Pfizer (NYSE:PFE) Stock

Pfizer

Pfizer is one of the world's largest pharmaceutical firms, with annual sales close to $50 billion (excluding covid-19-related product sales). While it historically sold many types of healthcare products and chemicals, now prescription drugs and vaccines account for the majority of sales. Top sellers include pneumococcal vaccine Prevnar 13, cancer drug Ibrance, and cardiovascular treatment Eliquis. Pfizer sells these products globally, with international sales representing close to 50% of total sales. Within international sales, emerging markets are a major contributor.

EXEL

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Exelixis reaffirmed its 2025 sales guidance of $2.15-$2.25 billion and reported sustained long-term efficacy for Cabometyx in advanced renal cell carcinoma.

Why Is Cancer-Focused Exelixis Stock Trading Higher On Friday?

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SGMO

Pfizer has discontinued Beqvez for hemophilia B due to low patient demand and will focus on alternative treatments, including its approved therapy, Hympavzi.

Pfizer Discontinues Hemophilia Gene Therapy Beqvez As Interest Wanes

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Trump&#39;s proposed 25% tariffs on auto, semiconductor, and pharmaceutical imports have rattled markets and could affect ETFs with heavy exposure to these sectors.

Trade War Redux: These ETFs Due For Bumpy Ride Thanks To Trump Tariffs On Auto, Pharma, Chip Imports

Pfizer Inc

Innovator U.S. Equity Power Buffer ETF - February

PFEIFFER VACUUM TECH ORD by Pfeiffer Vacuum Technology AG

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On Friday, Exelixis, Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EXEL#NASDAQ">EXEL</a>) authorized repurchasing up to an additional $500 million of the company&#8217;s common stock before <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/02/b43868849/exelixis-announces-a-newly-authorized-500-million-stock-repurchase-program" rel="noreferrer noopener">December 31, 2025</a>.
Exelixis plans to complete the $500 million stock repurchase program, announced in August 2024, in the second quarter of 2025 and commence stock repurchases under the newly authorized stock repurchase program thereafter.
As of the end of fiscal year 2024, Exelixis has returned over $1.2 billion to shareholders through these programs.
Earlier this month, Exelixis reported fourth-quarter adjusted EPS of 55 cents, beating the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">consensus of 43 cents</a>. The cancer-focused company reported sales of $566.75 million, beating the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/02/b43640071/exelixis-announces-fourth-quarter-and-fiscal-year-2024-financial-results-and-provides-corporate-up" rel="noreferrer noopener">consensus of $563.42 million</a>.
Exelixis reaffirmed its 2025 sales guidance of $2.15 billion-$2.25 billion versus consensus of $2.24 billion.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/12/42488323/drug-price-hikes-unsupported-by-evidence-cost-us-815-million-icer-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">Drug Price Hikes Unsupported By Evidence Cost US $815 Million: ICER Report</a>
Recently, Exelixis announced the final results from the phase 3 CheckMate -9ER pivotal trial evaluating Cabometyx&nbsp;(cabozantinib) in combination with Bristol-Myers Squibb &amp; Co&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>) Opdivo&nbsp;(nivolumab) versus sunitinib for patients with previously untreated advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC).
After more than five years of follow-up, the findings demonstrated that the efficacy benefits of Cabometyx&nbsp;in combination with Opdivo were sustained long-term.
At a median follow-up of 67.6 months, Cabometyx, in combination with Opdivo, improved progression-free survival and overall survival compared with Pfizer Inc&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) Sutent (sunitinib) in the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/02/b43756537/exelixis-announces-final-five-year-follow-up-results-from-checkmate-9er-trial-evaluating-cabometyx" rel="noreferrer noopener">intent-to-treat population</a>.
A subgroup analysis by the International Metastatic RCC Database Consortium (IMDC) risk showed PFS and objective response rates favored Cabometyx in combination with Opdivo versus sunitinib regardless of the IMDC risk group.
In January, Exelixis announced that its supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) for cabozantinib for adults with previously treated advanced pancreatic neuroendocrine and extra-pancreatic tumors will no longer be discussed at the FDA&#8217;s Oncologic Drugs Advisory Committee meeting. The sNDA remains under consideration by the FDA and has a Prescription Drug User Fee Act action <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/01/b42896345/exelixis-provides-update-on-oncologic-drugs-advisory-committee-meeting-for-cabozantinib-cabometyx-" rel="noreferrer noopener">date of April 3</a>.
Price Action: EXEL stock is up 3.42% at $36.29 at the last check on Friday.
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MRNA

Shares of vaccine makers are trading higher after the Daily Mail reported a new coronavirus was discovered in China.

