Wall Street Zen Upgrades Immatics (NASDAQ:IMTX) to Hold
Wall Street Zen upgraded Immatics (NASDAQ:IMTX) from a "sell" to a "hold" rating. This upgrade aligns with a broader analyst consensus of "Moderate Buy" for the clinical-stage biotechnology company, which focuses on T cell receptor (TCR)-based immunotherapies for solid tumors. Institutional investors, including T. Rowe Price and Baker Bros., have significantly increased their stakes in Immatics, which currently trades with a market cap of $1.22 billion.
Weekly Market Update: Stocks Gain 1.03% as Communication Services Rise and Consumer Defensives Fall
The Morningstar US Market Index increased by 1.03% this week, driven by strong performance in communication services and industrials, while consumer defensives and utilities saw declines. RingCentral and Tandem Diabetes Care were the top-performing stocks, significantly rising, while Cogent Communications and Klarna Group experienced the sharpest drops. The article also provides a summary of bond and commodity movements, along with upcoming economic reports and earnings announcements.
Arbutus Biopharma wins partial summary judgment on Moderna defenses; enablement dispute to go to jury
Arbutus Biopharma has achieved a partial summary judgment against Moderna, barring Moderna's obviousness and derivation defenses related to certain patents. While the court ruled in Arbutus's favor on several points including IPR estoppel and issue preclusion, the dispute regarding enablement will proceed to a jury for resolution. This legal development stems from an SEC filing by Arbutus Biopharma Corp (ABUS).
GSK (LON:GSK) Insider Purchases £73,981.46 in Stock
GSK insider Wendy Becker recently purchased 3,334 shares of GSK stock for £73,981.46 on February 20th, with an average cost of GBX 2,219 per share. This follows an earlier purchase of 441 shares in December for £7,977.69. GSK shares traded at GBX 2,223.16 on Friday, and analysts maintain a "Hold" consensus rating with an average price target of GBX 1,917.86.
Is Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Health Care ETF (RSPH) a Strong ETF Right Now?
The Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight Health Care ETF (RSPH) is a smart beta ETF that equally weights stocks in the health care sector of the S&P 500 Index. With over $770.19 million in assets and an expense ratio of 0.40%, RSPH offers diversified exposure to the healthcare sector, with top holdings including Moderna Inc, Viatris Inc, and Gilead Sciences Inc. While it has shown a 3.08% return and 8.87% year-to-date performance, investors seeking lower costs or different weighting strategies might consider alternatives like Vanguard Health Care ETF (VHT) or State Street Health Care Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLV).
Moderna Faces Lawsuit From BioNTech Over Next-Generation COVID-19 Shot
BioNTech has filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Moderna, alleging that Moderna's next-generation COVID-19 vaccine, mNEXSPIKE, uses BioNTech's patented technology focusing on specific SARS-CoV-2 spike protein domains. BioNTech claims this technology, which allows for a strong immune response at lower doses and improved storage, was developed and patented by them in November 2024. The lawsuit seeks monetary damages for alleged deliberate infringement, highlighting Moderna's substantial mNEXSPIKE sales.
Weekly Buzz: NRXP Sets The Path For NRX-100's NDA; IRON Gets FDA's CRL; TOVX Licenses SYN-020
This weekly biotech buzz highlights significant milestones in the industry, including FDA approvals, NDA path-setting meetings, clinical trial breakthroughs, and substantial deals. NRx Pharmaceuticals is moving forward with its NDA for NRX-100, while Disc Medicine received a Complete Response Letter from the FDA for Biopertin. Additionally, Theriva Biologics licensed SYN-020, and major companies like Eli Lilly, Zealand Pharma, Novartis, and Ocular Therapeutix reported positive clinical trial results.
Pfizer Inc (PFE) Announces Positive Results from BREAKWATER Trial
Pfizer Inc. announced positive results from its BREAKWATER trial for BRAFTOVI in combination with cetuximab and FOLFIRI for metastatic colorectal cancer, showing significant improvement in progression-free survival and overall survival. Despite the positive trial results, some analysts have recently downgraded Pfizer, citing R&D investment risks, even as the company surpassed Q4 2025 earnings estimates. Pfizer plans to submit the detailed results to the FDA for regulatory consideration.
