1 Bold Prediction for Viking Therapeutics in 2026

Core Insights - Viking Therapeutics is viewed as a potential acquisition target in 2026 due to its promising product pipeline, particularly its dual GLP-1/GIP agonist, VK2735, which is in late-stage trials [1][2] Industry Context - The pharmaceutical industry is currently experiencing high takeover activity, exemplified by Pfizer's recent acquisition of Metsera, indicating a trend towards acquiring smaller companies with valuable pipelines, especially in obesity treatments [2] Company Overview - Viking Therapeutics has a market capitalization of $4.1 billion, with its stock currently priced at $35.69, reflecting a day’s change of -1.27% [3] - The company's stock has a 52-week range of $18.92 to $47.87, indicating significant volatility [3] Product Pipeline Analysis - Viking's VK2735, an oral anti-obesity candidate, faced a 20% discontinuation rate in its phase 2 Venture trial due to adverse events, primarily gastrointestinal [3] - Despite the discontinuation rate, VK2735 demonstrated a 12.2% weight loss after 13 weeks, indicating efficacy [3] - The discontinuation rate in the placebo group was 13%, which is higher than the 10.3% rate for Eli Lilly's oral GLP-1 drug, orforglipron, in its phase 3 trial [4] Safety and Efficacy Considerations - While there are concerns regarding the safety of oral VK2735, larger companies may interpret the data differently, considering the short duration of the trial and the aggressive titration rate [6] - Phase 1 safety data for VK2735 was reported to be exemplary, suggesting potential for further development [6] Future Prospects - Viking has initiated a trial combining oral VK2735 with subcutaneous VK2735 as a maintenance dose, indicating ongoing commitment to its product development [7] - The complexity of clinical trials may attract larger companies to consider acquiring Viking Therapeutics in the near future [7]