Key Takeaways
- Moderna shares climbed 13% to reach $67.50, approaching its highest closing price since September 2024
- The biotech firm unveiled mRNA-6007, its inaugural in vivo CAR-T therapy, focused on autoimmune conditions including lupus
- Human trials for mRNA-6007 are scheduled to commence in 2027
- Jefferies analyst Andrew Tsai increased his target price from $45 to $53; Piper Sandler lifted its target from $69 to $77
- Year-to-date, Moderna’s valuation has increased more than 100% amid enthusiasm for its diversified pipeline beyond COVID vaccines
Shares of Moderna (MRNA) rocketed 13% to reach $67.50 during Friday’s trading session, establishing the biotech company as the top gainer within the S&P 500 index. This performance positions the stock to achieve its strongest closing level since September 2024.
The sharp upward movement followed the company’s investor day presentation held on Thursday, during which Moderna unveiled an expansive strategic vision extending well beyond its COVID-19 vaccine foundation.
The marquee reveal centered on Moderna’s inaugural in vivo CAR-T therapy, designated mRNA-6007. This innovative methodology genetically modifies T-cells directly within a patient’s body instead of through laboratory extraction and manipulation. This approach offers significant cost advantages and accelerated deployment compared to conventional ex vivo CAR-T treatments.
Moderna announced intentions to initiate clinical trials for mRNA-6007 in 2027. The program will initially concentrate on B-cell-mediated autoimmune disorders, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus — a disease characterized by the immune system’s attack on healthy bodily tissues.
This strategic move places Moderna in direct competition with other pharmaceutical giants pursuing similar technologies. Eli Lilly (LLY), whose shares rose 6% Friday on separate news, recently completed an acquisition of Orna Therapeutics to secure access to a leading in vivo CAR-T platform.
Broadening Product Portfolio
Apart from the CAR-T initiative, Moderna presented its development pipeline organized into three strategic “horizons.” The initial horizon encompasses advanced-stage candidates and existing commercial offerings. The subsequent horizons extend into emerging programs spanning oncology, respiratory illnesses, and rare disease areas.
Jefferies analyst Andrew Tsai noted that the early-stage cancer research efforts “can meaningfully diversify the mRNA pipeline.” He highlighted T-cell engagers focused on multiple myeloma and ovarian cancer as particularly promising assets.
Tsai adjusted his price target upward from $45 to $53 while maintaining a Hold rating. He emphasized that the more significant near-term catalyst isn’t the CAR-T program — rather, it’s Phase III melanoma trial results anticipated in the latter half of 2026, which he characterized as “a major event” for shareholders.
Piper Sandler analyst Edward Tenthoff expressed greater enthusiasm. He elevated his price target from $69 to $77 while reaffirming an Overweight rating, pointing to the comprehensive advancement demonstrated at the investor presentation.
Evolution Beyond COVID-19 Vaccines
Moderna’s revenue generation today remains predominantly anchored in three vaccine products. However, Jefferies analyst Tsai projects this could expand to over seven marketed products spanning multiple therapeutic areas within the coming two years.
This would represent a transformative evolution from 2020, when Moderna’s entire commercial portfolio consisted solely of the Spikevax COVID-19 vaccine.
Moderna’s stock value has more than doubled year-to-date as investor sentiment strengthens around this strategic transformation. The melanoma therapy program, developed in partnership with Merck, has served as a primary catalyst for this optimism.
Friday’s investor day presentation intensified this momentum, with the CAR-T therapy disclosure emerging as the event’s standout announcement.
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