Cancer vaccine shows promise in late- stage melanoma trial; stocks soar

Bond market volatility pressured stocks early in the week, with the Nasdaq dropping 2.1%. Biotech stocks surged: Moderna (MRNA) rose 177% after positive cancer trial results, and Twist Bioscience (TWST) gained 23% on AI-driven protein binder success. NVIDIA's earnings and the Jackson Hole symposium are upcoming market tests.

Merck (MRK) and Moderna (MRNA) announced positive Phase III results for their cancer vaccine, intismeran, showing improved outcomes when combined with Keytruda. Shares of both companies surged, with Moderna gaining 130.5% over three days. Sequencing companies like Illumina (ILMN) and PacBio (PACB) also saw gains due to the personalized nature of the therapy. Analysts upgraded Moderna's stock, citing broadened sales potential, while others remained cautious about long-term expectations.

Moderna (MRNA) stock surged 177% after announcing positive Phase 3 trial results for its mRNA cancer therapy with Merck. The therapy met primary and secondary endpoints in a melanoma trial, marking the first successful human Phase 3 win for mRNA-based cancer treatment. Analysts raised price targets, but most remain below the current stock price. BioNTech (BNTX) also rose, though its own mRNA cancer program is less advanced. Moderna's cash position is strong but declining.

Moderna (MRNA) shares surged 129% week-on-week, peaking at $176.66, after reporting positive phase 3 trial results for its melanoma therapy candidate with Merck. The therapy met primary and key secondary endpoints, showing significant improvements in recurrence-free and distant metastasis-free survival. Both companies see potential in the large melanoma market, with 112,000 new US cases expected this year. Hedge funds increased holdings in Moderna, with 52 funds holding positions worth $1.4 bill

Moderna (MRNA) and Merck (MRK) reported positive Phase 3 trial results for their cancer vaccine, Intismeran Autogene, boosting shares. Analysts raised sales forecasts and approval probabilities. Sellas Life Sciences (SLS) and ImmunityBio (IBRX) are also in focus due to their oncology work. MRNA surged 177%, MRK gained 13%, and other related stocks saw significant moves.

Moderna and Merck's personalized mRNA cancer treatment showed promising results in late-stage clinical trials, reducing the risk of death by 49% over five years. The treatment, combined with Keytruda, targets melanoma by training the immune system to attack cancer cells. Local experts say it could be a major step forward, but questions remain about side effects and cost.