Novavax, Inc., a biotechnology company, that promotes improved health by discovering, developing, and commercializing vaccines to protect against serious infectious diseases. It offers vaccine platform that combines a recombinant protein approach, nanoparticle technology, and its patented Matrix-M adjuvant to enhance the immune response. It focuses on urgent health challenges, which is evaluating vaccines for COVID-19, influenza, and COVID-19 influenza combination. The company is commercializing a COVID-19 vaccine, NVX-CoV2373 under the brand names of Nuvaxovid, Covovax, and Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, adjuvanted for adult and adolescent populations as a primary series and for both homologous and heterologous booster indications. It is also developing R21/Matrix-M adjuvant malaria vaccine. Novavax, Inc. was incorporated in 1987 and is headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

Novavax, Inc.

For Immediate Release
Chicago, IL – August 29, 2025 – Zacks Equity Research shares Boyd Gaming BYD as the Bull of the Day and Shoe Carnival SCVL as the Bear of the Day. In addition, Zacks Equity Research provides analysis on Pfizer PFE, Moderna MRNA and Novavax NVAX.
Here is a synopsis of all five stocks:
Boyd Gaming, a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), is a diversified gaming company with a long-standing presence in the United States and Canada.
The company owns and operates 28 gaming properties across ten states. Collectively, these properties provide 1.71 million square feet of casino space, nearly 29,000 slot machines, more than 600 table games, and over 10,000 hotel rooms. Boyd also operates Boyd Interactive, its online casino business, and a travel agency.
The stock continues to grind higher as it has been all year. After pulling back on earnings, BYD is trading at all-time highs.
More About the Company
Founded in 1975 and headquartered in Las Vegas, Boyd organizes its operations into four segments:
-The Las Vegas Locals business, which generated 22.8% of 2024 revenues, includes nine casinos catering to residents of the Las Vegas metropolitan area.
-Downtown Las Vegas, contributing 5.9%, operates three casinos that compete with other properties in the city's historic core.
-The Midwest and South segment is the largest, with 52.5% of revenues. This includes a mix of land-based casinos, riverboat casinos, racinos, and barge-based casinos across nine states.
-The Online segment is responsible for 15.4% of revenue and covers Boyd Interactive and its partnerships for digital gaming, including sports betting, casino gaming, and poker. Boyd expanded its presence in online and mobile gaming, including a 2018 partnership with MGM Resorts International.
BYD is valued at $7 billion and has a Forward PE of 13. The stock has Zacks Style Scores of "B" in Value, but a "F" in Momentum.
Q2 Earnings Beat
Boyd delivered another strong quarter, topping expectations on both the top and bottom line, with a 12% EPS beat for Q2. Revenue was $1.03 billion versus $980 million expected and adjusted EBITDAR came in at $357.9 million, up from $344.3 million a year ago.
The Las Vegas Locals segment stood out with its strongest growth in more than two years, posting year-over-year gains in both revenue and EBITDAR while maintaining margins close to 50%. The Midwest and South segment also showed momentum, with over 3% growth in revenue and EBITDAR, its best performance in nearly three years. Downtown Las Vegas faced a tougher comp, but the Online segment continued to build scale.
The company is also set to receive $1.755 billion in cash from the sale of its FanDuel stake, which will go toward debt repayment. The board recently authorized an additional $500 million for share repurchases, lifting total available authorization to roughly $707 million as of quarter-end.
Capital plans remain active, with $600–650 million in expected 2025 spending, including hotel renovations, recurring growth capital, and new projects such as the Suncoast renovation, Cadence Crossing Casino, the Sky River expansion, and the Ameristar St. Charles convention center.
Estimates Headed Higher
Since the company reported earnings, analysts have been raising estimates across all time frames.
For the current quarter, numbers have been taken from $1.46 to $1.55 over the last 60 days, or 6%.
For the current year, analysts have lifted estimates 6% as well, going from $6.49 to $6.89.
Looking at the big picture, the trend continues next year. Over the 60 days, analysts have lifted their numbers from $6.73 to $7.59, or 13%
The Technical Take
The stock is printing all-time highs after earnings and is up over 20% on the year. There might be some profit taking before the stock takes out that $100 psychological level.
Let us look at some moving averages for possible entry points:
21-day moving average: $84.10
50-day MA: $82.50
200-day MA: $75.00
In Summary
With earnings momentum, a healthier balance sheet post-FanDuel sale, and a robust development pipeline, Boyd Gaming is positioned for continued growth into 2026 and beyond.
The combination of rising analyst estimates, strong shareholder returns, and technical strength at all-time highs makes the stock a compelling name for investors seeking exposure to the gaming sector.
Shoe Carnival, a family footwear retailer in the United States, holds a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell). The company sells a wide range of products, from dress and casual shoes to sandals, boots, athletic footwear, and accessories for men, women, and children.
