Track market-moving stories before they get noisy

Posted by Defense World Staff on Jul 25th, 2026

Bollard Group LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK – Free Report) by 5.1% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 138,765 shares of the company’s stock after acquiring an additional 6,691 shares during the quarter. Bollard Group LLC’s holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. were worth $16,692,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in MRK. Norges Bank bought a new position in Merck & Co., Inc. in the fourth quarter worth $3,997,933,000. Wellington Management Group LLP grew its position in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. by 14.8% in the 4th quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 86,435,458 shares of the company’s stock worth $9,098,196,000 after buying an additional 11,156,354 shares during the period. Cardano Risk Management B.V. bought a new position in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in the 4th quarter worth about $1,012,530,000. Jennison Associates LLC bought a new position in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in the 4th quarter worth about $585,192,000. Finally, Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD lifted its position in Merck & Co., Inc. by 37.9% during the 4th quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 18,753,390 shares of the company’s stock valued at $1,973,983,000 after acquiring an additional 5,152,069 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 76.07% of the company’s stock.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several research firms recently commented on MRK. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price objective on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from $135.00 to $140.00 and gave the stock an “overweight” rating in a research note on Monday, July 13th. Weiss Ratings lowered shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from a “hold (c+)” rating to a “hold (c)” rating in a report on Friday, May 15th. Royal Bank Of Canada reissued an “outperform” rating and issued a $142.00 price target on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in a research report on Wednesday, July 8th. Wall Street Zen downgraded Merck & Co., Inc. from a “buy” rating to a “hold” rating in a research note on Monday, July 20th. Finally, Scotiabank raised their price objective on Merck & Co., Inc. from $136.00 to $155.00 and gave the company a “sector outperform” rating in a research report on Tuesday, June 30th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twelve have assigned a Buy rating and seven have given a Hold rating to the company’s stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of “Moderate Buy” and an average price target of $133.94.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on MRK

Key Headlines Impacting Merck & Co., Inc. Here are the key news stories impacting Merck & Co., Inc. this week:

Positive Sentiment: Merck announced initial access plans for alimatravir, its investigational once-monthly oral HIV PrEP in Phase 3 development, and said it has signed voluntary licensing agreements covering 129 countries. That broad access strategy could support adoption in large international markets if the drug is approved. Article Title Neutral Sentiment: Merck also issued a company release on the same alimatravir access plan, reinforcing that the program is moving forward and that it is trying to expand availability in regions that account for most new HIV diagnoses globally. Article Title Neutral Sentiment: Traders also bought a high volume of Merck call options, which may reflect rising bullish speculation around the stock and the HIV pipeline, but it does not by itself change fundamentals. Article Title Negative Sentiment: Par Health launched the first generic version of Janumet XR in the U.S., which may pressure Merck’s diabetes-related sales and adds another competitive headwind for an established product. Article Title Merck & Co., Inc. Price Performance Shares of NYSE:MRK opened at $131.06 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.06, a current ratio of 1.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.02. The stock has a market capitalization of $323.68 billion, a PE ratio of 36.92, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 5.18 and a beta of 0.19. The firm’s 50 day moving average price is $121.67 and its 200-day moving average price is $117.71. Merck & Co., Inc. has a twelve month low of $76.66 and a twelve month high of $131.74.

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK – Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, April 30th. The company reported ($1.28) earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of ($1.47) by $0.19. Merck & Co., Inc. had a return on equity of 27.55% and a net margin of 13.59%.The company had revenue of $16.29 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $15.85 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $2.22 earnings per share. Merck & Co., Inc.’s quarterly revenue was up 4.9% compared to the same quarter last year. Merck & Co., Inc. has set its FY 2026 guidance at 5.040-5.160 EPS. Equities research analysts expect that Merck & Co., Inc. will post 2.74 EPS for the current year.

Merck & Co., Inc. Dividend Announcement The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, July 8th. Stockholders of record on Monday, June 15th were issued a $0.85 dividend. This represents a $3.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.6%. The ex-dividend date was Monday, June 15th. Merck & Co., Inc.’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 95.77%.

Merck & Co., Inc. Company Profile (Free Report)

Merck & Co, Inc is a global biopharmaceutical company engaged in the discovery, development, manufacture and marketing of prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies and animal health products. Its portfolio spans multiple therapeutic areas with a particular emphasis on oncology, vaccines and infectious disease, as well as therapies for metabolic and chronic conditions. Among its well-known products are the cancer immunotherapy Keytruda (pembrolizumab) and the human papillomavirus vaccine Gardasil; the company also markets a range of medicines and vaccines for veterinary use through Merck Animal Health.

Founded in the late 19th century as the U.S.

Further Reading Five stocks we like better than Merck & Co., Inc. AMD and Cerbras Create A New Blueprint For Hardware Intel Earnings Reveal Whether the Chip Selloff Created a Buy CrowdStrike’s Cerebras Deal Puts Its AI Security Strategy to the Test Plugging In: How Kinder Morgan Powers Up Profits

Receive News & Ratings for Merck & Co. Inc. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Merck & Co. Inc. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.

« PREVIOUS HEADLINECocaCola Company (The) $KO Shares Sold by Aristotle Capital Management LLC

NEXT HEADLINE »Bollard Group LLC Raises Holdings in Valero Energy Corporation $VLO

RAHWAY, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)---- $MRK #MRK--Voluntary licensing agreements cover 129 countries in regions which account for the substantial majority of new HIV diagnoses globally.

Key Takeaways Merck's Q2 results on Aug. 4 will spotlight Keytruda, with consensus estimating sales at $8.06 billion.MRK expects continued demand across earlier-stage and metastatic cancers, plus higher Qlex contributions.MRK is expected to discuss long-term growth plans as Keytruda faces patent expiry and biosimilar competition. Merck’s (MRK - Free Report) blockbuster PD-1 inhibitor, Keytruda, approved for several types of cancer, is its key top-line driver, accounting for around 55% of the company’s pharmaceutical sales. Keytruda now holds more than 40 FDA-approved indications spanning 19 tumor types.

The drug has played an instrumental role in driving Merck’s steady revenue growth over the past few years. Keytruda is expected to remain Merck's primary growth driver in the second quarter of 2026. Investors will look out for Keytruda’s sales number when Merck announces second-quarter results on Aug. 4.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Keytruda’s sales is $8.06 billion. Keytruda is expected to continue delivering double-digit year-over-year growth in the second quarter. Its sales are likely to have been driven by strong demand across earlier-stage indications globally and continued strong momentum in metastatic indications. A favorable timing of wholesaler purchases benefited Keytruda’s sales in the first quarter, which is likely to be absent in the second.

Keytruda Qlex, the recently launched subcutaneous formulation of Keytruda, is also gradually contributing incremental sales. It added $128 million to Keytruda’s sales in the first quarter and the contribution is expected to be higher in the second.

Last quarter, Merck said that it was seeing an increase in usage of Keytruda in tumors that primarily affect women, including cervical, breast and endometrial cancers, as well as Keytruda in combination with Pfizer’s antibody drug conjugate, Padcev, in first-line, locally advanced or metastatic urothelial cancer. An update is expected on the upcoming conference call.

The company expects Keytruda’s growth to continue till it loses patent exclusivity in 2028. Keytruda’s core U.S. patent is expected to expire around 2028, with additional patents expiring slightly after that. Keytruda is expected to face significant biosimilar competition around 2028-2029. Once biosimilars enter, Keytruda’s sales are likely to decline sharply. Investors will also look for management commentary on long-term growth and Merck's strategy to offset Keytruda's LOE impact.

Key Competitors of Merck’s KeytrudaThe closest and most direct competitor to Keytruda is Bristol Myers’ (BMY - Free Report) Opdivo, another PD-1 inhibitor. Like Keytruda, Opdivo is approved across multiple tumor types, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), melanoma, renal cell carcinoma (RCC), head and neck cancer, bladder cancer and gastrointestinal cancers. Bristol Myers has strengthened Opdivo's competitive position through combination regimens such as Opdivo + Yervoy (ipilimumab) and newer fixed-dose combinations. Opdivo generated sales of $2.15 billion in the first quarter of 2026, down 5% year over year.

Another major competitor is AstraZeneca's (AZN - Free Report) PD-L1 inhibitor, Imfinzi, particularly in lung cancer. AstraZeneca’s Imfinzi generated sales of $1.69 billion in the first quarter of 2026, up 30% year over year.

Roche (RHHBY - Free Report) markets Tecentriq, another PD-L1 inhibitor competing with Keytruda in NSCLC, bladder cancer, liver cancer and certain breast cancers.

The longer-term competitive threat to Keytruda comes from dual PD-1/VEGF inhibitors that inhibit both the PD-1 pathway and the VEGF pathway at once. They are designed to overcome the limitations of single-target therapies like Keytruda. One of the most closely watched dual PD-1/VEGF inhibitor is Summit Therapeutics' ivonescimab, which it has licensed from Akeso.

MRK’s Price Performance, Valuation and EstimatesMerck’s stock has risen 21.7% so far this year compared with an increase of 10.5% for the industry.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

From a valuation standpoint, Merck is slightly expensive. Going by the price/earnings ratio, Merck’s shares currently trade at 19.04 forward earnings, higher than 18.49 for the industry as well as the stock’s five-year mean of 12.83.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 earnings has declined from $4.57 per share to $2.74 per share, while that for 2027 has declined from $9.81 per share to $9.72 per share over the past 30 days.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Merck has a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) at present.

