Moderna: Short Interest Remains High in Healthcare Sector

Moderna (MRNA) remains the most shorted stock in the healthcare sector with a 19.15% short interest. Analysts project mixed target prices from $20 to $198. GuruFocus estimates suggest a potential downside of 38.1% based on the stock's GF Value.

Moderna (MRNA) remains the most shorted stock in the healthcare sector, with a current short interest of 19.15% [1]. This level is slightly lower than the 19.23% recorded in May but still reflects a cautious investor sentiment. Despite the potential revenue generated from new COVID-19 vaccines, concerns about past overspending and market uncertainty keep sentiment predominantly bearish.

Wall Street analysts offer a mixed outlook on Moderna's stock. The average target price stands at $46.80, with a wide range from $20.00 to $198.00 [1]. This average target price suggests a substantial upside of 41.11% from the current price of $33.17. However, a consensus of 26 brokerage firms places Moderna's average recommendation status at 3.0, suggesting a "Hold" position [1].

GuruFocus estimates project a potential downside of 38.1% based on the stock's GF Value, estimating a future value of $20.53 in one year [1]. This estimate is derived from historical trading multiples, past growth rates, and future business performance projections.

Moderna Inc. (MRNA) has maintained its status as a leader in the healthcare industry, notably for its high short interest. The company's mRNA technology was rapidly validated with its COVID-19 vaccine, which was authorized in the United States in December 2020 [3]. As of September 2024, Moderna had 40 mRNA development candidates in clinical development, spanning a wide range of therapeutic areas [3].

The vaccine technologies market, driven by advancements in mRNA platforms, is rapidly evolving. The global vaccine technologies market size is estimated to be valued at USD 55.44 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 111.52 billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.0% from 2025 to 2032 [4].

References:
[1] https://www.gurufocus.com/news/2975153/moderna-mrna-remains-most-shorted-stock-in-health-care-sector
[2] https://seekingalpha.com/news/4466977/notable-healthcare-headlines-for-the-week-trumps-tariff-threat-merck-unitedhealth-and-moderna-in-focus
[3] https://www.gurufocus.com/term/payments-on-behalf-of-employees/MEX:MRNA
[4] https://www.openpr.com/news/4103276/vaccine-technologies-market-thrives-with-mrna-platforms