Vir Biotechnology is gaining attention for its innovative hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis D virus (HDV) treatments. Recent data presented at the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) meeting have bolstered confidence in the company's pipeline programs, leading TD Cowen to maintain a Buy rating on Vir's stock.
Eleb+Tobe Combination Therapy
The updated data from the MARCH and SOLISTICE trials highlight the potential of Vir's combination therapy, eleb+tobe, in treating HDV. The pivotal program for this therapy is scheduled to commence in 2025. Furthermore, end-of-treatment (EOT) data for HBV suggest that eleb+tobe may achieve a sufficient rate of viral cures in patients with low baseline levels of the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg).
Analyst Confidence
TD Cowen's positive outlook is based on the strength of the clinical data presented. Vir Biotechnology's current market valuation reflects a negative enterprise value (E.V.), which TD Cowen believes offers a significant opportunity for the stock to outperform if any of its pipeline programs prove successful.
Advancing Hepatitis Programs
Vir Biotechnology has made significant progress in its hepatitis programs, with its treatments for chronic hepatitis delta, tobevibart and elebsiran, receiving a positive opinion for orphan drug designation from the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Encouraging results from a Phase 2 clinical trial for chronic hepatitis B treatment indicate significant rates of hepatitis B surface antigen loss in participants with low baseline levels.
Financial Position
During its third-quarter 2024 earnings call, Vir Biotechnology reported a licensing agreement with Sanofi for three T-cell engager programs and advancements in hepatitis trials. The company's R&D expenses increased to $195 million due to the Sanofi transaction, while SG&A expenses decreased to $25.7 million. Vir ended the quarter with $1.19 billion in cash and equivalents and plans to initiate a registrational program for hepatitis delta virus (HDV) in 2025.
T-Cell Engager Programs
Vir Biotechnology's T-cell engager programs are progressing, with Phase I trials ongoing and initial data expected in Q1 2025. More than 50% of patients in the SOLSTICE study achieved a viral load of "not detected" at week 24. These developments underscore Vir Biotechnology's commitment to advancing its clinical programs, particularly in the areas of oncology and hepatitis.