You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

The recommendations of Wall Street analysts are often relied on by investors when deciding whether to buy, sell, or hold a stock. Media reports about these brokerage-firm-employed (or sell-side) analysts changing their ratings often affect a stock's price. Do they really matter, though?

Let's take a look at what these Wall Street heavyweights have to say about Merck (MRK - Free Report) before we discuss the reliability of brokerage recommendations and how to use them to your advantage.

Merck currently has an average brokerage recommendation (ABR) of 1.76, on a scale of 1 to 5 (Strong Buy to Strong Sell), calculated based on the actual recommendations (Buy, Hold, Sell, etc.) made by 29 brokerage firms. An ABR of 1.76 approximates between Strong Buy and Buy.

Of the 29 recommendations that derive the current ABR, 17 are Strong Buy and two are Buy. Strong Buy and Buy respectively account for 58.6% and 6.9% of all recommendations.

Brokerage Recommendation Trends for MRK

Check price target & stock forecast for Merck here>>>

While the ABR calls for buying Merck, it may not be wise to make an investment decision solely based on this information. Several studies have shown limited to no success of brokerage recommendations in guiding investors to pick stocks with the best price increase potential.

Do you wonder why? As a result of the vested interest of brokerage firms in a stock they cover, their analysts tend to rate it with a strong positive bias. According to our research, brokerage firms assign five "Strong Buy" recommendations for every "Strong Sell" recommendation.

This means that the interests of these institutions are not always aligned with those of retail investors, giving little insight into the direction of a stock's future price movement. It would therefore be best to use this information to validate your own analysis or a tool that has proven to be highly effective at predicting stock price movements.

With an impressive externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool, the Zacks Rank, which classifies stocks into five groups, ranging from Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) to Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell), is a reliable indicator of a stock's near-term price performance. So, validating the Zacks Rank with ABR could go a long way in making a profitable investment decision.

ABR Should Not Be Confused With Zacks RankIn spite of the fact that Zacks Rank and ABR both appear on a scale from 1 to 5, they are two completely different measures.

Broker recommendations are the sole basis for calculating the ABR, which is typically displayed in decimals (such as 1.28). The Zacks Rank, on the other hand, is a quantitative model designed to harness the power of earnings estimate revisions. It is displayed in whole numbers -- 1 to 5.

It has been and continues to be the case that analysts employed by brokerage firms are overly optimistic with their recommendations. Because of their employers' vested interests, these analysts issue more favorable ratings than their research would support, misguiding investors far more often than helping them.

In contrast, the Zacks Rank is driven by earnings estimate revisions. And near-term stock price movements are strongly correlated with trends in earnings estimate revisions, according to empirical research.

In addition, the different Zacks Rank grades are applied proportionately to all stocks for which brokerage analysts provide current-year earnings estimates. In other words, this tool always maintains a balance among its five ranks.

Another key difference between the ABR and Zacks Rank is freshness. The ABR is not necessarily up-to-date when you look at it. But, since brokerage analysts keep revising their earnings estimates to account for a company's changing business trends, and their actions get reflected in the Zacks Rank quickly enough, it is always timely in indicating future price movements.

Is MRK a Good Investment?In terms of earnings estimate revisions for Merck, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current year has declined 47% over the past month to $2.74.

Analysts' growing pessimism over the company's earnings prospects, as indicated by strong agreement among them in revising EPS estimates lower, could be a legitimate reason for the stock to plunge in the near term.

The size of the recent change in the consensus estimate, along with three other factors related to earnings estimates, has resulted in a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) for Merck. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>>

Therefore, it could be wise to take the Buy-equivalent ABR for Merck with a grain of salt.

A Pill That Does An Injection’s JobWho Are The Biggest Winners?The clearest winners are patients who need more than a statin and have resisted the needle. That includes people with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic condition that drives LDL dangerously high, along with the large group who remain above their target despite maximum statin therapy or who cannot tolerate statins at all.

With this pill, the chances of these people adhering to their drugs are much higher. With a once daily pill that fits into a routine that already includes other tablets, patients who balked at self-injection now have a reason to keep going. Better adherence to LDL-lowering therapy tends to translate into fewer cardiovascular events over time, which is the entire point of treating high cholesterol in the first place.

The Price Tag And The Evidence GapHowever, there is an important caveat regarding this drug. Lipfendra earned approval on its ability to lower LDL, not yet on proof that it prevents heart attacks and strokes, since the large cardiovascular outcomes trial is still running. The LDL reduction is a strong signal, and the injectable PCSK9 drugs have shown outcomes benefits, but the definitive event data for the pill is not in hand.

The bull case for Merck rests on convenience, price, and a huge addressable market. The risks are equally clear, since pending outcome data, aggressive formulary negotiations, and rebate economics could all cap how much pricing power the launch really has.

What To Watch From HerePatients who remain above their LDL goal, especially those who have avoided the injectable options, now have a reason to revisit the conversation with their doctor. Investors have a cleaner scorecard, since early prescription uptake, formulary placement, and the eventual cardiovascular outcomes results will show whether the first cholesterol pill becomes a blockbuster or merely a convenient alternative.

None of this is investment advice, and readers weighing either the medication or the stocks should confirm current details with their physician, their insurer, and their own research before acting.

Benzinga Disclaimer: This article is from an unpaid external contributor. It does not represent Benzinga’s reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.

Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs

© 2026 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

To add Benzinga News as your preferred source on Google, click here.

Posted by Defense World Staff on Jul 20th, 2026

Dimensional Fund Advisors LP lifted its holdings in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK – Free Report) by 23.8% in the first quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 15,456,039 shares of the company’s stock after acquiring an additional 2,969,856 shares during the quarter. Merck & Co., Inc. accounts for about 0.4% of Dimensional Fund Advisors LP’s holdings, making the stock its 23rd largest position. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP owned about 0.63% of Merck & Co., Inc. worth $1,858,938,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of MRK. Kingdom Financial Group LLC. purchased a new stake in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. during the 4th quarter valued at $25,000. Abound Financial LLC bought a new stake in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. during the 4th quarter worth $26,000. Prosperity Bancshares Inc bought a new stake in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. during the 4th quarter worth $26,000. High Note Wealth LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. by 58.9% in the 4th quarter. High Note Wealth LLC now owns 294 shares of the company’s stock worth $31,000 after buying an additional 109 shares during the last quarter. Finally, IFC & Insurance Marketing Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in the 4th quarter worth about $31,000. 76.07% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Key Headlines Impacting Merck & Co., Inc. Here are the key news stories impacting Merck & Co., Inc. this week:

Positive Sentiment: The FDA approval of LIPFENDRA gives Merck its first oral PCSK9 inhibitor, opening a new revenue stream in cardiovascular care and strengthening its non-oncology portfolio. Reuters article on FDA approval Positive Sentiment: Analysts highlighted continued oncology pipeline progress, including FDA acceptance of multiple regulatory filings and Merck’s broader effort to offset the eventual 2028 Keytruda patent cliff. Seeking Alpha article on pipeline expansion Neutral Sentiment: Coverage also noted that Lipfendra’s launch is expected soon and that the drug could become a major product over time, though sales will depend on uptake, pricing, and competition from existing cholesterol therapies. Zacks article on Lipfendra launch Neutral Sentiment: There was also a rumor that Merck may be in a takeover battle for genomics company Personalis, but this appears speculative and is not confirmed. Yahoo Finance article on Personalis rumor Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of analysts recently issued reports on MRK shares. Royal Bank Of Canada restated an “outperform” rating and set a $142.00 price objective on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in a report on Wednesday, July 8th. Morgan Stanley boosted their target price on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from $112.00 to $113.00 and gave the company an “equal weight” rating in a research note on Thursday, July 9th. CICC Research started coverage on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in a research note on Wednesday, June 24th. They set an “outperform” rating and a $138.00 price target for the company. Weiss Ratings lowered shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from a “hold (c+)” rating to a “hold (c)” rating in a research note on Friday, May 15th. Finally, Guggenheim lifted their price target on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from $140.00 to $145.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a report on Monday, July 13th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twelve have issued a Buy rating and seven have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of “Moderate Buy” and an average price target of $133.94.

View Our Latest Analysis on Merck & Co., Inc.

Merck & Co., Inc. Trading Down 0.0% Shares of MRK opened at $127.47 on Monday. The business has a 50-day moving average of $120.11 and a 200 day moving average of $117.01. Merck & Co., Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $76.66 and a fifty-two week high of $131.74. The firm has a market cap of $314.83 billion, a P/E ratio of 35.91, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 5.04 and a beta of 0.19. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.02, a quick ratio of 1.06 and a current ratio of 1.30.

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK – Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 30th. The company reported ($1.28) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts’ consensus estimates of ($1.47) by $0.19. The business had revenue of $16.29 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $15.85 billion. Merck & Co., Inc. had a return on equity of 27.55% and a net margin of 13.59%.The firm’s quarterly revenue was up 4.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $2.22 EPS. Merck & Co., Inc. has set its FY 2026 guidance at 5.040-5.160 EPS. As a group, research analysts forecast that Merck & Co., Inc. will post 2.76 EPS for the current year.

Merck & Co., Inc. Dividend Announcement The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, July 8th. Stockholders of record on Monday, June 15th were given a $0.85 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, June 15th. This represents a $3.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.7%. Merck & Co., Inc.’s payout ratio is 95.77%.

About Merck & Co., Inc. (Free Report)

Merck & Co, Inc is a global biopharmaceutical company engaged in the discovery, development, manufacture and marketing of prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies and animal health products. Its portfolio spans multiple therapeutic areas with a particular emphasis on oncology, vaccines and infectious disease, as well as therapies for metabolic and chronic conditions. Among its well-known products are the cancer immunotherapy Keytruda (pembrolizumab) and the human papillomavirus vaccine Gardasil; the company also markets a range of medicines and vaccines for veterinary use through Merck Animal Health.

