最新ニュース Merck & Co (NYSE:MRK) 株価情報

MERCK & CO. INC.

Merck & Co

Merck makes pharmaceutical products to treat several conditions in a number of therapeutic areas, including cardiometabolic disease, cancer, and infections. Within cancer, the firm's immuno-oncology platform is growing as a major contributor to overall sales. The company also has a substantial vaccine business, with treatments to prevent pediatric diseases as well as human papillomavirus, or HPV. Additionally, Merck sells animal health-related drugs. From a geographical perspective, just under half of the company's sales are generated in the United States.

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投資家の恐怖指数は改善｜ダウは350ポイント以上の下落を記録

Merck & Co Inc

Marker Therapeutics Inc

MARKY CORP by MARKY CORP.

Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) on Friday shared safety and efficacy results from the open-label Phase 1 KANDLELIT-001 study of MK-1084 alone and in combination <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care">with other therapies</a>. 
The study included patients with KRAS G12C-mutant solid tumors, advanced colorectal cancer (CRC) and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)</a>.
In patients with advanced&nbsp;KRAS&nbsp;G12C-mutated CRC and NSCLC, MK-1084, either as monotherapy or in combinations, demonstrated a manageable safety profile and antitumor activity.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/05/45450568/merck-says-blockbuster-keytruda-based-regimen-can-help-certain-ovarian-cancer-patients-live-longer" rel="noreferrer noopener">Merck Data Shows Positive Outcomes For Ovarian Cancer Patients Treated With Keytruda</a>
In CRC, the study assessed MK-1084 as monotherapy, as well as in combination with cetuximab with or without chemotherapy (oxaliplatin and leucovorin plus 5-fluorouracil [mFOLFOX6]). The study evaluated the overall response rate (ORR) in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/05/b45691989/merck-announces-mk-1084-an-investigational-kras-g12c-inhibitor-shows-antitumor-activity-in-phase-1" rel="noreferrer noopener">previously treated patients</a>:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>MK-1084 monotherapy (N=53)- Confirmed ORR of 38% and unconfirmed ORR of 43%.</li>
<li>MK-1084 + cetuximab (N=39)-Confirmed ORR of 46% and unconfirmed ORR of 56%.</li>
<li>MK-1084 + cetuximab + mFOLFOX6 (N=29)-Confirmed ORR of 38% and unconfirmed ORR of 66%.</li>
</ul>
In addition to KANDLELIT-001, MK-1084 will be investigated in:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Phase 3 KANDLELIT-012 study, which is investigating MK-1084 in combination with cetuximab and mFOLFOX6 for the first-line treatment of certain patients with locally advanced unresectable or metastatic CRC who have&nbsp;KRAS&nbsp;G12C-mutated tumors.</li>
<li>Phase 3 KANDLELIT-004 study, which is investigating MK-1084 in combination with KEYTRUDA for the first-line treatment of certain patients with metastatic NSCLC who have&nbsp;KRAS&nbsp;G12C-mutated tumors and express PD-L1 (TPS ≥50%).</li>
</ul>
Concurrently, Merck announced results from the dose confirmation portion of the Phase 2/3 waveLINE-003 study of zilovertamab vedotin in combination with standard-of-care rituximab and gemcitabine-oxaliplatin (R-GemOx) for relapsed or refractory diffuse <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/05/b45691829/mercks-investigational-zilovertamab-vedotin-at-1-75-mgkg-dose-plus-standard-of-care-showed-promisi" rel="noreferrer noopener">large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL)</a>.
At a pre-planned analysis, zilovertamab vedotin 1.75 mg/kg in combination with R-GemOx achieved a 56.3% objective response rate (ORR) in patients with relapsed or refractory DLBCL (n=16), with eight complete responses (CR) and one partial response (PR).
At a median follow-up of 18.1 months in patients receiving the 1.5 mg/kg dose of zilovertamab vedotin (n=15), ORR was 26.7% (3 CR [20.0%], 1 PR [6.7%]) and median DOR was 14.4 months.
At a median follow-up of 9.3 months for patients receiving the 2.0 mg/kg dose (n=7), the ORR was 57.1% (3 CR [42.9%], 1 PR [14.3%]) and median DOR was not reached.
Seven dose-limiting toxicities occurred across all participants.
Based on these results and accompanying safety data, the recommended Phase 2 dose of zilovertamab vedotin was determined to be 1.75 mg/kg when used with R-GemOx.
Price Action: MRK stock is up 1.09% at $77.24 at the last check on Friday.
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Image: Shutterstock

Health Care

Merck KANDLELIT Trials Spark Hope For Hard-To-Treat Cancers

Merck &amp; Co's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) short percent of float has risen 10.91% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 41.27 million shares sold short, which is 1.83% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 2.6 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Merck &amp; Co Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1748610030_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Merck &amp; Co has grown since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to fall in the near-term but traders should be aware that more shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Merck &amp; Co's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Merck &amp; Co's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 3.63%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

Short Ideas

How Do Investors Really Feel About Merck & Co?

