Pfizer (NYSE:PFE) Stock, Quote.Headers.trade-ideas

Pfizer

Pfizer is one of the world's largest pharmaceutical firms, with annual sales close to $50 billion (excluding COVID-19 product sales). While it historically sold many types of healthcare products and chemicals, now prescription drugs and vaccines account for the majority of sales. Top sellers include pneumococcal vaccine Prevnar 13, cancer drug Ibrance, and cardiovascular treatment Eliquis. Pfizer sells these products globally, with international sales representing close to 50% of total sales. Within international sales, emerging markets are a major contributor.

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On Saturday, Pfizer Inc (NYSE: PFE) presented positive trial data for experimental drug designed for patients suffering from cancer cachexia during the European Society for Medical Oncology 2024 Congress.

Pfizer Advances On Its Cancer Journey

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Wall Street&#39;s Most Accurate Analysts Weigh In On 3 Health Care Stocks With Over 3% Dividend Yields

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Jim Cramer likes Pfizer and recommends buying more stock. Six Flags is struggling, but Cramer likes First Solar and Equity Residential. Moderna has been disappointing, but Cramer likes Vertiv and Powell Industries as buys.

Jim Cramer Labels Moderna A &#39;Big Disappointment,&#39; But Suggests Doubling Down On Another Pharma Powerhouse

Pfizer Inc

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On Saturday, Pfizer Inc (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/pfe#NYSE">PFE</a>) presented positive trial data for experimental drug designed for patients suffering from&nbsp;cancer cachexia during the European Society for Medical Oncology 2024 Congress. Affecting as many as&nbsp;9 million people across the globe, cancer cachexia is a life-threatening condition that causes cancer patients to lose appetite and consequently, weight.
<h3>Paving The Way For The World&rsquo;s First Treatment For Cancer Cachexia</h3>
The mid-stage trial results showed that patients that were treated with the experimental drug that Pfizer developed showed improvements in body weight, muscle mass, quality of life and physical function. Therefore, the drug which is a monoclonal antibody called ponsegromab could become the first treatment approved in the U.S. specifically&nbsp;for this condition. This would translate to Pfizer saving many lives as 80% of cancer patients who suffer from this condition are not expected to make it beyond a year of being diagnosed as they are unable to meet their body&rsquo;s energy and nutritional needs. The condition also makes the general treatment of cancer less effective and lowers the odds of survival as it leaves the patient even weaker, unable to tolerate the treatment.&nbsp;
<h3>The Trial</h3>
Involving&nbsp;187 patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer, pancreatic cancer or colorectal cancer and high levels of a key driver of cachexia, patients who took the highest dose of ponsegromab, which is 400 milligrams, over the course of 12 weeks&nbsp;observed a&nbsp;5.6% increase in weight compared to those patients who received a placebo. Patients who took lower doses of 200 or 100-milligrams observed roughly 3.5% and 2% increase in body weight compared to the placebo group. Pfizer added that experts consider weight gain greater than 5% as a &ldquo;clinically meaningful difference&rdquo; when it comes to cancer patients with cachexia and noted that increased appetite and improvement in physical activity is what was most encouraging.&nbsp;&nbsp;The good news is that no significant side effects of the drug were observed. Pfizer is planning to begin late-stage development studies in 2025 that can be used to file for approval, while also studying the effect of ponsegromab in a phase two trial in patients diagnosed with heart failure.
Catching up to Moderna Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/mrna#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>) and others on the cancer front.
It&rsquo;s no secret that Pfizer has turned to oncology in an effort to combat the Covid-19 decline.&nbsp;&nbsp;To turn its business around, it targeted as many as 8 blockbuster cancer drugs by the end of this decade. One of its main Covid-19 rivals, Moderna is expected to launch its experimental cancer vaccine as early as next year.
Together with Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/mrk#NYSE">MRK</a>), Moderna is currently testing their combined treatment for advanced melanoma in a large-scale Phase III trial. Approximately, 1,089 patients at more than 165 sites across the globe will be tested to assess the efficiency of the experimental vaccine mRNA-4157 that Moderna and Merck co-developed, along with the immunotherapy drug, Keytruda, that is already a blockbuster for Merck. The study will assess the efficiency of the treatment that Moderna and Merck created in achieving a recurrence-free survival, while the secondary endpoints are distant metastasis-free survival, along with overall survival and safety.
&nbsp;
Codenamed mRNA-4359, Moderna also designed a vaccine to boost people&#39;s immunity to better recognize and fight a variety of advanced solid tumor cancers. During the above-mentioned congress that took place in Barcelona, Spain, on Saturday, researchers at King&rsquo;s College London&nbsp;presented&nbsp;Phase I/II trial to test Moderna&rsquo;s vaccine candidate, more precisely its ability to sensitize the immune system to two specific proteins commonly common in tumor cells as well as other cells that suppress the immune system, PD-L1 and IDO1.&nbsp;From 16 patients diagnosed with advanced lung cancer, melanoma, and other solid tumors who were able to have their responses measured, eight patients showed no signs of their tumors growing and there were no new tumors formed. In addition, tests found that the vaccine seemed to generate a noticeable increase in immune cells that could recognize PD-L1 and IDO1.&nbsp;While more data will be needed to know whether mRNA-4359 can work as hoped, these results are promising.&nbsp;
The future of cancer treatment looks bright.
Besides vaccines designed to help patients combat cancer, Mainz Biomed N.V. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/mynz#NASDAQ">MYNZ</a>) advanced on the early screening and prevention front. A molecular genetics diagnostic company specialized in the early detection of cancer,&nbsp;Mainz Biomed is currently seeking FDA approval for its colorectal cancer test, ColoAlert. With an innovative portfolio of mRNA biomarkers, Mainz Biomed is promising to set a new gold standard for noninvasive detection of advanced adenoma, which is a well-known pre-cancerous condition. This week, Mainz Biomed announced its newest Brand Ambassador,&nbsp;Petra Smeltzer Starke, known serving as&nbsp;General Counsel to the White House Council of Economic Advisors and Senior Advisor to President Obama. Ms. Smeltzer Starke&rsquo;s role will be to help to raise awareness on the importance of early detection of colorectal cancer. If diagnosed early, up to 90% of colorectal cancer cases can be treated successfully. Therefore, early screening makes all the difference.&nbsp;
By the looks of it, years ahead seem promising when it comes to revolutionizing cancer treatment.&nbsp;
DISCLAIMER: This content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as investing advice.
This article is from an unpaid external contributor. It does not represent Benzinga&#39;s reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.