Analysts Offer Insights on Healthcare Companies: Alnylam Pharma (ALNY), Moderna (MRNA) and NewAmsterdam Pharma Company (NAMS)
Healthcare companies Alnylam Pharma (ALNY), Moderna (MRNA), and NewAmsterdam Pharma Company (NAMS) have received analyst coverage. Alnylam Pharma was reiterated with a "Buy" rating and a $510 price target, showing a strong buy consensus. Moderna maintained a "Hold" rating, with analysts suggesting a downside, while NewAmsterdam Pharma Company was also reiterated with a "Buy" rating and a strong buy consensus, indicating a significant upside.
BioNTech sues Moderna for patent infringement over COVID shots
German biopharmaceutical company BioNTech has sued Moderna in Delaware federal court, alleging that Moderna's mNEXSPIKE COVID-19 vaccine infringes upon a patent related to BioNTech and Pfizer's Comirnaty shot. BioNTech claims Moderna's next-generation vaccine violates its rights in technology for a streamlined messenger RNA-based vaccine design that allows for lower dosages. This lawsuit follows Moderna's own ongoing patent infringement case against BioNTech and Pfizer from 2022, highlighting a growing trend of patent disputes among biotech companies over COVID-19 vaccine technology.
Why AstraZeneca PLC (AZN) is One of the Best Immunotherapy Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds
AstraZeneca PLC (AZN) is highlighted as a top immunotherapy stock favored by hedge funds, despite a recent "Sell" rating from Deutsche Bank. The company announced positive Phase III trial results for Breztri Aerosphere in uncontrolled asthma, showing significant improvements and no new safety concerns. AstraZeneca specializes in biopharmaceutical exploration, development, manufacturing, and commercialization, focusing on prescription medicines and novel immuno-oncology treatments.
Where is Pfizer Inc. (PFE) Headed?
Pfizer Inc. (PFE) faces a downgrade to Neutral from Daiwa with a $27 price target, yet received Priority Review from the FDA for its HYMPAVZI® sBLA, aiming to expand its approved indication for hemophilia treatment. Despite these developments, the article suggests that certain AI stocks might offer greater upside potential with less risk than PFE.
Where is Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK) Headed According to the Street?
Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK) has been upgraded to a Buy rating by Deutsche Bank with a raised price target due to belief that the market undervalues the company despite the looming Keytruda patent cliff. The firm sees a clear path for the company's growth, excluding Keytruda. Additionally, the FDA approved KEYTRUDA® and KEYTRUDA QLEX™ for treating platinum-resistant epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal carcinoma with specific PD-L1+ characteristics, marking them as the first and only PD-1 inhibitors for this indication.
KeyBanc lowers Global-E Online stock price target on valuation
KeyBanc has lowered its price target for Global-E Online Ltd (NASDAQ:GLBE) shares to $40 from $45, while maintaining an Overweight rating, despite strong fourth-quarter results and optimistic fiscal 2026 guidance. This adjustment reflects current market conditions, even as the company shows impressive revenue growth and other analysts like BofA Securities, Needham, and Citizens reiterate bullish ratings with higher price targets. The firm cited continued momentum in Global-E's services and updated 2026 estimates based on better-than-expected sales trends.
Truist Securities Cuts IQVIA Price Target to $245 From $290, Maintains Buy Rating
Truist Securities has lowered its price target for IQVIA Holdings Inc. (IQV) to $245 from $290, while reiterating a Buy rating on the stock. This adjustment comes despite competitor Charles River forecasting an upbeat 2026 profit due to improved demand for drug development services. Other analysts, including TD Cowen, UBS, Leerink Partners, and Evercore ISI, have also recently adjusted their price targets for IQVIA.
FDA Fast Track Win And New HR Chief Might Change The Case For Investing In BioNTech (BNTX)
BioNTech recently received FDA Fast Track designation for its cancer candidate BNT113 and appointed Kylie Jimenez as Chief People Officer, signaling a strategic pivot towards oncology beyond its COVID-19 vaccine success. While the Fast Track status accelerates BNT113's development, it doesn't guarantee approval or commercial success. Investors should remain aware that significant R&D spending and uncertain late-stage outcomes in oncology could prolong unprofitability, despite forecasts projecting revenue and earnings growth by 2028.
