Akero Therapeutics Stock Rallies To 3-Month High On Buyout Report; Retail Investors Turn Bullish

Akero Therapeutics shares rose to their highest level in nearly three months on Tuesday after StreetInsider reported that the liver drug company is assessing a possible sale after receiving an acquisition proposal from an undisclosed “strategic” buyer.

The company’s shares closed at $47.57, up 24.72% on Tuesday, and edged higher by 0.4% to $47.75 in after-hours trading.

According to the StreetInsider report, which cited a source familiar with the matter, Akero retained an investment bank to examine strategic alternatives.

The report added that initial expressions of interest might not result in a completed deal.

In January, Akero published positive 96-week topline outcomes from its Phase 2b SYMMETRY study on efruxifermin (EFX) for patients with compensated MASH-induced cirrhosis. 

The 50 mg dosage achieved a 39% cirrhosis reversal while maintaining disease stability, but the placebo group only realized a 15% reversal rate. 

From weeks 36 to 96, the effect size showed a more than twofold increase, demonstrating long-term benefits. 

EFX showed good tolerance in treatment without any cases of fatal outcomes.

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment was ‘extremely bullish’ amid a 1,767% surge in 24-hour message volume.

One user noted that despite increased activity in Akero’s options market, there is no clear sign of strong bullish positioning or unusual volume, indicating that buyout rumors have yet to impact institutional trading significantly.

Another expressed skepticism, questioning whether the stock would fall back to around $30 if the takeover rumors prove false or no official announcement is made.

The stock has risen 69% so far in 2025.

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