Manageable safety profile and encouraging antitumor activity observed for MK-1084 in KANDLELIT-001, both as a monotherapy and in studied combinations
Merck (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, announced today safety and efficacy results from the open-label Phase 1 KANDLELIT-001 study, a clinical trial evaluating MK-1084, an investigational next-generation KRAS G12C inhibitor, alone and in combination with other therapies in certain patients with KRAS G12C-mutant solid tumors, including advanced colorectal cancer (CRC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In patients with advanced KRAS G12C-mutated CRC and NSCLC, a manageable safety profile and antitumor activity were observed with MK-1084 either as a monotherapy or in the combinations.
"We are encouraged by the promising early data from the KANDLELIT-001 study and look forward to further researching the potential for MK-1084, as monotherapy or in combinations, including with KEYTRUDA in certain settings in patients with KRAS mutations, which are among the most prevalent mutations in cancer," said Dr. Marjorie Green, senior vice president and head of oncology, global clinical development, Merck Research Laboratories. "We are committed to evaluating the potential for innovative approaches to help even more patients with cancer and these results further demonstrate the potential of our robust and differentiated pipeline."

Biotech

General

Merck Announces Its Mk-1084 Shows Manageable Safety Profile And Antitumor Activity In Phase 1 Trial Of Patients With Advanced Colorectal Cancer And Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Whose Tumors Harbor KRAS G12C Mutation

Merck Announces Results From Dose Confirmation Portion Of Phase 2 waveLINE-003 Trial Trial Of Zilovertamab Vedotin Plus Standard of Care; Zilovertamab Vedotin Plus R-GemOx Achieved 56.3% Objective Response Rate In Patients With Relapsed/Refractory DLBCL

Keros Therapeutics Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KROS#NASDAQ">KROS</a>) released topline data from the TROPOS Phase 2 trial of cibotercept (KER-012) in combination with background therapy in patients with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" rel="noreferrer noopener">pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)</a> on Wednesday.
In December 2024, the company voluntarily halted the 3.0 mg/kg and 4.5 mg/kg treatment arms based on observing pericardial effusions <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42462096/keros-therapeutics-pauses-two-treatment-arms-in-mid-stage-hypertension-trial-stock-plummets" rel="noreferrer noopener">at those dose levels</a>.
Furthermore, in January 2025, the company halted all dosing in the trial, including the 1.5 mg/kg and placebo treatment arms, based on the ongoing safety review due to new observations of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/05/g45665430/keros-therapeutics-announces-tropos-topline-data-and-corporate-restructuring" rel="noreferrer noopener">pericardial effusion adverse events</a>.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/04/44746372/keros-therapeutics-goes-up-for-sale-on-heels-of-stockholder-rights-plan" rel="noreferrer noopener">Keros Therapeutics Goes Up For Sale On Heels Of Stockholder Rights Plan</a>
Following the early termination of the trial, patients continued to be monitored through their end-of-trial visits.
Following the analysis of all available safety and efficacy data from the TROPOS trial, the company has decided to discontinue all development of cibotercept in PAH.
In a corporate presentation, the company noted a higher incidence in cibotercept arms relative to placebo and a higher incidence rate and severity in the 3.0 and 4.5 mg/kg arms than the 1.5 mg/kg arm.
The background rate of pericardial effusions in this trial was higher than in randomized, controlled trials of Merck &amp; Company, Inc.&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) Winrevair (sotatercept).
Keros <a target="_blank" href="https://ir.kerostx.com/static-files/2b772f73-4ec5-4003-a18e-926dc68f19c4" rel="noreferrer noopener">said</a> the ability to interpret 24-week data is limited due to incomplete treatment duration and trial visit participation.
A dose-dependent signal for pericardial effusions was observed for cibotercept in this PAH population.
During the treatment duration in the analysis from this data cutoff, no major signal for hemoglobin increases, thrombocytopenia, bleeding events, or telangiectasias was observed relative to the placebo.
No clinically meaningful improvement in pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) or 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) was observed.
The company plans to further evaluate the appropriate development strategy for cibotercept, if any, in other indications following the completion of the strategic alternative review process.
Keros has decided to reduce the company&#8217;s headcount by approximately 45%, after which the company will have 85 full-time employees. The company expects to realize average annualized cost savings of approximately $17 million.
Price Action: KROS stock is trading lower by 4.78% to $13.94 at last check Thursday.
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Image via Shutterstock

Movers

KROS

Keros Therapeutics Stops PAH Drug Development, Shrinks Workforce By 45%

Biologics License Application For Daiichi Sankyo And Merck's Patritumab Deruxtecan Has Been Withdrawn Based On Topline Overall Survival (OS) Results From HERTHENA-Lung02  Trial Where OS Did Not Meet Statistical Significance