First oral norovirus drug candidate at major antiviral meeting
Cocrystal Pharma (Nasdaq: COCP) will present initial Phase 1 and ongoing Phase 1b norovirus challenge study data for its first oral, direct-acting protease inhibitor, CDI-988, at the International Society for Antiviral Research Conference (ICAR2026) in Prague from April 27–May 1. CDI-988 is being developed for the prevention and treatment of acute norovirus gastroenteritis and is also a pan-viral 3CL protease inhibitor. The presentation highlights the advancement of CDI-988 as the company's first oral candidate targeting norovirus, noting an immediate market need due to the absence of approved antiviral therapies or vaccines for norovirus infections.
Invivyd (IVVD) CHRO Green sells $63k in stock after option exercise
Julie Green, CHRO of Invivyd (IVVD), sold 40,627 shares totaling approximately $63,350 on Feb 17-18, 2026, to cover tax obligations after exercising options for 99,000 shares. The company, valued at $465 million, has seen a 189% price return in the last six months despite a 33% year-to-date decline. Invivyd is also preparing for a Phase 3 trial for its VYD2311 monoclonal antibody and has partnered with Lindsey Vonn for an educational campaign on antibodies.
Morgan Stanley Keeps Their Buy Rating on BioNTech SE (BNTX)
Morgan Stanley analyst Terence Flynn maintained a Buy rating for BioNTech SE (BNTX) with a price target of $134.00, citing a 60.76% success rate and 12.0% average return. Despite corporate insider sentiment being negative due to increased selling, the overall analyst consensus for BioNTech SE is a Strong Buy with an average price target of $143.80. BioNTech SE reported a quarterly revenue of $1.52 billion and GAAP net loss of $28.7 million in its latest earnings release.
BioNTech vaccine update: what US patients should really know now
This article provides an update on the BioNTech/Pfizer COVID vaccine for US patients in 2026, focusing on its transition from an emergency pandemic tool to a seasonal-style protection product. It covers what's new, including updated formulations targeting current variants, clearer safety profiles, and flexible booster schedules, while addressing real-world availability, cost, and expert recommendations based on age and risk groups. The piece emphasizes the vaccine's continued effectiveness in preventing severe disease, hospitalization, and death, particularly for high-risk individuals, despite waning protection against mild infection.
Court Rejects Two Moderna Defenses in mRNA Vaccine Patent Row With Arbutus
A federal judge in Delaware has rejected two of Moderna's key defenses in a patent infringement lawsuit filed by Arbutus Biopharma concerning Moderna's mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. The judge dismissed Moderna's arguments of obviousness and derivation regarding Arbutus' lipid nanoparticle delivery technology, leaving only their enablement defense. This ruling marks a significant development in the ongoing legal battle over the foundational technology used in mRNA vaccines.
FDA agrees to review Moderna’s mRNA flu vaccine application in a reversal
The FDA has reversed an earlier decision and agreed to review Moderna's experimental mRNA flu shot application, clearing the way for potential availability for the upcoming influenza season. Moderna proposed a revised regulatory approach seeking full approval for adults 50 to 64 and accelerated approval for those 65 and up, which helped address the FDA's previous concerns about the trial's comparator vaccine. This development is crucial for Moderna's combination Covid-flu jab and its financial goals.
FDA reverses course and will review Moderna’s mRNA flu shot, company says
Moderna announced that the FDA has reversed its initial refusal and will now review the company's new mRNA seasonal flu vaccine. The FDA had initially rejected Moderna's application due to concerns about the control arm of its trial. Moderna has since proposed a revised regulatory approach, seeking full approval for adults aged 50-64 and accelerated approval for those 65 and older, with a potential launch for the 2026-2027 flu season.
Moderna dealt blows in ongoing patent dispute with Arbutus
Moderna has faced setbacks in its ongoing patent dispute with Arbutus Biopharma concerning its mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. A federal judge in Delaware dismissed two key defenses presented by Moderna, specifically rejecting their argument based on obviousness. This decision could impact the direction of the patent litigation between the two companies.
