US insurance giant CEO to business leaders: Look beyond your AI obsession

In an era where global tech leaders intensify efforts to harness the potential of artificial intelligence (AI), a select group of executives are already looking ahead to the next revolutionary technology: quantum computing. Thomas J. Wilson, the CEO and president of Allstate, an insurance giant, has called on his peers to prioritize quantum research over their current AI investments.

Speaking to The Wall Street Journal, Wilson argued that quantum computing will address problems that traditional computers find too time-consuming and that AI is ill-equipped to handle.

Wilson explained that quantum systems will enable solutions to complex challenges that conventional computers struggle with, and that AI cannot adequately address. Although the exact timeline for widespread adoption and the scale of early benefits are unclear, Wilson is confidently optimistic about the advantages of early adoption.

At Allstate, an internal quantum unit consisting of 10 specialists is actively expanding, focusing on practical applications such as analyzing intricate risk factors to create more precise pricing structures that accurately reflect policy risks.

Wilson summarized his advice to corporate leaders in four words: "Get on the train". He likened the potential of quantum computing to the rapid rise of generative AI, cautioning that businesses that delay investing in quantum research will be left behind once the technology matures. Wilson emphasized the importance of building foundational organizational knowledge around quantum computing.

He stressed that companies must engage with quantum advancements early to ensure their infrastructure is ready for quantum systems when they become available. Wilson asked whether companies know enough about quantum computing and are actively involved in its development to prepare their current systems for quantum integration.