Nine blockchain organizations formally launched the Quantum Alliance on October 15 to create open standards for assessing post-quantum readiness across blockchains, wallets and infrastructure. The initiative responds to the long-term risk that sufficiently capable quantum computers could eventually compromise elliptic-curve signatures used to secure networks such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, while emphasizing that no existing quantum computer can currently execute such an attack.
The alliance includes Quantus, American Fortress, Intmax, Keystone, Midnight Foundation, Postquant Labs, Abelian, The Vault and Hacken. Its initial work will focus on blockchain migration, post-quantum zero-knowledge systems, wallet security and cross-chain compatibility. The group plans to establish common testing criteria and benchmarks for transaction signatures, key management, consensus, zero-knowledge proofs and peer-to-peer connections, with all standards and reference designs intended to be published openly for developers and networks.
According to the alliance, approximately 6.4 million BTC, or 30.2% of Bitcoin’s total supply, may be vulnerable to future quantum attacks through exposed public keys. This estimate reportedly includes around 1.1 million BTC believed to belong to Bitcoin creator Satoshi Nakamoto. Richard Carback, Chief Technology Officer of Post-Quantum Labs, suggested 2028 as a realistic timeline for quantum risk, while Bryn Bennett, director of The Vault, argued that the industry should have a framework in place to move vulnerable assets if quantum advancements accelerate faster than expected. The next milestone is publishing a shared definition of blockchain quantum readiness alongside practical testing and migration guidance for exchanges, custodians and developers.
