Applying the concepts of financial options to stimulate vaccine development.

Stimulating research and development for neglected diseases (such as tuberculosis, malaria and AIDS) has proven difficult. We offer an alternative approach to stimulating research into neglected diseases based on the concept of a financial call option. Our Call Options for Vaccines (COV) model allows the purchaser to make payments during the early stages of development in exchange for reduced future prices. We conclude with a discussion of possible risks and benefits.