Should You Buy Viking Therapeutics Before Nov. 5?

Core Insights - Viking Therapeutics' stock experienced significant volatility, surging over 120% after positive phase 2 trial results for its weight loss candidate VK2735, but has since lost 47% over the past year, although it has gained 16% in the last three months [1][2][6] Company Overview - Viking Therapeutics is focused on developing VK2735, a weight loss candidate that is currently in phase 3 trials, with an oral version in phase 2 [2][3] - VK2735 is categorized alongside GLP-1 receptor agonists, which are currently leading the weight loss market, dominated by companies like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly [3][4] Market Potential - The weight loss drug market is projected to approach $100 billion by the end of the decade, indicating significant revenue potential for new entrants like Viking [6][4] - Viking's VK2735 demonstrated an average weight loss of up to 13.1% after 13 weeks in phase 2 trials, with no observed plateau, suggesting continued weight loss potential [4][6] Stock Performance - Despite a decline from its peak, the drop in Viking's stock price is not attributed to negative company news but rather to profit-taking by investors and unmet acquisition expectations [7] - The current market cap of Viking Therapeutics is approximately $4 billion, with a stock price range over the past year between $18.92 and $79.10 [6] Upcoming Catalysts - Viking is scheduled to present data on VK2735 at two medical conferences, which may reinforce the drug's significance and support optimism about its market potential [9][10][11] - The presentations will cover the impact of VK2735 on prediabetes and metabolic syndrome, as well as its design in phase 3 studies for obesity and type 2 diabetes patients [10][11][12] Investment Considerations - The current momentum in Viking's stock suggests it may be a favorable investment opportunity, although investors are advised to take a measured approach rather than rushing to buy before the upcoming presentations [12][13]