Viking Therapeutics, Inc. Stock News

What do many kids like most about the coming of a new year? The fireworks.

The weight-loss biotech Viking Therapeutics (VKTX 1.83%) saw its stock get absolutely slammed on Dec. 18, falling 18% as a result of a new move announced by Merck (MRK -1.48%).

It's that time of year again. I'm not referring to buying gifts and preparing holiday meals -- although that may be part of your agenda too.

News of a fresh licensing deal by a well-capitalized rival sent Viking Therapeutics (VKTX 1.83%) stock into something of a tailspin this week. According to data compiled by S&P Global Market Intelligence, the biotech's share price fell by just over 10% over the period as a result.

Viking Therapeutics' VK2735 reported promising results in February, with significant weight loss, however, shares have returned to prices before reporting VENTURE Phase II results. The company's pipeline includes VK2809 for NASH, adding value beyond VK2735's weight-loss potential. Competition concerns are overblown; Viking's dual GLP-1/GIP agonist has competitive advantages over single-mechanis...

Viking Therapeutics has seen a significant drop, losing 50% in value since late October, despite positive news and promising GLP-1 drug developments. The biotech's oral GLP-1 candidate VK2735 showed impressive weight loss results and tolerability, with potential advantages over current weekly injectable treatments. Concerns about manufacturing costs and scalability exist, but Viking's strong pi...

Merck threw its hat into the obesity race on Wednesday, inking a deal worth up to $2.01 billion with Hansoh Pharma for its weight-loss drug. The post Viking Plummets After Merck Inks A $2.01 Billion Obesity Deal — With Someone Else appeared first on Investor's Business Daily.

Pharmaceutical and biotech stocks often are seen as steady and safe options for investors for one particular reason. Patients need their medications, so regardless of the economic environment, these companies generally see at least stability in revenue.