Berkshire reduces Apple stake, FDA to review Moderna vaccine
Moderna's stock surged after the FDA reversed its earlier rejection and decided to review the company's flu vaccine. Berkshire Hathaway disclosed a new $350 million investment in The New York Times, while also trimming its stake in Apple and revealing a new position in Alphabet. Palo Alto Networks saw its shares fall after lowering its annual profit forecast due to higher integration costs from recent acquisitions.
US reexamines Tivic radiation sickness drug that boosted survival in animals
Tivic (Nasdaq: TIVC) announced a follow-up meeting with BARDA on March 10, 2026, to discuss its Acute Radiation Syndrome drug, Entolimod. The meeting will cover clinical data, potential funding, and possible inclusion in the Strategic National Stockpile, following promising animal study results under the FDA Animal Rule. Tivic also highlighted its manufacturing readiness through its subsidiary, Velocity Bioworks.
FDA Decides to Review Moderna’s Flu Shot in Surprise Reversal
The FDA has reversed an earlier decision and will now review Moderna's mRNA flu shot application. This change follows Moderna's revised regulatory approach, which addresses previous criticisms from the FDA. Moderna is seeking full approval for adults aged 50-64 and accelerated approval for those 65 and older, with a commitment to conduct further trials for the older demographic.
U.S. FDA reverses course, will review Moderna's modified flu vaccine application
The U.S. FDA has agreed to review Moderna's modified influenza vaccine application, reversing its earlier decision to reject it. This reversal comes after Moderna made modifications to its application, seeking full approval for adults aged 50-64 and accelerated approval for those 65 and above, along with a post-marketing study. The FDA is expected to make a decision by August 5.
Health Rounds: Moderna combo flu/COVID vaccine succeeds in mid-stage trial
Moderna's two-in-one mRNA vaccine, designed to target both seasonal influenza and COVID-19, showed promising results in a mid-stage trial, producing strong and lasting immune responses without safety issues. The experimental vaccine instructs the body to create proteins from both flu strains and the original COVID-19 virus. Separately, a study in mice suggests that non-celiac gluten sensitivity may be linked to disruptions in gut bacteria, influencing how gluten is processed and recognized by the immune system.
US FDA to initiate review of Moderna's influenza vaccine
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has agreed to review Moderna's influenza vaccine after initially refusing due to trial design flaws. Moderna will seek full approval for adults aged 50-64 and accelerated approval for those 65 and above, with a decision expected by August 5. The company will also conduct an additional post-marketing study for older adults.
Moderna’s mRNA flu shot heads to FDA review, aiming at adults over 50
Moderna announced that the FDA has accepted its biologics license application for the seasonal influenza vaccine candidate mRNA-1010, setting a PDUFA goal date of August 5, 2026. The company proposes a regulatory pathway seeking full approval for adults aged 50-64 and accelerated approval for those 65+, with a post-marketing study in older adults. mRNA-1010 is also under review in Europe, Canada, and Australia, with potential first approvals expected in 2026.
Modernagate Fallout, Disc’s Rejection, Compass’ Psilocybin Data, CDC’s Lost Leaders
This article discusses several significant developments in the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors. The FDA rejected Moderna's mRNA-based flu vaccine, citing an inadequate comparator group, and also rejected Disc Medicine's rare disease drug bitopertin due to regulatory uncertainty. Meanwhile, Compass Pathways reported strong Phase 3 data for its psilocybin-based depression drug, and the CDC is once again leaderless following the departure of Jim O’Neill.
Advisors Capital Management LLC Purchases 260,742 Shares of Pfizer Inc. $PFE
Advisors Capital Management LLC increased its stake in Pfizer Inc. by 12.1% during the third quarter, acquiring an additional 260,742 shares, bringing their total holdings to 2,411,463 shares valued at $61.444 million. This move comes as Pfizer reported stronger-than-expected Q4 earnings with $0.66 EPS on $17.56 billion in revenue, surpassing analyst estimates. The company also declared a $0.43 quarterly dividend, equivalent to a 6.3% yield.