Founded in the late 19th century as the U.S.

Recommended Stories Five stocks we like better than Merck & Co., Inc. Strait of Hormuz Tensions Spike Tanker Trade: These 2 Stocks Are Set to Benefit Shopify’s Quiet AI Strategy Could Be Its Biggest Advantage Yet Why These 3 Nuclear ETFs Are Getting a Fresh Look as AI Power Demand Rises 3 Aerospace Suppliers That Could Benefit as Aircraft Makers Face Bottlenecks Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MRK? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK – Free Report).

Receive News & Ratings for Merck & Co. Inc. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Merck & Co. Inc. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.

« PREVIOUS HEADLINEDimensional Fund Advisors LP Purchases 42,871 Shares of Mastercard Incorporated $MA

NEXT HEADLINE »Cisco Systems, Inc. $CSCO Shares Sold by Dimensional Fund Advisors LP

Posted by Defense World Staff on Jul 19th, 2026

AIA Group Ltd lowered its stake in Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK – Free Report) by 1.7% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 375,724 shares of the company’s stock after selling 6,570 shares during the period. Merck & Co., Inc. makes up about 0.7% of AIA Group Ltd’s investment portfolio, making the stock its 22nd largest holding. AIA Group Ltd’s holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. were worth $45,196,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Legacy Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. during the 1st quarter worth $294,000. Spartan Wealth Advisory Services LLC bought a new position in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. during the 1st quarter valued at $308,000. Ascent Wealth Partners LLC lifted its stake in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. by 2.4% in the 1st quarter. Ascent Wealth Partners LLC now owns 16,833 shares of the company’s stock valued at $2,025,000 after purchasing an additional 394 shares during the last quarter. Paces Ferry Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its stake in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. by 3.0% in the 1st quarter. Paces Ferry Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 3,979 shares of the company’s stock valued at $479,000 after purchasing an additional 115 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Jennison Associates LLC boosted its holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. by 12.4% in the first quarter. Jennison Associates LLC now owns 6,249,337 shares of the company’s stock worth $751,733,000 after purchasing an additional 689,849 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 76.07% of the company’s stock.

Merck & Co., Inc. News Summary Here are the key news stories impacting Merck & Co., Inc. this week:

Positive Sentiment: The FDA approval of LIPFENDRA gives Merck its first oral PCSK9 inhibitor, opening a new revenue stream in cardiovascular care and strengthening its non-oncology portfolio. Reuters article on FDA approval Positive Sentiment: Analysts highlighted continued oncology pipeline progress, including FDA acceptance of multiple regulatory filings and Merck’s broader effort to offset the eventual 2028 Keytruda patent cliff. Seeking Alpha article on pipeline expansion Neutral Sentiment: Coverage also noted that Lipfendra’s launch is expected soon and that the drug could become a major product over time, though sales will depend on uptake, pricing, and competition from existing cholesterol therapies. Zacks article on Lipfendra launch Neutral Sentiment: There was also a rumor that Merck may be in a takeover battle for genomics company Personalis, but this appears speculative and is not confirmed. Yahoo Finance article on Personalis rumor Merck & Co., Inc. Stock Down 0.1% NYSE MRK opened at $127.47 on Friday. Merck & Co., Inc. has a 1-year low of $76.66 and a 1-year high of $131.74. The company has a market capitalization of $314.83 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 35.91, a PEG ratio of 4.39 and a beta of 0.19. The stock’s 50 day moving average is $120.11 and its two-hundred day moving average is $116.94. The company has a current ratio of 1.30, a quick ratio of 1.06 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.02.

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK – Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, April 30th. The company reported ($1.28) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts’ consensus estimates of ($1.47) by $0.19. The business had revenue of $16.29 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $15.85 billion. Merck & Co., Inc. had a net margin of 13.59% and a return on equity of 27.55%. The firm’s revenue for the quarter was up 4.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $2.22 EPS. Merck & Co., Inc. has set its FY 2026 guidance at 5.040-5.160 EPS. Equities analysts forecast that Merck & Co., Inc. will post 2.76 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Merck & Co., Inc. Dividend Announcement The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, July 8th. Shareholders of record on Monday, June 15th were given a $0.85 dividend. This represents a $3.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.7%. The ex-dividend date was Monday, June 15th. Merck & Co., Inc.’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 95.77%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several brokerages have commented on MRK. Morgan Stanley increased their price target on Merck & Co., Inc. from $112.00 to $113.00 and gave the company an “equal weight” rating in a report on Thursday, July 9th. BMO Capital Markets boosted their price objective on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from $135.00 to $142.00 and gave the stock an “outperform” rating in a research note on Monday, July 13th. Cantor Fitzgerald reaffirmed a “neutral” rating and set a $120.00 price objective on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in a report on Monday, July 6th. Scotiabank raised their target price on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from $136.00 to $155.00 and gave the company a “sector outperform” rating in a research note on Tuesday, June 30th. Finally, CICC Research began coverage on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in a report on Wednesday, June 24th. They issued an “outperform” rating and a $138.00 target price on the stock. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twelve have given a Buy rating and seven have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus price target of $133.94.

View Our Latest Stock Report on Merck & Co., Inc.

Merck & Co., Inc. Profile (Free Report)

Merck & Co, Inc is a global biopharmaceutical company engaged in the discovery, development, manufacture and marketing of prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies and animal health products. Its portfolio spans multiple therapeutic areas with a particular emphasis on oncology, vaccines and infectious disease, as well as therapies for metabolic and chronic conditions. Among its well-known products are the cancer immunotherapy Keytruda (pembrolizumab) and the human papillomavirus vaccine Gardasil; the company also markets a range of medicines and vaccines for veterinary use through Merck Animal Health.

Founded in the late 19th century as the U.S.

See Also Five stocks we like better than Merck & Co., Inc. Netflix May Be Cheap Enough to Tempt Buyers After Earnings Drop Delta vs. United: Which Airline Is Better Built for Higher Fuel Costs? The Market Sold Alcoa After Earnings—But It May Be Missing the Real Story Why Intuitive Surgical’s Strong Quarter Still Spooked Investors

Receive News & Ratings for Merck & Co. Inc. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Merck & Co. Inc. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter.

« PREVIOUS HEADLINEFranklin Dynamic Municipal Bond ETF $FLMI Shares Bought by Geneos Wealth Management Inc.

NEXT HEADLINE »Procter & Gamble Company (The) $PG Shares Bought by AIA Group Ltd

HomeStock IdeasLong IdeasHealthcare 

SummaryMerck & Co., Inc. maintains a Strong Buy rating, driven by robust oncology expansion and the launch of LIPFENDRA, the first oral PCSK9 inhibitor for hypercholesterolemia.The company's oncology pipeline advances with FDA acceptance of four regulatory filings, including ifinatamab deruxtecan, and strategic acquisitions like Terns to counter KEYTRUDA's 2028 patent expiry.LIPFENDRA targets statin-treated patients needing further LDL-C reduction, with peak sales potential estimated at $5 billion by 2034, strengthening MRK's cardiometabolic portfolio.Q1 2026 revenues grew 5% to $16.3B, led by Oncology and Animal Health, but risks remain around KEYTRUDA patent loss, new product launches, and regulatory outcomes.Looking for a portfolio of ideas like this one? Members of Biotech Analysis Central get exclusive access to our subscriber-only portfolios. Learn More » SawitreeLyaon/iStock via Getty Images

The last time I spoke about Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK), it was with a Seeking Alpha article entitled "Merck: 'Strong Buy' - Terns Acquisition And Ability To Counter Keytruda Patent Loss

15.04K Followers

Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.

Shares of Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK) rise 3,453% since 1990 thanks to institutional investors.

PREMIUM

Read what the experts are trading this weekExclusive analysis from FXEmpire top analysts — curated insights you won't find on the free site.

In-depth analysis

Curated reports

Top analysts

Unlock Premium

MRK is a health care company that makes prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies, animal health, and consumer care products, including a new pill aimed at cutting cholesterol. Its first-quarter fiscal 2026 earnings report showed revenue of $16.29 billion (a 4.9% year-over-year gain), sales of cancer treatment Keytruda hitting $8.0 billion (an 8% rise), and increased annual revenue and per-share earnings guidance to $67 billion and $5.15, respectively. The company reports again on Aug. 4.

No wonder MRK shares are up 21% so far this year – and they could rise more. MoneyFlows data shows how Big Money investors are again betting heavily on the stock.

Merck Bringing in Big Money Institutional volumes reveal plenty. In the last year, MRK has enjoyed strong investor demand, which we believe to be institutional support.

Each green bar signals unusually large volumes in MRK shares. They reflect our proprietary inflow signal, pushing the stock higher:

MRK gained 51.6% thanks to institutional inflows over the course of a year. Source: www.moneyflows.com Plenty of health care names are under accumulation right now. But there’s a powerful fundamental story happening with Merck.

Merck Fundamental Analysis Institutional support and a healthy fundamental backdrop make this company worth investigating. As you can see, MRK has had strong profits and earnings growth:

Profit margin (+28.1%) 3-year EPS growth rate (+1,502.8%) Source: FactSet

Also, EPS is estimated to ramp higher this year by +244.7%.

Now it makes sense why the stock has been generating Big Money interest. MRK has a track record of strong financial performance.

Marrying great fundamentals with MoneyFlows software has found some big winning stocks over the long term.