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>TEM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>05/30/25</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$37.4K</td>
<td>872</td>
<td>1.6K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$302.0K</td>
<td>5.1K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LLY</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$850.00</td>
<td>$33.5K</td>
<td>31.4K</td>
<td>798</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VERA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$41.1K</td>
<td>446</td>
<td>342</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$33.4K</td>
<td>1.9K</td>
<td>282</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/18/26</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$104.7K</td>
<td>114</td>
<td>162</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ABBV</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$180.00</td>
<td>$111.8K</td>
<td>2.1K</td>
<td>105</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HUM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$215.00</td>
<td>$54.2K</td>
<td>385</td>
<td>87</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VRNA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$28.8K</td>
<td>50</td>
<td>40</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ONC</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$220.00</td>
<td>$32.2K</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>15</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding TEM (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEM#NASDAQ">TEM</a>), we observe a put option trade with neutral sentiment. It expires in 3 day(s) on May 30, 2025. Parties traded 170 contract(s) at a $65.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $37.4K, with a price of $220.0 per contract. There were 872 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1645 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For NVO (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 24 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 1000 contract(s) at a $70.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $302.0K, with a price of $302.0 per contract. There were 5187 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1108 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding LLY (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 24 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 100 contract(s) at a $850.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 5 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $33.5K, with a price of $335.0 per contract. There were 31403 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 798 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For VERA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VERA#NASDAQ">VERA</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 24 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 34 contract(s) at a $30.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 14 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $41.1K, with a price of $1210.0 per contract. There were 446 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 342 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For UNH (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 598 day(s) on January 15, 2027. This event was a transfer of 10 contract(s) at a $400.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $33.4K, with a price of $3342.0 per contract. There were 1906 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 282 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For MRK (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 570 day(s) on December 18, 2026. This event was a transfer of 161 contract(s) at a $65.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 14 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $104.7K, with a price of $655.0 per contract. There were 114 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 162 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding ABBV (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>), we observe a call option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 80 day(s) on August 15, 2025. Parties traded 87 contract(s) at a $180.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $111.8K, with a price of $1286.0 per contract. There were 2152 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 105 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding HUM (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 24 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 67 contract(s) at a $215.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $54.2K, with a price of $810.0 per contract. There were 385 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 87 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For VRNA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRNA#NASDAQ">VRNA</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 24 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 40 contract(s) at a $80.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 14 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $28.8K, with a price of $720.0 per contract. There were 50 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 40 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For ONC (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ONC#NASDAQ">ONC</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be neutral, expiring in 24 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 15 contract(s) at a $220.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $32.2K, with a price of $2150.0 per contract. There were 0 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 15 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Options

ABBV

VERA

VRNA

10 Health Care Stocks Whale Activity In Today's Session

During times of turbulence and uncertainty in the markets, many investors turn to dividend-yielding stocks. These are often companies that have high free cash flows and reward shareholders with a<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/yield-investments"> high dividend payout</a>.
Benzinga readers can review the latest analyst takes on their favorite stocks by visiting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">Analyst Stock Ratings</a> page. Traders can sort through Benzinga's extensive database of analyst ratings, including <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/22/09/28888638/exclusive-study-finds-benzinga-analyst-ratings-data-yields-market-beating-strategie">by analyst accuracy</a>.
Below are the ratings of the most accurate analysts for three high-yielding stocks in the health care sector.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>)</h3>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Dividend Yield: 7.47%</li>
<li>UBS analyst Trung Huynh maintained a Neutral rating and raised the price target from $24 to $25 on April 30, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 67%.</li>
<li>Guggenheim analyst Vamil Divan reiterated a Buy rating on March 18, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 72%.</li>
<li>Recent News: Pfizer announced Monday it has secured exclusive global rights, excluding China, to 3SBio Inc.'s bispecific antibody SSGJ-707 in a deal potentially worth up to $6 billion.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s real-time newsfeed alerted to latest PFE <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0522">news</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0522"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="891" height="832" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/22050725/image-280.png" alt="" class="wp-image-924044" style="width:531px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/22050725/image-280.png 891w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/22050725/image-280-300x280.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/22050725/image-280-768x717.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 891px) 100vw, 891px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Merck &amp; Co., Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>)</h3>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Dividend Yield: 4.21%</li>
<li>Citigroup analyst Andrew Baum downgraded the stock from Buy to Neutral and cut the price target from $115 to $84 on May 14, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 69%.</li>
<li>Guggenheim analyst Vamil Divan reiterated a Buy rating with a price target of $115 on April 17, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 72%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On May 19, Merck and Daiichi Sankyo started Phase 3 trial for Esophageal Cancer Drug.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro's real-time newsfeed alerted to latest MRK <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0522">news </a></li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0522"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="900" height="827" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/22050803/image-281.png" alt="" class="wp-image-924046" style="width:545px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/22050803/image-281.png 900w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/22050803/image-281-300x276.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/22050803/image-281-768x706.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">DENTSPLY SIRONA Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XRAY#NASDAQ">XRAY</a>)</h3>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Dividend Yield: 4.04%</li>
<li>UBS analyst Kevin Caliendo maintained a Buy rating and cut the price target from $27 to $25 on May 9, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 71%.</li>
<li>Mizuho analyst Steven Valiquette maintained a Neutral rating and slashed the price target from $21 to $18 on March 13, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 61%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On May 8, DENTSPLY SIRONA reported better-than-expected first-quarter financial results and raised its FY25 sales guidance above estimates.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s real-time newsfeed alerted to latest <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0522">XRAY news</a> </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0522"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="901" height="822" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/22050834/image-282.png" alt="" class="wp-image-924050" style="width:590px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/22050834/image-282.png 901w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/22050834/image-282-300x274.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/22050834/image-282-768x701.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 901px) 100vw, 901px" /></a></figure>
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Photo via Shutterstock

