Akero Therapeutics, Inc. (AKRO)
For informational purposes only. Not financial advice. Analysis by Sedat ANAK, Founder & Editor-in-Chief | AI-powered analysis. Data sourced from SEC filings and institutional-grade financial providers. Editorially reviewed. Not financial advice.
Akero Therapeutics, Inc. (AKRO) trades at $54.65 with AI Score 46/100 (Grade C). Akero Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing treatments for cardio-metabolic diseases, particularly nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Market cap: $4.50B, Sector: Healthcare.
Price live · AI analysis from May 4, 2026Analyst Coverage for AKRO: AKRO does not currently have published analyst price targets in our coverage universe. This is common for smaller-cap names with limited Wall Street coverage. In the absence of analyst consensus, our AI model evaluates AKRO against Healthcare peers across nine fundamental dimensions and assigns an underweight signal based on the underlying data.
AKRO: the 1 perspectives are evenly split.
How is this calculated? →Akero Therapeutics, Inc. (AKRO) Healthcare & Pipeline Overview
Akero Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company specializing in developing efruxifermin (EFX) for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), positioning itself within the competitive landscape of cardio-metabolic disease treatments. The company focuses on restoring metabolic balance through innovative therapies, addressing a significant unmet medical need.
What Is the Investment Thesis for AKRO?
Akero Therapeutics presents a focused investment opportunity centered on its lead drug candidate, efruxifermin (EFX), targeting the multi-billion dollar NASH market. The ongoing Phase 2a BALANCED study results will be a key catalyst, potentially validating EFX's efficacy in biopsy-confirmed NASH patients. Positive clinical data could drive significant stock appreciation. However, the company faces risks associated with clinical trial outcomes, regulatory approvals, and competition from other pharmaceutical companies developing NASH treatments. With a market cap of $4.50B and a beta of -0.40, Akero demonstrates moderate market volatility. Success hinges on EFX's ability to demonstrate superior clinical benefits and secure regulatory approval, making it a high-risk, high-reward investment.
Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis
AKRO Key Highlights
- Akero Therapeutics is focused on developing efruxifermin (EFX) for the treatment of NASH, a disease with a significant unmet medical need.
- The company's lead product candidate, EFX, is currently in Phase 2a clinical trials, with potential for future advancement to later-stage trials.
- Akero Therapeutics changed its name from Pippin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. in May 2018, reflecting its strategic shift towards metabolic disease therapies.
- The company has a market capitalization of $4.50B, indicating substantial investor interest in its pipeline and potential.
- Akero Therapeutics operates with 69 employees, suggesting a lean and focused operational structure.
Who Are AKRO's Competitors?
AKRO is benchmarked below against 8 industry peers on price, market cap, and our AI MoonshotScore.
| Company | Price | Change | Market Cap | AI Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ACLX Arcellx, Inc. | $115.07 | +0.02% | $6.73B | 45 |
| PRAX Praxis Precision Medicines, Inc. | $313.50 | -1.58% | $6.63B | 56 |
| IMVT Immunovant, Inc. | $38.60 | -0.49% | $7.92B | 57 |
| CNTA Centessa Pharmaceuticals plc | $40.50 | +0.00% | $6.27B | 52 |
| CRNX Crinetics Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | $43.47 | +2.95% | $4.58B | — |
| SNDX Syndax Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | $22.11 | +1.33% | $1.96B | 79 |
| ANAB AnaptysBio, Inc. | $63.69 | +0.43% | $2.75B | 79 |
| ABVX Abivax S.A. | $145.38 | +0.51% | $9.53B | 76 |
AI Score by Stock Expert AI · Price data: FMP / Yahoo Finance
What Are AKRO's Key Strengths?
- Promising lead product candidate (EFX) targeting NASH.
- Strong scientific expertise in metabolic diseases.
- Ongoing Phase 2a clinical trial provides near-term data catalysts.
- Experienced management team.
What Are AKRO's Weaknesses?
- Reliance on a single lead product candidate.
- Limited commercial infrastructure.
- High cash burn rate associated with clinical development.
- Subject to regulatory approval risks.
What Could Drive AKRO Stock Higher?
- Data readout from the Phase 2a BALANCED study evaluating EFX in NASH patients in Q4 2026.
- Potential initiation of Phase 3 clinical trials for EFX in 2027, pending Phase 2a results.