While the stock has rebounded modestly from its April lows, shares remain down about 30% in 2025. With earnings on deck next week and analyst estimates still moving lower, investors may want to stay on the sidelines until momentum improves.
About the Company
Shoe Carnival is among the nation's largest family footwear retailers, with more than 400 stores across 33 states and Puerto Rico, alongside a growing e-commerce presence through shoecarnival.com and shoestation.com.
Founded in 1978 and headquartered in Evansville, Indiana, the company emphasizes moderately priced footwear from national and regional name brands.
The company has a market cap of $600M and pays a dividend of 2.7%. The stock holds Zacks Style Scores of "A" in Value, but "F" in Momentum.
Q1 Earnings
Shoe Carnival stumbled in the first quarter, reporting earnings of $0.34 per share versus $0.63 a year ago, with revenue sliding to $277.7 million from $300 million. Comparable store sales fell 8.1 percent, with about one point of the decline tied to lost sales from its ongoing rebanner strategy. Margins also slipped, with gross margin narrowing to 34.5 percent from 35.6 percent last year.
The company ended the quarter with 429 stores across its Shoe Carnival, Shoe Station, and Rogan's banners, while inventories rose to $428.4 million. Management reaffirmed full-year guidance, calling for revenue between $1.15 and $1.23 billion and EPS of $1.60 to $2.10.
Near-term profitability is being weighed down by heavy investment in converting stores to the faster-growing Shoe Station concept, which is expected to dent fiscal 2025 operating income by $20 to $25 million but deliver stronger returns over the next two to three years.
Since EPS, the stock has slowly rallied 10%, but investors should be wary ahead of earnings next week.
Earnings Estimates See Recent Drop
Over the last 7 days, analyst estimates have taken a leg lower:
For the current quarter, estimates have fallen from $0.60 to $0.55, or 8%.
For next quarter, estimates have gone from $0.59 to $0.50, or 15%.
Longer term we see the current year's number revised 8% lower. Next year does not get better, with estimates lowered 9% over the last 7 days.
The drop before EPS is not comforting and if the company posts another miss, investors could see recent gains erased overnight.
Technical Take
The stock has dropped over 50% from the 2024 highs, so buy the dippers see a bargain. While this may be, the company has its fundamental challenges we discussed above.
Looking at the chart, there are technical challenges as well.
The 200-day MA is dropping, but is still about 15% above current prices at $24.20. Price is currently over the 50-day MA at $20.75, but if the stock gets below that area after EPS, we could see the stock move back to the summer lows at $19.
In Summary
With earnings estimates sliding, margins under pressure, and a costly store conversion strategy weighing on results, Shoe Carnival faces hurdles in the near term. While the stock looks cheap on a value basis, weak momentum and the risk of another earnings disappointment keep the outlook bearish.
Until the company proves it can stabilize comps investors are better off waiting on the sidelines.
Additional content:
FDA Approves Updated Covid-19 Vaccines, but With Restrictions
Yesterday, the FDA approved updated COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax for the 2025-26 vaccination season. These shots are designed to target the LP.8.1 strain of the virus.
FDA Removes Mandate Requirement of COVID-19 Vaccines
Unlike the past few years, when the FDA granted blanket approvals for use of COVID-19 vaccines across the general population, this time the agency restricted access to high-risk groups. Health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. posted on X that the vaccines will be made available to those patients "who choose them after consulting with their doctors."
These changes were expected after the FDA had previously issued guidelines that tightened the standards for using COVID-19 vaccines earlier this year. Under the new policy, all vaccines are cleared for adults aged 65 and older. However, for those under 65, the vaccines are permitted only for individuals with underlying conditions that raise the risk of severe COVID-19.
Company-Specific Approvals
The FDA cleared Moderna's two COVID-19 vaccines – the first-generation Spikevax and the recently approved next-generation refrigerator-stable version called mNexspike. While Spikevax is approved for at-risk individuals aged six months and older, mNexspike is allowed for use in those aged 12 years and older. The improved storage profile of mNexspike could help Moderna expand access outside major healthcare hubs. Shares of Moderna rose 1.5% yesterday, reflecting investor confidence in the company's ability to retain broad coverage.
Pfizer's Comirnaty is now approved for at-risk individuals aged five years and older. This represents a narrower label compared with previous seasons, when the vaccine was available for use in all individuals six months and older. The tighter approval was likely one reason shares of Pfizer fell nearly 1% following the decision.
Novavax's protein-based vaccine Nuvaxovid is approved for at-risk individuals aged 12 years and older, offering the only non-mRNA alternative that may appeal to patients preferring traditional vaccine platforms. Shares of NVAX rose about 1%, likely because the approval came nearly in step with its larger peers — a contrast to prior years when the company faced longer delays.
