2 Monster Stocks in the Making

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the potential of investing in smaller, lesser-known biotech companies alongside established market leaders, highlighting Viking Therapeutics and Axsome Therapeutics as promising candidates for growth in the biotech sector [1][2]. Viking Therapeutics - The weight loss market is projected to grow from $15 billion last year to $150 billion by 2035, driven by breakthroughs and increasing demand for obesity-related treatments [3]. - Viking Therapeutics is developing VK2735, a dual GLP-1/GIP agonist, currently in phase 3 trials for subcutaneous use, with promising efficacy observed in mid-stage trials for an oral formulation [4]. - The company is also working on another weight-loss candidate in preclinical studies and plans to initiate human clinical trials next year, alongside VK2809, which has completed phase 2 studies for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis [7]. Axsome Therapeutics - Axsome Therapeutics has achieved significant clinical and regulatory advancements, with third-quarter revenue reaching $171 million, a 63% year-over-year increase, primarily due to its depression medication, Auvelity [9]. - Auvelity, launched in 2022, is expected to achieve blockbuster status in treating depression and is awaiting approval for use in Alzheimer's disease agitation, with potential peak sales estimated between $1.5 billion to $3 billion [10][11]. - The company has a robust pipeline with other approved products and ongoing late-stage trials, including AXS-12 for narcolepsy and AXS-14 for fibromyalgia, which are expected to enhance financial performance [12][13].