During times of turbulence and uncertainty in the markets, many investors turn to dividend-yielding stocks. These are often companies that have high free cash flows and reward shareholders with a<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/yield-investments"> high dividend payout</a>.
Benzinga readers can review the latest analyst takes on their favorite stocks by visiting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">Analyst Stock Ratings</a> page. Traders can sort through Benzinga's extensive database of analyst ratings, including <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/22/09/28888638/exclusive-study-finds-benzinga-analyst-ratings-data-yields-market-beating-strategie">by analyst accuracy</a>.
Below are the ratings of the most accurate analysts for three high-yielding stocks in the health care sector.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>)</h3>
Dividend Yield: 5.66%
<ul>
<li>Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Louise Chen reiterated an Overweight rating with a price target of $45 on Sept. 16. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 70%.</li>
<li>Wells Fargo analyst Mohit Bansal maintained an Equal-Weight rating and raised the price target from $28 to $30 on July 31. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 78%.</li>
<li>Recent News: Pfizer recently presented positive data from Phase 2 study of Ponsegromab in Patients with cancer cachexia.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro's real-time newsfeed alerted to<a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard"> latest PFE news</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="906" height="835" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20052536/image-161.png" alt="" class="wp-image-557905" style="width:703px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20052536/image-161.png 906w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20052536/image-161-300x276.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20052536/image-161-768x708.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 906px) 100vw, 906px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">CVS Health Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVS#NYSE">CVS</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 4.55%</li>
<li>RBC Capital analyst Ben Hendrix reiterated an Outperform rating with a price target of $68 on Sept. 4. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 74%</li>
<li>Barclays analyst Andrew Mok maintained an Equal-Weight rating and cut the price target from $65 to $63 on Aug. 8. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 79%.</li>
<li>Recent News: Wednesday, Oak Street Health, a subsidiary of CVS Health, agreed to settle for $60 million following allegations that it violated the False Claims Act.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s charting tool helped identify the <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">trend in CVS stock</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="908" height="855" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20052607/image-162.png" alt="" class="wp-image-557908" style="width:653px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20052607/image-162.png 908w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20052607/image-162-300x282.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/20052607/image-162-768x723.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 908px) 100vw, 908px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Gilead Sciences, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GILD#NASDAQ">GILD</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 3.67%</li>
<li>RBC Capital analyst Brian Abrahams maintained a Sector Perform rating and raised the price target from $72 to $74 on Sept. 4. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 65%.</li>
<li>Needham analyst Joseph Stringer reiterated a Hold rating on Aug. 15. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 80%.</li>
<li>Recent News: Gilead Sciences, last week, revealed the results of an interim analysis from a second Phase 3 trial investigating the use of the company's twice-yearly injectable HIV-1 capsid inhibitor, lenacapavir.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s signals feature notified of a potential <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">breakout in GILD shares</a>. </li>
</ul>
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Wall Street's Most Accurate Analysts Weigh In On 3 Health Care Stocks With Over 3% Dividend Yields

BNTX

Pfizer And BioNTech Receive Positive CHMP Opinion For Omicron KP.2-Adapted COVID-19 Vaccine In EU, Awaiting European Commission Authorization To Ship

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>PFE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$65.0K</td>
<td>37.5K</td>
<td>2.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRNA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>09/27/24</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$26.2K</td>
<td>814</td>
<td>482</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SRPT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$130.00</td>
<td>$25.3K</td>
<td>972</td>
<td>303</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>EW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$67.50</td>
<td>$196.0K</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>201</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>EXAS</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$62.50</td>
<td>$90.0K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
<td>200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ILMN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$128.00</td>
<td>$32.6K</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AMGN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$315.00</td>
<td>$105.3K</td>
<td>561</td>
<td>174</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALGN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
<td>$55.5K</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>150</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SYK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$380.00</td>
<td>$98.7K</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>57</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RPRX</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$50.2K</td>
<td>43</td>
<td>54</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding PFE (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>), we observe a call option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 485 day(s) on January 16, 2026. Parties traded 200 contract(s) at a $30.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $65.0K, with a price of $325.0 per contract. There were 37533 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2165 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding MRNA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 9 day(s) on September 27, 2024. Parties traded 104 contract(s) at a $70.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 15 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $26.2K, with a price of $252.0 per contract. There were 814 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 482 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding SRPT (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRPT#NASDAQ">SRPT</a>), we observe a call option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 30 day(s) on October 18, 2024. Parties traded 59 contract(s) at a $130.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $25.3K, with a price of $430.0 per contract. There were 972 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 303 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For EW (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EW#NYSE">EW</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be neutral, expiring in 485 day(s) on January 16, 2026. This event was a transfer of 200 contract(s) at a $67.50 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $196.0K, with a price of $980.0 per contract. There were 7 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 201 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For EXAS (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EXAS#NASDAQ">EXAS</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 121 day(s) on January 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 200 contract(s) at a $62.50 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $90.0K, with a price of $450.0 per contract. There were 1039 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 200 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding ILMN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ILMN#NASDAQ">ILMN</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 2 day(s) on September 20, 2024. Parties traded 102 contract(s) at a $128.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 22 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $32.6K, with a price of $320.0 per contract. There were 6 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 200 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding AMGN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 121 day(s) on January 17, 2025. Parties traded 70 contract(s) at a $315.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 7 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $105.3K, with a price of $1505.0 per contract. There were 561 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 174 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding ALGN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGN#NASDAQ">ALGN</a>), we observe a put option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 211 day(s) on April 17, 2025. Parties traded 150 contract(s) at a $155.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $55.5K, with a price of $370.0 per contract. There were 0 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 150 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For SYK (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SYK#NYSE">SYK</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 275 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 30 contract(s) at a $380.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 11 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $98.7K, with a price of $3290.0 per contract. There were 10 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 57 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For RPRX (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RPRX#NASDAQ">RPRX</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 211 day(s) on April 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 54 contract(s) at a $20.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $50.2K, with a price of $930.0 per contract. There were 43 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 54 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more news on unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Options

ALGN

AMGN

EXAS

ILMN

RPRX

SRPT

10 Health Care Stocks With Whale Alerts In Today's Session

On CNBC's &#8220;Mad Money Lightning Round,&#8221; Jim Cramer said he likes Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) and recommended <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/PFE/analyst-ratings">buying more of the stock.</a>
On Sept. 16, Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Louise Chen reiterated Pfizer with an Overweight rating and maintained a $45 price target.
&#8220;Six Flags (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FUN#NYSE">FUN</a>), I don't know, it feels like it's two flags,&#8221; Cramer said. &#8220;This has just been a merger from hell. I'm not really into the stock.&#8221;
On Sept. 16, JPMorgan analyst Matthew Boss maintained Six Flags Entertainment with an Underweight rating and lowered the price target from $48 to $43.
Cramer said he likes First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSLR#NASDAQ">FSLR</a>), adding that it is an &#8220;up stock.&#8221;
On Sept. 16, BofA Securities analyst Julien Dumoulin-Smith maintained First Solar with a Buy and raised the price target from $320 to $343.
The &#8220;Mad Money&#8221; host said Equity Residential (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EQR#NYSE">EQR</a>) is an &#8220;amazing&#8221; stock, and added that it's a &#8220;total winner.&#8221;
On Sept. 16, several analysts, including, Scotiabank, Evercore ISI Group and JPMorgan, raised their price targets on the stock.
Moderna, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>) has been a &#8220;big disappointment,&#8221; Cramer said.
Moderna announced on Tuesday that Health Canada approved its vaccine, SPIKEVAX, which aids in preventing COVID-19 in people six months of age or older.
&#8220;On a pullback, absolutely,&#8221; Cramer said when asked about Vertiv Holdings Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRT#NYSE">VRT</a>). &#8220;I think it's a winner.&#8221;
On Sept. 11, Vertiv named Frank Poncheri as chief human resources officer.
Cramer said Powell Industries, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/POWL#NASDAQ">POWL</a>) is a buy.
On July 30, Powell Industries reported better-than-expected third-quarter GAAP EPS and sales results.
Price Action:
<ul>
<li>Pfizer shares slipped 0.8% to settle at $29.83 on Tuesday.</li>
<li>Powell shares rose 2.5% to close at $174.44 during the session.</li>
<li>First Solar shares rose 2.9% to close at $239.98 during Tuesday's session.</li>
<li>Six Flags shares gained 2.3% to settle at $41.52.</li>
<li>Equity Residential shares fell 0.6% to close at $77.34 on Tuesday.</li>
<li>Moderna shares gained 4.1% to settle at $71.99 on Tuesday.</li>
<li>Vertiv shares gained 0.4% to close at $87.29.</li>
</ul>
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/09/40898216/cramer-hewlett-packard-is-a-very-inexpensive-stock-likes-this-big-tech-stock">Cramer: Hewlett Packard Is A &#8216;Very Inexpensive&#8217; Stock, Likes This Big Tech Stock</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: s_bukley/Shutterstock.com

