Galaxy Digital’s head of research, Alex Thorn, has weighed in on growing concerns that quantum computing could eventually undermine Bitcoin’s cryptographic security. His view is that the risk is credible, but far from immediate. Thorn argued that the popular claim that Bitcoin is unprepared for the quantum era is overstated, as work is already underway to make the network more resilient against future advances in computing.
Quantum computers use qubits, which can exist in superposition and potentially solve some mathematical problems far more efficiently than classical machines. In theory, that creates a long-term threat to cryptographic systems if private keys can be derived from public information. Still, Thorn said most Bitcoin is not instantly vulnerable. The main area of exposure involves coins whose public keys have already been revealed on-chain, rather than the entire BTC supply.
A credible risk, but not a network-wide emergency
Thorn’s comments suggest that quantum risk should be treated as an important long-range security issue, not as an imminent crisis for Bitcoin. Different coins face different levels of exposure depending on how they have been used on-chain. That means concerns about quantum computing should be framed more precisely, instead of assuming that all Bitcoin holdings are equally at risk today.
Developers are already exploring quantum-resistant options
On the mitigation side, Bitcoin developers are actively discussing ways to strengthen the network over time. One of the approaches mentioned is the development of new address types that could rely on post-quantum cryptography. The broader goal is to prepare Bitcoin for credible future threats without disrupting the network’s existing foundations. Thorn’s message to investors is that quantum risk deserves attention, but it should not by itself rule out Bitcoin exposure.
In that sense, the debate is less about whether quantum computing matters and more about timing, scope, and preparation. The threat is real in theory, but the transition toward practical defenses is already part of the conversation. For market participants, the key variables to watch will be progress in quantum-resistant cryptography, the share of coins with exposed public keys, and how the Bitcoin ecosystem chooses to implement long-term security upgrades.