<a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/galleries/article-14422269/New-coronavirus-pandemic-potential-discovered-China.html">https://www.dailymail.co.uk/galleries/article-14422269/New-coronavirus-pandemic-potential-discovered-China.html</a>
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'New Coronavirus With Pandemic Potential Discovered In China' - DailyMail

According to multiple media reports on Thursday, Pfizer&nbsp;Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) has terminated the global development and commercialization of its hemophilia B gene therapy, Beqvez.
In April 2024, the FDA approved Beqvez for moderate to severe hemophilia B in adult patients who currently use factor IX prophylaxis therapy or have current or historical life-threatening hemorrhage, or have repeated,&nbsp;serious spontaneous&nbsp;bleeding episodes, and do not have neutralizing antibodies to&nbsp;adeno-associated&nbsp;virus&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/04/38468053/fda-green-lights-pfizers-gene-therapy-for-rare-bleeding-disorder-hemophilia" rel="noreferrer noopener">serotype Rh74var capsid</a>.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/02/43569013/uniqure-csl-behrings-hemophilia-gene-therapy-shows-sustained-efficacy-and-safety-at-four-years" rel="noreferrer noopener">uniQure/ CSL Behring&#8217;s Hemophilia Gene Therapy Shows Sustained Efficacy and Safety At Four Years</a>
In a statement to&nbsp;Nikkei Asia, Pfizer <a target="_blank" href="https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Pharmaceuticals/Pfizer-halts-work-on-hemophilia-gene-therapy" rel="noreferrer noopener">said</a> the decision was due to "the limited interest patients and their doctors have demonstrated in hemophilia gene therapies.&#8221;
The U.S. drugmaker said it would focus on different treatment for the disorder, citing low interest.
In December 2024, Pfizer walked away&nbsp;from its hemophilia A co-development pact with Sangamo Therapeutics Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SGMO#NASDAQ">SGMO</a>) giroctocogene fitelparvovec, an investigational gene <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42740738/sangamo-therapeutics-stock-plunges-as-pfizer-terminates-hemophilia-gene-therapy-pact" rel="noreferrer noopener">therapy product candidate</a>.
According to a Reuters report, Pfizer will continue to invest resources in Hympavzi (marstacimab-hncq), which is approved for routine prophylaxis to prevent or reduce the frequency of bleeding episodes in adults and pediatric patients with hemophilia A or hemophilia B.
Hympavzi is the first and only anti-tissue factor pathway inhibitor (anti-TFPI) approved in the U.S. for hemophilia A or B and the first hemophilia medicine approved in the U.S. to be administered via a pre-filled,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/10/41310468/fda-approves-pfizers-second-hemophilia-drug-with-six-months" rel="noreferrer noopener">auto-injector pen</a>.
Earlier this month, Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>) announced interim results from the phase 3 FRONTIER3 trial of 70 children (aged 1-11 years old) with hemophilia A <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/02/43557877/novo-nordisk-eyes-2025-regulatory-filing-for-hemophilia-candidate-after-encouraging-pediatric-study-data" rel="noreferrer noopener">with and without inhibitors</a>.
Novo Nordisk expects Mim8 regulatory submission during 2025. Data from the ongoing phase 3 FRONTIER program will be disclosed at upcoming congresses and in publications in 2025 and 2026.
In September 2024, Pfizer voluntarily withdrew all lots of Oxbryta&nbsp;(voxelotor) for sickle cell disease (SCD) in all markets&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/09/b41035514/pfizer-voluntarily-withdraws-all-lots-of-sickle-cell-disease-treatment-oxbryta-voxelotor-from-worl" rel="noreferrer noopener">where it is approved</a>.
Pfizer's decision is based on the totality of clinical data indicating that the overall benefit of Oxbryta no longer outweighs the risk in the approved sickle <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/09/41048780/pfizer-voluntarily-withdraws-sickle-cell-disease-treatment-oxbryta-from-global-market-due-to-pain" rel="noreferrer noopener">cell patient population</a>.
Price Action: PFE stock is up 0.87% at $26.13 at the last check on Friday.
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AMGN

DRIO

Hims & Hers Health, Inc. Class A Common Stock

HIMS

LFVN

RHHBY

TERN

VANI

VKTX

FDA Says Novo Nordisk's Ozempic Injection .68 mg/1 ml, Injection 1.34 mg/1 ml, Injection 2.68 Mg/1 ml Available As Of Feb 21; Novo Nordisk's Wegovy, Injection, 1.7 mg/.75 ml , Wegovy, Injection, 2.4 mg/.75 ml Now Available; FDA Says Semaglutide Injection Shortage Is Resolved As Of Feb 21

<a href="https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Pharmaceuticals/Pfizer-halts-work-on-hemophilia-gene-therapy" title="https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Pharmaceuticals/Pfizer-halts-work-on-hemophilia-gene-therapy">https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Pharmaceuticals/Pfizer-halts-work-on-hemophilia-gene-therapy</a>