Jim Cramer Labels Moderna A 'Big Disappointment,' But Suggests Doubling Down On Another Pharma Powerhouse

Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/lly#NYSE">LLY</a>) announced that the FDA has granted approval to its IL-13 inhibitor Ebglyss (lebrikizumab) for treating moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, also called eczema. Ebglyss is approved for use in adults and children aged 12 and above who weigh at least 40 kgs and whose moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis is not well controlled with topical prescription medicines.
Ebglyss was approved in the European Union in 2023 and in Japan in January this year. The drug generated sales of $7.5 million in the first half of 2024.
Year to date, Lilly&#39;s stock has risen 58.5% compared with the industry&#39;s 25.2% growth. The stock has also outperformed the sector as well as the S&amp;P 500.
<h2>LLY Stock Outperforms Industry, Sector &amp; S&amp;P 500</h2>
<img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/93/77794.jpg?v=624696101" style="height:310px; width:600px" />
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
<h2>More on LLY&#39;s Ebglyss</h2>
Ebglyss&#39; approval in the United States was based on data from&nbsp;ADvocate 1, ADvocate 2 and ADhere studies. Data from these studies showed that patients treated with Ebglyss experienced significant skin clearance as early as four weeks and meaningful itch relief as early as two weeks. Many people living with eczema experience poor long-term disease control and severe itch despite treatment with topicals. Ebglyss offers such patients a new first-line biologic treatment option for treating their moderate-to-severe eczema. The injection will be launched in the United States in the coming weeks.
In the United States and some countries other than Europe, Lilly owns exclusive development and commercialization rights to Ebglyss. However, in Europe, it has out-licensed rights to develop and commercialize Ebglyss for the treatment of dermatology indications to its partner Almirall.
<h2>Lilly&#39;s Several New Drug Approvals in Past Year</h2>
Lilly gained approvals for some other new drugs in the past year, with the most important being Mounjaro and Zepbound. &nbsp;Mounjaro and Zepbound include the same compound, tirzepatide, a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist (GIP/GLP-1 RA). Mounjaro was approved in May 2022 for type II diabetes. Zepbound was launched in November 2023 to treat obesity.
Despite a short time on the market, Mounjaro and Zepbound have become key top-line drivers for Lilly in 2024, with demand rising rapidly. Mounjaro and Zepbound generated sales of almost $6.7 billion in the first half of 2024, accounting for around 44% of the company&#39;s total revenues.
Other than Mounjaro and Zepbound, other new drug approvals include Omvoh for ulcerative colitis and BTK inhibitor Jaypirca for mantle cell lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Lilly expects its new drugs &mdash; Mounjaro, Omvoh, Zepbound, Ebglyss and Jaypirca &mdash; to drive its top line in the second half of 2024.
In July, Lilly won a long-awaited FDA approval for Kisunla (donanemab) for treating early symptomatic Alzheimer&#39;s disease. Lilly believes Kisunla can generate blockbuster sales. Kisunla is only the second drug on the market to treat Alzheimer&#39;s disease after Biogen (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/biib#NASDAQ">BIIB</a>) and its Japan-based partner Eisai&#39;s Leqembi.
<h2>Lilly&#39;s Zacks Rank and Other Stocks to Consider</h2>
Lilly sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
<div class="chart_embed">
<h3>Eli Lilly and Company Stock Price and Consensus</h3>
<img alt="Eli Lilly and Company Price and Consensus" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/charts/84/1726472114.png" style="height:265px; width:591px" title="" />
Eli Lilly and Company price-consensus-chart | Eli Lilly and Company Quote
Some other top-ranked large drugmakers are Novartis (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/nvs#NYSE">NVS</a>) and Pfizer (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/pfe#NYSE">PFE</a>), each carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
</div>
In the past 60 days, 2024 earnings estimates for Pfizer have improved from $2.38 per share to $2.62 per share. For 2025, earnings estimates have improved from $2.75 per share to $2.85 per share over the same timeframe. Pfizer shares have risen 1.6% year to date.
Pfizer&#39;s earnings beat estimates in each of the last four quarters. PFE delivered a four-quarter average earnings surprise of 69.82%
Estimates for Novartis&#39; 2024 earnings have risen from $7.31 to $7.50 per share over the past 60 days. For 2025, earnings estimates have increased from $8.21 to $8.29 per share over the same timeframe. Year to date, Novartis stock has risen 14.5 %.
Novartis beat estimates in three of the last four quarters while missing in one, delivering a four-quarter average earnings surprise of 1.26%.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2336877/lilly-gets-fda-approval-for-eczema-drug-ebglyss?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|company_news_medical_sector-2336877">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

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Lilly Gets FDA Approval for Eczema Drug Ebglyss

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bearish move on Pfizer. Our analysis of options history for Pfizer (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) revealed 8 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 37% of traders were bullish, while 50% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 2 were puts, with a value of $117,000, and 6 were calls, valued at $244,926.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $15.0 to $30.0 for Pfizer during the past quarter. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Pfizer's options for a given strike price. Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Pfizer's whale trades within a strike price range from $15.0 to $30.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Pfizer 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726581700_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>PFE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>10/04/24</td>
<td>$4.15</td>
<td>$4.05</td>
<td>$4.15</td>
<td>$26.00</td>
<td>$83.0K</td>
<td>301</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PFE</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$6.9</td>
<td>$4.4</td>
<td>$4.4</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$66.0K</td>
<td>20</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PFE</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$3.45</td>
<td>$3.4</td>
<td>$3.4</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$51.0K</td>
<td>30.7K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PFE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$0.89</td>
<td>$0.87</td>
<td>$0.87</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$50.4K</td>
<td>22.2K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">887</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PFE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$15.75</td>
<td>$14.75</td>
<td>$15.3</td>
<td>$15.00</td>
<td>$30.5K</td>
<td>565</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">20</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Pfizer</h3>
Pfizer is one of the world's largest pharmaceutical firms, with annual sales close to $50 billion (excluding COVID-19 product sales). While it historically sold many types of healthcare products and chemicals, now prescription drugs and vaccines account for the majority of sales. Top sellers include pneumococcal vaccine Prevnar 13, cancer drug Ibrance, and cardiovascular treatment Eliquis. Pfizer sells these products globally, with international sales representing close to 50% of total sales. Within international sales, emerging markets are a major contributor.
<h3>Pfizer's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 1,860,933, the price of PFE is down -0.25% at $30.0. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 42 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On Pfizer</h3>
In the last month, 3 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $45.0.
<ul>
<li>An analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald downgraded its action to Overweight with a price target of $45. </li>
<li>An analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald downgraded its action to Overweight with a price target of $45. </li>
<li>In a cautious move, an analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald downgraded its rating to Overweight, setting a price target of $45. </li>
</ul>
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Pfizer, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Pfizer Unusual Options Activity

