Canaccord maintains Buy on Rhythm Pharma following Ph3 data

Monday, shares of Rhythm Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:RYTM), currently trading at $57.83, maintained their Buy rating and a $92.00 price target from Canaccord Genuity. The stock has shown impressive momentum with a 23% gain in the past week. The firm's analysts recently reviewed the latest Phase 3 data for the company's drug setmelanotide, designed to treat acquired hypothalamic obesity (HO). Following a conversation with Dr. Sharon Wardlaw, the analysts noted her positive outlook on the drug's recent clinical trial results.

Dr. Wardlaw, who had previously expressed optimism about the drug's Phase 2 results, reportedly found the Phase 3 data even more compelling. She had some questions regarding the adverse event (AE) profile; however, the overall impression of setmelanotide's effectiveness in reducing body mass index (BMI) in acquired HO was stronger after the recent data. The analysts highlighted the drug's -19.8% placebo-adjusted BMI reduction and the consistency in lowering BMI across the board. According to InvestingPro data, the company maintains impressive gross profit margins of nearly 90% and has achieved 68% revenue growth over the last twelve months.

The significant weight loss observed in the trial was particularly noteworthy, with 43% of patients achieving a reduction of 20% or more in BMI. This data point was emphasized by Dr. Wardlaw as a key indicator of the drug's potential as a "replacement therapy" for those suffering from acquired HO.

Canaccord Genuity's reiteration of the Buy rating and price target reflects their continued confidence in Rhythm Pharmaceuticals' prospects. The analysts' engagement with expert opinion and detailed examination of the clinical data underpin their positive stance on the stock.

Investors in Rhythm Pharmaceuticals will be keeping a close eye on the progress of setmelanotide as it moves closer to potential approval and commercialization. The company's efforts in addressing the unmet medical needs of those with acquired HO could represent a significant step forward in the treatment of this condition. For deeper insights into RYTM's valuation and growth prospects, InvestingPro subscribers can access comprehensive analysis, including 12 additional ProTips and detailed financial health scores that help evaluate the company's long-term potential.

In other recent news, Rhythm Pharmaceuticals announced positive results from its Phase 3 TRANSCEND trial for the drug setmelanotide, aimed at treating acquired hypothalamic obesity (HO). The trial demonstrated a significant reduction in body mass index (BMI) among participants, which has led to increased confidence in the drug's approval prospects. Following these results, H.C. Wainwright raised its price target for Rhythm Pharmaceuticals to $80, while Canaccord Genuity set a new target of $92, both maintaining a Buy rating. Oppenheimer also reaffirmed its Outperform rating with a $76 target, citing potential peak sales exceeding $1.5 billion for setmelanotide in the HO indication.

BofA Securities upgraded the stock from Neutral to Buy, increasing the price target to $63, viewing the recent stock price decline as an opportunity for investors. The firm noted plans for a supplemental New Drug Application in 2025, with expectations of a priority review. Stifel maintained its Buy rating and set a price target of $78, emphasizing the drug's exceptional BMI reduction results. They also highlighted the potential for quick market penetration and the upcoming data for bivamelagon, which may extend the intellectual property of the setmelanotide franchise.

Overall, analysts have shown strong confidence in Rhythm Pharmaceuticals' prospects, with several firms adjusting their financial models and price targets upwards in response to the robust trial outcomes. The developments suggest a promising future for setmelanotide as a treatment for acquired hypothalamic obesity, with significant interest from the medical community and potential market opportunities.

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