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Wall Street's Most Accurate Analysts Give Their Take On 3 Health Care Stocks Delivering High-Dividend Yields

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with MRK, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
So how do we know what these investors just did? 
Today, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 33 uncommon options trades for Merck &amp; Co.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 42% bullish and 33%, bearish.
Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 9 are puts, for a total amount of $753,544, and 24 are calls, for a total amount of $1,133,972.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $65.0 to $100.0 for Merck &amp; Co over the recent three months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.
This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Merck &amp; Co's options for a given strike price.
Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Merck &amp; Co's whale activity within a strike price range from $65.0 to $100.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Merck &amp; Co Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1747771253_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/18/26</td>
<td>$7.2</td>
<td>$7.05</td>
<td>$7.05</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$352.5K</td>
<td>811</td>
<td align="right">501</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/20/26</td>
<td>$9.15</td>
<td>$9.05</td>
<td>$9.05</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$135.7K</td>
<td>2.3K</td>
<td align="right">259</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/17/27</td>
<td>$27.3</td>
<td>$26.5</td>
<td>$27.04</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$108.1K</td>
<td>116</td>
<td align="right">41</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/23/25</td>
<td>$2.79</td>
<td>$2.71</td>
<td>$2.79</td>
<td>$76.00</td>
<td>$97.6K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
<td align="right">399</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>06/18/26</td>
<td>$10.0</td>
<td>$9.9</td>
<td>$9.95</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$89.5K</td>
<td>2.0K</td>
<td align="right">216</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Merck &amp; Co</h3>
Merck makes pharmaceutical products to treat several conditions in a number of therapeutic areas, including cardiometabolic disease, cancer, and infections. Within cancer, the firm's immuno-oncology platform is growing as a major contributor to overall sales. The company also has a substantial vaccine business, with treatments to prevent pediatric diseases as well as human papillomavirus, or HPV. Additionally, Merck sells animal health-related drugs. From a geographical perspective, just under half of the company's sales are generated in the United States.
<h3>Present Market Standing of Merck &amp; Co</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 10,575,757, the price of MRK is up 0.86% at $77.89. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 70 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Merck &amp; Co</h3>
Over the past month, 2 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $84.5.
Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?
20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=options-activity&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; In a cautious move, an analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald downgraded its rating to Neutral, setting a price target of $85. 
&#x2A; Reflecting concerns, an analyst from Citigroup lowers its rating to Neutral with a new price target of $84.
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Merck &amp; Co, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Spotlight on Merck & Co: Analyzing the Surge in Options Activity