On Monday, major U.S. indices showed mixed results. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed 0.5% higher at 41,622.08, while the S&amp;P 500 edged up 0.1% to 5,633.09. Meanwhile, the Nasdaq fell by 0.5%, closing at 17,592.13.
These are the top stocks that gained the attention of retail traders and investors throughout the day:
Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>)
Intel shares surged by 6.36% to close at $20.91, after reports that the company <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40886674/intel-shares-jump-on-reports-of-possible-3-billion-military-chip-funding">could receive up to $3 billion in federal funding</a> to produce semiconductors for U.S. military applications. The potential grant is part of the CHIPS and Science Act&#8217;s Secure Enclave program, which aims to secure a domestic supply of advanced chips critical for defense and intelligence purposes.
Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>)
Microsoft shares saw a slight increase of 0.17% to close at $431.34. The tech giant announced a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/09/40890217/microsoft-announces-60b-share-buyback-program-10-dividend-increase-amid-rising-ai-investment-and">new share repurchase program</a> worth up to $60 billion and declared a quarterly dividend of $0.83 per share, marking a 10% increase from the previous quarter. 
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/09/40874566/apple-shares-slide-in-monday-premarket-whats-souring-sentiment?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple Shares Slide In Monday Premarket: What&#8217;s Souring Sentiment?</a>
Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>)
Meta Platforms shares rose by 1.75% to close at $533.28. The company has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/09/40878709/how-metas-bold-move-to-train-ai-with-uk-social-media-data-defies-eu-laws-amid-struggling-stock-perfo">decided to use</a> U.K. Facebook and Instagram posts to train its AI systems, despite this practice being prohibited under EU privacy laws. 
Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>)
Pfizer shares increased by 2.73% to close at $30.07. Ron DeSantis-governed Florida is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/09/40881276/desantis-administration-cautions-against-pfizer-moderna-mrna-covid-vaccines-for-vulnerable-indivi">raising concerns</a> about the safety of the mRNA vaccines, pointing to potential risks such as myocarditis and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), rare heart conditions.
Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>)
Tesla shares dropped by 1.54% to close at $226.74. Electric vehicle (EV) registrations in July in the U.S. reportedly marked an 18% increase as compared to the same month last year <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40873304/teslas-cybertruck-sales-in-july-nearly-matched-those-of-all-over-ev-trucks-combined-report">owing to the success</a> of the Tesla Cybertruck. 
Photo by Phongphan on Shutterstock
Prepare for the day&#8217;s trading <a href="Premarket Movers &amp; News">with top premarket movers and news</a> by Benzinga.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40867076/laura-loomer-faces-republican-wrath-over-racist-posts-is-donald-trump-defending-her?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Laura Loomer Faces Republican Wrath Over Racist Posts</a></li>
</ul>
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/shivdeep-dhaliwal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shivdeep Dhaliwal</a>

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Intel, Microsoft, Meta Platforms, Pfizer, Tesla: Why These 5 Stocks Are On Investors' Radars Today

Providing a diverse range of perspectives from bullish to bearish, 13 analysts have published ratings on Pfizer (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) in the last three months.
Summarizing their recent assessments, the table below illustrates the evolving sentiments in the past 30 days and compares them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">9</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">4</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">4</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Providing deeper insights, analysts have established 12-month price targets, indicating an average target of $39.77, along with a high estimate of $45.00 and a low estimate of $30.00. Witnessing a positive shift, the current average has risen by 2.58% from the previous average price target of $38.77.
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726520445_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Diving into Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Exploration</h2>
The perception of Pfizer by financial experts is analyzed through recent analyst actions. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Louise Chen</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louise Chen</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louise Chen</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Narumi Nakagiri</td>
<td>Daiwa Capital</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$34.00</td>
<td>$28.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Carter Gould</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$32.00</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mohit Bansal</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$28.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louise Chen</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colin Bristow</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$31.00</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Carter Gould</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$28.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louise Chen</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louise Chen</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louise Chen</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louise Chen</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Responding to changing market dynamics and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their response to recent developments related to Pfizer. This offers insight into analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Unveiling insights, analysts deliver qualitative insights into stock performance, from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Pfizer compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts provide insights into price targets, offering estimates for the future value of Pfizer's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Capture valuable insights into Pfizer's market standing by understanding these analyst evaluations alongside pertinent financial indicators. Stay informed and make strategic decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/PFE/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Pfizer analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>All You Need to Know About Pfizer</h2>
Pfizer is one of the world's largest pharmaceutical firms, with annual sales close to $50 billion (excluding COVID-19 product sales). While it historically sold many types of healthcare products and chemicals, now prescription drugs and vaccines account for the majority of sales. Top sellers include pneumococcal vaccine Prevnar 13, cancer drug Ibrance, and cardiovascular treatment Eliquis. Pfizer sells these products globally, with international sales representing close to 50% of total sales. Within international sales, emerging markets are a major contributor.
<h3>Financial Insights: Pfizer</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: The company's market capitalization surpasses industry averages, showcasing a dominant size relative to peers and suggesting a strong market position.
Revenue Growth: Over the 3 months period, Pfizer showcased positive performance, achieving a revenue growth rate of 2.13% as of 30 June, 2024. This reflects a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. In comparison to its industry peers, the company trails behind with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Health Care sector.
Net Margin: Pfizer's net margin is below industry averages, indicating potential challenges in maintaining strong profitability. With a net margin of 0.31%, the company may face hurdles in effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Pfizer's ROE is below industry averages, indicating potential challenges in efficiently utilizing equity capital. With an ROE of 0.05%, the company may face hurdles in achieving optimal financial returns.
Return on Assets (ROA): Pfizer's ROA is below industry averages, indicating potential challenges in efficiently utilizing assets. With an ROA of 0.02%, the company may face hurdles in achieving optimal financial returns.
Debt Management: Pfizer's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average at 0.78, reflecting a lower dependency on debt financing and a more conservative financial approach.
<h2>Analyst Ratings: What Are They?</h2>
Benzinga tracks 150 analyst firms and reports on their stock expectations. Analysts typically arrive at their conclusions by predicting how much money a company will make in the future, usually the upcoming five years, and how risky or predictable that company's revenue streams are.
Analysts attend company conference calls and meetings, research company financial statements, and communicate with insiders to publish their ratings on stocks. Analysts typically rate each stock once per quarter or whenever the company has a major update.
Some analysts publish their predictions for metrics such as growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide additional guidance with their ratings. When using analyst ratings, it is important to keep in mind that stock and sector analysts are also human and are only offering their opinions to investors.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Beyond The Numbers: 13 Analysts Discuss Pfizer Stock

Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Louise Chen reiterates Pfizer (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) with a Overweight and maintains $45 price target.