Merck has been a top-rated stock at MoneyFlows for years. That means the stock has unusual buy pressure and growing fundamentals. We have a ranking process that showcases stocks like this on a weekly basis.

MRK produced 122 rare Outlier 20 inflow signals since 1990, gaining 3,453% in that time. The blue bars below show when the stock was a top pick…institutions have been fans for a long time:

MRK has attracted 122 outlier inflow signals since 1990, proving this is a cornerstone holding for Big Money investors. Source: www.moneyflows.com Tracking unusual volumes reveals the power of money flows.

This is a trait that most outlier stocks exhibit…the best of the best. Big Money demand drives stocks upward.

Merck Price Prediction The MRK action isn’t new at all. Big Money buying in the shares is signaling to take notice. Given the historical gains in share price and strong fundamentals, this stock could be worth a spot in a diversified portfolio.

Disclosure: the author owns MRK personally at the time of publication.

If you are a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) or are a serious investor, take your investing to the next level and follow our free weekly MoneyFlows insights.

Related Articles

US Indices Forecasts – US-Iran Missile Trades Spark Early Selling PressureNasdaq 100 Forecast: Global Chip Rout Deepens With 27,142 Now in ViewTesla, SpaceX and Meta Forecasts – Geopolitical Risks Trigger Pre-Market Tech SellingAbout the Author

Lucas is a well-versed equity investor and educator. He currently is co-founder of research and analytics firm, MAPsignals.com, which focuses on finding outlier stocks by following the Big Money.

The US FDA approved Merck’s cholesterol-lowering pill, it said on Thursday, the first in a class of drugs dominated by injections, which could potentially broaden the use of cholesterol medication among people at risk of heart ​disease.

The pill, branded as Lipfendra, is intended to treat patients with hypercholesterolemia, including those with ​hereditary forms of the disease, which causes elevated levels of LDL, the so-called “bad” cholesterol ⁠in the blood that often leads to plaque buildup in the arteries. About one in four ​adults in the US have high LDL cholesterol, according to the American Heart Association.

With the US Food ​and Drug Administration’s approval, Lipfendra, also called enlicitide, would become the first oral treatment from the class of drugs that works by blocking a protein called PCSK9, high levels of which contribute to elevated cholesterol and cardiovascular disease.

The FDA has approved Merck’s cholesterol-lowering pill Lipfendra. REUTERS Merck shares rose 4% in morning ​trading.

Lipfendra will be sold at a list price of $10.50 a day — around $315 per month. The company said ​the drug will be available in a matter of weeks.

Merck Executive Vice President Brian Foard said the company plans ‌to ⁠target patients who are already on cholesterol-lowering treatments like statins to take the drug as an add-on treatment.

“Seventy percent of those patients treated with those therapies are still not achieving guideline recommended goals. We believe this is the opportunity,” Foard said.

RBC Capital Markets analyst Trung Huynh said the drug carries zero contraindications or ​hypersensitivity warnings for allergic ​reactions, unlike currently approved ⁠injectable competitors.

“Despite a decade of approved injectable options, an estimated 70% (and more) of eligible high-risk atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease patients remain undertreated; driven by injection aversion, ​prior authorization burden, and limited specialist access in primary care,” Huynh said.

Huynh projects ​Lipfendra to ⁠reach peak sales of about $5 billion by 2034.

The FDA’s decision was based on two late-stage trials that showed the once-daily pill lowered LDL cholesterol by nearly 60% in patients with hypercholesterolemia.

An ongoing clinical trial is studying ⁠the ​effect of Lipfendra on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, said Merck.

Other ​cholesterol-lowering drugs include PCSK9-inhibitor injectables such as Amgen’s Repatha, and Regeneron and Sanofi’s Praluent.

At week 24 in the CORALreef Lipids and CORALreef HeFH trials, LIPFENDRA significantly reduced LDL-C by a placebo-adjusted 56% and 59%, respectively

LIPFENDRA is a novel macrocyclic peptide that binds to PCSK9 and inhibits the interaction of PCSK9 with LDL receptors

RAHWAY, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, today announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved LIPFENDRA® (enlicitide) tablets 20 mg as an adjunct to diet and exercise to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in adults with hypercholesterolemia, including heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH). LIPFENDRA is a novel macrocyclic peptide and is the first FDA-approved oral PCSK9 inhibitor shown to lower LDL-C, also known as bad cholesterol.

“By harnessing the innovative science of PCSK9 inhibitors and novel macrocyclic peptide technology, LIPFENDRA was designed to significantly lower LDL-C in the form of a convenient once-daily pill,” said Dr. Dean Y. Li, president, Merck Research Laboratories. “This is a pivotal moment as we bring the first U.S. FDA-approved oral PCSK9 inhibitor to adults with high LDL-C, offering patients an important new option. We’re proud of our work with regulators on this rigorous and efficient review process.”

The approval is based on two Phase 3 trials from the CORALreef clinical program: CORALreef Lipids and CORALreef HeFH. In CORALreef Lipids, LIPFENDRA reduced LDL-C by 56% compared to placebo at week 24. A 60% decrease from baseline in LDL-C was observed with LIPFENDRA when biologically impossible baseline LDL-C values were removed according to revised data handling rules (post-hoc). In CORALreef HeFH, LIPFENDRA reduced LDL-C by 59% at week 24 compared to placebo. Results from these Phase 3 trials showed treatment with LIPFENDRA resulted in reductions across other atherogenic lipoproteins associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk including non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) and apolipoprotein B (ApoB). The safety profile of LIPFENDRA in CORALreef Lipids was similar to placebo. In CORALreef HeFH, the most common adverse reactions in adults with HeFH treated with LIPFENDRA that occurred at higher frequencies compared to placebo were diarrhea (LIPFENDRA 7%, placebo 2%) and dizziness (LIPFENDRA 9%, placebo 4%). In both trials, similar proportions of LIPFENDRA-treated patients and placebo-treated patients discontinued treatment because of an adverse reaction. For additional information on results from the CORALreef trials, see “Clinical data supporting FDA approval” below.

“High LDL-C is a major risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of death globally,” said Dr. Ann Marie Navar, a lead author of the CORALreef Lipids study and associate professor of medicine in the Division of Cardiology at UT Southwestern Medical Center. “In two Phase 3 trials, LIPFENDRA led to impressive reductions in LDL-C. Now, for the first time, patients have an oral PCSK9 inhibitor for LDL lowering.”

An ongoing clinical trial is studying the effect of LIPFENDRA on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. It is not yet known if LIPFENDRA can reduce the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

“One of the greatest opportunities to help manage the risk of ASCVD lies in the timely identification and appropriate treatment of risk factors, such as LDL-C,” said Katherine Wilemon, CEO of the Family Heart Foundation. “We are encouraged by the approval of a new oral PCSK9 inhibitor option for adults who need additional LDL-C lowering.”

Clinical data supporting FDA approval

LIPFENDRA was approved based on results from two pivotal Phase 3 trials from the CORALreef clinical trial program:

At week 24, in the CORALreef Lipids trial, treatment with LIPFENDRA resulted in: A statistically significant and clinically meaningful reduction in LDL-C of 56% compared to placebo at week 24 (95% CI: -61, -51; p<0.001), with a reduction from baseline (primary endpoint) in LDL-C of 57% for LIPFENDRA compared to an increase of 3% for placebo; When LDL-C values ≤0 were removed according to revised data handling rules (post-hoc), a statistically significant and clinically meaningful reduction in LDL-C of 60% for LIPFENDRA compared to an increase of 3% for placebo at week 24 (95% CI: -62, -57%). Statistically significant reductions in secondary endpoints from baseline to week 24 compared to an increase of 3% for placebo: 54% mean reduction in non-HDL-C for LIPFENDRA; 50% mean reduction in ApoB for LIPFENDRA. At week 24, in the CORALreef HeFH trial, treatment with LIPFENDRA resulted in: A statistically significant and clinically meaningful reduction in LDL-C of 59% compared to placebo (95% CI: -66, -53; p<0.001), with a reduction from baseline (primary endpoint) in LDL-C of 58% for LIPFENDRA compared to an increase of 3% for placebo; Statistically significant reductions in secondary endpoints from baseline to week 24 compared to an increase of 2% for placebo: 52% mean reduction in non-HDL-C for LIPFENDRA; 48% mean reduction in ApoB for LIPFENDRA. In CORALreef Lipids, the frequencies of adverse reactions in adults with hypercholesterolemia were similar between those treated with LIPFENDRA and those receiving placebo. Similar proportions of LIPFENDRA-treated patients and placebo-treated patients discontinued treatment because of an adverse reaction. In CORALreef HeFH, the most common adverse reactions in adults with HeFH treated with LIPFENDRA that occurred at higher frequencies compared to placebo were diarrhea (LIPFENDRA 7%, placebo 2%) and dizziness (LIPFENDRA 9%, placebo 4%). Similar proportions of LIPFENDRA-treated patients and placebo-treated patients discontinued treatment because of an adverse reaction. The safety profile observed in adults with HeFH in CORALreef HeFH was otherwise generally consistent with that observed in adults with hypercholesterolemia in CORALreef Lipids.

About CORALreef Lipids and HeFH

CORALreef Lipids (NCT05952856) was a Phase 3, multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study in which 2,904 patients with hypercholesterolemia (including those with and without HeFH) and a history of a major ASCVD event or increased risk for development of a first major ASCVD event were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive LIPFENDRA 20 mg orally once daily (n=1,935) or placebo (n=969) for 52 weeks. Patients required additional LDL-C reduction despite stable lipid-lowering treatment with moderate- or high-intensity statins (unless statin intolerance was documented) with or without other lipid-modifying therapy. Patients taking PCSK9 inhibitors were excluded from the trial. The primary efficacy outcome measure was the mean percent change from baseline to week 24 in LDL-C.

