Jim Cramer Says Hold Moderna Stock After Phase 3 Trial

Jim Cramer is urging investors to hold Moderna (MRNA) after the biotech company and Merck reported encouraging results from a Phase 3 trial of their personalized mRNA cancer vaccine. Cramer said the results, described in a herald report, point to a potentially significant breakthrough, while also suggesting investors consider taking some profits after Moderna shares surged sharply.

Moderna Cancer Vaccine Shows Promise

The attention surrounding Moderna intensified after its personalized cancer vaccine, intismeran autogene, met its primary and key secondary endpoints in a Phase 3 melanoma trial. The study involved 1,137 patients and evaluated the vaccine in combination with Merck’s Keytruda against Keytruda alone.

The Phase 3 result represents an important milestone for Moderna because it provides late-stage evidence that its mRNA technology could have applications beyond infectious-disease vaccines. The companies said the treatment improved recurrence-free survival and distant metastasis-free survival in patients with high-risk melanoma following surgery.

Cramer Sees Long-Term Potential

During an Aug. 26 episode of Mad Money, Cramer responded to a viewer who had purchased Moderna shares before the dramatic rally. While he suggested taking a little money off the table after the stock’s huge increase, he ultimately said he would continue holding the shares because he believes the cancer vaccine has real potential.

Moderna shares jumped 177% on Aug. 19 following the Phase 3 announcement, reflecting the market’s excitement over what could become a major new application for the company’s mRNA platform.

Risks Remain for Moderna Investors

Despite the optimism, Moderna still faces significant challenges. Detailed Phase 3 efficacy data have not yet been released, and the vaccine must still go through the regulatory approval process. The company also needs to demonstrate that personalized cancer vaccines can be manufactured efficiently and delivered at commercial scale.

Moderna’s financial position also remains a consideration. The company reported $145 million in second-quarter 2026 revenue and a $782 million GAAP net loss, although it ended June with $6.9 billion in cash, cash equivalents and investments. The company continues to target cash breakeven in 2028.

For investors, Cramer’s message is therefore more measured than a simple call to buy. The cancer trial has strengthened Moderna’s long-term story, but the stock’s dramatic rise means expectations are now high. Further clinical data, regulatory progress and evidence that the technology can succeed in other cancers will be key factors in determining whether the rally can continue.

Source : yahoo.com