The first patient has been dosed in the <a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fprotect.checkpoint.com%2Fv2%2F___https%3A%2Fclinicaltrials.gov%2Fstudy%2FNCT06644781___.YzJ1OndlY29tbXVuaWNhdGlvbnM6YzpvOjFkMTM1YWM5MjVkNWYzYjg2ZjdlODcyMzU3NjQyZDFlOjY6M2ViZjowMDZkMDFhOGQzNWFmMDc0ODg5YjgzYWIyZmRkZTQ5YWFkMDFkZDQzMmI1YjAzMTQ1YWY0YjA0Y2Q3NGEzMWJjOnA6RjpG&amp;esheet=54256059&amp;newsitemid=20250519791895&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=IDeate-Esophageal01&amp;index=1&amp;md5=beac5e6dfd267a577c19dcc79fd1e109">IDeate-Esophageal01</a> phase 3 trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of investigational ifinatamab deruxtecan (I-DXd) versus investigator's choice of chemotherapy in patients with unresectable advanced or metastatic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) with disease progression following treatment with a platinum-containing systemic therapy and an immune checkpoint inhibitor.
Ifinatamab deruxtecan is a specifically engineered, potential first-in-class B7-H3 directed DXd antibody drug conjugate (ADC) discovered by Daiichi Sankyo (TSE: 4568) and being jointly developed with Merck (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada.
ESCC accounts for nearly 90% of esophageal cancers globally with a five-year overall survival rate around 15% to 20% and has a worse prognosis for those diagnosed at an advanced stage of the disease.1,2 While the evolved landscape in the first-line metastatic setting of ESCC has helped to improve outcomes for patients, treatment options are limited for patients progressing after first-line therapy, reinforcing the need for new approaches.
"Patients with metastatic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma continue to experience poor outcomes despite currently available treatments," said Mark Rutstein, MD, Head, Therapeutic Area Oncology Development, Daiichi Sankyo. "The encouraging clinical activity seen in our early-phase signal finding trial supports further evaluation of ifinatamab deruxtecan as a potential treatment strategy for these patients."
"Advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma is a difficult-to-treat disease, and unfortunately overall survival remains low," said Marjorie Green, MD, Senior Vice President and Head of Oncology, Global Clinical Development, Merck Research Laboratories. "The initiation of the pivotal phase 3 IDeate-Esophageal01 clinical trial demonstrates our shared commitment with Daiichi Sankyo to further expand our clinical development program evaluating this potentially first-in-class ADC across multiple solid tumors where there are unmet needs for new treatment options."
The initiation of IDeate-Esophageal01 is based on results from the <a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fprotect.checkpoint.com%2Fv2%2F___https%3A%2Fclinicaltrials.gov%2Fstudy%2FNCT04145622___.YzJ1OndlY29tbXVuaWNhdGlvbnM6YzpvOjFkMTM1YWM5MjVkNWYzYjg2ZjdlODcyMzU3NjQyZDFlOjY6NjM4ZjpiODk0NTg2MGVhN2YzZTY1MTFkOGFlZGI0MmI0MDQ0YzI4MWVhOTkxNzg0Y2UxMWYwM2FjNmIxNjkwZGFiODkzOnA6RjpG&amp;esheet=54256059&amp;newsitemid=20250519791895&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=IDeate-PanTumor01&amp;index=2&amp;md5=170677f283830eb0039a5a2887c2bff8">IDeate-PanTumor01</a> phase 1/2 trial <a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fprotect.checkpoint.com%2Fv2%2F___https%3A%2Fdaiichisankyo.us%2Fpress-releases%2F-%2Farticle%2Fds-7300-continues-to-show-promising-durable-response-in-patients-with-several-types-of-advanced-cancer___.YzJ1OndlY29tbXVuaWNhdGlvbnM6YzpvOjc1OWRlYTEwYzE2NjZjZjg0MjNjZjgxODFhZmUwMDA3OjY6NGJmZjo5MWI5NDdjZjFhYmQ1Mzk4ZDcxZmFhNjUxMWY1YTI4M2NmZWYyNzU0MjM1MTU2MGViZGU2Zjc5NDQ1OTdjYWYzOnA6RjpG&amp;esheet=54256059&amp;newsitemid=20250519791895&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=presented&amp;index=3&amp;md5=70e3fe4c16d72f1b6572a7c9a10e045f">presented</a> at both the 2022 and 2023 European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) where ifinatamab deruxtecan showed promising responses in heavily pretreated patients with ESCC.

Merck and Daiichi Sankyo Begin Phase 3 Trial for Esophageal Cancer Drug

<a href="https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-clears-first-blood-test-used-diagnosing-alzheimers-disease#:~:text=The%20Lumipulse%20G%20pTau217%2F%C3%9F,and%20symptoms%20of%20the%20disease">https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-clears-first-blood-test-used-diagnosing-alzheimers-disease#:~:text=The%20Lumipulse%20G%20pTau217%2F%C3%9F,and%20symptoms%20of%20the%20disease</a>.

ACIU

ANVS

BIIB

DNLI

PRTA

RHHBF

RHHBY

SAVA

'FDA Clears First Blood Test Used In Diagnosing Alzheimer's Disease; New Test Provides Less Invasive Option, Reduces Reliance On Pet Scans And Increases Diagnosis Accessibility' - FDA

Preliminary results from a pooled analysis of clinical trial data evaluating the long-term safety and favorable benefit-risk profile of WINREVAIR&#x2122; to be featured as a late-breaking presentation
Merck (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, today announced new clinical and outcomes research data on pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) to be presented at the American Thoracic Society's (ATS) 2025 International Conference in San Francisco from May 16-21. Data from nine presentations demonstrate Merck's commitment to advancing research for patients with this disease.
Merck will present pooled data from participants who have completed the PULSAR, SPECTRA, or STELLAR studies and have continued in the ongoing open-label extension study, SOTERIA, evaluating the long-term safety, tolerability and efficacy of WINREVAIR&#x2122; (sotatercept-csrk) when added to background therapy for the treatment of PAH. These results represent the largest analysis of WINREVAIR to date.