Commercial Availability of the Updated Vaccines
PFE claims that it will begin shipping the updated formulation of Comirnaty "immediately," while Moderna stated that its vaccines will be available "in the coming days."
Novavax's vaccine will be marketed by its partner Sanofi as part of an exclusive licensing deal signed last year.
Our Take
The updated framework aims to align U.S. policy with the global consensus, which generally limits routine booster recommendations to older adults and those at higher risk, rather than adopting a "one-size-fits-all" approach.
For manufacturers, the competitive dynamics are beginning to diverge. Moderna benefits from a broad pediatric label and the improved storage profile offered by mNexspike. Pfizer, meanwhile, faces some pressure as its label narrows compared with prior years. Novavax remains a niche player but continues to differentiate itself as the only non-mRNA option.
Overall, the COVID-19 vaccine market is transitioning into a smaller but more sustainable phase, where product differentiation and targeted access will play a larger role in shaping long-term opportunities for Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax.
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Boyd Gaming and Shoe Carnival have been highlighted as Zacks Bull and Bear of the Day

Yesterday, the FDA approved updated COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer PFE, Moderna MRNA and Novavax NVAX for the 2025-26 vaccination season. These shots are designed to target the LP.8.1 strain of the virus.
FDA Removes Mandate Requirement of COVID-19 Vaccines
Unlike the past few years, when the FDA granted blanket approvals for use of COVID-19 vaccines across the general population, this time the agency restricted access to high-risk groups. Health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. posted on X that the vaccines will be made available to those patients “who choose them after consulting with their doctors.”
These changes were expected after the FDA had previously issued guidelines that tightened the standards for using COVID-19 vaccines earlier this year. Under the new policy, all vaccines are cleared for adults aged 65 and older. However, for those under 65, the vaccines are permitted only for individuals with underlying conditions that raise the risk of severe COVID-19.
Company-Specific Approvals
The FDA cleared Moderna’s two COVID-19 vaccines – the first-generation Spikevax and the recently approved next-generation refrigerator-stable version called mNexspike. While Spikevax is approved for at-risk individuals aged six months and older, mNexspike is allowed for use in those aged 12 years and older. The improved storage profile of mNexspike could help Moderna expand access outside major healthcare hubs. Shares of Moderna rose 1.5% yesterday, reflecting investor confidence in the company’s ability to retain broad coverage.
Pfizer’s Comirnaty is now approved for at-risk individuals aged five years and older. This represents a narrower label compared with previous seasons, when the vaccine was available for use in all individuals six months and older. The tighter approval was likely one reason shares of Pfizer fell nearly 1% following the decision.
Novavax’s protein-based vaccine Nuvaxovid is approved for at-risk individuals aged 12 years and older, offering the only non-mRNA alternative that may appeal to patients preferring traditional vaccine platforms. Shares of NVAX rose about 1%, likely because the approval came nearly in step with its larger peers — a contrast to prior years when the company faced longer delays.
Commercial Availability of the Updated Vaccines
PFE claims that it will begin shipping the updated formulation of Comirnaty “immediately,” while Moderna stated that its vaccines will be available “in the coming days.”
Novavax’s vaccine will be marketed by its partner Sanofi as part of an exclusive licensing deal signed last year.
Our Take
The updated framework aims to align U.S. policy with the global consensus, which generally limits routine booster recommendations to older adults and those at higher risk, rather than adopting a “one-size-fits-all” approach.
For manufacturers, the competitive dynamics are beginning to diverge. Moderna benefits from a broad pediatric label and the improved storage profile offered by mNexspike. Pfizer, meanwhile, faces some pressure as its label narrows compared with prior years. Novavax remains a niche player but continues to differentiate itself as the only non-mRNA option.
Overall, the COVID-19 vaccine market is transitioning into a smaller but more sustainable phase, where product differentiation and targeted access will play a larger role in shaping long-term opportunities for Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax.
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FDA Approves Updated COVID-19 Vaccines but With Restrictions

Investors in Novavax, Inc. (Symbol: NVAX) saw new options begin trading today, for the October 10th expiration. At Stock Options Channel, our YieldBoost formula has looked up and down the NVAX options chain for the new October 10th contracts and identified one put and one call contract of particular interest.
The put contract at the $7.50 strike price has a current bid of 66 cents. If an investor was to sell-to-open that put contract, they are committing to purchase the stock at $7.50, but will also collect the premium, putting the cost basis of the shares at $6.84 (before broker commissions). To an investor already interested in purchasing shares of NVAX, that could represent an attractive alternative to paying $7.54/share today.
