Viking Therapeutics(US:VKTX) Jin Rong Jie·2025-08-20 00:26Group 1 - Viking Therapeutics Inc. experienced a record stock price drop of 42%, resulting in a significant gain of $521 million for short sellers, reversing earlier losses this year [1][4] - The stock price decline was attributed to adverse mid-stage trial results of an experimental oral weight loss drug, with approximately 28% of patients dropping out due to side effects [4] - This incident marks the second disappointing oral weight loss drug study in recent times, following Eli Lilly's similar results earlier this month, which led to a 14% drop in its stock price [4] Group 2 - Despite the negative news, nearly 90% of analysts maintain a "buy" rating for Viking Therapeutics, with an average target price of around $90, indicating over three times potential upside from current trading levels [4] - Oppenheimer & Co. analyst Jay Olson views the stock's decline as a buying opportunity, suggesting that market concerns regarding tolerance issues are overstated, while reiterating a "outperform" rating and a target price of $100 [4]