'Pfizer Halts Work On Hemophilia Gene Therapy; U.S. Drugmaker To Focus On Different Treatment For Disorder, Citing Low Interest' - Nikkei Asia

<a href="https://www.statnews.com/2025/02/20/acip-cdc-vaccine-meeting-postponed/" title="https://www.statnews.com/2025/02/20/acip-cdc-vaccine-meeting-postponed/">https://www.statnews.com/2025/02/20/acip-cdc-vaccine-meeting-postponed/</a>

Politics

STAT News: 'Meeting of key CDC vaccine advisory panel, under scrutiny by RFK Jr., is postponed'

Pfizer&#39;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) short percent of float has fallen 19.75% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 73.57 million shares sold short, which is 1.3% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 1.95 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock?utm_source=insights&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest?utm_source=insights&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Pfizer Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img alt="short_fig" src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1740060927_0.png" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Pfizer has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Pfizer&#39;s Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company&#39;s peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company&#39;s peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Pfizer&#39;s peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 4.05%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze?utm_source=insights&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga&#39;s automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

Short Ideas

What's Driving the Market Sentiment Around Pfizer?

Investors are scrambling to assess the potential fallout of yet <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/tariffs">another tectonic trade decision</a>. 
What Happened: President Donald Trump plans to impose a 25% levy on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43805852/trump-shakes-global-trade-with-25-auto-chip-and-pharma-tariffs-announcement-asian-stocks-pare-their-five-day-rally">auto, semiconductor, and pharmaceutical imports</a>,
This move could have far-reaching consequences for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">ETFs with heavy exposure to these sectors</a>, particularly those tracking automakers, chipmakers, and biotech firms.
Trump's protectionist stance triggered an immediate market response across the global markets. Asian stocks retreated after a five-day rally, with the MSCI Asia Pacific Index slipping, particularly affecting Japanese automakers like Toyota Motor Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TM#NYSE">TM</a>).
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/02/43795579/warren-buffett-unfazed-by-trumps-tariff-threats-oracle-of-omaha-bets-on-mexico-beer">Warren Buffett Unfazed By Trump&#8217;s Tariff Threats: Oracle Of Omaha Bets On Mexico, Beer</a>
Automakers: The U.S. imported around 8 million passenger cars and light trucks last year, comprising 50% of total vehicle sales, according to a report by Wall Street Journal. A 25% tariff would increase vehicle prices, impact supply chains, and hurt companies dependent on overseas manufacturing. 
Here are a few ETFs likely to take a hit:
<ul>
<li>Global X Autonomous &amp; Electric Vehicles ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRIV#NASDAQ">DRIV</a>): Fairly exposed to Toyota, Tesla (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), and Ford (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>), this fund could face turbulence as trade tensions mount.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>First Trust NASDAQ Global Auto Index Fund (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CARZ#NASDAQ">CARZ</a>): Tracks major global automakers, including BMW, Honda, and General Motors (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GM#NYSE">GM</a>), which rely on imported parts. The ETF also has significant exposure to Toyota and Tesla and allocates 46% of its assets to overseas stocks. That places it in a precarious position amid escalating tariff situations.</li>
</ul>
Chips: Trump also declared that sectoral tariffs on semiconductors would start at "25% or higher", escalating further over time. This comes as the U.S. considers a 100% tariff on Taiwanese semiconductors, an industry heavily reliant on TSMC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>).
<ul>
<li>iShares Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXX#NASDAQ">SOXX</a>) – With Nvidia (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>), and Broadcom (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>) among its top holdings, this fund is exposed to volatility stemming from supply chain disruptions.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>VanEck Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMH#NASDAQ">SMH</a>) – Heavily weighted towards TSMC, Intel (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>), and Qualcomm (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>), making it vulnerable to any tariff escalation.</li>
</ul>
Pharma: The pharmaceutical sector is also caught in the crosshairs, with Trump hinting at escalating tariffs beyond 25% over the year. This could upend drug pricing, R&amp;D costs, and supply chain dynamics for major biopharma companies.
<ul>
<li>iShares U.S. Pharmaceuticals ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IHE#NYSE">IHE</a>): Tracks major drugmakers like Pfizer (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>), Merck (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), and Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>), all of which could see higher costs.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>SPDR S&amp;P Biotech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XBI#NYSE">XBI</a>): While biotech firms often have global R&amp;D operations, increased tariffs could disrupt access to imported drug components.</li>
</ul>
Why It Matters: Trump has long voiced concerns over U.S. automotive exports being treated unfairly abroad. In his first term, he threatened a similar 25% car tariff but ultimately backed down.
For ETF investors, volatility is back on the table. Those holding funds exposed to autos, chips, and pharmaceuticals must brace for a bumpy ride. While Trump believes the move will bring manufacturing back home, the short-term pain could be severe.
The Wall Street Journal reported that U.S. companies may receive a phase-in period, with tariffs increasing over the course of the year.
What's Next: Markets will be watching closely as April 2 (when auto tariffs are expected to kick in) approaches. Any delays or modifications to the tariff plan could shift investor sentiment. 
For now, ETF traders should keep an eye on sectoral rotation, hedge exposure where necessary, and prepare for the potential impact of another round of trade wars.
Read Next: 
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</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