Because the $7.50 strike represents an approximate 1% discount to the current trading price of the stock (in other words it is out-of-the-money by that percentage), there is also the possibility that the put contract would expire worthless. The current analytical data (including greeks and implied greeks) suggest the current odds of that happening are 62%. Stock Options Channel will track those odds over time to see how they change, publishing a chart of those numbers on our website under the contract detail page for this contract. Should the contract expire worthless, the premium would represent a 8.80% return on the cash commitment, or 74.70% annualized — at Stock Options Channel we call this the YieldBoost.
Below is a chart showing the trailing twelve month trading history for Novavax, Inc., and highlighting in green where the $7.50 strike is located relative to that history:
Turning to the calls side of the option chain, the call contract at the $8.50 strike price has a current bid of 42 cents. If an investor was to purchase shares of NVAX stock at the current price level of $7.54/share, and then sell-to-open that call contract as a "covered call," they are committing to sell the stock at $8.50. Considering the call seller will also collect the premium, that would drive a total return (excluding dividends, if any) of 18.30% if the stock gets called away at the October 10th expiration (before broker commissions). Of course, a lot of upside could potentially be left on the table if NVAX shares really soar, which is why looking at the trailing twelve month trading history for Novavax, Inc., as well as studying the business fundamentals becomes important. Below is a chart showing NVAX's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $8.50 strike highlighted in red:
Considering the fact that the $8.50 strike represents an approximate 13% premium to the current trading price of the stock (in other words it is out-of-the-money by that percentage), there is also the possibility that the covered call contract would expire worthless, in which case the investor would keep both their shares of stock and the premium collected. The current analytical data (including greeks and implied greeks) suggest the current odds of that happening are 45%. On our website under the contract detail page for this contract, Stock Options Channel will track those odds over time to see how they change and publish a chart of those numbers (the trading history of the option contract will also be charted). Should the covered call contract expire worthless, the premium would represent a 5.57% boost of extra return to the investor, or 47.28% annualized, which we refer to as the YieldBoost.
The implied volatility in the put contract example is 158%, while the implied volatility in the call contract example is 169%.
Meanwhile, we calculate the actual trailing twelve month volatility (considering the last 250 trading day closing values as well as today's price of $7.54) to be 83%. For more put and call options contract ideas worth looking at, visit StockOptionsChannel.com.
Also see:
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

NVAX October 10th Options Begin Trading

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) on Monday closed down by -0.43%, the Dow Jones Industrials Index ($DOWI) (DIA) closed down by -0.77%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed down by -0.31%. September E-mini S&P futures (ESU25) fell -0.37%, and September E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQU25) fell -0.26%.
Stock indexes settled lower on Monday and gave back some of last Friday’s sharp rally. Concerns about tariffs and their impact on inflation and corporate profits weighed on stocks. Also, higher bond yields were negative for stocks, as the 10-year T-note yield rose +3 bp to 4.28%. Stock indexes recovered from their worst levels on strength in chip makers.
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The markets were optimistic about last Friday’s dovish comments from Fed Chair Powell, who said the downside risks to the labor market may “warrant adjusting our policy stance.” However, there are concerns about how much the Fed can lower interest rates, with fears that inflation will rise from still-elevated levels as President Trump’s tariffs move through the economy.
Monday’s US economic news was mixed for stocks. The July Chicago Fed national activity index fell -0.37 to -0.19, weaker than expectations of -0.11. However, July new home sales unexpectedly fell -0.6% m/m to 652,000 from an upwardly revised 656,000 in June (initially reported 627,000), still stronger than expectations of 630,000.
On the geopolitical front, diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine remain elusive, as the US tries to broker a peace deal between the two countries. On Sunday, Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov said there was no meeting planned between the leaders of Russia and Ukraine and that there “needs to be an agenda first” for a meeting to take place. “This agenda is not ready at all.”
Regarding tariffs, President Trump last week widened steel and aluminum tariffs to include more than 400 consumer items that contain the metals, such as motorcycles, auto parts, furniture components, and tableware. The change went into effect last Monday and did not exclude goods already in transit.
In other recent tariff news, Mr. Trump on August 13 extended the tariff truce with China for another 90 days until November. On August 6, Mr. Trump announced that he will double tariffs on US imports from India to 50% from the current 25% tariff, due to India’s purchases of Russian oil. According to Bloomberg Economics, the average US tariff will rise to 15.2% if rates are implemented as announced, up from 13.3% earlier, and significantly higher than the 2.3% in 2024 before the tariffs were announced.