Merck Presents New Clinical And Outcomes Research Data On Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension At ATS 2025 International Conference

Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bullish stance on Merck &amp; Co.
Looking at options history for Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) we detected 18 trades.
If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 55% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 33% with bearish.
From the overall spotted trades, 8 are puts, for a total amount of $622,082 and 10, calls, for a total amount of $2,036,471.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $60.0 to $90.0 for Merck &amp; Co over the recent three months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
Assessing the volume and open interest is a strategic step in options trading. These metrics shed light on the liquidity and investor interest in Merck &amp; Co's options at specified strike prices. The forthcoming data visualizes the fluctuation in volume and open interest for both calls and puts, linked to Merck &amp; Co's substantial trades, within a strike price spectrum from $60.0 to $90.0 over the preceding 30 days.
<h3>Merck &amp; Co Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1747339301_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>06/18/26</td>
<td>$5.0</td>
<td>$4.8</td>
<td>$4.9</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$980.0K</td>
<td>236</td>
<td>2.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/17/27</td>
<td>$10.45</td>
<td>$10.1</td>
<td>$10.45</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$726.2K</td>
<td>19.0K</td>
<td>697</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$1.52</td>
<td>$1.46</td>
<td>$1.49</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$186.2K</td>
<td>16.3K</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$2.16</td>
<td>$2.1</td>
<td>$2.12</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$171.2K</td>
<td>14.2K</td>
<td>7.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/30/25</td>
<td>$6.35</td>
<td>$6.2</td>
<td>$6.2</td>
<td>$79.00</td>
<td>$76.2K</td>
<td>569</td>
<td>200</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Merck &amp; Co</h3>
Merck makes pharmaceutical products to treat several conditions in a number of therapeutic areas, including cardiometabolic disease, cancer, and infections. Within cancer, the firm's immuno-oncology platform is growing as a major contributor to overall sales. The company also has a substantial vaccine business, with treatments to prevent pediatric diseases as well as human papillomavirus, or HPV. Additionally, Merck sells animal health-related drugs. From a geographical perspective, just under half of the company's sales are generated in the United States.
Having examined the options trading patterns of Merck &amp; Co, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>Current Position of Merck &amp; Co</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 12,034,764, the MRK's price is up by 1.57%, now at $74.62. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 75 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Merck &amp; Co</h3>
In the last month, 3 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $94.67.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=options-activity&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; Reflecting concerns, an analyst from Guggenheim lowers its rating to Buy with a new price target of $115. 
&#x2A; In a cautious move, an analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald downgraded its rating to Neutral, setting a price target of $85. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Citigroup downgraded its action to Neutral with a price target of $84. 
Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Merck &amp; Co options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>.

Decoding Merck & Co's Options Activity: What's the Big Picture?

Merck&nbsp;&amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) on Thursday said the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-B96 trial (also known as ENGOT-ov65), met its primary endpoint of progression-free survival (PFS) for platinum-resistant recurrent ovarian cancer whose tumors expressed PD-L1 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" rel="noreferrer noopener">and in all comers</a>.
The study also met a secondary endpoint of overall survival (OS) in patients whose tumors express PD-L1.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/05/45418609/fda-approves-mercks-kidney-cancer-drug-for-rare-type-of-neuroendocrine-tumors" rel="noreferrer noopener">FDA Approves Merck&#8217;s Kidney Cancer Drug For Rare Type Of Neuroendocrine Tumors</a>
The study is evaluating Keytruda&nbsp;(pembrolizumab), Merck&#8217;s anti-PD-1 therapy, in combination with chemotherapy (paclitaxel) with or without Roche Holdings AG&#8217;s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RHHBY#OTC">RHHBY</a>) Avastin (bevacizumab) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/05/b45431872/merck-announces-phase-3-keynote-b96-trial-met-primary-endpoint-of-progression-free-survival-pfs-in" rel="noreferrer noopener">for these patients</a>.
The trial continues, and OS for the full study population will be evaluated at a future analysis.
The Keytruda-based regimen demonstrated a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in PFS regardless of PD-L1 status compared to placebo plus chemotherapy with or without bevacizumab.
The study also showed a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in OS in patients whose tumors express PD-L1 (Combined Positive Score [CPS] ≥1) compared to placebo plus chemotherapy with or without bevacizumab.
&#8220;This marks the first time a KEYTRUDA-based regimen has shown the ability to help certain patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer live longer, and the first time an immune checkpoint inhibitor-based regimen has demonstrated an overall survival benefit in ovarian cancer,&#8221; said Dr. Gursel Aktan, vice president, global clinical development, Merck Research Laboratories.
Keytruda is not approved for ovarian cancer.
Lynparza (olaparib), jointly developed by AstraZeneca Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) and Merck, has three approved ovarian <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42393128/merck-reveals-mixed-data-from-keytrudalynparza-regime-in-ovarian-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer indications in the U.S</a>.
In October, Merck&nbsp;announced that the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-689 trial of Keytruda, as a perioperative treatment for patients newly diagnosed with stage III or IVA, resected, locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, met its primary endpoint of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/24/10/41230591/merck-touts-phase-3-success-for-20b-cancer-drug-keytruda-in-untreated-head-and-neck-cancer-pa" rel="noreferrer noopener">event-free survival (EFS)</a>.
Price Action: MRK stock is
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</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Large Cap

Merck Data Shows Positive Outcomes For Ovarian Cancer Patients Treated With Keytruda

