Far from a competitor at this stage in the game. This drug, Trodusquemine (MSI-1436), is an inhibitor of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B), which is a negative regulator of insulin and leptin signaling. Leptin and insulin signaling occur like everywhere in the body and this drug seems to have widespread tissue distribution. So the theory is that this drug enhances insulin and leptin action. Great theory, but it still has a long ways to go to prove in humans that is has any therapeutic benefit or clinical promise. 

The article states "It has already been shown to be effective with diabetes and breast cancer patients but this is the first time the drug has been shown to have benefits for long-term cardiovascular disease."

But in reality, it had 3 human Phase 1 trials completed over 8 years ago in obese/diabetic patients. A Phase 1 cancer study was recruiting but recently stopped recruiting. So it has not been shown to be effective in human patients yet in clinical trials

As for the recent mouse studies that show this drug can reduce body weight, reduce fat mass, improve glucose tolerance/insulin sensitivity and reduce atherosclerosis..........as for now, just add it to the pile of drugs shown to cure metabolic diseases in mice. It's got a long ways to go to show any promise in humans.