Reiteration

Cantor Fitzgerald Reiterates Overweight on Pfizer, Maintains $45 Price Target

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' administration has reportedly issued updated guidance recommending that healthcare providers steer vulnerable patients away from mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines.
The Florida Health Department is raising concerns about the safety of the mRNA vaccines, pointing to potential risks such as myocarditis and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), rare heart conditions. This stance contrasts sharply with recommendations from federal health agencies, which continue to endorse mRNA vaccines as safe and effective for all eligible individuals.
In June, the U.S. CDC recommended <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2024/s-t0627-vaccine-recommendations.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">using</a> updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines in individuals six months and older.
The FDA in August <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/08/40514864/fda-approves-updated-covid-vaccines-from-pfizer-and-moderna-but-leaves-out-novavaxs-shot" rel="noreferrer noopener">granted emergency use</a> approval for updated mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines from Moderna Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>) and Pfizer Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>)/BioNTech SE's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BNTX#NASDAQ">BNTX</a>), targeting the Omicron variant KP.2 strain.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/08/40347291/long-covid-remains-diagnostic-mystery-diagnosis-remains-elusive-national-institutes-of-health-fun" rel="noreferrer noopener">Long Covid Remains Diagnostic Mystery, Diagnosis Remains Elusive; National Institutes of Health-Funded Study Shows</a>.
The NBC News highlights that the state's health department is advising that individuals aged 65 and older, along with those with underlying health conditions, prioritize access to non-mRNA vaccines and treatments instead.
Earlier this month, the FDA granted Emergency Use Authorization to&nbsp;Novavax Inc.'s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVAX#NASDAQ">NVAX</a>)&nbsp;protein-based COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted (2024-2025 Formula) (NVX-CoV2705) for active immunization to prevent COVID-19 in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/08/n40660946/novavax-2024-2025-formula-covid-19-vaccine-now-authorized-and-recommended-for-use-in-the-u-s" rel="noreferrer noopener">individuals aged 12 and older</a>.
The state's guidance emphasizes that high immunity levels from prior infections, combined with current data, justify their position.
The report <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/florida-covid-shots-mrna-vaccines-older-adults-rcna170997" rel="noreferrer noopener">adds</a> that while there is a documented small risk of myocarditis linked to the mRNA vaccines, especially in younger males, studies show most cases are mild and resolve fully.
Research published in Nature Cardiovascular Research highlights that individuals infected with COVID-19 are five times more likely to develop POTS than those vaccinated with mRNA vaccines, reinforcing the importance of vaccination.
Researchers from the Universities of Cambridge, Bristol, and Edinburgh revealed that COVID-19 vaccinations may significantly reduce the incidence of arterial thromboses, a leading cause of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/08/40348867/struggling-covid-19-vaccines-from-astrazeneca-biontechpfizer-moderna-cut-incidence-of-arterial-th" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart attacks and strokes</a>.
Price Action: MRNA stock is up 2.37% to $69.90, PFE stock is up 2.12% to $29.89 at the last check on Monday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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DeSantis Administration Cautions Against Pfizer, Moderna mRNA Covid Vaccines for Vulnerable Individuals, Cites Concerns Related To Rare Heart Conditions

<ul>
<li>Study met primary endpoint of change from baseline in body weight for ponsegromab compared to placebo across all ponsegromab doses tested, reaching&nbsp;5.6%&nbsp;mean increase at the highest dose evaluated at 12 weeks; ponsegromab was generally considered safe and well-tolerated at all dose levelsi</li>
<li>At the highest dose evaluated, improvements were seen from baseline in appetite and cachexia symptoms, physical activity, and muscle massi</li>
<li>Based on positive Phase 2 results, registration-enabling studies will start in 2025</li>
</ul>

Pfizer Presents Positive Data from Phase 2 Study of Ponsegromab in Patients with Cancer Cachexia

<ul>
<li>BRAFTOVI + MEKTOVI continued to show substantial antitumor activity after a minimum follow up of approximately three years, corresponding to the longest duration of response and progression-free survival in treatment-na&iuml;ve patients compared to historical outcomes</li>
<li>Results support BRAFTOVI + MEKTOVI as a standard of care option for this population</li>
</ul>

Reported Saturday, Pfizer's BRAFTOVI + MEKTOVI Shows Long-Term Efficacy In BRAF V600E-Mutant Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients After Three-Year Follow-Up

<a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/florida-covid-shots-mrna-vaccines-older-adults-rcna170997">https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/florida-covid-shots-mrna-vaccines-older-adults-rcna170997</a>
Even as the Covid wave in Florida continues, Gov. Ron DeSantis' administration is once again advising against the mRNA vaccines: this time in the most vulnerable residents.
In updated guidance for health care providers released Thursday, the Florida Health Department and state Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo questioned the safety and effectiveness of <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/FLDOH/bulletins/3b56786">the mRNA Covid vaccines</a> from Pfizer and Moderna, including for older adults and people with underlying health problems. "Any provider concerned about the health risks associated with Covid-19 for patients over the age of 65 or with underlying health conditions should prioritize patient access to non-mRNA Covid-19 vaccines and treatment," according to the state guidance.
Standing in opposition to <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/new-covid-vaccine-what-know-when-available-timing-rcna167121">advice from federal health agencies</a> and other medical experts about the safety of the Covid vaccines,&nbsp;the Florida Health Department said the recommendation was based on high rates of immunity from prior infections and "currently available data."
Without noting the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid/risk-factors/index.html#:~:text=Older%20adults%20are%20at%20highest,people%20ages%2018%2D29%20years.">high risk of serious Covid infection or hospitalization for older adults</a>, the guidance listed safety concerns for the mRNA vaccines, including the risk of a rare heart condition called myocarditis, as well as the risk of <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/pots-debilitating-heart-condition-linked-covid-lesser-degree-vaccines-rcna61226">POTS, or postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome</a>, a debilitating heart condition.&nbsp;
Numerous studies have shown that both Pfizer and Moderna's vaccines are indeed associated with a small <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/clinical-considerations/myocarditis.html">but increased risk of myocarditis</a>. However, most cases occur in young men and most people make a full recovery. Studies have also shown that the risk of myocarditis is much higher with a Covid infection and is often more severe than the vaccine-associated condition.
A study published <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s44161-022-00177-8">in Nature Cardiovascular Research</a>​ also found that people diagnosed with Covid are five times more likely to develop POTS after infection than after Covid vaccination, emphasizing the importance of the vaccine.
Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine expert at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, said the Florida surgeon general's guidance is unnecessarily alarming people about the Covid vaccines.
"It's just such a dangerous game he plays," said Offit, who has served on the FDA's independent vaccine advisory committee. "You only have a roughly 1,000 times greater likelihood of dying [from Covid] if you're over 65 than if you're under 18."
"The mRNA vaccines are remarkably safe," he added.
New doses of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines were <a href="https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-and-authorizes-updated-mrna-covid-19-vaccines-better-protect-against-currently">approved by the Food and Drug Administration</a> in August. They're targeted to the <a href="https://publichealth.jhu.edu/2024/what-to-know-about-covid-flirt-variants">KP.2 version of the steadily mutating virus </a>and should provide good protection against severe illness, hospitalization and death, experts say.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The United States offers only one <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/fda-authorizes-novavaxs-updated-covid-vaccine-targeting-jn1-strain-rcna169065">Covid vaccine that isn't mRNA-based: Novavax.</a> Novavax's traditional protein-based shot offers an alternative vaccine technology to mRNA. &nbsp;
In a statement, a Novavax spokesperson said its updated vaccine is now available at thousands of retail and pharmacy locations nationwide.
The Florida Health Department did not immediately respond to a request for additional comment.&nbsp;
Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious disease specialist at the University of Toronto, called Florida's recommendation "unfortunate," saying it could put older adults and people with underlying health conditions at risk.
"While the vaccine does not protect against infection nearly as well as it once did, there is very good data demonstrating how Covid vaccines can reduce the risk of severe manifestations of the virus in those who are at greatest risk," said Boguch, who has no ties to the vaccine makers.&nbsp;
Covid cases remain high in the U.S. following a summer wave. Wastewater data collected between Aug. 25 and Aug. 31 shows that 23 states -- including Florida -- are reporting "very high" levels of the virus, <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nwss/rv/COVID19-currentlevels.html">according to the CDC</a>. Emergency department visits and hospitalizations remain <a href="https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#datatracker-home">elevated as well</a>, although they're showing signs of declining. In Florida nursing homes, after declining from summer highs, Covid infections are ticking up again, <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nhsn/covid19/ltc-report-overview.html#anchor_1594393304">according to CDC data.&nbsp;</a>
&nbsp;
The CDC <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2024/s-t0627-vaccine-recommendations.html">currently recommends</a> everyone ages 6 months and older get an updated Covid vaccine this fall from any of the three options.&nbsp;
This isn't the first time Ladapo has ignored CDC guidance. Last year, Ladapo <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/desantis-administration-advises-no-covid-shots-under-65-rcna104912">also recommended</a> that Florida residents under the age of 65 not get the mRNA Covid vaccines, citing widespread immunity and "questions we have about safety and about effectiveness."
"My judgment is that it's not a good decision for young people and for people who are not at high risk at this point in the pandemic," he said.&nbsp;