During times of turbulence and uncertainty in the markets, many investors turn to dividend-yielding stocks. These are often companies that have high free cash flows and reward shareholders with a<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/yield-investments"> high dividend payout</a>.
Benzinga readers can review the latest analyst takes on their favorite stocks by visiting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">Analyst Stock Ratings</a> page. Traders can sort through Benzinga's extensive database of analyst ratings, including <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/22/09/28888638/exclusive-study-finds-benzinga-analyst-ratings-data-yields-market-beating-strategie">by analyst accuracy</a>.
Below are the ratings of the most accurate analysts for three high-yielding stocks in the health care sector.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Organon &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OGN#NYSE">OGN</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 7.24%</li>
<li>Morgan Stanley analyst Terence Flynn maintained an Equal-Weight rating and cut the price target from $17 to $16 on Feb. 14. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 68%.</li>
<li>Piper Sandler analyst David Amsellem maintained an Overweight rating and raised the price target from $22 to $24 on April 29, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 71%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On Feb. 13, Organon reported better-than-expected fourth-quarter adjusted EPS results.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s real-time newsfeed alerted to latest <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent021925&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">OGN news</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent021925&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="842" height="767" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/19080423/image-163.png" alt="" class="wp-image-788843" style="width:573px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/19080423/image-163.png 842w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/19080423/image-163-300x273.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/19080423/image-163-768x700.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 6.73%</li>
<li>Guggenheim analyst Vamil Divan reiterated a Buy rating with a price target of $33 on Feb. 10, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 76%.</li>
<li>Citigroup analyst Andrew Baum maintained a Neutral rating and cut the price target from $30 to $29 on Jan. 28, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 70%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On Feb. 13, Pfizer reported Phase 3 TALAPRO-2 study results.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro's real-time newsfeed alerted to latest <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent021925&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">PFE news</a> </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent021925&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="907" height="831" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/19080512/image-164.png" alt="" class="wp-image-788845" style="width:676px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/19080512/image-164.png 907w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/19080512/image-164-300x275.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/19080512/image-164-768x704.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 907px) 100vw, 907px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 4.56%</li>
<li>Wells Fargo analyst Mohit Bansal maintained an Equal-Weight rating and raised the price target from $60 to $62 on Feb. 7, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 72%.</li>
<li>Citigroup analyst Andrew Baum maintained a Neutral rating and boosted the price target from $60 to $65 on Jan. 28, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 70%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On Feb. 19, Bristol Myers Squibb announced the final analysis of overall survival from the Phase 3 Checkmate -816 study, which evaluated Opdivo (Nivolumab) in combination with platinum-doublet chemotherapy as a neoadjuvant treatment for adult patients with resectable (Tumors ≥ 4 cm or node positive) non-small cell lung cancer.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s real-time newsfeed alerted to latest <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent021925&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">BMY news</a> </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent021925&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="905" height="840" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/19080554/image-165.png" alt="" class="wp-image-788846" style="width:696px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/19080554/image-165.png 905w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/19080554/image-165-300x278.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/19080554/image-165-768x713.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 905px) 100vw, 905px" /></a></figure>
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Read More: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/02/43776863/top-3-risk-off-stocks-which-could-rescue-your-portfolio-this-quarter-3">Top 3 Risk Off Stocks Which Could Rescue Your Portfolio This Quarter</a></li>
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Dividends

Price Target

Pre-Market Outlook

Markets

Analyst Ratings

Wall Street's Most Accurate Analysts Weigh In On 3 Health Care Stocks With Over 4% Dividend Yields

