Akero Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: AKRO) is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing treatments for serious metabolic diseases, particularly metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). The company reported first-quarter financial results for the period ending March 31, 2025.

Akero is currently in a stable condition, with an increasing focus on its lead product candidate, efruxifermin (EFX). For the first quarter, Akero’s cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities totaled $1.128 billion, reflecting reserves bolstered by a $402.5 million follow-on public offering completed in January 2025.

Research and development (R&D) expenses rose to $69.6 million in Q1 2025, compared to $50.7 million during the same period in 2024. The increase is attributed to costs associated with ongoing Phase 3 clinical trials and higher personnel expenses. General and administrative expenses also increased, reaching $11.3 million from $9.3 million year-over-year.

Total operating expenses for the first quarter of 2025 were reported at $80.9 million, up from $60.0 million in Q1 2024. Akero reported a net loss of $70.7 million, compared to a net loss of $53.3 million in the first quarter of the previous year.

The weighted-average number of shares outstanding increased to approximately 78.7 million in Q1 2025 from about 59.3 million in Q1 2024. The net loss per common share was reported at $0.90 for both the first quarters of 2025 and 2024.

In summary, Akero Therapeutics reported financial growth through increased R&D investment, significant cash reserves, and completion of a public offering while operating at a loss in Q1 2025.