** Shares of Galectin Therapeutics GALT.O jump 9.25% to $3.06

** The biotech firm says it reached an agreement with FDA on main goals for belapectin study in MASH, a liver disease caused by fat buildup that can lead to scarring and high blood pressure in the liver

** Adds that planned late-stage trial will test if belapectin can prevent disease worsening, including serious vein swelling in the food pipe

** FDA accepted study design with blinded scope reviews to ensure consistent results - GALT

** Says trial could support full approval if successful, instead of faster conditional pathway

** Aims to submit study plan in Q3 2026, seeking partners to fund and develop the drug

** Including sessions move, stock down ~26% YTD