HSBC publishes yet another claim of quantum advantage that isn't
18 hours ago
- #quantum-computing
- #financial-technology
- #science-critique
- HSBC and IBM published a paper claiming a 34% advantage in financial trading predictions using quantum computing, but the advantage disappears with noiseless quantum simulation.
- Critics argue the claimed advantage is likely due to noise in quantum hardware rather than genuine quantum computational speedup, raising concerns about selection bias and unprincipled comparisons.
- The paper is criticized for being optimized for generating headlines rather than contributing to scientific knowledge, with calls for demonstrating quantum advantage on benchmark problems first.
- Despite the critique, the paper is expected to generate credulous media coverage, perpetuating undead narratives ('qombies') of quantum advantage detached from underlying truth.
- Martin Shkreli announced a conference call to push back on quantum computing hype, offering payments to quantum experts, with Scott Aaronson humorously proposing a higher fee to participate.