CORALreef HeFH (NCT05952869) was a Phase 3, multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study in which 303 patients with HeFH were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive LIPFENDRA 20 mg orally once daily (n=202) or placebo (n=101) for 52 weeks. Patients required additional LDL-C reduction despite stable lipid-lowering treatment with moderate- or high-intensity statins, with or without other lipid-modifying therapy. The diagnosis of HeFH was made by clinical criteria or genotyping. The primary efficacy outcome measure was the mean percent change from baseline to week 24 in LDL-C.

About CORALreef clinical trial program

The efficacy and safety profile of LIPFENDRA continues to be evaluated through the comprehensive CORALreef Clinical Trial program evaluating over 19,000 participants who have hypercholesterolemia. LIPFENDRA was FDA approved based on two pivotal Phase 3 studies: CORALreef Lipids (NCT05952856) and CORALreef HeFH (NCT05952869). LIPFENDRA is continuing to be evaluated in the large cardiovascular outcomes trial, CORALreef Outcomes (NCT06008756), which has completed enrollment with over 14,500 participants. Additional CORALreef clinical trials include CORALreef Extension (NCT06492291), CORALreef Pediatric (NCT07058077), and CORALreef Combination (NCT07216482).

About LIPFENDRA® (enlicitide) tablets 20 mg

LIPFENDRA is an oral proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitor FDA-approved as an adjunct to diet and exercise to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in adults with hypercholesterolemia, including heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH). Cardiovascular outcomes trials have demonstrated that reducing LDL-C lowers the risk for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in adults at increased risk, when treated with statins or monoclonal antibody PCSK9 inhibitors as an add-on to statin therapy. LIPFENDRA is the first oral PCSK9 inhibitor approved to reduce LDL-C and is a novel macrocyclic peptide that inhibits the binding of PCSK9 to LDL receptors.

Selected Safety Information

In the CORALreef Lipids trial the frequencies of adverse reactions were similar between adults treated with LIPFENDRA and those receiving placebo. Similar proportions of LIPFENDRA-treated patients and placebo-treated patients discontinued treatment because of an adverse reaction.

In the CORALreef HeFH trial the most common adverse reactions that occurred at higher frequencies compared to placebo were diarrhea (LIPFENDRA 7%, placebo 2%) and dizziness (LIPFENDRA 9%, placebo 4%). Similar proportions of LIPFENDRA-treated patients and placebo-treated patients discontinued treatment because of an adverse reaction. The safety profile was otherwise generally consistent with that observed in adults with hypercholesterolemia in the CORALreef Lipids trial.

Merck’s focus on cardiometabolic and respiratory diseases

Merck has a long history of developing treatments for cardiometabolic and respiratory diseases. Building on a legacy that began nearly 70 years ago with the introduction of our first cardiovascular therapy, we are committed to advancing research for patients impacted by cardiometabolic and respiratory diseases. Our focus spans a range of diseases, including atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, heart failure, pulmonary hypertension and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Advancements in the treatment of cardiometabolic and respiratory diseases can make a critical difference for patients and health systems around the world. At Merck, we strive for scientific excellence and innovation in all stages of research, from discovery through approval and life cycle management.

About Merck

At Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, we are unified around our purpose: We use the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world. For more than 130 years, we have brought hope to humanity through the development of important medicines and vaccines. We aspire to be the premier research-intensive biopharmaceutical company in the world – and today, we are at the forefront of research to deliver innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of diseases in people and animals. We foster a diverse and inclusive global workforce and operate responsibly every day to enable a safe, sustainable and healthy future for all people and communities. For more information, visit www.merck.com and connect with us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking statement of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA

This news release of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA (the “company”) includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the company’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. There can be no guarantees with respect to pipeline candidates that the candidates will receive the necessary regulatory approvals or that they will prove to be commercially successful. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; the company’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the company’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions.

The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 and the company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SEC’s Internet site (www.sec.gov).

Please see Prescribing Information for LIPFENDRA (enlicitide) at https://www.merck.com/product/usa/pi_circulars/l/lipfendra/lipfendra_pi.pdf and Patient Information/Medication Guide for LIPFENDRA (enlicitide) at https://www.merck.com/product/usa/pi_circulars/l/lipfendra/lipfendra_ppi.pdf.

More News From Merck & Co., Inc.

Lipfendra, to be taken once a day, is designed to help lower cholesterol levels beyond what statins alone can achieve.

Phase 3 Trial Meets Primary Progression-Free Survival GoalThe trial met its primary endpoint of progression-free survival (PFS) for mismatch repair-deficient (dMMR) advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer patients who had not previously received systemic chemotherapy or who experienced recurrence more than six months after completing prior adjuvant therapy.

Keytruda is the first and only PD-1 inhibitor to show a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in PFS as monotherapy compared to platinum doublet chemotherapy for these patients in a Phase 3 trial.

At a pre-specified interim analysis conducted by an independent Data Monitoring Committee, a trend toward improvement in overall survival (OS), the trial’s other primary endpoint, was observed for Keytruda.

However, these OS data were not mature at the time of this analysis.

Overall Survival Data Continue To MatureThe trial is ongoing, and OS for the full study population will be evaluated at a future analysis. The analysis also showed a clinically meaningful overall response rate (ORR), as well as complete response rate (CRR) and duration of response (DOR) for Keytruda.

The safety profile of Keytruda in this trial was consistent with that observed in previously reported studies; no new safety signals were identified.

In the U.S., Keytruda is the only anti-PD-1 therapy with three approved indications for patients with certain types of endometrial cancer.

Last week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Merck’s Keytruda and Keytruda Qlex (pembrolizumab and berahyaluronidase alfa-pmph), each in combination with Padcev (enfortumab vedotin-ejfv), as neoadjuvant treatment. Then it continued after cystectomy as adjuvant treatment for muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC).

These approvals represent the first and only PD-1 inhibitor plus antibody-drug conjugate regimens approved for adults with MIBC regardless of cisplatin eligibility.

MRK Price Action: Merck & Co shares were up 2.43% at $123.71 at the time of publication on Wednesday, according to Benzinga Pro data.

Photo: Shutterstock

Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs

© 2026 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

To add Benzinga News as your preferred source on Google, click here.

Key Takeaways Merck secured expanded FDA approval for Keytruda plus Padcev in muscle-invasive bladder cancer.MRK's KEYNOTE-B15 study showed a 47% reduction in event-free survival risk versus chemotherapy.Keytruda plus Padcev is the first approved PD-1 plus ADC regimen for MIBC regardless of cisplatin eligibility. Merck (MRK - Free Report) announced that the FDA has approved its blockbuster PD-L1 inhibitor, Keytruda (pembrolizumab), and its subcutaneous (SC) formulation, Keytruda Qlex, each in combination with Pfizer’s (PFE - Free Report) antibody-drug conjugate ("ADC"), Padcev (enfortumab vedotin-ejfv), for expanded use in a bladder cancer indication.

The FDA has now approved Keytruda and Keytruda Qlex, each in combination with Padcev, as neoadjuvant treatment and then continued after cystectomy as adjuvant treatment in adult patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC).

Following the latest nod, the Keytruda+Padcev regimen became the first and only PD-1 inhibitor plus ADC combination to be approved for patients with MIBC, regardless of cisplatin eligibility. The latest FDA approval for the Keytruda+Padcev regimen was based on data from the phase III KEYNOTE-B15 study, conducted in collaboration with Pfizer and Astellas.

The FDA approved the Keytruda plus Padcev regimen, as neoadjuvant treatment and then continued after cystectomy as adjuvant treatment, in adult patients with MIBC who are ineligible for cisplatin-based chemotherapy last November. This approval was based on data from the phase III KEYNOTE-905 study.

MRK’s Price PerformanceYear to date, shares of Merck have rallied 19.1% while those of Pfizer have gained 0.4% compared with the industry’s increase of 12.1%.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

More on the Latest FDA Nod for MRK & PFE’s Keytruda+Padcev ComboData from the KEYNOTE-B15 study showed that treatment with Keytruda plus Padcev, given before and after surgery, led to a statistically significant improvement in event-free survival (EFS), reducing the risk of EFS events by 47% in patients with MIBC who are eligible for cisplatin-based chemotherapy compared to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (gemcitabine and cisplatin) and surgery.

In April 2026, the FDA accepted and granted priority review to MRK’s supplemental biologics license applications (sBLAs) seeking approval for Keytruda and Keytruda Qlex, each in combination with Padcev, for treating MIBC in patients who are eligible for cisplatin-based chemotherapy. The decision was due on Aug. 17, 2026

The latest FDA approval, which comes a month ahead of the scheduled date, marks a significant advancement in the treatment of MIBC. The Keytruda-Padcev regimen is likely to provide a new perioperative treatment option for eligible patients with this disease.

Last month, the European Commission approved the Keytruda-Padcev regimen as neoadjuvant treatment and then continued after radical cystectomy as adjuvant treatment in adult patients with resectable MIBC who are ineligible for cisplatin-based chemotherapy.

Merck’s biggest revenue driver, Keytruda, is approved for different types of cancer indications. The drug generated $8.03 billion in sales in the first quarter of 2026, up 8% year over year.

Pfizer’s Padcev, added from the December 2023 Seagen acquisition, generated sales worth $591 million in the first quarter of 2026, up 39% on a year-over-year basis.

