BTIG highlights some reasons to own Viking shares after danuglipron discontinued

BTIG highlights “some of the most compelling reasons” to own Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) after news from Pfizer (PFE) on the latter’s discontinuation of danuglipron, an oral GLP-1 drug, following the report of a potential drug induced liver injury in a patient. Viking’s “competitve” oral therapy, VK2735, has a Phase 2 study underway with data due in the second half of 2025 and Viking is expected to initiate Phase 3 studies for subcutaneous VK2735 in Q2, notes the analyst. Media reports highlighted the possibility that Pfizer now might further evaluate external assets, notes the firm, which does not have a view on Pfizer’s plans, but continues to note Viking’s “compelling pipeline and data.” BTIG reiterates a Buy rating and $125 price target on Viking.