Rhumbline Advisers Purchases 39,229 Shares of Moderna, Inc. $MRNA
Rhumbline Advisers increased its stake in Moderna, Inc. by 6.3% during the third quarter, acquiring an additional 39,229 shares. Other institutional investors like Rothschild Investment LLC and Assetmark Inc. also adjusted their holdings. Insider selling was reported by Director Noubar Afeyan, while analysts maintain mixed ratings with a consensus "Reduce" and an average price target of $31.47.
FDA reverses decision not to review Moderna’s new flu vaccine
The FDA has reversed its initial decision not to review Moderna's new flu vaccine application, which had previously left the company in "complete shock." The agency cited a "revised regulatory approach and an amended application," setting an August deadline for its decision. If approved, the mRNA-based vaccine could be available for the 2026-2027 flu season, despite prior concerns from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. regarding mRNA technology.
Rhythm Pharmaceuticals (RYTM) to Release Quarterly Earnings on Wednesday
Rhythm Pharmaceuticals (RYTM) is scheduled to release its Q4 2025 earnings before market open on Wednesday, February 25th, with analysts expecting a loss of ($0.80) per share. The company's stock opened at $102.53, showing a 4.5% increase, and has a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating from Wall Street analysts with an average target price of $130.46. Recent insider activity includes sales by Pamela J. Cramer and Hunter C. Smith, while institutional investors have adjusted their stakes in RYTM.
Stocks to Watch Wednesday: Palo Alto Networks, Moody's, Caesars
This article highlights several stocks to watch on Wednesday, featuring Palo Alto Networks, Moody's, and Kenvue. Moderna's shares jumped after the FDA agreed to review its seasonal flu shot, while Analog Devices rose on strong quarterly results and guidance. Conversely, Palo Alto Networks saw its shares drop despite better-than-expected earnings, due to disappointing earnings-per-share guidance for the current quarter.
Alnylam’s First Profitable Year Tests Durability Of TTR RNAi Franchise
Alnylam Pharmaceuticals (NasdaqGS:ALNY) has achieved its first full year of profitability in 2025, driven by the success of its TTR franchise and expanded Amvuttra indication. The company is also investing in a new RNAi manufacturing platform and forming new industry partnerships to broaden its RNA therapeutics portfolio. Key challenges include reliance on its TTR franchise and effective capital allocation for R&D and manufacturing to sustain its growth.
Analysts Have Conflicting Sentiments on These Healthcare Companies: Crispr Therapeutics AG (CRSP), Moderna (MRNA) and Disc Medicine (IRON)
This article summarizes recent analyst ratings for three healthcare companies: Crispr Therapeutics AG (CRSP), Moderna (MRNA), and Disc Medicine (IRON). J.P. Morgan maintained a Buy rating for Crispr Therapeutics, while Bernstein held a Hold rating for Moderna. Stifel Nicolaus reaffirmed a Buy rating for Disc Medicine, reflecting varied analyst sentiments across the sector.
Moderna Flu Vaccine Debate Could Resolve With Postmarket Study, FDA’s Makary Suggests
A postmarket study could help resolve the ongoing debate surrounding Moderna's flu vaccine candidate, according to an FDA official. This suggestion comes after the FDA refused to file Moderna's Biologics License Application (BLA) for the vaccine, citing changing advice. The refusal has raised concerns from Moderna's CEO and prompted defense from HHS regarding the FDA's decision.
Uveitis Clinical Trial Pipeline Expands as 15+ Companies
The Uveitis clinical trial pipeline is expanding with over 15 companies advancing more than 15 therapies toward market entry, according to a DelveInsight report. Key developments include FDA clearances for new drugs like NOV05 and expanded indications for existing ones such as YUFLYMA and ILUVIEN. Promising therapies like Tarsier Pharma's TRS01 and Eyevensys' EYS606 are highlighted, targeting various mechanisms of ocular inflammation.
Analysts Have Conflicting Sentiments on These Healthcare Companies: Crispr Therapeutics AG (CRSP), Moderna (MRNA) and Disc Medicine (IRON)
Analysts have issued conflicting ratings for several healthcare companies. J.P. Morgan maintained a Buy rating for Crispr Therapeutics AG (CRSP) with an average price target indicating a significant upside. Bernstein analyst Courtney Breen maintained a Hold rating on Moderna (MRNA), while Stifel Nicolaus maintained a Buy rating for Disc Medicine (IRON), suggesting a strong upside for the company.
