15 Best Biotech Penny Stocks to Invest in Right Now

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5. Galectin Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:GALT)

Year-to-Date Return: 272.09% 

Galectin Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:GALT) is a biopharmaceutical company developing therapies targeting galectin proteins, with its lead candidate, belapectin, focused on chronic liver diseases such as MASH cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Belapectin, a galectin-3 inhibitor, has shown promising clinical results in reducing varices development and improving liver stiffness, addressing significant unmet needs in liver fibrosis management.

In September 2025, the business reported Q2 financial results with a reduced net loss of $7.6 million, aided by lower R&D expenses. Galectin Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:GALT) ended the quarter with $13.8 million in cash and secured an additional $10 million credit line, extending its operational runway into mid-2026 and providing stability to advance its clinical programs.

Clinical progress centers on the ongoing NAVIGATE Phase 2/3 trial for belapectin. Data presented this year showed a 49.3% reduction in new varices at the 2 mg/kg dose and significant improvements in liver stiffness compared to placebo, with a favorable safety profile and no serious drug-related adverse events. These results support belapectin’s potential as a novel therapy for severe liver disease.

At the H.C. Wainwright 27th Annual Global Investment Conference in early September, CEO Joel Lewis and CMO Dr. Khurram Jamil engaged with investors, highlighting confidence in belapectin and outlining upcoming development milestones.

Investor interest has grown alongside clinical and financial progress, with Galectin Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:GALT)’s stock rising over 7% in the past week and more than 50% in recent months, placing it among the best penny stocks in biotech backed by strong trial data and a solid financial foundation.

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