Opus Genetics Receives Bullish Analyst Backing Following Clinical Progress

Ocuphire Pharma US67577R1023

Market analysts are turning their attention to Opus Genetics, the biotech firm formerly known as Ocuphire Pharma, following encouraging clinical trial developments and new research coverage. The company, focused on ophthalmological gene therapies, has recently garnered a strong buy recommendation from a prominent financial institution.

Initiating coverage on Wednesday, December 10, analysts at B. Riley Securities assigned a "Buy" rating to Opus Genetics stock. They set a price target of $9.00 per share. With the equity currently trading around the $2.50 level, this projection implies substantial potential appreciation for investors. According to data from WallStreetZen dated December 11, the average analyst consensus price target stands even higher at $7.67, suggesting a possible gain of approximately 206%. The consensus rating is listed as "Strong Buy."

Clinical Trial Advances Fuel Optimism

The primary catalyst for this positive sentiment stems from a recent clinical milestone. On December 9, the company announced that an independent data monitoring committee (IDMC) had recommended the continuation of its Phase 1/2 trial, dubbed BIRD-1. This study is evaluating the gene therapy candidate OPGx-BEST1 as a treatment for Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy.

The committee conducted a safety review of data from the first patient one month after administration. Following this assessment, the IDMC advised that the trial proceed without any modifications to its protocol. This clearance allows Opus Genetics to begin dosing the next patient cohort. In response to this news, the company's shares advanced by 4.37% on trading volume that was nearly 12 times the daily average.

Key Upcoming Catalysts for Investors

Looking ahead, several near-term events are poised to keep Opus Genetics in focus:

• J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference Presentation: CEO Dr. George Magrath is scheduled to present at this major industry event on January 15, 2026.
• Initial Clinical Data Readout: Preliminary data from the OPGx-BEST1 Phase 1/2 study are anticipated in the first quarter of 2026.
• Phase 3 Program Initiation: The company plans to commence dosing for the Phase 3 portion of its OPGx-LCA5 program during 2026.

The convergence of regulatory progress in its clinical programs and favorable analyst coverage has established Opus Genetics as a notable company to watch within the ocular gene therapy sector.