Former U.S. Secretary of Labor Robert Reich has called out the tax reduction plans of the Donald Trump-led administration in an X post, terming them as an &#8220;absolutely shameless giveaway,&#8221; that could shoot up the deficit by $4.6 trillion.
What Happened: The possible tax cuts for rich individuals and lower corporate tax rates are likely to widen the U.S. trade deficit, which the Trump 2.0 administration would most likely fund from the tariffs imposed on its trading partners.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Trump wants to extend his tax cuts for rich individuals, which would add $4.6T to the deficit. But he wants to go even further, cutting the corporate tax rate to 15%. It&#39;s yet another absolutely shameless giveaway. <a href="https://t.co/mkAWOFkkUd">pic.twitter.com/mkAWOFkkUd</a>
&mdash; Robert Reich (@RBReich) <a href="https://twitter.com/RBReich/status/1891623719304339516?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
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The data from the Center For American Progress Action Fund or CAPAF shows that cutting the corporate tax rate down to 15% would save all sectors and companies billions of dollars in tax.
<ul>
<li>Top 100 U.S. Companies: Can expect a total annual tax cut of $48 billion despite reporting $1.1 trillion in profits in their 2023 annual report.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Top 10 U.S. Companies: Reported more than $520 billion in profits according to their 2023 annual report can expect an annual tax cut of $23 billion. These include firms like Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>), Comcast Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>), and JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Oil: The five largest U.S. oil companies, including Exxon Mobil Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>), Chevron Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>), Marathon Petroleum Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MPC#NYSE">MPC</a>), Phillips 66 (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PSX#NYSE">PSX</a>), and Valero Energy Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VLO#NYSE">VLO</a>) will receive an estimated $2.2 billion annual tax cut, despite over $80 billion in profits.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Pharma: The five largest U.S. drug makers, Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>), Merck &amp; Co Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>), AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>) and Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>) will receive an estimated $3.1 billion annual tax cut, despite over $50 billion in profits.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Banking: The five largest Wall Street banks, JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>), Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/C#NYSE">C</a>), Wells Fargo &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WFC#NYSE">WFC</a>) and Goldman Sachs Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>) will receive an estimated $4.1 billion annual tax cut, despite nearly $113 billion in profits.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Grocery: The five largest grocery companies, Kroger Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KR#NYSE">KR</a>), Costco Wholesale Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COST#NASDAQ">COST</a>), Albertsons Companies Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ACI#NYSE">ACI</a>), Target Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) and Walmart Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) will receive an estimated $1.7 billion annual tax cut, despite over $29 billion in profits.</li>
</ul>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/02/43763438/trump-acting-like-a-mafia-don-says-this-economist-as-uncertainty-mounts-businesses-hold-back-in-fear-of-unforeseen-economic-shifts">Trump &#8216;Acting Like A Mafia Don,&#8217; Says This Economist As Uncertainty Mounts, Businesses Hold Back In Fear Of Unforeseen Economic Shifts</a>
Why It Matters: Trump has threatened all its trading partners with &#8220;reciprocal tariffs,&#8221; while already having implemented 25% on steel and aluminum imports.
According to economists like Craig Shapiro, who is a macro strategist at the Bear Traps Report, tariffs are the "<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43587245/tariffs-are-the-only-way-to-fund-tax-cuts-without-deficit-expansion-argues-expert-as-it-takes-center-stage-in-donald-trumps-economic-plan">only way</a>" to fund tax cuts without expanding the federal deficit. 
Shapiro likened Trump&#8217;s governance to that of a &#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/02/43763438/trump-acting-like-a-mafia-don-says-this-economist-as-uncertainty-mounts-businesses-hold-back-in-fear-of-unforeseen-economic-shifts">Mafia Don</a>,&#8221; saying businesses are now uncertain about the economy&#8217;s direction. He noted fading &#8220;initial euphoria&#8221; and a &#8220;wait-and-see&#8221; approach from business leaders due to unclear policies, tariffs, trade agreement uncertainty, and fluctuating government spending. &#8211;
Price Action: On Friday, the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) and Invesco QQQ Trust ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) which track the S&amp;P 500 and Nasdaq 100 indices, closed mixed. SPY fell 0.0049% to a value of $609.7, and QQQ was up by 0.42% to end at a value of $538.15, according to Benzinga Pro data.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/25/02/43773441/ahead-of-gamestops-bitcoin-purchase-plans-blackrock-morgan-stanley-goldman-sachs-and-other-billion-dollar-funds-load-up-on-gme-stock-in-q4">Ahead Of GameStop&#8217;s Bitcoin Purchase Plans, BlackRock, Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, And Other Billion Dollar Funds Load Up On GME Stock In Q4</a></li>
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Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Equities

Government

Macro Notification

ABBV

CMCSA

COST

Trump's Tax Cut Could Add $4.6 Trillion To Deficit, With $48 Billion Tax Relief For Top 100 Firms: Robert Reich