Immutep Limited&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IMMP#NASDAQ">IMMP</a>) on Thursday announced additional data from the investigator-initiated INSIGHT-003 trial evaluating a triple combination therapy in front-line <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" rel="noreferrer noopener">non-small cell lung cancer patients</a> consisting of efti administered in conjunction with Merck &amp; Co Inc&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) Keytruda (pembrolizumab) and chemotherapy (carboplatin and pemetrexed).
The company said it achieved a 60.8% response rate and 90.2% disease control rate as of the data cut-off <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/05/g45434128/immuteps-efti-with-keytruda-pembrolizumab-chemotherapy-achieves-high-response-rates-in-first-line-" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">date of May 6, 2025</a>.
Marc Voigt, CEO of Immutep, stated, &#8220;Our level of confidence in efti driving a new standard of care for patients with non-small cell lung cancer via our pivotal TACTI-004 trial continues to rise with the strength of the data from INSIGHT-003 and TACTI-002. Across two trials we have now efficacy data from 165 patients with 1L NSCLC who have been treated with efti and KEYTRUDA, either with or without chemotherapy. In multi-national settings, efti has generated consistent and remarkable improvements in response rates. In particular, the interim ORR data in patients with PD-L1 expression below 50% in the ongoing INSIGHT-003 trial, who represent over two-thirds of the 1L NSCLC patient population, is very encouraging.&#8221;
Data from all evaluable patients demonstrates significant improvement of Overall Response Rate (ORR) across all levels of PD-L1 expression compared to historical control from a registrational trial of anti-PD-1 and doublet chemotherapy in non-squamous 1L NSCLC1:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>75.0% ORR versus 62.1% ORR in patients with high PD-L1 expression (TPS&nbsp;&gt;50%).</li>
<li>64.0% ORR versus 49.2% ORR in patients with low PD-L1 expression (TPS 1-49%).</li>
<li>54.5% ORR versus 32.3% ORR in patients with negative PD-L1 (TPS &lt;1%).</li>
</ul>
The 60.8% response rate, regardless of PD-L1 expression (TPS 0-100%), represents a substantial improvement compared to the historical control of 48.0%.
The relative outperformance is particularly strong given the registrational trial has four times as many patients with high PD-L1 expression (~32% of patients versus ~8% in INSIGHT-003), who have the highest response rates.
In patients with TPS &lt;50% (N=47), who have a high unmet need and represent over two-thirds of the 1L NSCLC patient population, the triple combination with efti achieved a 59.6% response rate compared to a historical control of 40.8%.
Safety continues to be favorable for the triple combination in 1L NSCLC with no new safety signals.
Additional data updates from this trial are expected to be presented at a medical conference in 2025 and beyond.
In May, Immutep announced that the median Overall Survival (OS) of 17.6 months had been achieved in Cohort B of the TACTI-003 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/05/g45191374/immuteps-efti-in-combination-with-keytruda-pembrolizumab-drives-strong-overall-survival-in-head-an" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(KEYNOTE-C34) Phase 2b trial</a>.
This part of the Phase 2 study evaluates eftilagimod alfa (efti) in combination with Keytruda as first-line therapy in recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
Immutep dosed the first patient in its pivotal TACTI-004 Phase 3 trial in March.
TACTI-004 will evaluate Immutep&#8217;s eftilagimod alfa in combination with Keytruda as first-line treatment for patients with advanced or metastatic <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/03/g44471381/first-patient-dosed-in-immuteps-tacti-004-phase-iii-trial-in-first-line-non-small-cell-lung-cancer" rel="noreferrer noopener">non-small cell lung cancer</a>.
Price Action: IMMP stock is up 9.2% at $2.00 at last check on Thursday.
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</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

IMMP

Immutep Reports 61% Response Rate In Lung Cancer Trial With Keytruda-Based Triple Combo

<a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mhra-approves-vaccine-to-protect-against-pneumococcal-infections-such-as-pneumonia-and-meningitis#:~:text=The%20Medicines%20and%20Healthcare%20products,called%20Streptococcus%20pneumoniae%20or%20pneumococcus" title="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mhra-approves-vaccine-to-protect-against-pneumococcal-infections-such-as-pneumonia-and-meningitis#:~:text=The%20Medicines%20and%20Healthcare%20products,called%20Streptococcus%20pneumoniae%20or%20pneumococcus">https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mhra-approves-vaccine-to-protect-against-pneumococcal-infections-such-as-pneumonia-and-meningitis#:~:text=The%20Medicines%20and%20Healthcare%20products,called%20Streptococcus%20pneumoniae%20or%20pneumococcus</a>.

