ZACKS·2025-12-30 17:05Core Insights - Amgen is developing MariTide, a late-stage obesity candidate, to compete with Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk in the GLP-1 therapy market [1] - MariTide's long-acting profile allows for monthly or less frequent dosing, potentially improving patient adherence compared to weekly injectable options [2] - The drug is being evaluated in pivotal studies for obesity and other cardiometabolic conditions, with strong enrollment interest [3][4] Group 1: Product Development and Market Position - MariTide is part of Amgen's MARITIME phase III program, focusing on obesity and related cardiometabolic indications [1][3] - The drug has shown predictable and sustained weight loss in earlier studies, positioning it as a convenient long-term treatment option [2] - Enrollment for MARITIME-1 and MARITIME-2 studies has been completed with approximately 5,000 patients participating [3] Group 2: Competitive Landscape - Novo Nordisk has received FDA approval for an oral version of Wegovy, enhancing competition in the obesity treatment market [5] - Eli Lilly is also advancing its oral obesity candidate, orforglipron, with a potential launch next year [6] - Both market leaders continue to invest in next-generation therapies, indicating a robust competitive environment [7][8] Group 3: Financial Performance and Valuation - Amgen's shares have outperformed the industry year to date, reflecting positive market sentiment [9] - The company is trading at a P/E ratio of 15.20, which is below the industry average of 17.56, indicating a potential valuation opportunity [12] - EPS estimates for 2025 and 2026 have increased in the past 60 days, suggesting positive growth expectations [14]