The markets this week will focus on any fresh tariff news or developments on ending the Ukraine-Russian war. On Tuesday, July capital new orders nondefense ex-aircraft and parts, a proxy for capital spending, are expected to climb +0.2% m/m. Also, the June S&P CoreLogic composite-20 home price index is expected to ease to +2.20% y/y from +2.79% y/y in May. Finally, on Tuesday, the Conference Board’s Aug consumer confidence index is expected to fall -0.8 to 96.4. After Wednesday’s close, Nvidia will release its quarterly earnings and guidance. On Thursday, Q2 GDP is expected to be revised upward by +0.1 to 3.1% (q/q annualized). Also, weekly initial unemployment claims are expected to fall by -5,000 to 230,000. On Friday, July personal spending is expected to climb +0.3% m/m, and July personal income is expected to rise +0.4% m/m. Also, the July core PCE price index, the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge, is expected to climb +0.2% m/m and +2.9% y/y. In addition, the Aug MNI Chicago PMI is expected to fall -0.6 to 46.5. Finally, the University of Michigan’s final-Aug US consumer sentiment index is expected to be unrevised at 58.6.
Federal funds futures prices are discounting the chances for a -25 bp rate cut at 83% at the next FOMC meeting on September 16-17. The markets are discounting the chances at 50% for a second -25 bp rate cut at the following meeting on October 28-29.
Earnings reports indicate that S&P 500 earnings for Q2 are on track to rise +9.1% y/y, much better than the pre-season expectations of +2.8% y/y and the most in four years, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. With Q2 earnings season winding down, over 94% of S&P 500 firms having reported Q2 earnings, about 82% of companies exceeded profit estimates.
Overseas stock markets on Monday settled mixed. The Euro Stoxx 50 closed down -0.81%. China’s Shanghai Composite rallied to a new 10-year high and closed up +1.51%. Japan’s Nikkei Stock 225 closed up +0.41%.
Interest Rates
September 10-year T-notes (ZNU5) on Monday closed down -5.5 ticks, and the 10-year T-note yield rose +2.5 bp to 4.279%. Sep T-notes were under pressure on Monday as they gave back some of last Friday’s rally. Concerns that President Trump’s tariffs will push inflation up from still elevated levels are limiting the upside in T-notes. Also, rising inflation expectations are undercutting T-note prices after the 10-year breakeven inflation expectations rate rose to a 3.5-week high on Monday of 2.435%. In addition, supply pressures are negative for T-notes as the Treasury will auction $211 billion of T-notes and floating-rate notes this week, beginning with Tuesday’s $69 billion auction of 2-year T-notes.
Losses in T-notes were limited due to weakness in stocks, which boosted safe-haven demand for T-notes. Also, T-notes had some positive carryover from last Friday, when Fed Chair Powell said downside risks to employment are rising and the shifting balance of risks may warrant adjusting monetary policy.
European government bond yields on Monday moved higher. The 10-year German bund yield rose +3.5 bp to 2.757%. 10-year UK gilts did not trade on Monday as markets were closed in the UK for the summer bank holiday.
The German Aug IFO business climate survey rose +0.4 to a 16-month high of 89.0, stronger than expectations of +0.2 to 88.8.
Swaps are discounting the chances at 1% for a -25 bp rate cut by the ECB at the September 11 policy meeting.
US Stock Movers
Furniture stocks fell Monday after President Trump said that furniture coming from other countries into the US will be tariffed at a rate yet to be determined. RH (RH) and Wayfair (W) closed down more than -5%. Also, Williams-Sonoma (WSM) closed down more than -2%.
Cryptocurrency-exposed stocks slid Monday after the price of Bitcoin (^BTCUSD) fell more than -4% to a 6-week low. Strategy (MSTR), Coinbase Global (COIN), MARA Holdings (MARA), and Galaxy Digital (GLXY) closed down more than -2%.
Makers of Covid-19 vaccines retreated Monday after the Daily Beast reported that the US government will move to pull MRNA vaccines from the market “within months.” Moderna (MRNA) closed down more than -6%, BioNTech SE (BNTX) closed down more than -5%, Novavax (NVAX) closed down more than -4%, and Pfizer (PFE) closed down more than -2%.
The strength in chip stocks on Monday limited losses in the broader market. Nvidia (NVDA) closed up more than +1% to lead gainers in the Dow Jones Industrials. Also, Lam Research (LRCX) and KLA Corp (KLAC) closed up more than +1%. In addition, Analog Devices (ADI) closed up +0.91%, and NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI) closed up +0.78%.
Casino stocks with exposure to Macau moved higher on Monday after data showed gaming revenue in Macau in the first 17 days of August was up by +11% from the same period last year. Wynn Resorts Ltd (WYNN) closed up more than +3% and Las Vegas Sands (LVS) closed up more than +2%.
Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) closed down more than -11% to lead losers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 after it agreed to buy JDE Peet NV for $18.4 billion.
CSX Corp (CSX) closed down more than -5% and Union Pacific (UNP) closed down more than -2% after Berkshire Hathaway said it is not looking to buy a rail company.
Eversource Energy (ES) closed down more than -4% after the Trump administration blocked construction of Orsted’s almost-finished Revolution offshore wind farm, of which Eversource has liabilities related to the sale to Global Infrastructure Partners.
