Bain & Company announced a strategic collaboration with IBM to provide post-quantum cryptography (PQC) risk assessments and mitigation strategies to private equity firms and corporate clients. The initiative combines Bain’s due diligence capabilities with IBM Consulting’s quantum-safe transformation expertise to help organizations prepare for emerging cybersecurity risks tied to quantum computing.
The collaboration aims to help companies assess their resilience in a future in which quantum computing could undermine current encryption standards. As quantum technology moves from theoretical research toward commercial applications, it is increasingly seen as a potential threat to widely used cryptographic systems that protect sensitive data, intellectual property, and proprietary technologies.
Bain said the partnership will allow clients to assess vulnerabilities in existing cryptographic infrastructure and implement strategies to mitigate risks in a post-quantum environment. The companies will support organizations in identifying sensitive assets, prioritizing remediation efforts, and integrating PQC readiness into broader strategic and operational planning.
According to Bain research, while many corporate technology leaders recognize that post-quantum cryptography will become a critical requirement, relatively few companies have developed clear strategies to manage the complex transition.
Beyond risk assessments, Bain and IBM said they expect to work together on longer-term quantum-related use cases across industries, including metallurgy, pharmaceuticals, and materials science, areas where quantum computing may unlock new capabilities but also introduce new security challenges.
The collaboration underscores the growing urgency for organizations to modernize cybersecurity frameworks as quantum computing advances and reshapes the technology landscape.
KEY QUOTES:
“Quantum computing is moving from theory to reality. It also brings a hard deadline: many of today’s encryption standards won’t hold forever. Companies that start upgrading now will protect customers, protect value, and stay ahead of the risk. Our collaboration with IBM strengthens our ability to help acquirers spot cryptography risk early and take action. Post-quantum readiness should be treated like any other critical technology risk in a deal, and we’re excited to bring leading-edge capabilities to protecting client’s businesses and investments.”
Chuck Whitten, Global Head Of Bain’s Digital Practices And Capabilities, Bain & Company
“The move towards quantum-ready security is becoming a near-term priority for every organization that relies on cryptography to operate. Our collaboration with Bain provides clients with a clear quantum-safe roadmap, from identifying vulnerable assets to prioritizing remediation and executing a transition strategy, to help reduce risk ahead of the post-quantum era.”
Andy Baldwin, Senior Vice President Of Offerings And Growth, IBM Consulting
