MS optimistic on CSL anticipating upbeat US vaccination rates

Biotechnology firm CSL's CSL.AX shares drop as much as 0.7%

Morgan Stanley flags a 15% drop in influenza vaccine sales during the first half, pointing to a decline in U.S. vaccination rates for those aged 15 to 64 as key contributor to its sales slump in the country

Brokerage highlights that U.S. CDC has classified 2024-25 as a high-severity influenza season for all age groups — the first since 2017-18

Despite the current reduction in sales, Morgan Stanley suggests that severity of current season may support increased vaccination rates for the upcoming season

Rates stock "overweight" at the price target of A$313/shr

Stock down 9.9% YTD including current trading session