KOO - no substantive progress does not necessarily mean the end of the road.  Things can be delayed for any number of reasons, hence some context.  If these discussion or negotiations are off the table completely then the company will be in  dire straights before long anyway, unless Options 2, 3 or an Option XYZ materializes.

Look, from what I read the rapid development of these COVID vaccines is due to in large part to using genetic a based research methodology.  So I don't see the science which led to the development of apabetalone going away anytime soon.  In fact, the apparent success of COVID vaccine development may actually enhance the market value of RVX in a way that wasn't there before.  

All I want is some actual straight talk about what is going on so that investors can be reassured that their faith in sticking with the company will ultimately be rewarded.  One would think that wouldn't be too much to ask.