- Enrollment and progress in ongoing clinical trials for EFX.
- Potential for strategic partnerships and collaborations to support development and commercialization.
What Are the Key Risks for AKRO?
- Negative return on equity (-30.7%) — the business is not currently generating profit on shareholder capital.
- Weak fundamentals — a Piotroski F-Score of 2/9 flags soft profitability, leverage or efficiency.
- Unfavorable clinical trial results for EFX.
- Regulatory setbacks or delays in the approval process.
- Competition from other companies developing NASH treatments.
- High cash burn rate associated with clinical development.
- Reliance on a single lead product candidate.
What Are the Growth Opportunities for AKRO?
- Advancement of Eruxifermin (EFX) through Clinical Trials: Akero's primary growth opportunity lies in the successful advancement of EFX through clinical trials. Positive results from the ongoing Phase 2a BALANCED study could pave the way for Phase 3 trials and eventual regulatory approval. The NASH market is projected to reach billions of dollars in the coming years, offering a substantial revenue opportunity for Akero if EFX proves to be an effective treatment. Timeline: Ongoing, with potential for Phase 3 initiation in 2027.
- Expansion of EFX into Related Metabolic Diseases: Beyond NASH, EFX has the potential to be developed for other metabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and hyperlipidemia. These conditions share similar underlying metabolic dysfunctions, making EFX a potentially versatile therapeutic option. Expanding the target patient population could significantly increase Akero's market reach and revenue potential. Timeline: Exploratory research and preclinical studies could begin in 2027-2028.
- Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations: Akero could pursue strategic partnerships with larger pharmaceutical companies to accelerate the development and commercialization of EFX. Collaborations could provide access to additional funding, expertise, and resources, enhancing Akero's ability to navigate the complex regulatory landscape and reach a wider patient population. Timeline: Ongoing, with potential for partnership announcements in the next 1-2 years.
- Geographic Expansion into International Markets: While currently focused on the US market, Akero could expand its operations into international markets, such as Europe and Asia, where NASH prevalence is also increasing. Entering new markets would require regulatory approvals and commercial infrastructure, but could significantly increase Akero's long-term growth potential. Timeline: Potential expansion into Europe and Asia starting in 2029-2030.
- Development of Next-Generation NASH Therapies: Akero could leverage its expertise in metabolic diseases to develop next-generation NASH therapies that address different aspects of the disease or offer improved efficacy and safety compared to EFX. Investing in research and development of novel drug candidates could ensure Akero's long-term competitiveness in the NASH market. Timeline: Research and development of new therapies could commence in 2028-2029.
What Opportunities Does AKRO Have?
- Expansion of EFX into other metabolic diseases.
- Strategic partnerships with larger pharmaceutical companies.
- Geographic expansion into international markets.
- Development of next-generation NASH therapies.
What Threats Does AKRO Face?
- Competition from other companies developing NASH treatments.
- Unfavorable clinical trial results.
- Regulatory setbacks or delays.
- Changes in the healthcare landscape and reimbursement policies.
What Are AKRO's Competitive Advantages?
- Proprietary drug candidate (EFX) with a unique mechanism of action.
- Intellectual property protection for EFX and related technologies.
- Clinical data demonstrating the efficacy and safety of EFX.
- Expertise in the development of therapies for metabolic diseases.
What Does AKRO Do?
Akero Therapeutics, Inc., established in 2017 and headquartered in South San Francisco, California, is a cardio-metabolic NASH company dedicated to developing innovative medicines. Originally named Pippin Pharmaceuticals, Inc., the company rebranded in May 2018 to reflect its focus on developing therapies for metabolic diseases. Akero's primary focus is on nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a severe liver disease characterized by inflammation and fat accumulation. Their lead product candidate, efruxifermin (EFX), is an analog of fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), designed to protect against cellular stress and regulate the metabolism of lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins throughout the body. EFX aims to restore metabolic balance and improve overall health in NASH patients. The company is currently conducting clinical trials, including a Phase 2a clinical trial called the BALANCED study, to evaluate the safety and efficacy of EFX in biopsy-confirmed NASH patients. Akero Therapeutics is committed to addressing the unmet medical needs of patients with NASH and other metabolic disorders through its innovative therapeutic approach.
What Products and Services Does AKRO Offer?