As both companies prepare to report their second-quarter results next month, investors are expected to closely watch the sales performance of Keytruda and Padcev, especially in light of their recent approvals.

MRK & PFE Zacks RankBoth Merck and Pfizer currently carry a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).

Stocks to ConsiderSome better-ranked stocks in the biotech sector are Amarin (AMRN - Free Report) and Liquidia Corporation (LQDA - Free Report) , each currently sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

Over the past 60 days, estimates for Amarin’s 2026 loss per share have narrowed from $15.20 to 65 cents. Over the same period, loss per share estimates for 2027 have narrowed from $13.00 to 51 cents. AMRN shares have increased 6.6% year to date.

Amarin’s earnings beat estimates in three of the trailing four quarters, while missing the same on the remaining occasion, with the average surprise being 50.02%.

Over the past 60 days, estimates for Liquidia’s 2026 earnings per share have risen from $2.10 to $3.02, while estimates for 2027 have increased from $4.14 to $4.92 during the same time. LQDA shares have surged 126% year to date.

Liquidia’s earnings beat estimates in three of the trailing four quarters, while missing the same on the remaining occasion, with the average surprise being 54.40%.

Merck (MRK - Free Report) closed at $123.54 in the latest trading session, marking a -1.22% move from the prior day. This change lagged the S&P 500's 0.42% gain on the day. Meanwhile, the Dow gained 0.29%, and the Nasdaq, a tech-heavy index, added 0.29%.

Shares of the pharmaceutical company have appreciated by 3.57% over the course of the past month, underperforming the Medical sector's gain of 5.6%, and outperforming the S&P 500's gain of 2.2%.

The upcoming earnings release of Merck will be of great interest to investors. The company's earnings report is expected on August 4, 2026. The company's earnings per share (EPS) are projected to be $2.15, reflecting a 0.94% increase from the same quarter last year. At the same time, our most recent consensus estimate is projecting a revenue of $16.3 billion, reflecting a 3.13% rise from the equivalent quarter last year.

For the annual period, the Zacks Consensus Estimates anticipate earnings of $5.17 per share and a revenue of $66.76 billion, signifying shifts of -42.43% and +2.7%, respectively, from the last year.

Investors should also take note of any recent adjustments to analyst estimates for Merck. These revisions help to show the ever-changing nature of near-term business trends. Hence, positive alterations in estimates signify analyst optimism regarding the business and profitability.

Empirical research indicates that these revisions in estimates have a direct correlation with impending stock price performance. To exploit this, we've formed the Zacks Rank, a quantitative model that includes these estimate changes and presents a viable rating system.

The Zacks Rank system, which varies between #1 (Strong Buy) and #5 (Strong Sell), carries an impressive track record of exceeding expectations, confirmed by external audits, with stocks at #1 delivering an average annual return of +25% since 1988. Over the past month, there's been a 0.03% fall in the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. Right now, Merck possesses a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).

With respect to valuation, Merck is currently being traded at a Forward P/E ratio of 24.21. For comparison, its industry has an average Forward P/E of 16.45, which means Merck is trading at a premium to the group.

Also, we should mention that MRK has a PEG ratio of 2.68. The PEG ratio is akin to the commonly utilized P/E ratio, but this measure also incorporates the company's anticipated earnings growth rate. As of the close of trade yesterday, the Large Cap Pharmaceuticals industry held an average PEG ratio of 2.66.

The Large Cap Pharmaceuticals industry is part of the Medical sector. This industry, currently bearing a Zacks Industry Rank of 178, finds itself in the bottom 28% echelons of all 250+ industries.

The Zacks Industry Rank assesses the strength of our separate industry groups by calculating the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks contained within the groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.

Ensure to harness Zacks.com to stay updated with all these stock-shifting metrics, among others, in the next trading sessions.

Quarterly financial reports play a vital role on Wall Street, as they help investors see how a company has performed and what might be coming down the road in the near-term. And out of all of the metrics and results to consider, earnings is one of the most important.

Life and the stock market are both about expectations, and rising above what is expected is often rewarded, while falling short can come with negative consequences. Investors might want to try to capture stronger returns by finding positive earnings surprises.

The ability to identify stocks that are likely to top quarterly earnings expectations can be profitable, but it's no simple task. Here at Zacks, our Earnings ESP filter helps make things easier.

The Zacks Earnings ESP, ExplainedThe Zacks Earnings ESP, or Expected Surprise Prediction, aims to find earnings surprises by focusing on the most recent analyst revisions. The basic premise is that if an analyst reevaluates their earnings estimate ahead of an earnings release, it means they likely have new information that could possibly be more accurate.

The core of the ESP model is comparing the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate, where the resulting percentage difference between the two equals the Expected Surprise Prediction. The Zacks Rank is also factored into the ESP metric to better help find companies that appear poised to top their next bottom-line consensus estimate, which will hopefully help lift the stock price.

In fact, when we combined a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better and a positive Earnings ESP, stocks produced a positive surprise 70% of the time. Perhaps most importantly, using these parameters has helped produce 28.3% annual returns on average, according to our 10 year backtest.

Most stocks, about 60%, fall into the #3 (Hold) category, and they are expected to perform in-line with the broader market. Stocks with a #2 (Buy) and #1 (Strong Buy) rating, or the top 15% and top 5% of stocks, respectively, should outperform the market, with Strong Buy stocks outperforming more than any other rank.

Should You Consider Merck?Now that we understand what the ESP is and how beneficial it can be, let's dive into a stock that currently fits the bill. Merck (MRK - Free Report) earns a #3 (Hold) right now and its Most Accurate Estimate sits at $2.17 a share, just 25 days from its upcoming earnings release on August 4, 2026.

By taking the percentage difference between the $2.17 Most Accurate Estimate and the $2.15 Zacks Consensus Estimate, Merck has an Earnings ESP of +0.93%. Investors should also know that MRK is one of a large group of stocks with positive ESPs. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.

MRK is one of just a large database of Medical stocks with positive ESPs. Another solid-looking stock is Pfizer (PFE - Free Report) .

Pfizer, which is readying to report earnings on August 4, 2026, sits at a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) right now. Its Most Accurate Estimate is currently $0.69 a share, and PFE is 25 days out from its next earnings report.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Pfizer is $0.68, and when you take the percentage difference between that number and its Most Accurate Estimate, you get the Earnings ESP figure of +2.22%.

Because both stocks hold a positive Earnings ESP, MRK and PFE could potentially post earnings beats in their next reports.

Find Stocks to Buy or Sell Before They're ReportedUse the Zacks Earnings ESP Filter to turn up stocks with the highest probability of positively, or negatively, surprising to buy or sell before they're reported for profitable earnings season trading. Check it out here >>

Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades and downgrades, please see our analyst ratings page.

Considering buying DLTR stock? Here’s what analysts think:

Photo via Shutterstock

Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs

© 2026 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

To add Benzinga News as your preferred source on Google, click here.

In the latest close session, Merck (MRK - Free Report) was down 2.15% at $126.78. This change lagged the S&P 500's 0.72% gain on the day. On the other hand, the Dow registered a gain of 0.3%, and the technology-centric Nasdaq increased by 1.12%.

Heading into today, shares of the pharmaceutical company had gained 7.26% over the past month, lagging the Medical sector's gain of 12.48% and outpacing the S&P 500's loss of 0.9%.

The investment community will be paying close attention to the earnings performance of Merck in its upcoming release. The company is slated to reveal its earnings on August 4, 2026. The company's earnings per share (EPS) are projected to be $2.12, reflecting a 0.47% decrease from the same quarter last year. Meanwhile, the latest consensus estimate predicts the revenue to be $16.3 billion, indicating a 3.13% increase compared to the same quarter of the previous year.

For the annual period, the Zacks Consensus Estimates anticipate earnings of $5.19 per share and a revenue of $66.7 billion, signifying shifts of -42.2% and +2.6%, respectively, from the last year.

Any recent changes to analyst estimates for Merck should also be noted by investors. These recent revisions tend to reflect the evolving nature of short-term business trends. As such, positive estimate revisions reflect analyst optimism about the business and profitability.

Research indicates that these estimate revisions are directly correlated with near-term share price momentum. Investors can capitalize on this by using the Zacks Rank. This model considers these estimate changes and provides a simple, actionable rating system.

The Zacks Rank system ranges from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell). It has a remarkable, outside-audited track record of success, with #1 stocks delivering an average annual return of +25% since 1988. Over the past month, the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate has shifted 0.42% upward. As of now, Merck holds a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).

Investors should also note Merck's current valuation metrics, including its Forward P/E ratio of 24.96. This valuation marks a premium compared to its industry average Forward P/E of 16.26.

Meanwhile, MRK's PEG ratio is currently 2.76. This popular metric is similar to the widely-known P/E ratio, with the difference being that the PEG ratio also takes into account the company's expected earnings growth rate. As the market closed yesterday, the Large Cap Pharmaceuticals industry was having an average PEG ratio of 2.73.

The Large Cap Pharmaceuticals industry is part of the Medical sector. This industry currently has a Zacks Industry Rank of 107, which puts it in the top 44% of all 250+ industries.

The Zacks Industry Rank assesses the vigor of our specific industry groups by computing the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks incorporated in the groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.

Remember to apply Zacks.com to follow these and more stock-moving metrics during the upcoming trading sessions.

On July 02, 2026, Merck and Co Inc (MRK) shares rose 3.3% today, currently priced at $129.56. The stock has experienced significant price appreciation, trading wi

Comparing Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD +0.57%) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM +0.27%) reveals two low-cost income powerhouses with distinct approaches to portfolio concentration and yield.

