SG&A Expenses: A Tale of Two Biotechs

In the competitive world of biotechnology, managing expenses is crucial for survival and growth. This analysis compares the Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses of Viking Therapeutics, Inc. and MannKind Corporation from 2014 to 2023. Over this period, MannKind consistently outspent Viking, with its SG&A expenses peaking at approximately $108 million in 2015, nearly ten times that of Viking's highest expenditure in 2023. Interestingly, Viking's expenses have shown a significant upward trend, increasing by nearly 2,900% from 2014 to 2023, reflecting its aggressive growth strategy. Meanwhile, MannKind's expenses have fluctuated, with a notable dip in 2016. This divergence in financial strategy highlights the different paths these companies are taking in the biotech landscape. As Viking continues to expand, its rising SG&A expenses suggest a focus on scaling operations, while MannKind's variable spending may indicate strategic adjustments in response to market conditions.