Viking Therapeutics Completes VK2735 Trial Enrollment Amid Market Decline
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Mar 26 2025
0mins
Should l Buy VKTX?
Viking Therapeutics Inc. shares fell 7.81% as the stock hit a 20-day low, reflecting broader market weakness with the Nasdaq-100 down 0.80% and the S&P 500 down 0.37%.
The company announced the completion of patient enrollment for its Phase 3 VANQUISH-2 clinical trial of VK2735, involving approximately 1,000 adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes. This milestone is expected to enhance Viking's competitive edge in metabolic disease treatments, despite the current market conditions. CEO Brian Lian highlighted the strong market demand for new obesity treatment options, which could positively impact the company's future performance.
While the completion of the trial enrollment is a significant step forward, the stock's decline indicates that investor sentiment remains cautious amid broader market trends. The ongoing development of VK2735 positions Viking Therapeutics to potentially capture a larger share of the obesity treatment market, but the current market environment poses challenges.
Trade with 70% Backtested Accuracy
Stop guessing "Should I Buy VKTX?" and start using high-conviction signals backed by rigorous historical data.
Sign up today to access powerful investing tools and make smarter, data-driven decisions.
Analyst Views on VKTX
Wall Street analysts forecast VKTX stock price to rise
12 Analyst Rating
12 Buy
0 Hold
0 Sell
Strong Buy
Current: 29.920
Low
70.00
Averages
97.00
High
125.00
Current: 29.920
Low
70.00
Averages
97.00
High
125.00
About VKTX
Viking Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company that is focused on the development of therapies for the treatment of metabolic and endocrine disorders. Its clinical programs include VK2735, a novel dual agonist of the glucagon-like peptide 1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptors for the potential treatment of various metabolic disorders. It is evaluating an oral formulation of VK2735 in a Phase II trial. It is also developing VK2809, a novel, orally available, small molecule selective thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist for the treatment of lipid and metabolic disorders. Its newest program is evaluating a series of internally developed dual amylin and calcitonin receptor agonists for the treatment of obesity and other metabolic disorders. In the rare disease space, it is developing VK0214, a novel, orally available, small molecule selective thyroid hormone receptor beta agonist for the potential treatment of X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
Investment Opportunities in the Healthcare Sector
- Viking Therapeutics Outlook: Viking Therapeutics has completed enrollment for its pivotal phase 3 trial of VK2735, with results expected next year, and analysts believe its stock could rise by over 60% in the coming year, with some predicting a price target exceeding $107 per share due to its leading position in obesity drug development.
- HCA Healthcare Growth Potential: HCA Healthcare operates 186 hospitals and approximately 2,400 outpatient facilities in the U.S., with same-facility admissions rising 2.4% year-over-year in Q4 2025, contributing to nearly 7% revenue growth, and management anticipates a 6% increase in annual revenue this year, driven by an aging population.
- Aging Population Drives Medical Demand: The 2020 census reported 55.8 million people aged 65 and older, accounting for 17% of the population, with projections estimating this will rise to 71.6 million by 2030, comprising 20.7% of the population, thereby increasing demand for HCA's healthcare services and strengthening its market position.
- AI Technology Enhances Operational Efficiency: HCA is leveraging its Timpani platform to improve nurse staffing through artificial intelligence, addressing bottlenecks in the U.S. healthcare system, and this forward-looking management strategy is expected to enhance service quality and operational efficiency, thereby increasing its long-term investment appeal.
See More
Investment Opportunities in Biotech and Healthcare Systems
- Biotech Potential: Viking Therapeutics has completed enrollment in a crucial phase 3 trial for its VK2735 drug, with results expected next year; analysts predict a stock price target between $107 and $125, indicating strong market potential if approved.
- Healthcare System Growth: HCA Healthcare operates 186 hospitals and 2,400 outpatient facilities in the U.S., with same-facility admissions rising 2.4% year-over-year in Q4 2025, boosting overall revenue by nearly 7% to $19.5 billion, showcasing its market advantage amid an aging population.
- Demographic Trends Impact: The 2020 census reported 55.8 million people aged 65 and older, making up 17% of the population, projected to rise to 71.6 million by 2030, comprising 20.7%, which will further drive demand for HCA's healthcare services, creating long-term growth momentum.
- AI Technology Application: HCA is leveraging its Timpani platform to improve nurse staffing through artificial intelligence, addressing bottlenecks in the U.S. healthcare system; while some market analysts are cautious about a 60% stock price increase, its long-term investment value remains significant.
See More
Viking and Structure Intensify Competition in Obesity Drug Development
- Clinical Trial Progress: Viking announced the enrollment of approximately 1,000 patients with obesity or overweight type 2 diabetes in the late-stage trial of VK2735, with a primary endpoint assessing weight change after 78 weeks, which could significantly enhance its market competitiveness if successful.
