Moderna Halts New Late-Stage Vaccine Trials Amid U.S. Regulatory Backlash - MRNA

Moderna Inc. has suspended investments in new late-stage vaccine trials due to declining U.S. regulatory support and policy shifts under Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., CEO Stephane Bancel said on January 22, 2026. The decision reflects concerns over limited market access and reduced funding for mRNA vaccines. Bancel told Bloomberg TV during the World Economic Forum in Davos that the U.S. market’s shrinking size—due to delayed approvals, weakened mandates, and policy reversals—undermines potential returns. Recent changes include ending COVID-19 vaccine recommendations for pregnant women and children, restricting state mandates, and cutting research funding. Moderna shares rose 10.16% in morning trading on January 22, 2026, amid the announcement.