Axogen (AXGN) closed down more than -9% after the FDA extended its review for the company’s Biologics License Application for Avance Nerve Graft by three months till December 5, 2025.
American Eagle Outfitters (AEO) closed down more than -2% after Bank of America Global Research downgraded the stock to underperform from neutral with a price target of $10.
Fabrinet (FN) closed up more than +6% after JPMorgan Chase upgraded the stock to overweight from neutral.
Dyne Therapeutics (DYN) closed up more than +3% after Raymond James upgraded the stock to strong buy from outperform with a price target of $35.
Venture Global (VG) closed up more than +3% after UBA upgraded the stock to buy from neutral with a price target of $18.
Earnings Reports(8/26/2025)
American Woodmark Corp (AMWD), Box Inc (BOX), Citi Trends Inc (CTRN), Electromed Inc (ELMD), Golden Matrix Group Inc (GMGI), MongoDB Inc (MDB), nCino Inc (NCNO), Okta Inc (OKTA), Ooma Inc (OOMA), PACS Group Inc (PACS), PVH Corp (PVH).
On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Stocks Settle Lower as Bond Yields Rise

Among the underlying components of the Russell 3000 index, we saw noteworthy options trading volume today in Artisan Partners Asset Management Inc (Symbol: APAM), where a total of 2,795 contracts have traded so far, representing approximately 279,500 underlying shares. That amounts to about 46.8% of APAM's average daily trading volume over the past month of 597,375 shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $45 strike call option expiring August 15, 2025, with 1,386 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 138,600 underlying shares of APAM. Below is a chart showing APAM's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $45 strike highlighted in orange:
Groupon Inc (Symbol: GRPN) options are showing a volume of 7,025 contracts thus far today. That number of contracts represents approximately 702,500 underlying shares, working out to a sizeable 46.3% of GRPN's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 1.5 million shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $38 strike call option expiring October 17, 2025, with 2,000 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 200,000 underlying shares of GRPN. Below is a chart showing GRPN's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $38 strike highlighted in orange:
And Novavax, Inc. (Symbol: NVAX) options are showing a volume of 35,002 contracts thus far today. That number of contracts represents approximately 3.5 million underlying shares, working out to a sizeable 46.2% of NVAX's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 7.6 million shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $9.50 strike call option expiring August 15, 2025, with 7,386 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 738,600 underlying shares of NVAX. Below is a chart showing NVAX's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $9.50 strike highlighted in orange:
For the various different available expirations for APAM options, GRPN options, or NVAX options, visit StockOptionsChannel.com.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Notable Thursday Option Activity: APAM, GRPN, NVAX

(RTTNews) - Novavax, Inc. (NVAX) Thursday said that its H5N1 avian pandemic influenza vaccine candidate induced robust immune responses in nonhuman primates.
Results from the study suggest that a single dose has the potential to provide protective immunity in individuals previously exposed to seasonal influenza. Additionally, data showed that the vaccine candidate demonstrated immunogenicity against currently circulating variants following either single or two-dose administration.
These results were published in Nature Communications.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Novavax Says H5N1 Vaccine Candidate Showed Immunogenicity In Preclinical Study

Looking at options trading activity among components of the Russell 3000 index, there is noteworthy activity today in PayPal Holdings Inc (Symbol: PYPL), where a total volume of 57,104 contracts has been traded thus far today, a contract volume which is representative of approximately 5.7 million underlying shares (given that every 1 contract represents 100 underlying shares). That number works out to 55.3% of PYPL's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 10.3 million shares. Especially high volume was seen for the $76 strike call option expiring July 18, 2025, with 4,774 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 477,400 underlying shares of PYPL. Below is a chart showing PYPL's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $76 strike highlighted in orange:
Novavax, Inc. (Symbol: NVAX) options are showing a volume of 25,979 contracts thus far today. That number of contracts represents approximately 2.6 million underlying shares, working out to a sizeable 55.1% of NVAX's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 4.7 million shares. Especially high volume was seen for the $7.50 strike put option expiring January 16, 2026, with 10,001 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 1.0 million underlying shares of NVAX. Below is a chart showing NVAX's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $7.50 strike highlighted in orange:
And AAR Corp (Symbol: AIR) saw options trading volume of 1,798 contracts, representing approximately 179,800 underlying shares or approximately 52.4% of AIR's average daily trading volume over the past month, of 343,225 shares. Particularly high volume was seen for the $85 strike call option expiring July 18, 2025, with 235 contracts trading so far today, representing approximately 23,500 underlying shares of AIR. Below is a chart showing AIR's trailing twelve month trading history, with the $85 strike highlighted in orange:
For the various different available expirations for PYPL options, NVAX options, or AIR options, visit StockOptionsChannel.com.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Notable Thursday Option Activity: PYPL, NVAX, AIR

Moderna MRNA announced that the FDA has approved its supplemental biologics license application seeking approval for COVID-19 vaccine, Spikevax, for use in children aged six months to 11 years, who are at increased risk for the disease.
