Aquestive Therapeutics (AQST) Soars 7.98% as Price Targets Rise 14.8% and Institutional Ownership Jumps 33.8%

Aquestive Therapeutics (NMS:AQST) shares surged 7.98% in pre-market trading on November 18, 2025, signaling renewed investor confidence in the pharmaceutical company. This sharp pre-market gain came amid broader institutional and analyst-driven optimism.

The average 12-month price target for AQST has been raised to $10.51 per share, a 14.8% increase from the prior estimate of $9.15. This target reflects a 94.9% premium over the stock’s latest closing price of $5.39. Institutional ownership has grown by 33.8% in the past three months, with Perceptive Advisors significantly boosting its stake by 41.75%, while also increasing its portfolio allocation by 110.81%. The put/call ratio of 0.26 further underscores a bullish sentiment among market participants.

Key institutional holders have maintained or adjusted their positions. Bratton Capital Management owns 8.04% of shares, while Rtw Investments holds 5.12%. EcoR1 Capital and Samsara BioCapital also maintain notable stakes. The rising institutional interest aligns with the elevated price targets, suggesting a convergence between analyst expectations and fund flows.

A backtest strategy could involve capitalizing on the elevated price target and increased institutional interest. By setting a buy threshold at $5.39 and a sell target at $10.51, the strategy aims to capture the projected 94.9% upside. Position sizing could align with the 33.8% growth in institutional ownership, emphasizing gradual accumulation as confidence builds.