The Defiance Quantum ETF (QTUM) tracks the BlueStar Quantum Computing and Machine Learning Index, which targets global companies generating significant revenue from quantum computing, machine learning, and supporting technologies like superconducting materials, AI chips, and big data software. With around 86 holdings, QTUM uses a modified equal-weighted strategy to ensure broad diversification.
Among the top holdings are INTC (Intel Corp., ~2.6%), MU (Micron Technology, ~2.4%), Global Unichip Corp., STM (STMicroelectronics, ~2.1%), and NOK (Nokia Oyj, ~1.9%). The sector breakdown leans heavily into technology at 82%, followed by industrials at 10% and communication services at 6%.
From what I see, this mix positions QTUM to capture both mature semiconductor firms advancing quantum tech and innovative challengers, which aligns closely with the recent semiconductor rally and growing quantum enthusiasm.
In the last 30 days, QTUM moved from about $116 to $141, marking a +22% increase. The uptrend built steadily, picking up speed in late April and early May alongside sector strength, though we've seen some volatility near recent peaks.
Looking at the quarter, the ETF rose from roughly $118 to $141 for a +20% return. It started range-bound amid broader market swings but transitioned into a clear bullish phase, backed by steady inflows and favorable developments.
One thing that stands out is how QTUM's +22% gain over the past month was propelled by standout results in its semiconductor-focused holdings. INTC jumped +86% thanks to AI chip progress and quantum investments, while MU rose +25% on surging memory needs for AI training. Contributions from AMD (+76%) and MRVL (+94%) added momentum, given their roles in quantum hardware.
The wider semiconductor sector benefited from AI infrastructure growth, with year-over-year sales climbing sharply. Quantum-specific news added fuel: Google's Willow chip advancement and the U.S. Department of Energy's $625 million funding announcement in April lifted sentiment. I also checked this using Tickeron’s AI Screener to compare QTUM against similar ETFs. Meanwhile, assets under management surpassed $4 billion, underscoring a shift toward thematic tech investments.
QTUM's +20% quarterly advance rested on ongoing semiconductor strength and tailwinds from quantum commercialization. Holdings such as Intel and Micron saw their values double at times, driven by AI data center growth and memory shortages.
On the macro side, receding inflation worries supported growth stocks, complemented by quantum catalysts like Quantinuum's IPO speculation and over $1 billion in government funding. Institutional money poured in, earning QTUM a 5-star Morningstar rating for risk-adjusted performance. Technology sector cycles aligned well, as machine learning uses overlapped with quantum R&D from players like IBM and NVIDIA.
In my research, I rely on Tickeron’s AI Screener as a powerful tool for discovering stocks and ETFs. It lets me filter thousands of assets using technical patterns, fundamentals, trends, volatility, and AI signals—customizing by industry, market cap, indicators, price patterns, or performance metrics. This streamlines finding trade ideas, breakouts, or hidden opportunities in areas like quantum computing far better than manual methods. I’m watching this closely for my ETF scans, and it’s helped sharpen my analysis on themes like QTUM’s.
Going forward, I think investors should keep an eye on semiconductor supply chains for bottlenecks in AI and quantum hardware, along with updates on top holdings like INTC and MU. Broader macro changes in rates and inflation could sway tech-focused ETFs. In the quantum space, watch for IPOs such as Quantinuum and additional DOE support as potential sparks. On the risk side, elevated semiconductor valuations and geopolitical issues in chip supply stand out. Overall AI adoption trends will shape QTUM’s path.
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My name is Jimmy, and I’m a financial analyst focused on identifying compelling opportunities across the ETF market. Each day, I analyze hundreds of ETFs to uncover potential trading and investment opportunities using a broad range of market factors. For short-term trading, I rely heavily on technical analysis, including price channels, momentum indicators, support and resistance levels, trend patterns, and other market signals. At the same time, I dedicate significant attention to evaluating ETFs from a long-term investment perspective. My objective is to build a well-balanced ETF portfolio that combines core investment holdings with more tactical and speculative positions. The goal is to create a portfolio that can participate effectively in market rallies while also remaining resilient during periods of volatility and market corrections.
On September 18, 2026, the Stochastic Oscillator for QTUM moved out of oversold territory and this could be a bullish sign for the stock. Traders may want to buy the stock or buy call options. Tickeron's A.I.dvisor looked at 45 instances where the indicator left the oversold zone. In 41 of the 45 cases the stock moved higher in the following days. This puts the odds of a move higher at over 90%.
The Momentum Indicator moved above the 0 level on September 17, 2026. You may want to consider a long position or call options on QTUM as a result. In 61 of 75 past instances where the momentum indicator moved above 0, the stock continued to climb. The odds of a continued upward trend are 81%.
QTUM moved above its 50-day moving average on September 18, 2026 date and that indicates a change from a downward trend to an upward trend.
Following a +3.16% 3-day Advance, the price is estimated to grow further. Considering data from situations where QTUM advanced for three days, in 307 of 349 cases, the price rose further within the following month. The odds of a continued upward trend are 88%.
QTUM may jump back above the lower band and head toward the middle band. Traders may consider buying the stock or exploring call options.
The Moving Average Convergence Divergence Histogram (MACD) for QTUM turned negative on August 24, 2026. This could be a sign that the stock is set to turn lower in the coming weeks. Traders may want to sell the stock or buy put options. Tickeron's A.I.dvisor looked at 46 similar instances when the indicator turned negative. In 36 of the 46 cases the stock turned lower in the days that followed. This puts the odds of success at 78%.
The 10-day moving average for QTUM crossed bearishly below the 50-day moving average on August 27, 2026. This indicates that the trend has shifted lower and could be considered a sell signal. In 15 of 16 past instances when the 10-day crossed below the 50-day, the stock continued to move higher over the following month. The odds of a continued downward trend are 90%.
Following a 3-day decline, the stock is projected to fall further. Considering past instances where QTUM declined for three days, the price rose further in 50 of 62 cases within the following month. The odds of a continued downward trend are 79%.
The Aroon Indicator for QTUM entered a downward trend on September 18, 2026. This could indicate a strong downward move is ahead for the stock. Traders may want to consider selling the stock or buying put options.
The average fundamental analysis ratings, where 1 is best and 100 is worst, are as follows
Category Technology