Akero Therapeutics, Brinker International And Viavi Are Among Top Mid Cap Gainers Last Week (Jan 27-Jan 31): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?

Akero Therapeutics (AKRO), Brinker International (EAT), and Viavi Solutions (VIAV) were among the top mid-cap gainers last week, with significant increases in their stock prices. Akero Therapeutics surged 110% on Monday, January 27, following positive results from a Phase 2b study of its lead drug candidate, efruxifermin (EFX), for the treatment of biopsy-confirmed metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) patients. Brinker International rose 11% on Wednesday, January 29, after reporting better-than-expected second-quarter results, driven by increased same-store sales and improved margins at its Chili's and Maggiano's restaurant brands. Viavi Solutions gained 20% on Thursday, January 30, after reporting its second-quarter fiscal 2025 earnings, which beat analysts' estimates and provided strong guidance for the full year.

These gains were significantly higher than the broader market, with the S&P 500 index increasing by 2.5% during the same week. The strong performance of these companies can be attributed to their specific news and performance, which attracted investors to their stocks. Additionally, the positive news and strong performance may have attracted investors who were looking for opportunities in specific sectors, such as healthcare and technology, rather than the broader market.

Investment profiles of these three companies align with a portfolio's objectives in various ways. Akero Therapeutics' focus on developing treatments for serious metabolic diseases makes it an attractive addition to a portfolio seeking exposure to innovative biotechnology companies with high growth potential. Brinker International's position as a leading operator and franchiser of casual dining restaurants makes it an attractive addition to a portfolio seeking exposure to the consumer discretionary sector, particularly the restaurant industry. Viavi Solutions' focus on network test, monitoring, and service enablement solutions makes it an attractive addition to a portfolio seeking exposure to the technology sector, particularly the communication equipment industry.



The growth prospects and risk profiles of these companies complement each other within a balanced investment portfolio. Akero Therapeutics' focus on serious metabolic diseases and the promising results from its Phase 2b study mitigate the risks associated with drug development. Brinker International's strong brand recognition, diverse restaurant concepts, and focus on virtual brands help mitigate the risks associated with the restaurant industry. Viavi Solutions' diverse customer base, strong market position, and focus on advanced network test and monitoring solutions help mitigate the risks associated with the communication equipment industry.

In conclusion, Akero Therapeutics, Brinker International, and Viavi Solutions were among the top mid-cap gainers last week, driven by positive news and strong performance. Their investment profiles align with a portfolio's objectives in various ways, and their growth prospects and risk profiles complement each other within a balanced investment portfolio. Investors should consider these companies as attractive additions to their holdings, given their strong fundamentals and promising growth prospects. However, it is essential to conduct thorough research and consider the specific objectives and risk tolerance of your portfolio before making any investment decisions.