"Florida Discourages Use Of mRNA Covid Vaccines In Older Adults; In Updated Guidance To Health Care Providers, Florida Health Officials Advise That "Non-mRNA Covid-19 Vaccines And Treatment" Should Be Prioritized" - NBC News

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North Dakota Judge Overturns State's Abortion Ban, Making Abortion Legal In The State

UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) reportedly announced on Tuesday that it will remove AbbVie Inc.&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>) blockbuster drug Humira from some of its preferred reimbursement lists starting January 1, 2025. The company will recommend lower-cost biosimilar versions instead.
This move is part of a larger trend in the U.S. pharmaceutical market, as health plans seek to cut costs by promoting alternatives to high-priced drugs.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/07/39695378/ftc-investigation-uncovers-anti-competitive-practices-by-handful-of-pharmacy-benefit-managers-includ" rel="noreferrer noopener">FTC Investigation Uncovers Anti-Competitive Practices By Handful Of Pharmacy Benefit Managers, Including CVS Health, UnitedHealth</a>.
Reuters highlights that Amgen Inc&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>) Amjevita, managed by its pharmacy benefits unit, Optum Rx, is among the biosimilars covered under UnitedHealth&#8217;s lists for commercial health plans.
With this decision, Optum becomes the last of the three largest U.S. pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) to exclude Humira.
Cigna Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CI#NYSE">CI</a>) announced last month that it would remove Humira from some of its lists in 2025, following a similar decision by CVS Health Inc&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVS#NYSE">CVS</a>) Caremark unit in April.
CVS&#8217;s action led to a swift shift, with more patients transitioning to Sandoz Group AG&#8217;s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SDZNY#OTC">SDZNY</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SDZXF#OTC">SDZXF</a>) biosimilar version of Humira in just three weeks than in the previous 15 months combined.
Cigna plans to cover biosimilars like Boehringer Ingelheim&#8217;s Cyltezo, Simlandi from Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEVA#NYSE">TEVA</a>), and Alvotech&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALVO#NASDAQ">ALVO</a>) products, including an unbranded version of Sandoz&#8217;s Hyrimoz, as replacements for Humira.
UnitedHealth noted that patients would still have access to Humira until the FDA designates the preferred biosimilars as interchangeable with the original drug, per the report. The FDA is expected to make this designation in 2025.
Despite the growing competition, AbbVie has managed to retain a dominant share of the U.S. Humira market throughout 2023. This has been achieved through favorable negotiations with PBMs, even as biosimilar alternatives from companies like Pfizer Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) entered the market.
As per a Reuters report, Humira has still managed to retain over 80% of its patients even after facing lower-priced rivals in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/04/38468317/arthritis-patients-cignas-evernorth-to-offer-humira-biosimilar-at-no-out-of-pocket-cost" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. over the past year</a>.
Following their launch last year, pharmacy benefit managers largely influenced patient access, with minimal incentive for doctors to switch to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/06/39228916/abbvies-arthritis-drug-humira-retains-market-dominance-despite-biosimilar-competition-challenges-" rel="noreferrer noopener">these alternatives</a>.
In May, Cantor Fitzgerald said AbbVie had positioned itself to absorb Humira biosimilar erosion and achieve modest <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/05/38899905/abbvie-is-successfully-positioned-to-absorb-humira-biosimilar-erosion-analyst" rel="noreferrer noopener">operational revenue growth</a>.
Price Action: UNH stock is down 2% at $587.07 at last check Wednesday.
Photo via Shutterstock
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/09/40817991/gsk-halts-herpes-simplex-virus-vaccine-development-clears-path-for-other-contenders-like-moderna-" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GSK Halts Herpes Simplex Virus Vaccine Development, Clears Path For Other Contenders Like Moderna, BioNTech</a>.</li>
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UnitedHealth Follows Competitors, Replaces Humira with Lower-Cost Biosimilars

GSK Plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GSK#NYSE">GSK</a>) shelved on Wednesday its herpes simplex virus (HSV) vaccine development program.
The recombinant protein vaccine, dubbed GSK3943104, did not meet the study&#8217;s primary efficacy objective.
GSK <a href="https://www.gsk.com/en-gb/media/press-releases/gsk-provides-update-on-therapeutic-herpes-simplex-virus-hsv-vaccine-trial/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">added</a> that the vaccine candidate will not progress to phase three studies.
No safety concern was observed. The TH HSV REC-003 study will continue for routine safety monitoring and to generate follow-up.
&#8220;Given the unmet medical need and burden associated with genital herpes, innovation in this area is still needed,&#8221; the company said. &#8220;GSK intends to evaluate the totality of all these data and other studies to progress future research and development of its HSV program.&#8221;
There are no approved vaccines for HSV, and GSK&#8217;s decision to stop developing GSK3943104 eliminates a key contender in the race to market.
Moderna Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>) is <a href="https://investors.modernatx.com/news/news-details/2024/Moderna-Advances-Multiple-Vaccine-Programs-to-Late-Stage-Clinical-Trials/default.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">developing</a> mRNA-1608, an investigational vaccine for herpes simplex virus type 2. The candidate is currently in phase 1/2 trial that is fully enrolled with  300 participants in the U.S. Data is <a href="https://trials.modernatx.com/study/?id=mRNA-1608-P101" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expected</a> in June 2025.
Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) partner BioNTech SE (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BNTX#NASDAQ">BNTX</a>) is <a href="https://investors.biontech.de/news-releases/news-release-details/biontech-starts-phase-1-clinical-trial-prophylactic-herpes" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">developing</a> BNT163, a prophylactic vaccine candidate being studied in a phase one clinical trial.&nbsp;
The German company initiated the phase one trial in December 2022, with an estimated enrollment of 248 participants. Data is <a href="https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05432583" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expected</a> in 2025.
There are an estimated four billion people globally infected with HSV.
GSK Price Action: GSK stock is down 1.12% at $43.61 at last check Wednesday.
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GSK Halts Herpes Simplex Virus Vaccine Development, Clears Path For Other Contenders Like Moderna, BioNTech