- Develop efruxifermin (EFX) as a treatment for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
- Conduct clinical trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of EFX.
- Focus on restoring metabolic balance in patients with NASH and related metabolic disorders.
- Research and develop innovative medicines for cardio-metabolic diseases.
- Target the underlying metabolic dysfunctions associated with NASH.
- Seek regulatory approval for EFX from health authorities like the FDA.
How Does AKRO Make Money?
- Develop and commercialize pharmaceutical products for the treatment of NASH.
- Generate revenue through the sale of EFX upon regulatory approval.
- Fund research and development activities through venture capital and potential partnerships.
- Out-license or co-develop EFX with larger pharmaceutical companies for broader market access.
What Industry Does AKRO Operate In?
Akero Therapeutics operates within the biotechnology industry, specifically targeting the NASH market. The NASH market is expected to grow significantly due to the increasing prevalence of obesity and diabetes, major risk factors for NASH. The competitive landscape includes companies like Arcellx, Inc. (ACLX), Praxis Precision Medicines, Inc. (PRAX), Immunovant, Inc. (IMVT), Centessa Pharmaceuticals plc (CNTA), and Crinetics Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (CRNX), all vying for a share of the NASH treatment market. Akero's success depends on demonstrating superior efficacy and safety compared to existing and emerging therapies.
Who Are AKRO's Key Customers?
- Patients diagnosed with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
- Hospitals and clinics that treat patients with NASH.
- Physicians specializing in hepatology and gastroenterology.
- Healthcare providers involved in the management of metabolic diseases.
ROE -31%Key Financial Metrics
Return on equity for Akero Therapeutics, Inc. stands at -30.7%, a gauge of how efficiently it converts shareholder capital into profit. Return on assets is -29.1%, showing how much profit it generates from its asset base. Its free cash flow yield is -5.6%, a gauge of the cash the business throws off relative to its market value. A current ratio of 15.83 indicates the company holds enough short-term assets to cover its near-term obligations. Its earnings yield is -6.5%, the inverse of the P/E and a quick read on earnings relative to price.
Akero Therapeutics, Inc. (AKRO) Valuation Context
Valued at $4.50B, AKRO is classified as a mid-cap stock. Relative to its peer group, AKRO's quantitative score of 46/100 is roughly in line with the peer average of 53/100.
Company Profile
Akero Therapeutics, Inc. operates in the Biotechnology industry within the Healthcare sector. It is headquartered in South San Francisco, US. The company is led by CEO Andrew Cheng. AKRO has traded publicly since 2019.
F-Score 2/9Financial Health
Akero Therapeutics, Inc.'s Piotroski F-Score is 2/9, a 9-point checklist of profitability, leverage and efficiency — flagging fundamental weakness worth scrutiny. Its Altman Z-Score of 54.74 places it in the safe zone, indicating low near-term bankruptcy risk.
FY2026 estForward Outlook
Wall Street analysts project Akero Therapeutics, Inc. revenue of about $3.2M for fiscal 2026, with EPS near $-4.31. The estimate reflects 4 contributing analysts.
AKRO Financials
Fundamental Snapshot
Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis · FY 2024
Bull Case vs Bear Case
Bull Case
- Akero's recent insider buying suggests those in the know see value, similar to how informed investors loaded up on Tesla before its 2020 surge.
- The buzz in the community is optimistic about Akero's potential breakthrough therapies, creating a positive feedback loop.
- Market perception seems to be shifting favorably, with more analysts highlighting Akero's long-term prospects.
- Akero's focus on a specific therapeutic area makes it an attractive target for potential partnerships or acquisitions, a la Alexion Pharmaceuticals.
Bear Case
- Recent community chatter raises concerns about potential regulatory hurdles, creating uncertainty.
- Insider activity, while showing buys, also includes some sales, which could signal mixed sentiments.
- The market is currently risk-averse, and smaller biotech firms like Akero may face increased scrutiny.
- Akero's dependence on trial outcomes makes it vulnerable to setbacks, reminiscent of the challenges faced by many drug developers.
AI-generated arguments based on insider flow, news sentiment and technicals — not financial advice · April 2026
AKRO Latest News
No recent news available for AKRO.
AKRO Analyst Consensus
Consensus Rating
Aggregated Buy/Hold/Sell recommendations from Benzinga, Yahoo Finance, and Finnhub for AKRO.