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been sworn in as Secretart oy Health and Human Services (HHS), a move that could shake up the healthcare sector—including health insurance stocks and the ETFs that hold them. ETFs like iShares U.S. Healthcare Providers ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IHF#NYSE">IHF</a>) and SPDR Select Sector Fund &#8211; Health Care (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLV#NYSE">XLV</a>), which carry <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43703014/robert-f-kennedy-confirmed-as-trump-secretary-of-health">major insurers</a> such as UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) and Elevance Health, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ELV#NYSE">ELV</a>), could be particularly impacted by regulatory shifts under Kennedy&#8217;s tutelage.
Investors tracking the health insurance sector should watch ETFs that have exposure to UnitedHealth and Elevance Health. We will come to the reason in a while, but first, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">here are some ETFs</a> that hold the stocks:
iShares U.S. Healthcare Providers ETF– This ETF focuses on healthcare providers and insurers, with the topmost weightings in UnitedHealth and Elevance Health. It provides targeted exposure to managed care companies, hospitals, and specialized healthcare services, making it particularly sensitive to regulatory changes affecting health insurers. 
SPDR Select Sector Fund &#8211; Health Care– A broad-based healthcare ETF that includes not only major health insurers but also pharmaceutical and biotech companies. UnitedHealth is one of its largest holdings, meaning any regulatory action against insurers could impact its performance. Additionally, the fund&#8217;s significant exposure to vaccine makers like Pfizer (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) and Moderna (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>) adds another layer to the concerns under Kennedy's leadership.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/02/43708331/robert-f-kennedys-confirmation-cannabis-advocates-question-his-new-vow-to-follow-the-science-on-marijuanas-harms">Robert F. Kennedy&#8217;s Confirmation: Cannabis Advocates Question His New Vow To &#8216;Follow The Science&#8217; On Marijuana&#8217;s Harms</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What's At Stake For Health Insurance Stocks?</h3>
On Feb. 13, the Senate voted 52 to 48 to confirm Kennedy as the overseer of key agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
During his Senate hearings in January, Kennedy denounced what he called the "rapacious behavior by insurance companies." He has suggested that he would support efforts to rein in abusive industry practices, including denying care and overcharging the government. 
Two major players in the space that could be affected by potential policy shifts include UnitedHealth, who is the largest Medicare Advantage insurer in the U.S., and Elevance Health, a major Medicaid managed care provider.
Naturally, stricter policies on claim approvals and government reimbursements could create headwinds for the aforementioned funds&#8217; major holdings.
Additionally, Kennedy&#8217;s appointment comes at a time when healthcare costs are soaring, and the spread of bird flu among wild birds and poultry farms is raising pandemic concerns. He has been a longtime vaccine skeptic, a stance that could have ramifications for pharmaceutical companies producing vaccines. Notably, he has questioned the safety and efficacy of bird flu vaccines, which can be bad news for vaccine-makers like Pfizer and Moderna. 
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/broad-u-s-equity-etfs/25/02/43741102/etfs-benefit-from-egg-straordinary-surge-in-grocery-prices">ETFs Benefit From Egg-Straordinary Surge In Grocery Prices</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

streetTRACKS Dow Jones U.S. Large Cap Value Index Fund

iShares Dow Jones US Health Care Provides Index Fund

Health Insurance ETFs in Focus as RFK Jr Takes Over HHS

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/ken-griffin">Ken Griffin</a>'s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/citadel-securities">hedge fund Citadel</a> has placed a £305 million ($390 million) short bet against GSK PLC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GSK#NYSE">GSK</a>), marking the largest wager against the UK pharma giant in over a decade, <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/6520c6eb-4a30-4909-9c86-1b6b2e471743">reported</a> the Financial Times. 
The position, disclosed to the UK's Financial Conduct Authority, amounts to 0.51% of GSK's outstanding shares.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">GSK's Rally Faces A Reality Check</h2>
GSK stock has climbed 8.20% in the past month, fueled by a £2 billion ($2.5 billion approx.) stock buyback and strong HIV and cancer drug sales. Yet, it still trails peers. 
Over the past five years, GSK shares have declined 17.53%, while the S&amp;P 500 pharmaceutical index has surged 45%. Griffin's short signals skepticism over the company's long-term pipeline, especially as its HIV drugs near a patent cliff.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/02/43638136/goldman-sachs-turns-bearish-on-vaccine-maker-dynavax-amid-shingles-and-hepatitis-b-uncertainty">Goldman Sachs Turns Bearish On Vaccine Maker Dynavax Amid Shingles And Hepatitis B Uncertainty</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Hedge Funds, Analysts Are Split</h2>
This isn't the first time hedge funds have circled GSK. In 2021, activist investor Elliott Management pushed for a leadership shake-up. 
Meanwhile, JPMorgan analysts view GSK's latest earnings and guidance as "positive," but question the buyback's timing. Barclays called it "unexpected," while Jefferies deemed it "well received."
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Takeaways For Investors</h2>
GSK's challenges have led to mixed bets on its future, but investors seeking exposure to Big Pharma without GSK's risks may look at industry leaders like Eli Lilly &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>) and Pfizer Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>). 
Alternatively, the iShares U.S. Pharmaceuticals ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IHE#NYSE">IHE</a>) and SPDR S&amp;P Pharmaceuticals ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XPH#NYSE">XPH</a>) provide diversified exposure.
With Citadel betting against GSK, the stock could see increased volatility—making it one to watch.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/02/43598644/deadly-bird-flu-strain-detected-in-nevada-man-4-stocks-to-watch">Deadly Bird Flu Strain Detected In Nevada Man: 4 Stocks To Watch</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Hedge Funds

Ken Griffin's Citadel Places Big Short Bet Against GSK - Here's What It Means for Investors

KVUE

RIOT

Starboard Value's Latest 13F Filing Reveals New Stakes In Kenvue By 21.91M Shares, Pfizer By 15.37M Shares, Healthcare Realty Trust By 20.18M Shares, And Riot Platforms By 12.70M Shares.

