Viking Therapeutics: Stock rises 3.9% – Phase III trials fully enrolled
This article was created with the help of artificial intelligence.
Key Takeaways
- Viking Therapeutics stock rose 3.9% to $39.54 on June 29, 2026, on trading volume of 2.88 million shares.
- Both Phase III trials for obesity candidate VK2735 (subcutaneous form) were fully enrolled in May 2026; Phase III trial start for oral variant planned for Q4 2026.
- Viking Therapeutics recorded a loss of $359.6 million in 2026 with a cash position of $971 million (Q1 2026), expected to last through 2028.
- 23 of 24 analysts recommend the stock for purchase; the median price target is $93.60 (range: $83–$101), representing upside potential of 137%.
- RSI stood at 75.36 on June 29, indicating an overbought market condition; the 52-week range extends from $22.96 to $43.15.
Viking Therapeutics Inc. stock rose 3.9% to $39.54 (closing price, NASDAQ) on June 29, 2026. The San Diego-based biopharmaceutical company develops medications for obesity and metabolic disorders and fully enrolled both Phase III trials for its lead candidate VK2735 in May 2026.
Phase III program for obesity drug underway
Viking Therapeutics is focused on developing VK2735, an active pharmaceutical ingredient for weight reduction. The company is pursuing two formulations: a subcutaneous variant (injection form) and an oral tablet. According to the company, the Phase III VANQUISH trial for the injection form is regarded as the most important near-term catalyst for investor valuation. In May 2026, Viking presented data on the oral variant at the ECO 2026 conference.
For the tablet form, the company plans to initiate a pivotal Phase III trial in the fourth quarter of 2026. An oral obesity therapy would represent a differentiating feature compared to established injectable products on the market.
Financial situation and development costs
Viking Therapeutics currently generates no revenue. The company recorded a loss of $359.6 million in 2026. The cash position in the first quarter of 2026 stood at approximately $971 million. According to the company, these funds should be sufficient to finance ongoing clinical programs through 2028.
Viking's strategy is to advance clinical development and subsequently either seek market approval or sell the company. Media reports from May 2026 indicated possible interest from Merck & Co. in acquiring the company.
Analyst ratings and price targets
The consensus view of 24 analysts shows predominantly positive assessment: 23 analysts issue buy or strong buy recommendations, with one analyst recommending hold (as of June 30, 2026). The median price target is $93.60, with a range from $83 to $101. Relative to the June 29 closing price, the median price target represents upside potential of approximately 137%.
The Relative Strength Index (RSI) of the stock stood at 75.36 on June 29, signaling an overbought market condition. In recent days, the RSI has consistently moved above the 70 mark, indicating strong upward momentum.
Trading volume and annual performance
On June 29, 2026, 2.88 million shares were traded, with average trading volume at 3.40 million shares. The 52-week range extends from $22.96 to $43.15. The current price is thus approximately 8.4% below the annual high and 72.2% above the annual low.
The stock is currently trading approximately 8.4% below its 52-week high of $43.15. Since the low of $22.96, the stock has gained 72.2% in value.
Additional pipeline programs
Beyond VK2735, Viking Therapeutics is developing additional candidates. VK2809, an active ingredient for treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and steatohepatitis (NASH), is in Phase IIb trials. VK5211, a selective androgen receptor modulator, is being tested in Phase II trials for patients following hip fractures. VK0612, an oral candidate for type 2 diabetes, is approaching entry into Phase IIb trials.
However, the company is primarily focused on obesity programs, as this market holds significant growth potential and competition from established drugs is intense.