Novavax, Inc. (NVAX)

There are so many companies that investors "think" could benefit from the swine flu that there is now even a "swine flu index". The index has been popping and dropping with every headline and then the lull in between. Of the stocks being speculated on, (gambled on), only a few will gain any meaningful revenue from the swine flu. Even then the revenue, especially after more than one are approved by the FDA, will be marginal. Margins, despite the fear for the products, is surprisingly low. Novamax is one such company that has potential and could see huge pops from speculators, but whose FDA approval is too far out in the US, (barring acceleration), to benefit this flu season. Like several other companies, however, they are actively pursuing governments in other countries that might reduce the testing window if fear drives them to needing a solution before other suppliers can meet their needs. In the long run, even missing the window for this season, unlike other company's that need a hit now or risk losing investor interest, Novamax has some long term potential. Book value is sub $1, but recent stock issues leave sufficient cash in the coffers at a reasonable burn rate that Novavax should be stable in the short run while options develop.
In early trials Novavax's VLP (virus-like particle) is showing suffiecient results to continue development and has the added benefit that the vaccine can be "grown" in caterpillar cells. A unique trait that woudl allow it to be mass produced faster than from current processes using chicken eggs. With each flu season different, the need for a separate swine flu this year and subsequent adapted varieties of flu shots that typically have a very short produciton cycle and is often "late" to be delivered, Novavax has potential to come out a winner, even if later than current speculators...hmmmm, investors would like.