Rigetti Computing's stock experienced a significant pre-market plunge of 6.30% on Thursday, as the quantum computing company's shares came under pressure during early trading.

The decline was attributed to broad weakness in the semiconductor sector, which faced systemic selling pressure that dragged down related stocks including Rigetti. Additionally, the stock was impacted by significant profit-taking activity following a rapid appreciation of over 50% between May 21 and May 22.

This prior surge was triggered by the U.S. Commerce Department's announcement of approximately $2 billion in funding for nine quantum computing companies, including Rigetti, in which the government took equity stakes. The current pre-market decline represents a continuation of the post-rally digestion as investors lock in gains after the substantial upward move.