As Viking Therapeutics prepares to unveil its first-quarter 2024 financial results on April 24, investors eagerly await updates on the company’s innovative VKTX pipeline. With no approved products yet, all eyes are on Viking’s trio of promising candidates: VK2735 (targeting obesity), VK2809 (addressing non-alcoholic steatohepatitis [NASH]), and VK0214 (designed for X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy [X-ALD]).
Digging Deeper into Development
Viking Therapeutics is exploring both oral and subcutaneous formulations of VK2735 for obesity treatment. Recent data from a phase I study on the oral version revealed encouraging results, with notable weight loss percentages and favorable tolerability. The company aims to progress the oral variant to mid-stage trials by year-end following positive mid-stage study outcomes for the subcutaneous form.
Additionally, Viking’s successful phase IIb VOYAGE study on VK2809 showcased significant efficacy in NASH patients, hinting at a promising future for this candidate. Furthermore, an impending data readout for the VK0214 phase Ib study holds potential to drive further excitement among investors.
Market Performance and Expectations
Year to date, Viking’s stock has soared by an impressive 247.5%, starkly contrasting with the healthcare industry’s downturn. However, the company’s earnings history has been a mixed bag, with occasional misses alongside beats and meets. Investors eagerly anticipate whether the upcoming earnings will bring further surprises or meet expectations as in previous quarters.
Surveying the Landscape
Despite an unconvincing outlook for an earnings beat this quarter, Viking, armed with an Earnings ESP of 0.00% and a Zacks Rank #3, continues to captivate the market’s attention. As the financial world braces for impact, strategists ponder the implications and prepare for potential market shifts.
Exploring Alternatives
For investors with an appetite for healthcare stocks, alternative options like argenx, CytomX Therapeutics, and Sarepta Therapeutics offer enticing prospects. Each with their unique strengths and track records, these companies present compelling opportunities for those looking beyond Viking Therapeutics.
Stay informed about upcoming earnings releases and market trends to make informed investment decisions. The landscape of healthcare stocks offers a diverse range of opportunities, each with its unique blend of risks and rewards.
