Avoiding the Zombie Biopharm trap at Keros $KROS

Apr 9, 2025

Delve into the tumultuous world of Keros Therapeutics, where hope dwindles after halted trials for their drug Cybo. The discussion highlights the risks of becoming a 'zombie biotech' due to misaligned incentives between management and shareholders. A pivotal licensing deal with Takeda emerges as a potential lifeline, while skepticism looms over the future of drugs 065 and O12. Explore strategic options that could enhance shareholder value and the importance of effective governance in navigating these challenging waters.

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Intro

00:00 • 2min

Engagement and Accountability in Shareholder Value

01:42 • 15min

Skepticism Surrounds Phase One Drug Results and Future Potential

16:24 • 2min

Navigating Financial Straits: Keros Pharmaceuticals

18:09 • 7min

Maximizing Shareholder Value: The Path for Keros Pharmaceuticals

25:33 • 9min

In this episode of Yet Another Value Podcast, host Andrew Walker returns for a solo discussion on Keros Therapeutics (KROS), a biotech firm navigating a dramatic fall from grace. Once buoyed by hopes for its leading drug Cybo (KER-012), KROS is now reeling from halted trials and a steep drop in share price. Andrew lays out the case for why this company, despite setbacks, may still hold considerable value. He explores KROS's licensing deal with Takeda, their significant cash reserves, and questions surrounding its future direction. Calling on shareholder alignment and corporate governance, Andrew challenges listeners to consider whether KROS is veering into zombie biotech territory—or poised for a smart pivot.Stat+ article on zombie biotechs and Sutro: https://www.statnews.com/2025/03/19/sutro-bio-biotech-luvelta/Chapters:[00:00:00] Sponsor and Intro[00:03:00] Recap of Sage Pharmaceuticals as a case study in shareholder value.[00:04:48] Introduction to KROS and its recent setbacks, including Cybo’s trial halt.[00:05:05] Defining the “zombie biotech” phenomenon and why it matters.[00:08:21] Misaligned incentives between management and shareholders in troubled biotechs.[00:10:04] Why KROS’s partnership with Takeda could be its most valuable asset.[00:13:14] Review of KROS’s three main drugs: Cybo, 065, and 050 (licensed to Takeda).[00:14:55] Risk-adjusted value potential of KROS’s royalties from Takeda deal.[00:17:01] Mixed data from 065 and skepticism from analysts.[00:18:09] Potential but doubtful value remaining in Cybo post-trial shutdown.[00:18:40] KROS’s massive cash balance vs. market cap and implications for shareholder returns.[00:20:05] Breakdown of 2023 overhead and burn rate concerns.[00:21:53] Call for drastic cost cuts and corporate reevaluation.[00:23:36] Analysis of board alignment and concern over lack of urgency.[00:25:44] Why KROS no longer needs a science-heavy board.[00:28:44] Shareholder engagement as a tool to prevent value destruction.[00:31:33] Encouragement for listeners to contact the board and advocate for value-maximizing outcomes.Links:See our legal disclaimer here: https://www.yetanothervalueblog.com/p/legal-and-disclaimer