Altria's Stock Plummets 1.17% Amid FDA Fast-Tracking of Nicotine Pouch Approvals Surges to 160th in Trading Volume

Altria (MO) closed September 8, 2025, , , ranking 160th in market activity. The move coincided with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announcements to fast-track nicotine pouch reviews for four major tobacco firms, including Altria, aiming for December completion. This pilot program accelerates a process that typically spans years, addressing legal uncertainties for products like Altria’s on! and on! Plus brands.

The FDA’s decision follows pressure from the Trump administration and years of lobbying by tobacco companies for streamlined authorization. While the program could expedite product launches and reduce regulatory ambiguity, concerns persist over nicotine pouches’ appeal to youth. Advocacy groups have warned of potential risks, emphasizing the need for rigorous oversight. The FDA also mandated child-resistant packaging for nicotine pouches to mitigate safety hazards for children.

, but the stock’s performance remained pressured amid broader industry challenges. Competitors like Philip Morris International have also faced stock volatility, despite revenue growth, as they shift focus toward smoke-free alternatives. The FDA’s accelerated review timeline may reshape market dynamics, though its long-term impact on investor sentiment remains to be seen.

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