Trump Order Halts Funding For School Covid Vaccine Mandates

On Thursday, Pfizer Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>)&nbsp;revealed results from the Phase 3 TALAPRO-2 study of Talzenna&nbsp;(talazoparib) in combination <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/02/b43696191/pfizers-talzenna-in-combination-with-xtandi-improves-survival-outcomes-in-metastatic-castration-re" rel="noreferrer noopener">with Xtandi&nbsp;(enzalutamide)</a>.
The trial demonstrated a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in overall survival (OS) compared to placebo plus Xtandi in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), with or without homologous recombination repair (HRR) gene mutations.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/02/43636349/pfizer-astellas-tout-encouraging-data-from-keytruda-combo-regime-in-urothelial-cancer-showing-49-reduction-in-death-risk-vs-chemo" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pfizer/Astellas Tout Encouraging Data From Keytruda Combo Regime In Urothelial Cancer Showing 49% Reduction In Death Risk Vs. Chemo</a>
The TALAPRO-2 study evaluated two sets of patients, unselected (cohort 1) and selected for HRR gene-mutations (cohort 2).
Overall survival was a prespecified, alpha-protected key secondary endpoint.
After more than four years of median follow-up (52.5 months), the median OS in cohort 1 was 45.8 months with Talzenna in combination with Xtandi and 37.0 months with Xtandi and placebo, representing a 20% reduction in the risk of death, representing a nearly 9-month gain in median OS versus standard of care Xtandi.
In Cohort 2, a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in OS was observed in patients with HRR-mutated mCRPC.
At a median follow-up of 44.2 months, the median OS was 45.1 months with Talzenna in combination with Xtandi and 31.1 months with Xtandi and placebo, a 38% reduction in the risk of death, representing a 14-month gain in median OS versus standard of care Xtandi in a patient population with a historically poor prognosis.
The OS improvement in the HRR-mutated population was observed in patients with BRCA and non-BRCA gene alterations.
At the time of the final analysis, updated radiographic progression-free survival (rPFS) and other secondary efficacy endpoints demonstrated maintained clinical benefit in both cohorts and were consistent with the primary analyses&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pfizer.com%2Fnews%2Fpress-release%2Fpress-release-detail%2Fpfizer-announces-positive-talzennar-and-xtandir-combination&amp;esheet=54204140&amp;newsitemid=20250213091824&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=previously+reported&amp;index=3&amp;md5=ea73e565cd9cb9796d6e5d091df9343c" rel="noreferrer noopener">previously reported</a>&nbsp;and published in&nbsp;The Lancet&nbsp;and&nbsp;Nature Medicine.
Price Action: Pfizer stock is up 0.04% at $25.65 at last check Friday.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/02/43730124/apple-focuses-on-alibaba-baidu-partnership-in-race-to-bring-ai-features-to-china-by-mid-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple Focuses On Alibaba, Baidu Partnership In Race To Bring AI Features To China by Mid-2025</a></li>
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Image: Shutterstock

Pfizer's Talzenna/Xtandi Combo Improves Survival Outcomes In Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Sworn In as HHS Secretary

The U.S. Senate voted on Thursday to confirm President Donald Trump's nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43306674/trumps-hhs-pick-robert-kennedy-jr-begins-senate-confirmation-hearings">Health and Human Services.&nbsp;</a>
The Details: The Senate voted 52 to 48 to confirm Kennedy as health secretary, with Sen. Mitch McConnell as the only Republican who voted "no." All Democrats voted against the nomination. 
As secretary of health, Kennedy will oversee several critical health agencies including the Food and Drug Administration, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.&nbsp;
Kennedy takes the helm of the nation's health systems as health care costs are soaring and bird flu is spreading through wild birds and poultry farms, with the potential for a pandemic if the virus evolves to transmit between humans. 
Read More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43663963/record-high-egg-prices-drive-inflation-higher-in-january">Record-High Egg Prices Drive Inflation Higher In January</a>
What To Watch: During his Senate <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/01/43321236/rfk-jr-and-big-pharma-stocks-to-watch-as-health-secretary-hopeful-answers-pointed-questions-on-drugs-insurance-trump-exec-orders">hearings in January</a>, Kennedy called out &#8220;rapacious behavior by insurance companies" and suggested he would support efforts to crack down on abusive tactics like denying care and overcharging the government.
Some insurers tied to Medicaid and Medicare are UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>), the largest Medicare Advantage insurer in the U.S., and Elevance Health, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ELV#NYSE">ELV</a>), one of the largest Medicaid managed care organizations.&nbsp;
Kennedy has been an outspoken skeptic on vaccines for decades and pharmaceutical stocks could be affected by potential policy changes under his leadership. Some of the largest pharmaceutical companies that produce vaccines are Moderna, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>), Merck &amp; Company, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) and Pfizer, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>)&nbsp;
While campaigning for president in 2024, Kennedy <a href="https://x.com/RobertKennedyJr/status/1804923391595696553">wrote a post</a> on social media doubting the safety and efficacy of bird flu vaccines in particular.&nbsp;
&#8220;There is no evidence these vaccines will work, and they appear to be dangerous,&#8221; Kennedy wrote.&nbsp;
He also attempted to push a conspiracy theory that stated deadly bird flu strains were being engineered in government labs in order to create a market for pharmaceutical companies to profit from vaccines. 
&#8220;We already know our public health agencies are out of control.&nbsp; We have to stop the runaway gain-of-function experiments and the highly lucrative pandemic vaccine experiments right now,&#8221; he wrote.&nbsp;
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/02/43535256/palantir-adds-elon-musks-ai-chatbot-grok-to-aip">Palantir Adds Elon Musk&#8217;s AI Chatbot Grok To AIP</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock.