The vaccine was previously available for the pediatric patient population under Emergency Use Authorization from the FDA.
Shares of Moderna were up 4.5% yesterday following the announcement of the news.
Following the full approval from the FDA, Spikevax is now approved for all adults aged 65 and above, as well as individuals aged six months through 64 years, who are considered at increased risk for developing severe COVID-19.
Management stated that the updated Spikevax jab will be ready for eligible patients during the 2025-2026 vaccination season in the United States.
MRNA's Stock Performance
Year to date, shares of Moderna have plunged 17.5% against the industry’s growth of 0.2%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Other Players in the COVID-19 Vaccine Space
Besides Moderna, the other vaccines marketed in the COVID-19 space are Pfizer PFE /BioNTech’s BNTX Comirnaty and Novavax’s NVAX Nuvaxovid.
Like Moderna, PFE/BNTX’s Comirnaty has also been developed based on the mRNA technology. The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine is currently approved for use in the same patient population as MRNA’s Spikevax.
Notably, Novavax’s Nuvaxovid is the only non-mRNA-based vaccine in the United States. The NVAX vaccine was recently granted full approval by the FDA for use in older adults aged 65 and above, as well as use in individuals aged 12-64 years with at least one underlying condition that puts them at high risk for severe outcomes from COVID-19. Nuvaxovid is still not yet approved for those under 12 years.
Moderna, Inc. Price
MRNA’s Zacks Rank
Moderna currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

MRNA Stock Up on Full FDA Nod for COVID-19 Jab in Pediatric Patients

Mergers and acquisitions grabbed the spotlight in the biotech sector once again this week after BioMarin BMRN agreed to acquire Inozyme Pharma INZY. Meanwhile, other pipeline and regulatory updates were in focus.
Recap of the Week’s Most Important Stories:
BMRN to Acquire Inozyme Pharma
BioMarin Pharmaceutical announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire all outstanding shares of the clinical-stage company Inozyme Pharma for $4.00 per share in cash, totaling nearly $270 million.
Shares of INZY soared on the news.
The deal, approved by the board of directors of both companies, is expected to be closed in the third quarter of 2025.
BioMarin will add Inozyme’s lead asset, INZ-701, to its pipeline, following the completion of this acquisition. This investigational enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) is currently being evaluated in a pivotal late-stage study for the treatment of a rare genetic disorder, ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1) deficiency, in children.
The deal is a strategic fit for BioMarin, which already markets five first-in-disease enzyme therapies, namely Aldurazyme, Brineura, Naglazyme, Palynziq and Vimizim. The addition of Inozyme’s lead candidate will expand BioMarin’s Enzyme Therapies portfolio and further diversify its revenue stream.
NVAX Stock Surges on COVID-19 Vaccine Approval
Novavax NVAX announced that the FDA approved its protein-based COVID-19 vaccine, Nuvaxovid.
Shares of the company surged on this long-awaited approval from the FDA, albeit with a narrower label than initially expected.
While the agency granted full approval to Nuvaxovid for use in older adults aged 65 and above, it restricted the vaccine’s use in individuals aged 12-64 with at least one underlying condition that puts them at high risk for severe outcomes from COVID-19.
Additionally, the agency requires Novavax to conduct a new Phase IV post-marketing study in individuals aged 50 to 64 without high-risk conditions for severe COVID-19.
The full approval is based on data from a pivotal late-stage study, which showed that Nuvaxovid was safe and effective for the prevention of COVID-19. Until now, the vaccine had been available for use under the FDA’s emergency use authorization.
With the full approval, Nuvaxovid is the only non-mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccine available in the country.
MRNA Stock Down on Update
Moderna MRNA announced that it has voluntarily withdrawn a regulatory filing seeking the FDA’s approval for mRNA-1083, its investigational mRNA-based combination vaccine against influenza and COVID-19. Per the company, the decision was taken in consultation with the agency. The stock was down on the announcement.
This setback derailed the company’s initial plans to secure a potential FDA approval for the vaccine before this year’s end.
Moderna plans to resubmit this filing later this year after vaccine efficacy data from the ongoing phase III study on its investigational seasonal influenza vaccine, mRNA-1010, is available. Interim data from this study is expected this summer.
The initial FDA filing, which sought approval for use in older adults aged 50 years and above, was supported by data from a phase III study announced last year. Data from this study showed that mRNA-1083 elicited higher immune responses against influenza and COVID-19 compared with licensed standalone influenza and COVID-19 vaccines.
