure, scalable silicon-based quantum processors to market, and to expand internationally while consolidating our technological roadmap.”

Carlos Moreira, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of SEALSQ, stated: “The proposed acquisition of QUOBLY is fully aligned with our Quantum roadmap. As quantum computing becomes a strategic infrastructure, security must be embedded at the hardware level from day one. QUOBLY’s CMOS-compatible quantum technology, combined with SEALSQ’s post-quantum Root-of-Trust capabilities, creates a unique platform to build sovereign, trusted, and industrialized quantum systems for Europe, and their strategic partners.”

About Quobly:

Quobly is a pioneer in quantum microelectronics, developing silicon-based quantum chips using proven semiconductor manufacturing processes. Founded in 2022 in Grenoble, France, the company builds on over 15 years of collaborative research between world-class institutions CEA-Leti and CNRS, combining expertise in quantum physics and microelectronics. Co-founded by Maud Vinet, Ph.D. in quantum physics, author of 300+ papers and 70+ patents, and Tristan Meunier, a leading expert in semiconductor quantum engineering trained under Nobel laureate Serge Haroche, Quobly bridges science and industry to make quantum computing scalable and manufacturable.

Quobly has a strategic partnership with STMicroelectronics to accelerate the industrialization of its silicon quantum chips. In 2023, Quobly raised €19 million, a record European seed round for a quantum hardware startup, followed in 2025 by €21 million to advance its Q100T program, a key step toward fault-tolerant quantum computing.

Quobly media contacts
marie.cabrieres@quobly.io

About SEALSQ:
SEALSQ is a leading innovator in Post-Quantum Technology hardware and software solutions. Our technology seamlessly integrates Semiconductors, PKI (Public Key Infrastructure), and Provisioning Services, with a strategic emphasis on developing state-of-the-art Quantum Resistant Cryptography and Semiconductors designed to address the urgent security challenges posed by quantum computing. As quantum computers advance, traditional cryptographic methods like RSA and Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) are increasingly vulnerable.

SEALSQ is pioneering the development of Post-Quantum Semiconductors that provide robust, future-proof protection for sensitive data across a wide range of applications, including Multi-Factor Authentication tokens, Smart Energy, Medical and Healthcare Systems, Defense, IT Network Infrastructure, Automotive, and Industrial Automation and Control Systems. By embedding Post-Quantum Cryptography into our semiconductor solutions, SEALSQ ensures that organizations stay protected against quantum threats. Our products are engineered to safeguard critical systems, enhancing resilience and security across diverse industries.

For more information on our Post-Quantum Semiconductors and security solutions, please visit www.sealsq.com

Forward-Looking Statements
This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning SEALSQ Corp and its businesses. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding our business and transaction strategy, financial performance, results of operations, market data, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will occur in the future, as well as any other statements which are not historical facts. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, no assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to have been correct. These statements involve known and unknown risks and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates which are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Important factors that, in our view, could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements include SEALSQ's ability to continue beneficial transactions with material parties, including a limited number of significant customers; market demand and semiconductor industry conditions; regulatory and transactional contingencies and the risks discussed in SEALSQ's filings with the SEC. Risks and uncertainties are further described in reports filed by SEALSQ with the SEC.

SEALSQ Corp is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

SEALSQ Corp. Carlos Moreira Chairman & CEO Tel: +41 22 594 3000 info@sealsq.com

SEALSQ Investor Relations (US) The Equity Group Inc. Lena Cati Tel: +1 212 836-9611 lcati@theequitygroup.com

FAQ

What did SEALSQ (LAES) announce about Quobly on January 14, 2026?

SEALSQ announced a non-binding MOU to exclusively negotiate an initial minority investment and potential majority acquisition of Quobly, targeting about $200M total investment.

How much is SEALSQ proposing to invest in Quobly (LAES)?

The MOU contemplates a total investment of approximately $200M in return for a potential majority stake if completed.

What conditions must be met before SEALSQ’s proposed Quobly deal closes?

The proposal is conditional on negotiating definitive agreements, completing financial, legal, technical, and commercial due diligence, obtaining corporate and regulatory approvals, and customary closing conditions.

How does the Quobly transaction fit SEALSQ’s strategy (LAES)?

The deal is anchored in SEALSQ’s Quantum strategy and Quantum Fund to accelerate sovereign, secure, industrial-scale quantum technologies for EU and US markets.

What technology would SEALSQ gain by acquiring Quobly (LAES)?

SEALSQ would gain Quobly’s silicon-based, CMOS-compatible quantum processor technology aimed at industrial-scale quantum computing.