Moderna Agrees to Placebo-Controlled Trial for New mRNA COVID Vaccine

Moderna has received limited FDA approval for its new mNEXSPIKE mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, which targets adults over 65 and individuals aged 12-64 with certain risk factors, using a smaller protein compared to previous vaccines. U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. confirmed that Moderna has agreed to conduct a true placebo-controlled trial for this vaccine, with the FDA committed to closely monitoring and collecting data on all adverse outcomes throughout the trial. Analysts project a potential 68.46% upside for Moderna's stock based on an average price target of $46.85, though some valuations suggest possible downside risks. The FDA's oversight aims to ensure the vaccine's safety and efficacy for high-risk populations despite some public skepticism and conspiracy claims about mRNA vaccines. This measured approach reflects ongoing efforts to balance innovation, regulatory scrutiny, and public health concerns amid evolving COVID-19 vaccine developments.