Income investors often gravitate toward these two funds for their rock-bottom fees and focus on seasoned, dividend-paying companies. While both seek to provide steady cash flow, they differ in how they screen for quality and how many individual stocks they ultimately hold.

Snapshot (cost & size)MetricVYMSCHDIssuerVanguardSchwabShare price (as of June 26, 2026)$158.22$32.09Expense ratio0.04%0.06%1-yr return (as of June 26, 2026)22.7%26%Dividend yield2.2%3.3%Beta0.720.67AUM$96.1 billion$96.4 billionBeta measures price volatility relative to the S&P 500; beta is calculated from five-year monthly returns. The 1-yr return represents total return over the trailing 12 months. Dividend yield is the trailing-12-month distribution yield.

The funds have pretty comparable expense ratios. However, Schwab’s ETF currently offers a higher payout, with a yield gap of 1.1 percentage points.

Performance & risk comparisonMetricVYMSCHDMax drawdown (5 yr)(15.8%)(16.8%)Growth of $1,000 over 5 years (total return)$1,744$1,524What's insideThe Schwab ETF focuses on 103 holdings, creating a more concentrated portfolio than many of its peers. Its largest positions include UnitedHealth Group (UNH +1.17%) at 4.5%, Merck (MRK 2.12%) at 4.45%, and Home Depot (HD +0.82%) at 4.42%. The fund is primarily weighted toward technology (19%), consumer defensive (18%), and healthcare (18%). It was launched in 2011. The ETF has paid $1.05 per share over the trailing 12 months.

Vanguard’s fund offers broader diversification through 605 holdings. Its largest positions include Broadcom (AVGO 1.22%) at 8.52%, JPMorgan Chase (JPM +1.23%) at 3.15%, and ExxonMobil (XOM 0.30%) at 2.53%. The portfolio spans technology (20%), financial services (20%), and healthcare (12%). It was launched in 2006. The Vanguard ETF has paid $3.63 per share over the trailing 12 months.

For more guidance on ETF investing, check out the full guide at this link.

What this means for investorsThese two dividend specialists share some commonalities. Assets under management are almost identical, and their expense ratios are very close. (I am not going to quibble about a 2-basis-point difference.)

Where they diverge in a significant way is their number of holdings. VYM has more than 600 positions, while SCHD has 103. However, I like that none of the stocks in SCHD exceed a 5% weighting. (Admittedly, in Vanguard's ETF, only one stock goes above that threshold.)

Finally, the Schwab fund yields more and has better recent returns. Past performance is no guarantee of future results, but investors seeking income may find SCHD an appealing option.

JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Erin Kennedy has positions in Home Depot, Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF, and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Broadcom, Home Depot, JPMorgan Chase, Merck, and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF. The Motley Fool recommends UnitedHealth Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

MRK weekly chart shows potential for new trend highs Fibonacci Structure Points Toward Higher Resistance Zones The above technical evidence suggests strong underlying demand for MRK and the potential for an eventual breakout above the June 2024 high of $134.63, if bullish confirmation continues. Since MRK is coming off a solid support zone, there is a healthy chance for the bull trend to persist. There are several Fibonacci extension levels shown as potential new high targets on the chart, but the bull pennant measured move should also be considered.

Measured Move Projection and Upside Extension If the pole portion of the pattern, which measures the sharp advance that preceded the consolidation portion of the pattern, begins near the reclaim of the 50-day moving average, the pattern points to a potential upside move to around $162. That would match the $38.33 sharp rise used to calculate the pole. Of course, this analysis only provides a possible price target, and subsequent price behavior following the pennant breakout will need to continue if MRK is going to have a chance at that higher target.

Pullback Behavior and Risk Considerations Traders will be watching the characteristics of the first pullback carefully for clues about supply and demand and attractive setups. Despite the potential for upside, a drop back into the pennant triangle pattern would be a sign of short-term weakening that could further develop. Key support is near the lower boundary line of the pennant pattern. Overall, the bullish breakout structure in MRK suggests that momentum is rebuilding from a strong consolidation base.

If you’d like to know more about technical analysis and how traders use it, please visit our educational area.

Agreement will help state ADAP programs provide access to IDVYNSO™ (doravirine/islatravir) for eligible individuals

RAHWAY, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, today announced an agreement with the ADAP Crisis Task Force (ACTF) to help state AIDS Drug Assistance Programs (ADAPs) provide access to the company’s new once-daily HIV treatment, IDVYNSO™ (doravirine/islatravir). In 2024, state ADAPs supported more than 250,000 people with HIV in the United States.

IDVYNSO was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in April 2026 as a new, two-drug single-tablet regimen of 100 mg doravirine and 0.25 mg islatravir, for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults to replace the current antiretroviral regimen in those who are virologically suppressed (HIV-1 RNA less than 50 copies per mL) on a stable antiretroviral regimen with no history of virologic treatment failure and no known substitutions associated with resistance to doravirine.

“ADAP programs play a critical role in supporting access to treatment for people living with HIV who are uninsured or underserved,” said Tim Horn, Director, Medication Access, National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors (NASTAD). “We appreciate Merck’s continued engagement and its willingness to work collaboratively to help address the critical access challenges facing state ADAP programs.”

“Merck is pleased to have reached this agreement with the ADAP Crisis Task Force to expand access to IDVYNSO for eligible people with HIV,” said Conrod Kelly, U.S. HIV business unit head, Merck. “This agreement reflects our long-standing commitment to working with the ACTF, state ADAPs and the HIV community to strengthen access and help address persistent gaps in care.”

For individuals with questions about coverage and affordability, the Merck Access Program may be able to provide information about insurance benefits, estimated out-of-pocket costs and co-pay assistance options for eligible patients.

The Merck Access Program for IDVYNSO

Merck offers support to individuals who are prescribed IDVYNSO, including information about patient insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs, co-pay assistance for eligible, commercially insured individuals, and how individuals may access IDVYNSO through The Merck Access Program. For additional information, healthcare providers and individuals can call 1-877-709-4455 or visit https://www.merckaccessprogram-idvynso.com/.

About IDVYNSO

IDVYNSO is a fixed-dose combination of two medicines, doravirine and islatravir. Doravirine is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) that inhibits HIV-1 replication by non-competitive inhibition of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase. Islatravir is a potent, next-generation nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) that blocks HIV-1 replication by multiple mechanisms including:

inhibition of reverse transcriptase translocation, resulting in immediate chain termination, and induction of structural changes in the viral DNA (delayed chain termination). Selected Safety Information for IDVYNSO

Contraindications

IDVYNSO is contraindicated when co-administered with:

drugs that are strong cytochrome P450 (CYP)3A enzyme inducers as significant decreases in doravirine plasma concentrations may occur, which may decrease the effectiveness of IDVYNSO. lamivudine (3TC) or emtricitabine (FTC) as significant decreases in islatravir-triphosphate (ISL-TP) concentrations may occur, which may decrease the effectiveness of IDVYNSO. (See Drug Interactions) Warnings and Precautions

Severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS)/toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), have been reported during postmarketing experience with doravirine-containing regimens. In addition, Drug Rash with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS syndrome) was reported with IDVYNSO in a clinical trial. Discontinue IDVYNSO, and other medications associated with these reactions, immediately if a painful rash with mucosal involvement, a progressive severe rash, or a rash with constitutional symptoms, eosinophilia, lymphadenopathy, or other organ involvement develops. Close clinical monitoring, and appropriate therapy should be initiated.

The concomitant use of IDVYNSO and certain other drugs may result in known or potentially significant drug interactions, some of which may lead to loss of therapeutic effect of IDVYNSO and possible development of resistance or possible clinically significant adverse reactions from greater exposures of a component of IDVYNSO.

Consider the potential for drug interactions prior to and during IDVYNSO therapy, review concomitant medications during IDVYNSO therapy, and monitor for adverse reactions. (See Drug Interactions)

Adverse Reactions

The most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 2%, all grades in any treatment group) reported in virologically suppressed participants in the IDVYNSO treatment groups in Trials 051 and 052, respectively, were: diarrhea (3% and 1%), dizziness (2% and 1%), fatigue (2% and 1%), abdominal distension (2% and 1%), headache (2% and 1%) and weight increased (2% and <1%).

A single case of severe immune thrombocytopenia (platelet count nadir of 2 x109/L) characterized by abrupt onset of subcutaneous hematoma, petechiae, and hematuria was reported in a participant 32 days after initiating IDVYNSO. The case resolved with discontinuation of IDVYNSO, in conjunction with treatments including corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). Among all participants in Trials 052 and 051, there were no patterns of platelet decreases over time with IDVYNSO and no differences between treatment arms in mean change from baseline in platelet count.

Drug Interactions

IDVYNSO is a complete regimen; co-administration with other antiretroviral medications for treatment of HIV-1 infection is not recommended.

Co-administration of IDVYNSO with a CYP3A inducer decreases doravirine plasma concentrations, which may reduce the efficacy of IDVYNSO. If IDVYNSO is co-administered with rifabutin, one tablet of doravirine should be taken approximately 12 hours after the dose of IDVYNSO. Co-administration of IDVYNSO with other moderate CYP3A inducers is not recommended.

Co-administration of IDVYNSO and drugs that are inhibitors of CYP3A may result in increased plasma concentrations of doravirine.

