Viking Therapeutics Adds Weight Loss Maintenance As Potential New Growth Driver (NASDAQ:VKTX)

Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) shares rose 18.10% in a week due to progress in its obesity drug VK2735, now in Phase 1 trials. The company raised $225 million via a secondary offering, signaling investor confidence. VK2735 is being tested in both injectable and oral forms, with potential to compete in the obesity drug market.

Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) reported positive obesity drug data for VK2735 and raised $500M, including $275M in common stock and $225M in convertible notes. The funds support R&D and Phase 3 trials but introduce future dilution risks. Analysts project $118.5M revenue and $12.9M earnings by 2029, with some forecasting higher figures. The company has no revenue and reported a $358.5M loss in 2025.

Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) priced a US$500M offering, including 7.86M shares at US$35 each and US$225M in convertible notes. Underwriters have options to buy more. Latham & Watkins advised the underwriters. The offerings are set to close September 25, 2026, subject to conditions.

Viking Therapeutics' (VKTX) stock surged 35% after positive trial data for its GLP-1 weight loss drug, VK2735, showed patients maintained weight loss with less frequent dosing. The company aims to compete in a $100B market dominated by Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, with VK2735 potentially being the first oral dual GLP-1/GIP agonist.

Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) fell 15.20% to $35.32 after offering 7.86M shares at $35.00 and $225M in convertible notes. The company expects $258.2M from shares and $218.0M from notes, using proceeds for R&D and corporate purposes. The notes have a conversion price of $50.75.

Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) raised $500M via a $275M stock offering and $225M in convertible bonds. One investor bought a third of the shares. Shares fell 15%. Morgan Stanley, JPMorgan, and others managed the offerings.