Moderna currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
PRME Stock Down on Headcount Reduction Announcement
Prime Medicine, Inc. PRME announced a strategic restructuring of its business. Shares of the company declined on the news.
The restructuring includes the deprioritization of its Chronic Granulomatous Disease (“CGD”) programs, as well as a cost and workforce reduction to focus on its liver franchise and programs funded through external partnerships.
Prime Medicine is currently advancing in vivo programs to cure two of the largest genetic liver diseases, Wilson’s Disease and Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (“AATD”). Initial clinical data from both programs are expected in 2027. An investigational new drug (IND) and/or clinical trial application (CTA) is expected to be filed for its Wilson’s Disease program in the first half of 2026 and for its AATD program in mid-2026. Initial data from both programs are expected in 2027.
Prime Medicine is exploring options for the continued clinical development of PM359 and ceasing further efforts in X-linked CGD.
In addition, PRME is reducing its headcount by approximately 25%. The headcount reduction, along with its cost reduction measures and other restructuring efforts, is expected to reduce operating expenses and cash burn, lowering anticipated cash needs by almost half through 2027.
Prime Medicine announced that it has recently engaged in binding arbitration proceedings with Beam Therapeutics, Inc. regarding its collaboration agreement.
Prime Medicine continues to expect that its cash, cash equivalents and investments, as of March 31, 2025, will be sufficient to fund its operations and capital expenditure requirements into the first half of 2026.
Performance
The Nasdaq Biotechnology Index has gained 4.56% in the past five trading sessions and GILD’s shares have gained 9.49%. In the past six months, shares of MRNA have plunged 32.55%. (See the last biotech stock roundup here: Biotech Stock Roundup: BMY Down on Study Data, Updates From REGN & More)
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
What's Next in Biotech?
Stay tuned for more pipeline updates.
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BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. (BMRN) : Free Stock Analysis Report
Moderna, Inc. (MRNA) : Free Stock Analysis Report
Novavax, Inc. (NVAX) : Free Stock Analysis Report
Prime Medicine, Inc. (PRME) : Free Stock Analysis Report
Inozyme Pharma, Inc. (INZY) : Free Stock Analysis Report
This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Biotech Stock Roundup: BMRN to Acquire INZY, NVAX Gains on Vaccine Approval & More

The NASDAQ 100 Pre-Market Indicator is up 210.09 to 20,078.06. The total Pre-Market volume is currently 226,712,499 shares traded.
The following are the most active stocks for the pre-market session:
D-Wave Quantum Inc. (QBTS) is +1.7602 at $8.65, with 12,792,169 shares traded. As reported by Zacks, the current mean recommendation for QBTS is in the "buy range".
Direxion Daily TSLA Bull 2X Shares (TSLL) is +0.27 at $10.04, with 11,214,838 shares traded. This represents a 59.62% increase from its 52 Week Low.
NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) is +1.99 at $119.05, with 8,059,058 shares traded. As reported by Zacks, the current mean recommendation for NVDA is in the "buy range".
ProShares UltraPro Short QQQ (SQQQ) is -1.1 at $28.50, with 6,991,597 shares traded. This represents a 8.72% increase from its 52 Week Low.
ProShares UltraPro QQQ (TQQQ) is +2.19 at $59.59, with 5,640,232 shares traded. This represents a 70.26% increase from its 52 Week Low.
Novavax, Inc. (NVAX) is +1.96 at $7.91, with 3,281,454 shares traded. Smarter Analyst Reports: Novavax Files for EUA in the UAE; Shares Up 4%
Intel Corporation (INTC) is +0.56 at $20.87, with 3,226,996 shares traded. INTC's current last sale is 99.38% of the target price of $21.
Hims & Hers Health, Inc. (HIMS) is -2.16 at $50.19, with 2,520,883 shares traded. Over the last four weeks they have had 3 up revisions for the earnings forecast, for the fiscal quarter ending Jun 2025. The consensus EPS forecast is $0.15. HIMS's current last sale is 132.08% of the target price of $38.
Snap Inc. (SNAP) is +0.1299 at $8.26, with 1,497,267 shares traded., following a 52-week high recorded in prior regular session.
Aegon Ltd. (AEG) is +0.02 at $6.72, with 1,424,735 shares traded. As reported by Zacks, the current mean recommendation for AEG is in the "buy range".
Exxon Mobil Corporation (XOM) is +0.82 at $105.43, with 1,218,880 shares traded. As reported by Zacks, the current mean recommendation for XOM is in the "buy range".
Amphenol Corporation (APH) is +2.616 at $83.46, with 914,694 shares traded. Over the last four weeks they have had 3 up revisions for the earnings forecast, for the fiscal quarter ending Jun 2025. The consensus EPS forecast is $0.66. As reported by Zacks, the current mean recommendation for APH is in the "buy range".
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

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