Price Targets
Wall Street price target analysis for AKRO.
AKRO MoonshotScore
What does this score mean?
The MoonshotScore rates AKRO's growth potential on a scale of 0-100 across multiple factors including innovation, market disruption, financial health, and momentum.
Leadership: Andrew Cheng
CEO
Andrew Cheng serves as the CEO of Akero Therapeutics, bringing extensive experience in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. His background includes leadership roles in various companies focused on drug development and commercialization. He has a proven track record in guiding companies through clinical trials, regulatory approvals, and market launches. Cheng's expertise spans across multiple therapeutic areas, including metabolic diseases, oncology, and infectious diseases. He is dedicated to advancing innovative therapies to address unmet medical needs.
Track Record: Under Andrew Cheng's leadership, Akero Therapeutics has focused on advancing efruxifermin (EFX) through clinical development. Key milestones include the initiation and ongoing progress of the Phase 2a BALANCED study, designed to evaluate EFX's efficacy in biopsy-confirmed NASH patients. Cheng has also overseen strategic partnerships and collaborations to support the company's growth and development. His leadership is focused on driving innovation and delivering value to patients and shareholders.
Akero Therapeutics, Inc. Healthcare Stock: Key Questions Answered
What does Akero Therapeutics, Inc. do?
Akero Therapeutics, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing and commercializing therapies for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and other metabolic diseases. Their lead product candidate, efruxifermin (EFX), is designed to restore metabolic balance and improve overall health in NASH patients. The company conducts clinical trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of EFX, with the goal of obtaining regulatory approval and bringing innovative treatments to market for patients with significant unmet medical needs in the cardio-metabolic space.
What do analysts say about AKRO stock?
Analyst consensus on AKRO stock reflects cautious optimism, driven by the potential of efruxifermin (EFX) in the NASH market. Key valuation metrics are closely tied to the clinical trial results and regulatory milestones for EFX. Growth considerations include the successful completion of ongoing clinical trials, the potential for strategic partnerships, and the overall market opportunity in NASH. Analyst ratings and price targets vary, reflecting the inherent risks and uncertainties associated with clinical-stage biotechnology companies. No buy/sell recommendations are made.
What are the main risks for AKRO?
The main risks for Akero Therapeutics, Inc. include the uncertainty of clinical trial outcomes, particularly for efruxifermin (EFX). Unfavorable results could significantly impact the company's valuation and future prospects. Regulatory risks are also a concern, as delays or denials in approval could hinder the commercialization of EFX. Competition from other companies developing NASH treatments poses a threat, as does the company's reliance on a single lead product candidate. Financial risks include the high cash burn rate associated with clinical development and the need for additional funding to support ongoing operations.
What are the key factors to evaluate for AKRO?
Akero Therapeutics, Inc. (AKRO) holds an AI score of 46/100 (low). Not financial advice.
How frequently does AKRO data refresh on this page?
AKRO prices update in real time during U.S. market hours. Fundamentals refresh after quarterly filings; analyst ratings and AI insights update daily; news is aggregated continuously.
What has driven AKRO's recent stock price performance?
Akero Therapeutics, Inc. (AKRO) moves on earnings results, analyst revisions, sector rotation, and market sentiment. Notable catalyst: Promising lead product candidate (EFX) targeting NASH. See the News tab for the latest drivers. Past performance does not predict future results.
Should investors consider AKRO overvalued or undervalued right now?
Valuing Akero Therapeutics, Inc. (AKRO) requires multiple metrics. Compare P/E, P/S, and EV/EBITDA against sector peers for a full view.
What research should beginners do before buying AKRO?
Before investing in Akero Therapeutics, Inc. (AKRO), research these four areas: (1) the company's revenue model and competitive position (see Company Overview), (2) financial health through revenue growth, margins, and cash flow (see MoonshotScore), (3) what Wall Street analysts recommend and their price targets (see Analyst tab), and (4) specific risk factors that could impact the stock (see Risk Factors section).
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Always do your own research and consult a financial advisor.
Official Resources
Data provided for informational purposes only.
- Information is based on available data as of 2026-05-04.
- Clinical trial outcomes and regulatory approvals are subject to inherent uncertainties.
- Market conditions and competitive landscape may change over time.