Who Optimizes SG&A Costs Better? Viking Therapeutics, Inc. or Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Optimizing SG&A Costs: A Tale of Two Biotechs

In the competitive world of biotechnology, managing Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses is crucial for financial health. From 2014 to 2023, Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Viking Therapeutics, Inc. have taken distinct paths in optimizing these costs. Agios Pharmaceuticals saw a steady increase in SG&A expenses, peaking in 2020 with a 680% rise from 2014. Meanwhile, Viking Therapeutics maintained a more conservative approach, with expenses growing by approximately 2,870% over the same period, albeit from a much smaller base. This stark contrast highlights differing strategies: Agios's aggressive expansion versus Viking's cautious scaling. As of 2023, Agios's expenses have slightly decreased, suggesting a shift towards efficiency, while Viking's costs have surged, possibly indicating a new phase of growth. Understanding these trends offers valuable insights into each company's operational priorities and market strategies.