Co-administration of IDVYNSO is not recommended with deoxycytidine kinase (dCK) substrates (e.g., nucleoside antimetabolites) as they may reduce the exposure of islatravir-triphosphate or with adenosine deaminase (ADA) inhibitors (e.g., pentostatin) as they may increase the exposure of islatravir. (see Contraindications)

Use in Specific Populations

There are insufficient human data on the use of IDVYNSO during pregnancy to inform a drug-associated risk of birth defects and miscarriage. Healthcare providers are encouraged to call the Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry (APR) at 1-800-258-4263 to report pregnancy outcomes in individuals exposed to IDVYNSO.

It is unknown whether IDVYNSO or any of its components are present in human milk, affects human milk production, or has effects on the breastfed infant. Inform patients that the potential risks of breastfeeding include: (1) HIV-1 transmission (in infants without HIV-1), (2) developing viral resistance (in infants with HIV-1), and (3) serious adverse reactions in a breastfed infant similar to those seen in adults.

Clinical trials in virologically suppressed participants who received IDVYNSO included 81 (11%) participants aged 65 years and older, including 10 (1%) aged 75 years and older. Overall differences in response have not been identified between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.

No dosage adjustment of IDVYNSO is required in patients with eGFR ≥30 mL/min/1.73 m2. IDVYNSO is not recommended in patients with eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2 and has not been studied in participants undergoing dialysis.

No dosage adjustment of IDVYNSO is recommended in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment (Child- Pugh Class A or B). IDVYNSO has not been studied in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C) and therefore is not recommended in these patients.

IDVYNSO does not have activity against hepatitis B virus (HBV). Patients with HBV coinfection who switch to IDVYNSO from an antiretroviral regimen with activity against HBV, and patients on IDVYNSO who are newly diagnosed with HBV coinfection, should be closely monitored and specific anti-HBV therapy should be considered, as clinically appropriate.

Merck’s Commitment to HIV

For 40 years, Merck has been committed to scientific research and discovery in HIV leading to scientific breakthroughs that have helped change HIV treatment. Our work has helped pioneer the development of new options across multiple drug classes to help those impacted by HIV. Today, we are developing a series of antiviral options designed to help people manage HIV and protect people from HIV. We are researching for real life and want to ensure people are not defined by HIV. Our work focuses on transformational innovations, collaborations with others in the global HIV community and access initiatives aimed at helping to end the HIV epidemic for everyone.

About Islatravir (MK-8591) and Merck’s HIV Research

Islatravir (MK-8591) is Merck’s potent, next-generation nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) that blocks HIV-1 replication by multiple mechanisms including inhibition of reverse transcriptase translocation, resulting in immediate chain termination, and induction of structural changes in the viral DNA (delayed chain termination).

Islatravir is approved in combination with Merck’s NNRTI, doravirine, in the United States and Japan as IDVYNSO™, a once-daily, single-tablet regimen for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults to replace the current antiretroviral regimen in those who are virologically suppressed (HIV-1 RNA less than 50 copies per mL) on a stable antiretroviral regimen with no history of virologic treatment failure and no known substitutions associated with resistance to doravirine.

Islatravir is also under evaluation in multiple ongoing early and late-stage clinical trials in combination with other antiretrovirals for potential once-weekly treatments for HIV-1, in Merck's proprietary two-drug regimens.

Islatravir in combination with Gilead’s lenacapavir is in Phase 3 development as a novel oral once-weekly treatment for HIV-1 [ISLEND-1 (NCT06630286) and ISLEND-2 (NCT06630299)], and islatravir in combination with Merck’s investigational non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) ulonivirine (MK-8507) is in Phase 2b development (MK-8591B-060, NCT06891066 and MK-8591B-062, NCT07266831) as an oral once-weekly treatment.

MK-8527 is Merck’s investigational, novel, once-monthly, oral candidate for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV-1. In collaboration with the Gates Foundation, the Phase 3 EXPrESSIVE-10 trial (MK-8527-010, NCT07071623) trial is evaluating the safety and efficacy of MK-8527 as PrEP to reduce the risk of sexually acquired HIV-1 infection among women and adolescent girls in sub-Saharan Africa. The Phase 3 EXPrESSIVE-11 trial (MK-8527-011, NCT07044297) in 16 countries is evaluating the safety and efficacy of MK-8527 as PrEP to reduce the risk of sexually acquired HIV-1 infection among people likely to be exposed to HIV-1. Both trials are now enrolling.

For an overview of Merck’s HIV treatment and prevention clinical development program, please click here.

About Merck

At Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, we are unified around our purpose: We use the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world. For more than 130 years, we have brought hope to humanity through the development of important medicines and vaccines. We aspire to be the premier research-intensive biopharmaceutical company in the world – and today, we are at the forefront of research to deliver innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of diseases in people and animals. We foster a diverse and inclusive global workforce and operate responsibly every day to enable a safe, sustainable and healthy future for all people and communities. For more information, visit www.merck.com and connect with us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statement of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA

This news release of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA (the “company”) includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the company’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; the company’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the company’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions.

The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 and the company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SEC’s Internet site (www.sec.gov).

Please see Prescribing Information for IDVYNSO™ (doravirine and islatravir) at https://www.merck.com/product/usa/pi_circulars/i/idvynso/idvynso_pi.pdf and Patient Information for IDVYNSO at https://www.merck.com/product/usa/pi_circulars/i/idvynso/idvynso_ppi.pdf.

More News From Merck & Co., Inc.

Merck (MRK - Free Report) is one of the stocks most watched by Zacks.com visitors lately. So, it might be a good idea to review some of the factors that might affect the near-term performance of the stock.

Over the past month, shares of this pharmaceutical company have returned +4.6%, compared to the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -1.4% change. During this period, the Zacks Large Cap Pharmaceuticals industry, which Merck falls in, has gained 4.7%. The key question now is: What could be the stock's future direction?

Although media reports or rumors about a significant change in a company's business prospects usually cause its stock to trend and lead to an immediate price change, there are always certain fundamental factors that ultimately drive the buy-and-hold decision.

Revisions to Earnings EstimatesRather than focusing on anything else, we at Zacks prioritize evaluating the change in a company's earnings projection. This is because we believe the fair value for its stock is determined by the present value of its future stream of earnings.

We essentially look at how sell-side analysts covering the stock are revising their earnings estimates to reflect the impact of the latest business trends. And if earnings estimates go up for a company, the fair value for its stock goes up. A higher fair value than the current market price drives investors' interest in buying the stock, leading to its price moving higher. This is why empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements.

Merck is expected to post earnings of $2.10 per share for the current quarter, representing a year-over-year change of -1.4%. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate remained unchanged.

For the current fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $5.17 points to a change of -42.4% from the prior year. Over the last 30 days, this estimate has remained unchanged.

For the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $9.85 indicates a change of +90.5% from what Merck is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has remained unchanged.

With an impressive externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool -- the Zacks Rank -- is a more conclusive indicator of a stock's near-term price performance, as it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions. The size of the recent change in the consensus estimate, along with three other factors related to earnings estimates, has resulted in a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for Merck.

The chart below shows the evolution of the company's forward 12-month consensus EPS estimate:

12 Month EPS

Projected Revenue GrowthWhile earnings growth is arguably the most superior indicator of a company's financial health, nothing happens as such if a business isn't able to grow its revenues. After all, it's nearly impossible for a company to increase its earnings for an extended period without increasing its revenues. So, it's important to know a company's potential revenue growth.

For Merck, the consensus sales estimate for the current quarter of $16.28 billion indicates a year-over-year change of +3%. For the current and next fiscal years, $66.79 billion and $70.62 billion estimates indicate +2.7% and +5.7% changes, respectively.

Last Reported Results and Surprise HistoryMerck reported revenues of $16.29 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +4.9%. EPS of -$1.28 for the same period compares with $2.22 a year ago.

Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $15.9 billion, the reported revenues represent a surprise of +2.44%. The EPS surprise was +15.23%.

The company beat consensus EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters. The company topped consensus revenue estimates three times over this period.

ValuationNo investment decision can be efficient without considering a stock's valuation. Whether a stock's current price rightly reflects the intrinsic value of the underlying business and the company's growth prospects is an essential determinant of its future price performance.

While comparing the current values of a company's valuation multiples, such as price-to-earnings (P/E), price-to-sales (P/S), and price-to-cash flow (P/CF), with its own historical values helps determine whether its stock is fairly valued, overvalued, or undervalued, comparing the company relative to its peers on these parameters gives a good sense of the reasonability of the stock's price.

As part of the Zacks Style Scores system, the Zacks Value Style Score (which evaluates both traditional and unconventional valuation metrics) organizes stocks into five groups ranging from A to F (A is better than B; B is better than C; and so on), making it helpful in identifying whether a stock is overvalued, rightly valued, or temporarily undervalued.

Merck is graded C on this front, indicating that it is trading at par with its peers. Click here to see the values of some of the valuation metrics that have driven this grade.

Bottom LineThe facts discussed here and much other information on Zacks.com might help determine whether or not it's worthwhile paying attention to the market buzz about Merck. However, its Zacks Rank #3 does suggest that it may perform in line with the broader market in the near term.

Dan Deming talks joins today's Big 3 and highlights JPMorgan Chase (JPM) as shares touch new record highs. He sees Danaher (DHR) as a candidate for a continuing breakout, noting a similar pattern in Merck (MRK).

RAHWAY, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, today announced that KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab), Merck's anti-PD-1 therapy, in combination with Padcev® (enfortumab vedotin-ejfv), an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), is approved in the European Union (EU), as neoadjuvant treatment and then continued after radical cystectomy (RC) as adjuvant treatment, for adults with resectable muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) who are ineligible for cispla.