Moderna Stock Rises After EU Marketing Authorization For mNEXSPIKE
Moderna's stock rose after the European Commission granted marketing authorization for its COVID-19 vaccine, mNEXSPIKE, for individuals aged 12 and older. This marks Moderna's third authorized product in the EU and follows positive clinical trial results showing higher vaccine efficacy compared to Spikevax. The company has also received approvals in the US, Canada, and Australia, and an analyst raised Moderna's price target to $35.
Moderna (MRNA) Price Target Raised to $35 by Evercore ISI Group
Evercore ISI Group has increased its price target for Moderna (MRNA) from $28.00 to $35.00, while maintaining an "In-Line" rating. This adjustment follows several other analyst rating changes for the biotech company, which was founded in 2010 and is known for its mRNA technology vaccine. Wall Street analysts currently project an average one-year price target of $41.01 for MRNA.
Viking Therapeutics Expands Obesity Pipeline As VK2735 Nears Late Stage Trials
Viking Therapeutics is significantly expanding its obesity drug pipeline as its injectable VK2735 nears late-stage trials and an oral version moves towards Phase 3. The company also plans to file an IND for a new amylin agonist. While Viking (NasdaqCM:VKTX) is currently operating at a net loss, its multi-asset approach in a large market dominated by Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk could offer diverse treatment options, making future clinical readouts and regulatory milestones critical for investors.
Moderna Receives European Commission Marketing Authorization for COVID-19 Vaccine mNEXSPIKE
Moderna has received European Commission marketing authorization for its new COVID-19 vaccine, mNEXSPIKE (mRNA-1283), for individuals aged 12 and older. This marks Moderna's third authorized product in the EU and strengthens its respiratory vaccine portfolio in the region. The decision is supported by positive Phase 3 clinical trial data showing mNEXSPIKE's efficacy and similar safety profile to Spikevax, with fewer local reactions.
New Moderna COVID shot shows 9.3% edge in trial, now cleared in Europe
Moderna's new COVID-19 vaccine, mNEXSPIKE, has received marketing authorization from the European Commission for individuals aged 12 and older across 27 EU member states plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. A Phase 3 trial demonstrated mNEXSPIKE had a 9.3% higher relative efficacy compared to Spikevax, with this increasing to 13.5% in adults aged 65 and older, while maintaining a similar safety profile with fewer local reactions. This approval follows similar authorizations in the U.S., Canada, and Australia, strengthening Moderna's respiratory vaccine portfolio in Europe.
Moderna Receives European Commission Marketing Authorization for COVID-19 Vaccine mNEXSPIKE
Moderna announced that the European Commission has granted marketing authorization for its new COVID-19 vaccine, mNEXSPIKE (mRNA-1283), for individuals aged 12 and older. This marks Moderna's third authorized product in the EU and strengthens its respiratory vaccine portfolio in the region. The vaccine demonstrated higher relative efficacy than Spikevax in a Phase 3 trial and showed a similar safety profile with fewer local reactions.
Shell Asset Management Co. Has $1.03 Million Holdings in Pfizer Inc. $PFE
Shell Asset Management Co. reduced its stake in Pfizer Inc. by 54.8% in Q3, selling 49,152 shares and retaining 40,506 shares valued at $1.03 million. Other institutional investors like Peak Asset Management LLC and Community Bank & Trust Waco Texas increased their holdings. Analysts currently have a "Hold" rating on Pfizer with a consensus target price of $28.00.
Moderna, Inc. (NASDAQ:MRNA) Released Earnings Last Week And Analysts Lifted Their Price Target To US$40.90
Moderna, Inc. (NASDAQ:MRNA) reported strong annual results, exceeding revenue forecasts with US$1.9 billion, and achieving a statutory loss 8.0% smaller than expected. Following these results, analysts raised their consensus price target for Moderna by 5.4% to US$40.90, indicating a moderate uplift in sentiment despite the company's projected revenue growth still trailing the broader industry. The company is expected to see a 5.3% revenue increase in 2026, with a slight amelioration in loss per share.
