Forbes Daily: Moderna Stock Surges On Landmark Cancer Vaccine Trial

A former Meta engineering director testified that the company prioritized profits over safety for underage users. Meta faces a trial with multiple states over these claims. The U.S. Treasury announced plans to double bond buybacks to calm rising yields. Moderna shares surged after positive cancer treatment trial results. Fed minutes suggest rate hikes may be needed if inflation persists. UAE suspended trade with Iran following missile attacks.

Moderna (MRNA) shares surged 177% after its mRNA cancer vaccine met Phase 3 trial goals with Merck's Keytruda, then fell 20% the next day. The vaccine showed a 49% reduction in recurrence or death in melanoma patients. Moderna has ongoing studies across multiple cancer types. Investors are reassessing the impact of the vaccine on the business.

Moderna and Merck reported that their experimental mRNA cancer vaccine, combined with Merck's Keytruda, successfully reduced melanoma recurrence in a large trial. The study involved 1,137 patients. Moderna's stock rose 177%. Details will be presented to regulators and at a medical meeting. According to the Wall Street Journal, this is the first successful late-stage trial for a personalized mRNA cancer therapy.

Merck and Moderna reported success in a late-stage trial of their mRNA-based cancer treatment, intismeran autogene, for reducing melanoma recurrence. The trial involved 1,137 patients and showed positive results. The companies plan to present data and seek regulatory approval. Experts hailed the results as a breakthrough in cancer immunotherapy.

Moderna co-founder Robert Langer's net worth doubled to $1.7 billion following positive Phase 3 trial results for a cancer vaccine developed with Merck, boosting Moderna's stock over 100%. Langer's stake, valued at 3%, surged from $730 million to over $1 billion. This marks his second time as a billionaire, after Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine success in 2020. Langer advises prioritizing meaningful work over financial gains.

Merck (MRK) shares fell 1.38% after a 12.6% gain, reaching $150.10. The company and Moderna reported positive Phase 3 trial results for a cancer vaccine combined with Keytruda, meeting primary and secondary endpoints. Keytruda sales were $8.4B in Q2, up 4% YoY. Merck's R&D spending led to a $5.6B net loss in H1 2026, but operating cash flow doubled to $9.3B. Analysts note the stock is 8% above average targets.