HC Wainwright initiated coverage on Enliven Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ELVN#NASDAQ">ELVN</a>) and noted the company as an emerging biotech company developing next-gen precision-oriented small molecules for solid and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ELVN" rel="noreferrer noopener">liquid tumor indications</a>.
Enliven&#8217;s pipeline includes:
<ul>
<li>ELVN-001— a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) targeting mutant BCR::ABL. HC Wainwright highlights that ELVN-001 could meaningfully improve on existing TKI drugs used in chronic myelogenous leukemia, with applicability across multiple lines of therapy.</li>
<li>In April, the company released proof of concept data from the Phase 1 trial of ELVN-001 in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) who are relapsed, refractory, or <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/04/38208363/enliven-therapeutics-shares-first-look-at-safety-clinical-activity-of-lead-program" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intolerant to available TKIs</a>.</li>
<li>ELVN-001 achieved a cumulative major molecular response (MMR) rate of 44% (7/16) by 12 weeks and demonstrated responses in patients with prior exposure to asciminib and who were TKI-resistant.</li>
<li>ELVN-002 is being evaluated in combination with trastuzumab plus chemotherapy or as monotherapy in HER2-driven malignancies within non-small cell lung, colorectal, and metastatic breast cancer, among others.</li>
</ul>
The analyst initiates with a Buy rating and a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ELVN/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">price target of $37</a>.
CML is a chronic disease requiring multiple years of continuous treatment. Patients frequently switch therapies due to liabilities of the existing approved drugs, including poor tolerability due to off-target effects and inability to dose to maximal efficacy.
Six approved drugs—Novartis AG&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVS#NYSE">NVS</a>) Gleevec (imatinib), Scemblix (asciminib), and Tasigna (nilotinib), Bristol-Myers Squibb &amp; Co&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>) Sprycel (dasatinib), Pfizer Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) Bosulif (bosutinib), and Takeda Pharmaceutical Co Ltd (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAK#NYSE">TAK</a>) Iclusig (ponatinib)—generate over $6 billion in annual sales, with each drug bringing in around $500 million. Some even achieve peak annual sales of up to $2 billion despite competition from generic versions.
HC Wainwright analyst projects that positioning ELVN-001 as a third-line treatment could surpass $500 million in peak annual sales.
ELVN-002 has the potential to address unmet needs in HER2-mutant NSCLC, CRC, and mBC, where current treatments have limitations. It could challenge competitors like Pfizer&#8217;s Tukysa and tap into the growing post-AstraZeneca Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) Enhertu market, with sales possibly reaching hundreds of millions.
While Enliven focuses on precision oncology, its target market is broader than that of past agents like Bristol-Myers&#8217; Augtyro (repotrectinib) and Roche Holdings AG&#8217;s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RHHBY#OTC">RHHBY</a>) Rozlytrek (entrectinib).
Price Action: ELVN stock is up 7.32% at $23.01 at the last check on Monday.
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Enliven Therapeutics' Leukemia Candidate Could Challenge Pfizer, AstraZeneca In Broader Target Market: Analyst

Monday, Moderna, Inc.&#8217;s&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>) manufacturing facility in Laval, Quebec, received a Drug Establishment License (DEL) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/09/ac40770351/modernas-canadian-manufacturing-facility-receives-drug-establishment-license-from-health-canada" rel="noreferrer noopener">from Health Canada</a>.
This certification affirms the facility&#8217;s compliance with safety and quality standards, authorizing it to produce drug substances.
This key milestone enables Moderna&#8217;s Canadian manufacturing site to become fully operational, bringing the company closer to ensuring a reliable and onshore supply of mRNA vaccines within Canada.
With the License in place, the facility will proceed with the final qualification process, positioning it to domestically manufacture a portfolio of mRNA vaccines against respiratory viruses beginning in 2025, including COVID-19 and, contingent on approval by Health Canada, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and seasonal influenza.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/09/40754517/modernas-investigational-mpox-vaccine-more-effective-than-current-approved-shot-animal-study-show" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moderna&#8217;s Investigational Mpox Vaccine More Effective Than Current Approved Shot, Animal Study Shows</a>
&#8220;This is a significant achievement in our efforts to bring certified end-to-end mRNA manufacturing capabilities to Canada and is the first of our manufacturing sites outside the U.S. to reach this milestone,&#8221; said Stéphane Bancel, Chief Executive Officer of Moderna. &#8220;We look forward to continuing our work with the Government of Canada to support the national supply of vital respiratory vaccines.&#8221;
&#8220;This is another landmark in Moderna&#8217;s long-term strategic partnership with the Government of Canada to provide onshore respiratory vaccine manufacturing capabilities and support national pandemic readiness,&#8221; said Roger Ngassam, Laval Manufacturing Site Head, Moderna Canada. &#8220;This platform will be the foundation for enabling the manufacturing of multiple mRNA vaccines right here in Canada.&#8221;
This milestone also builds on Moderna&#8217;s existing manufacturing footprint, including key U.S. facilities and facilities under construction in Australia and the U.K.
Recently, the FDA granted <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/08/40514864/fda-approves-updated-covid-vaccines-from-pfizer-and-moderna-but-leaves-out-novavaxs-shot" rel="noreferrer noopener">emergency use authorization</a> for updated mRNA COVID-19 vaccines (2024-2025 formula) from&nbsp;Moderna and&nbsp;Pfizer Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>)/&nbsp;BioNTech SE (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BNTX#NASDAQ">BNTX</a>).
Price Action: MRNA stock is up 6.70% at $77.77 at the last check Monday.
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Photo via <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Moderna_COVID-19_vaccine_%282021%29_F.jpg">Wikimedia Commons</a>

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In a report released today, Akash Tewari from Jefferies assigned a Buy rating to Pfizer (PFE – Research Report), with a price target of $35.00. The...

