Moderna (MRNA) Shares Jump 8.8% on Positive Melanoma Vaccine Data - January 21, 2026

Moderna (MRNA) shares rise 8.8% after announcing positive five-year follow-up results from a mid-stage trial of its melanoma vaccine in combination with Merck’s Keytruda. The data show the treatment reduced the risk of recurrence or death by 49% in high-risk melanoma patients, demonstrating sustained efficacy and bolstering confidence in the company’s cancer immunotherapy pipeline. Bernstein upgraded its price target to $35, citing improved clinical validation. The stock hit a 52-week high of $46.97, bringing year-to-date gains to 52.2%. Despite volatility—52 moves exceeding 5% over the past year—today’s rally reflects meaningful investor optimism without signaling a fundamental shift in sentiment. For long-term holders, $1,000 invested five years ago is now worth $353.18. Regulatory concerns lingered last March when FDA official Peter Marks resigned, sparking sector-wide jitters, but recent data appear to reinforce Moderna’s clinical momentum.