Regulations

Robert F. Kennedy, Vaccine Skeptic, Confirmed As Trump's Secretary Of Health: Health Care Stocks To Watch

MSOS

RFK Jr. Has Been Confirmed As The Next Health And Human Services Secretary

<ul>
<li>TALZENNA + XTANDI is the first PARP inhibitor plus ARPI combination to demonstrate statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in overall survival (OS) in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) regardless of HRR mutation status</li>
<li>TALZENNA + XTANDI improved median OS by almost 9 months in unselected patients (Cohort 1) and by 14 months in patients selected for HRR mutations (Cohort 2) versus standard of care XTANDI</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pfizer.com%2F&amp;esheet=54204140&amp;newsitemid=20250213091824&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=Pfizer+Inc.&amp;index=1&amp;md5=d505a66876c5e067f1ef8d767e8cc803">Pfizer Inc.</a> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) today announced positive results from the Phase 3 TALAPRO-2 study of TALZENNA&#xAE; (talazoparib), an oral poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitor, in combination with XTANDI&#xAE; (enzalutamide), an androgen receptor pathway inhibitor (ARPI), demonstrating a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in overall survival (OS) compared to placebo plus XTANDI in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), with or without homologous recombination repair (HRR) gene mutations. The TALAPRO-2 results will be presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology Genitourinary (ASCO GU) Cancers Symposium in San Francisco and featured in the <a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.asco.org%2Fabout-asco%2Fpress-center%2Fnews-releases%2Fadvances-prostate-cancer-treatment-community-based-screening&amp;esheet=54204140&amp;newsitemid=20250213091824&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=ASCO+GU+official+Press+Program&amp;index=2&amp;md5=3756fc2af6e212e90acb4ac0baf9aad6">ASCO GU official Press Program</a>.
The TALAPRO-2 study evaluated two sets of patients, unselected (cohort 1) and selected for HRR gene-mutations (cohort 2). Overall survival was a prespecified, alpha-protected key secondary endpoint. After more than four years of median follow-up (52.5 months), the median OS in cohort 1 was 45.8 months with TALZENNA in combination with XTANDI, and 37.0 months with XTANDI and placebo (Hazard Ratio [HR] of 0.80; 95% Confidence Interval [CI], 0.66-0.96; p=0.015), representing a 20% reduction in the risk of death. This represents a nearly 9-month gain in median OS versus standard of care XTANDI. Data from cohort 1 will be presented today at ASCO GU in an oral presentation (Abstract LBA18) by Dr. Neeraj Agarwal, global lead investigator for TALAPRO-2.
In Cohort 2, a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in OS was observed in patients with HRR-mutated mCRPC. At a median follow-up of 44.2 months, the median OS was 45.1 months with TALZENNA in combination with XTANDI, and 31.1 months with XTANDI and placebo (HR of 0.62; 95% CI, 0.48-0.81; p=0.0005), a 38% reduction in the risk of death. This result represents a 14-month gain in median OS versus standard of care XTANDI in a patient population with a historically poor prognosis. The OS improvement in the HRR-mutated population was observed in patients in both BRCA and non-BRCA gene alterations. Dr. Karim Fizazi, Institut Gustave Roussy, University of Paris-Saclay will share data from Cohort 2 at ASCO GU today (Abstract LBA141).

Pfizer Announces Phase 3 TALAPRO-2 Study Results: TALZENNA + XTANDI Shows Significant OS Improvement In mCRPC Patients; 9-Month OS Gain In Unselected Paitents, 14-Month In Paitents Selected For HRR Mutations, Secondary Endpoint Met; To Be Presented at ASCO GU Symposium

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