Michael Ulz's rating is based on a combination of factors related to the recent data from Vir Biotechnology's studies on Hepatitis B treatments. Although the 48-week end of treatment results for the doublet and triplet regimens in the MARCH Part B study showed promising HBsAg loss rates in a subset of patients, the overall efficacy was lower across participants with varying baseline HBsAg levels. The safety profile for tobevibart and elebsiran remained consistent with past studies, exhibiting mostly mild or moderate adverse events, which is a positive aspect.
Despite these positive indicators, Ulz remains cautious as the company awaits crucial functional cure data expected by the second quarter of 2025. The management has set a benchmark of 20%-30% for this data, which will be pivotal in determining the future potential of these treatments. Additionally, upcoming presentations at the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases meeting and future study data could impact the outlook for Vir Biotechnology. Therefore, while there are encouraging signs, the Hold rating reflects a balanced view pending further substantial data.
Ulz covers the Healthcare sector, focusing on stocks such as Silence Therapeutics, Viking Therapeutics, and IO Biotech. According to TipRanks, Ulz has an average return of 2.7% and a 40.66% success rate on recommended stocks.
In another report released on November 8, J.P. Morgan also maintained a Hold rating on the stock with a $13.00 price target.
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Vir Biotechnology (VIR) Company Description:
Vir Biotechnology, Inc. engages in the provision of technologies to treat and prevent infectious diseases. Its technology platforms include antibody, T cell, innate immunity, and siRNA. The company was founded by Robert Taylor Nelsen, Klaus Frueh, Jay Parrish, Lawrence Corey, and Louis Picker in 2016 and is headquartered in San Francisco, CA.