Ann: Trading Halt, page-48

Here's why it might be seen as positive

Protection from Market Speculation:

By requesting a halt, the company can prevent speculation or misinformation from influencing the stock price before the full details of the trial results are disclosed. This suggests that the company wants the market to react to the complete and accurate information rather than rumors.

Significance of the Announcement:

Companies typically request trading halts when they have substantial news that could materially impact their share price. The fact that the halt is related to clinical trial results, which can be pivotal for biotech companies, often leads investors to anticipate significant news—potentially positive if the company expects the results to be favorable.

Confidence in Results:

While not always the case, some investors may view the halt as a sign that the company is confident in the trial results. The expectation could be that the results are substantial enough to warrant a considered release, rather than allowing the information to gradually leak out or be misinterpreted.