Mid-Week Stock Picks Include Moderna, Intel, and Albemarle

Short sellers started to panic in recent days. Moderna (MRNA), which has a short interest of 16.44%, might benefit from two developments.

First, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ended its emergency response for the H5N1 bird flu outbreak. That would suggest that bird flu vaccine makers like Pfizer (PFE) and Moderna may focus their research and development efforts on other vaccines.

Secondly, the American College of Physicians, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Public Health Association, and the Infectious Diseases Society of America are among the Plaintiffs suing RFK Jr. They are challenging his decision to change the vaccine recommendations for COVID-19. They want the vaccination recommendation to include pregnant women and all children. If it wins, Moderna’s market addressability for the vaccine increases.

Intel (INTC) irrationally gained 7.23% on July 8 after starting its layoff. The firm reportedly began reducing its organizational complexity at its Oregon campuses. INTC stock has limited upside. Investors have better return potential from AMD and Nvidia (NVDA).

In lithium mining, Albemarle (ALB) closed above $70 for the first time since March. The short interest is 15.9%. Lithium demand is expected to weaken as electric vehicle sales decline. Consider selling ALB stock if shares return to the $75 - $80 level.