- Significant Drug Efficacy: In a mid-stage trial, VK2735 achieved a mean weight loss of 14.7% in 13 weeks, establishing a solid foundation for its subsequent clinical development and potentially attracting more investor interest.
- Market Potential: According to Koyfin, GPCR stock has a 12-month target of $109, implying a 147.95% upside, while VKTX's target is $92.72, representing a 209.80% upside, indicating strong prospects for both companies in the obesity drug market.
- Investor Sentiment Shift: While VKTX stock has risen 24% this year, GPCR has surged 154%, reflecting differing market perceptions, with VKTX sentiment remaining neutral and GPCR appearing more bearish.
See More
Viking Therapeutics: A Dark Horse in the GLP-1 Market
- Market Potential: The GLP-1 weight loss market is projected to reach annual sales of $100 billion by the next decade, presenting a significant growth opportunity for Viking Therapeutics and its VK2735 candidate, especially with the potential launch of an oral version.
- Clinical Trial Progress: The injectable version of VK2735 is currently in phase 3 clinical trials, while the oral version completed phase 2 trials last year with highly promising initial results, laying a solid foundation for future commercialization.
- Acquisition Potential: Should VK2735 achieve commercial viability, Viking could become a takeover target in the biotech sector, with acquisition offers potentially reaching three times its current $4 billion market cap, reflecting strong market expectations for its future.
- Investment Risks and Opportunities: Viking's stock presents a binary risk, where the success or failure of VK2735 will directly impact its share price; despite the high risks, the potential rewards are equally substantial, necessitating careful position sizing by investors to navigate possible volatility.
See More
Viking Therapeutics' VK2735: A Dark Horse in GLP-1 Weight Loss Market
- Significant Market Potential: The GLP-1 weight loss market is projected to reach annual sales of $100 billion by the next decade, providing Viking Therapeutics' VK2735 with substantial market opportunities, particularly with the promising results expected from its oral version's clinical trials.
- Critical Clinical Trial Phase: The injectable VK2735 is currently in phase 3 clinical trials, while the oral version's phase 2 trial completed last year with promising initial results, which will directly impact Viking's stock performance depending on the outcomes of these trials.
- Acquisition Potential: Should VK2735 achieve commercial viability, Viking's market cap of approximately $4 billion could attract acquisition offers potentially reaching three times its current valuation, highlighting its appeal as a biotech stock.
- Risks and Opportunities: While the outlook for VK2735 is optimistic, the stock carries significant volatility risks; Viking's shares once approached $100 but currently trade around $32, necessitating careful risk-reward assessment by investors.
See More
Viking Therapeutics Advances Late-Stage Clinical Trials for VK2735
- Trial Enrollment Completed: Viking announced that its late-stage clinical trial for VK2735 has enrolled approximately 1,000 patients with type 2 diabetes, aiming for significant weight loss over 78 weeks, which is expected to positively impact future drug approvals.
- Drug Development Outlook: Viking plans to advance the oral version of VK2735 into late-stage studies in Q3 2026, with CEO stating that the company will have four late-stage trials by the end of 2026, demonstrating confidence in its development pipeline.
- Market Sentiment Improvement: Viking's stock rose 3% on Thursday amid speculation of a potential buyout and FDA approval, with retail investor sentiment shifting from 'bearish' to 'neutral', indicating increased confidence in the company's future prospects.
- Competitive Advantage Analysis: VK2735 is dubbed the “Ozempic killer” and has the potential to dethrone Eli Lilly's products in the obesity drug market, while Viking also plans to file for trials of a novel amylin agonist this quarter to further expand its obesity drug portfolio.
See More
Investment Opportunities in the Healthcare Sector
- Viking Therapeutics Outlook: Viking Therapeutics has completed enrollment for its pivotal phase 3 trial of VK2735, with results expected next year, and analysts believe its stock could rise by over 60% in the coming year, with some predicting a price target exceeding $107 per share due to its leading position in obesity drug development.
- HCA Healthcare Growth Potential: HCA Healthcare operates 186 hospitals and approximately 2,400 outpatient facilities in the U.S., with same-facility admissions rising 2.4% year-over-year in Q4 2025, contributing to nearly 7% revenue growth, and management anticipates a 6% increase in annual revenue this year, driven by an aging population.
- Aging Population Drives Medical Demand: The 2020 census reported 55.8 million people aged 65 and older, accounting for 17% of the population, with projections estimating this will rise to 71.6 million by 2030, comprising 20.7% of the population, thereby increasing demand for HCA's healthcare services and strengthening its market position.
- AI Technology Enhances Operational Efficiency: HCA is leveraging its Timpani platform to improve nurse staffing through artificial intelligence, addressing bottlenecks in the U.S. healthcare system, and this forward-looking management strategy is expected to enhance service quality and operational efficiency, thereby increasing its long-term investment appeal.
