In a report released today, Matthew Caufield from H.C. Wainwright reiterated a Hold rating on HilleVax, Inc (HLVX – Research Report), with a price target of $2.00.
Matthew Caufield’s rating is based on the current uncertainties surrounding HilleVax, Inc’s norovirus vaccine development. The company’s recent Phase 2B NEST-IN1 trial did not meet its primary and secondary endpoints, leading to the discontinuation of the HIL-214 vaccine candidate for infants. This setback has prompted the company to explore alternative strategies, including the potential development of norovirus vaccines for adult populations and other strategic business opportunities.
Despite the global impact of norovirus and the clear benefits of preventing moderate-to-severe acute gastroenteritis, the failure of the trial raises questions about the future direction of HilleVax’s vaccine program. The company is assessing whether a broader virus-like particle design could address strain variability and improve outcomes in different populations. Until there is more clarity on these strategic decisions and potential pipeline developments, Caufield maintains a Hold rating, reflecting a cautious stance on the stock’s future performance.
Based on the recent corporate insider activity of 7 insiders, corporate insider sentiment is negative on the stock. This means that over the past quarter there has been an increase of insiders selling their shares of HLVX in relation to earlier this year.