Pfizer (PFE) Receives a Buy from Jefferies

With the Federal Reserve potentially cutting interest rates for the first time in over four years, uncertainty looms in the market. Amid this backdrop, it could be wise to scoop up the shares of fundamentally sound pharma stocks like AbbVie (ABBV), Novartis (NVS), and Pfizer (PFE), which are not just attractive due to their high dividends but are also trading at discounts. Keep reading… As investors await the Federal Reserve's upcoming two-day meeting, all eyes are on the first potential interest rate cut in over four years. While a rate cut is typically intended to stimulate economic growth, it also reflects deeper concerns about the broader economy's health.
Given the uncertainty in the air, investors could consider investing in high-dividend pharmaceutical stocks like AbbVie Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/ABBV/">ABBV</a>), Novartis AG (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/NVS/">NVS</a>), and Pfizer Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/PFE/">PFE</a>) that are trading at discounts. These blue-chip giants are known for their financial robustness and history of reliable returns to shareholders, making them excellent options for both seasoned and newer investors seeking stable growth.
Healthcare, unlike other sectors, remains resilient in the face of economic fluctuations due to the consistent demand for medicines and treatments. The Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services (CMS) project U.S. healthcare spending to climb, with national expenditures expected to hit <a href="https://www.pgpf.org/blog/2024/09/healthcare-spending-will-be-one-fifth-of-the-economy-within-a-decade">$7.7 trillion by 2032</a>. This growing demand, paired with an aging population, ensures that companies in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors are well-positioned for long-term growth.  
With that in mind, let's examine the <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/pharmaceuticals/">Medical – Pharmaceuticals</a> industry picks in detail, beginning with the third choice:
Stock #3: Pfizer Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/PFE/">PFE</a>)
PFE is a global leader in biopharmaceuticals, offering a wide range of medicines and vaccines across several therapeutic areas. Its diverse portfolio spans treatments for cardiovascular conditions, metabolic issues, migraines, women's health, and infectious diseases, including COVID-19 prevention and treatment.
On August 27, the company introduced PfizerForAll, a digital platform designed to make access to healthcare and managing health and wellness more seamless for Americans. The platform supports common illnesses like migraines, COVID-19, and flu, as well as adult vaccinations. It integrates with the existing healthcare system and partners to streamline access and address gaps in care.
On July 25, PFE received conditional marketing authorization from the European Commission for DURVEQTIX, a gene therapy for severe Hemophilia B in adults, promising a one-time dose to reduce or eliminate bleeding.
With 13 years of consecutive dividend growth, the company pays an annual dividend of $1.68 per share, which translates to a yield of 5.59% on the current share price. Its four-year average yield is 4.17%. PFE's dividend payout has grown at a CAGR of 4.4% over the past five years.
In terms of forward non-GAAP P/E, PFE is trading at 11.39x, 47.1% lower than the industry average of 21.51x. Likewise, the stock's forward EV/EBITDA and Price/Cash Flow multiples of 10.46 and 9.28 are 25.2% and 42.6% lower than the industry averages of 13.99x and 16.17x, respectively.
PFE's revenues for the second quarter (ended June 30, 2024) increased 2.1% year-over-year to $13.28 billion. Its adjusted <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/n/netincome.asp">net income</a> and adjusted EPS attributable stood at $3.40 billion and $0.60, respectively.
The company has updated its fiscal year 2024 financial guidance, increasing its revenue projection to a range of $59.50 billion to $62.50 billion from the previous estimate of $58.50 billion to $61.50 billion. Additionally, it has raised its adjusted EPS guidance to a new range of $2.45 to $2.65, higher than the prior forecast of $2.15 to $2.35.
Analysts expect PFE's revenue for the fourth quarter (ending December 2024) to grow 26.3% year-over-year to $18 billion, while its EPS for the same period is expected to increase considerably from the prior year to $0.67. Also, it topped the EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters.
PFE shares have surged 12.9% over the past nine months to close the last trading session at $30.07.
PFE's bright prospects are reflected in its <a href="https://stocknews.com/powr-ratings/">POWR Ratings</a>. The stock has an overall rating of B, which translates to a Buy in our proprietary rating system. The POWR Ratings are calculated by considering 118 different factors, with each factor weighted to an optimal degree.
PFE also has a B grade for Growth and Value. It is ranked #48 out of 161 stocks in the <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/pharmaceuticals/">Medical - Pharmaceuticals</a> industry. <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/PFE/">Click here</a> to see PFE's ratings for Momentum, Stability, Sentiment, and Quality.
Stock #2: Novartis AG (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/NVS/">NVS</a>)
Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, NVS researches, develops, manufactures, and markets healthcare products worldwide through two segments: Innovative Medicines and Sandoz.
On August 28, the company's subsidiary Novartis Pharma AG entered into a global licensing agreement with Lindy Biosciences to access its innovative microglassification technology for biologic drugs. This partnership grants NVS exclusive global rights across multiple biologic targets, focusing on developing high-concentration, self-administered treatments.
The collaboration aims to improve patient outcomes and compliance by enabling at-home treatments. Further, it strengthens the company's position in innovative drug delivery and enhances its ability to offer patient-friendly solutions.
NVS pays an annual dividend of $3.74 per share, translating to a yield of 3.20% at the current price level, while its four-year average yield is 3.49%. Its dividend payouts have increased at a 7.3% CAGR over the past three years and a 6.9% CAGR over the past five years.
In terms of forward non-GAAP P/E, NVS is trading at 15.68x, which is 27.1% lower than the industry average of 21.51x. Also, its forward EV/EBIT ratio of 13.79x is 18.4% below the industry average of 16.90x.
In the fiscal second quarter that ended June 30, 2024, NVS' net sales increased 9.4% year-over-year to $12.51 billion. Its operating income from continuing operations grew 43% from the year-ago value to $4.01 billion. The company's net income and EPS came in at $3.25 billion and $1.60, representing a 40.1% and 44.1% year-over-year improvement, respectively. In addition, its free cash flow stood at $4.62 billion, up 40.9% year-over-year.
The consensus EPS estimate of $1.96 for the fiscal third quarter (ending September 2024) represents a 12.5% improvement year-over-year. The consensus revenue estimate of $12.52 billion for the ongoing quarter represents a 6.3% increase from last year. The company has an impressive surprise history; it surpassed the consensus revenue estimates in three of the trailing four quarters.
Shares of NVS have gained 20.1% over the past nine months and 15.8% year-to-date to close the last trading session at $116.95.
It is no surprise that NVS has an overall rating of A, equating to a Strong Buy in our POWR Ratings system. It has a B grade for Growth, Value, Stability, and Quality. Within the same industry, it is ranked #3.
In addition to the POWR Rating grades I've just highlighted, you can see NVS' Momentum and Sentiment ratings <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/NVS/">here</a>.
Stock #1: AbbVie Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/ABBV/">ABBV</a>)
ABBV is a global diversified research-based biopharmaceutical company engaged in manufacturing and selling medications and therapies. It offers a comprehensive product portfolio across Immunology, Oncology, Neuroscience, Eye Care, Aesthetics, and Other Specialties.
On September 06, the company declared a quarterly dividend of $1.55 per share, payable to its shareholders on November 15, 2024. Its forward annual dividend of $6.20 translates to a 3.17% yield on current prices. ABBV's four-year average dividend yield is 4.01%.
Its dividends have grown at 6.5% and 8% CAGRs over the past three and five years, respectively. Also, it has a record of 10 years of consecutive dividend growth.
On August 01, ABBV announced the acquisition of Cerevel Therapeutics (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/CERE/">CERE</a>) to strengthen its position in neuroscience and expand its portfolio in psychiatry, migraine, and Parkinson's disease, bolstering its existing pipeline and market presence.
In terms of forward non-GAAP P/E, ABBV is trading at 17.98x, 16.4% lower than the industry average of 21.51x. Likewise, the stock's forward EV/EBIT multiple of 16.25 is below its industry average of 16.90 by 3.9%.
For the six-month period that ended on June 30, 2024, ABBV's net revenue increased 2.6% year-over-year to $26.77 billion, while the company's Neuroscience segment reported net revenue of $4.13 billion, indicating a 15.3% growth from the prior-year quarter. ABBV's attributable net income came in at $2.74 billion, up 21% year-over-year, while its earnings per share attributable grew 21.4% from the year-ago value to $1.53.
Looking ahead, ABBV forecasts full-year 2024 and raises its adjusted EPS to range between $10.71 and $10.91, from the prior forecast of $10.61 and $10.81.
Street expects ABBV's revenue and EPS for the fiscal fourth quarter (ending December 2024) to increase 2.4% and 5.7% year-over-year to $14.64 billion and $2.95, respectively. Moreover, it beat the revenue estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, which is promising.
Over the past year, the stock has gained 28.7%, closing the last trading session at $195.73.
ABBV's strong fundamentals are reflected in its POWR Ratings. The stock has an overall rating of A, which translates to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system.
It has a B grade for Growth, Value, Stability, Sentiment, and Quality. Out of 161 stocks in the Medical - Pharmaceuticals industry, ABBV is ranked #2. <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/ABBV/">Click here</a> to see ABBV's rating for Momentum.
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ABBV shares were trading at $192.84 per share on Tuesday afternoon, down $2.89 (-1.48%). Year-to-date, ABBV has gained 27.96%, versus a 19.14% rise in the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index during the same period.
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: Shweta Kumari</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Shweta-Kumari_Image-2.jpg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;">Shweta's profound interest in financial research and quantitative analysis led her to pursue a career as an investment analyst. She uses her knowledge to help retail investors make educated investment decisions.<a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=shweta-kumari">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/abbv-pfe-nvs-cere-3-high-dividend-pharma-blue-chips-that-are-on-sale-right/>3 High-Dividend Pharma Blue Chips That Are on Sale Right Now</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

3 High-Dividend Pharma Blue Chips That Are on Sale Right Now

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