See More
Investment Opportunities in Biotech and Healthcare Systems
- Biotech Potential: Viking Therapeutics has completed enrollment in a crucial phase 3 trial for its VK2735 drug, with results expected next year; analysts predict a stock price target between $107 and $125, indicating strong market potential if approved.
- Healthcare System Growth: HCA Healthcare operates 186 hospitals and 2,400 outpatient facilities in the U.S., with same-facility admissions rising 2.4% year-over-year in Q4 2025, boosting overall revenue by nearly 7% to $19.5 billion, showcasing its market advantage amid an aging population.
- Demographic Trends Impact: The 2020 census reported 55.8 million people aged 65 and older, making up 17% of the population, projected to rise to 71.6 million by 2030, comprising 20.7%, which will further drive demand for HCA's healthcare services, creating long-term growth momentum.
- AI Technology Application: HCA is leveraging its Timpani platform to improve nurse staffing through artificial intelligence, addressing bottlenecks in the U.S. healthcare system; while some market analysts are cautious about a 60% stock price increase, its long-term investment value remains significant.
See More
Viking and Structure Intensify Competition in Obesity Drug Development
- Clinical Trial Progress: Viking announced the enrollment of approximately 1,000 patients with obesity or overweight type 2 diabetes in the late-stage trial of VK2735, with a primary endpoint assessing weight change after 78 weeks, which could significantly enhance its market competitiveness if successful.
- Significant Drug Efficacy: In a mid-stage trial, VK2735 achieved a mean weight loss of 14.7% in 13 weeks, establishing a solid foundation for its subsequent clinical development and potentially attracting more investor interest.
- Market Potential: According to Koyfin, GPCR stock has a 12-month target of $109, implying a 147.95% upside, while VKTX's target is $92.72, representing a 209.80% upside, indicating strong prospects for both companies in the obesity drug market.
- Investor Sentiment Shift: While VKTX stock has risen 24% this year, GPCR has surged 154%, reflecting differing market perceptions, with VKTX sentiment remaining neutral and GPCR appearing more bearish.
See More
Viking Therapeutics: A Dark Horse in the GLP-1 Market
- Market Potential: The GLP-1 weight loss market is projected to reach annual sales of $100 billion by the next decade, presenting a significant growth opportunity for Viking Therapeutics and its VK2735 candidate, especially with the potential launch of an oral version.
- Clinical Trial Progress: The injectable version of VK2735 is currently in phase 3 clinical trials, while the oral version completed phase 2 trials last year with highly promising initial results, laying a solid foundation for future commercialization.
- Acquisition Potential: Should VK2735 achieve commercial viability, Viking could become a takeover target in the biotech sector, with acquisition offers potentially reaching three times its current $4 billion market cap, reflecting strong market expectations for its future.
- Investment Risks and Opportunities: Viking's stock presents a binary risk, where the success or failure of VK2735 will directly impact its share price; despite the high risks, the potential rewards are equally substantial, necessitating careful position sizing by investors to navigate possible volatility.
See More
Viking Therapeutics' VK2735: A Dark Horse in GLP-1 Weight Loss Market
- Significant Market Potential: The GLP-1 weight loss market is projected to reach annual sales of $100 billion by the next decade, providing Viking Therapeutics' VK2735 with substantial market opportunities, particularly with the promising results expected from its oral version's clinical trials.
- Critical Clinical Trial Phase: The injectable VK2735 is currently in phase 3 clinical trials, while the oral version's phase 2 trial completed last year with promising initial results, which will directly impact Viking's stock performance depending on the outcomes of these trials.
- Acquisition Potential: Should VK2735 achieve commercial viability, Viking's market cap of approximately $4 billion could attract acquisition offers potentially reaching three times its current valuation, highlighting its appeal as a biotech stock.
- Risks and Opportunities: While the outlook for VK2735 is optimistic, the stock carries significant volatility risks; Viking's shares once approached $100 but currently trade around $32, necessitating careful risk-reward assessment by investors.
See More
Viking Therapeutics Advances Late-Stage Clinical Trials for VK2735
- Trial Enrollment Completed: Viking announced that its late-stage clinical trial for VK2735 has enrolled approximately 1,000 patients with type 2 diabetes, aiming for significant weight loss over 78 weeks, which is expected to positively impact future drug approvals.
- Drug Development Outlook: Viking plans to advance the oral version of VK2735 into late-stage studies in Q3 2026, with CEO stating that the company will have four late-stage trials by the end of 2026, demonstrating confidence in its development pipeline.
- Market Sentiment Improvement: Viking's stock rose 3% on Thursday amid speculation of a potential buyout and FDA approval, with retail investor sentiment shifting from 'bearish' to 'neutral', indicating increased confidence in the company's future prospects.
- Competitive Advantage Analysis: VK2735 is dubbed the “Ozempic killer” and has the potential to dethrone Eli Lilly's products in the obesity drug market, while Viking also plans to file for trials of a novel amylin agonist this quarter to further expand its obesity drug portfolio.
See More
