Esperion (NASDAQ:ESPR) Soars 16.4% on Piper Sandler Overweight, 144% Upside from LDL Therapies

Esperion Therapeutics (NASDAQ:ESPR) surged 16.4% in pre-market trading on November 26, 2025, driven by Piper Sandler’s initiation of coverage with an “Overweight” rating and a $9 price target—implying 144% upside from its prior close. The move follows renewed institutional confidence, with ownership rising 9.55% quarter-over-quarter and key investors like Wasatch Advisors increasing portfolio allocations by 88.95%.

Analyst optimism centers on Esperion’s LDL-lowering therapies, including Nexletol and Nexlizet, which are gaining traction in payer coverage and global markets. A $90 million milestone payment from partner Otsuka after Japan’s launch of NEXLETOL further reinforced growth expectations. Clinical data showing a 20.6% LDL reduction at six months and reduced cardiovascular risks also bolstered sentiment. However, EBITDA losses persist amid $92.4 million in cash reserves, highlighting near-term profitability challenges.

The put/call ratio of 0.17 signals strong bullish positioning, while average analyst price targets suggest 96% potential gains. Piper Sandler’s valuation model values Esperion at a 10x 2026 EBITDA multiple, emphasizing long-term growth despite current operational hurdles. Institutional activity and regulatory tailwinds, including European guideline updates favoring bempedoic acid, underscore strategic momentum.

Backtest Assumption: A hypothetical strategy buying Esperion at $3.17 post-Piper Sandler’s November 25 coverage, targeting a $9 exit, would require a 184% return to validate the price target. Historical volatility and liquidity constraints suggest aggressive positioning, with outcomes hinging on sustained institutional buying and clinical/regulatory progress.