Global

MHRA Approves Vaccine To Protect Against Pneumococcal Infections Such As Pneumonia And Meningitis; Approved Capvaxive For People Aged 18 Years & Older To Help Protect Against Pneumococcal Infections

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Pfizer's Oncology Transformation: Why This Beaten-Down Pharma Giant Is Poised For A Strong Comeback</h2>
Despite trading near decade-low valuations, Pfizer (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) is strategically repositioning itself for substantial long-term growth through its oncology transformation, particularly via the Seagen acquisition. While the market remains fixated on COVID-related revenue declines and upcoming patent cliffs, investors are overlooking the company's dramatically expanded oncology pipeline, robust free cash flow, and the potential for multiple catalysts in 2025-2026 that could drive significant share price appreciation.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a>Key Points:</a></h2>
<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Pfizer's current valuation metrics reveal a striking disconnect with its long-term growth potential</li>
<li>The $43 billion Seagen acquisition has fundamentally transformed Pfizer's oncology pipeline</li>
<li>Despite near-term revenue pressures, Pfizer's financial position remains strong with multiple pathways to growth</li>
<li>A comparison with key competitors shows Pfizer offers compelling risk-reward at current prices</li>
<li>Upcoming catalysts in 2025-2026 could trigger significant revaluation</li>
</ol>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a>Introduction: The Fall From Grace</a></h2>
Few pharmaceutical giants have experienced as dramatic a fall from grace as Pfizer. After riding high on the success of its COVID-19 vaccine and antiviral treatments in 2021-2022, the company has seen its stock price plummet over 60% from its December 2021 high of $52.61. At its current price of approximately $23.87, Pfizer trades at a P/E ratio of just 7.41, a level typically reserved for companies facing existential threats rather than one of the world's premier pharmaceutical innovators.
The market narrative surrounding Pfizer has been overwhelmingly negative, focused on:
<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>The rapid decline of COVID-19 product revenues</li>
<li>Upcoming patent expirations for key drugs like Inlyta (2025) and Xtandi (2027)</li>
<li>Underwhelming pipeline developments in areas like weight loss</li>
<li>Concerns about the return on investment from the $43 billion Seagen acquisition</li>
</ol>
This pessimistic outlook has created what I believe is one of the most compelling investment opportunities in the pharmaceutical sector today. The market is dramatically undervaluing Pfizer's strategic transformation and the potential of its expanded oncology portfolio.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="975" height="609" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15031106/image-3.png" alt="" class="wp-image-12977" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15031106/image-3.png 975w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15031106/image-3-300x187.png 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15031106/image-3-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 975px) 100vw, 975px" /></figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"></h2>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">&nbsp;Valuation Disconnect: A Market Overreaction</h2>
Pfizer's current valuation metrics tell a compelling story of market overreaction:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>P/E Ratio: 7.41x (vs. industry average of ~15x)</li>
<li>Forward P/E: 8.0x (based on 2025 guidance)</li>
<li>Dividend Yield: 7.20% (substantially higher than its historical average)</li>
<li>Market Cap: $135.38 billion (down from over $300 billion at its peak)</li>
</ul>
When a company of Pfizer's caliber trades at these valuation levels, either the market is correctly anticipating a permanent deterioration in business fundamentals, or it's presenting a significant opportunity for contrarian investors. I believe it's the latter.
While Pfizer's revenue and earnings did experience a sharp decline following the normalization of COVID-19 product demand, the company's 2025 guidance suggests stabilization is at hand. For 2025, Pfizer projects:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Revenue between $61-64 billion</li>
<li>Adjusted EPS of $2.80-3.00</li>
<li>Operational revenue growth of 0-5% (excluding non-recurring COVID revenue)</li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="975" height="609" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15033015/image-4.png" alt="" class="wp-image-12979" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15033015/image-4.png 975w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15033015/image-4-300x187.png 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15033015/image-4-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 975px) 100vw, 975px" /></figure>
These projections, while not spectacular, hardly justify a valuation typically reserved for businesses in secular decline. More importantly, they provide a stable foundation from which Pfizer's oncology transformation can drive future growth.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a>The Seagen Acquisition: A Pipeline Revolution</a></h2>
In December 2023, Pfizer completed its $43 billion acquisition of Seagen, a move that fundamentally transformed the company's oncology portfolio. This acquisition wasn't merely about adding incremental revenue; it represented a strategic pivot that doubled Pfizer's early-stage oncology pipeline and positioned the company as a leader in antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) technology—one of the most promising approaches in cancer treatment today.
The Seagen acquisition brought immediate and long-term benefits:
Immediate Portfolio Enhancement:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Four FDA-approved cancer drugs (Adcetris, Padcev, Tivdak, and Tukysa)</li>
<li>Combined revenues of approximately $2.2 billion in 2023</li>
<li>Pfizer projects these medicines could contribute over $10 billion in risk-adjusted revenues by 2030</li>
</ul>
Pipeline Transformation:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Doubled Pfizer's oncology pipeline to 60 programs</li>
<li>Expanded ADC technology platform</li>
<li>Added multiple late-stage pipeline candidates with blockbuster potential</li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="975" height="609" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15033102/image-5.png" alt="" class="wp-image-12980" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15033102/image-5.png 975w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15033102/image-5-300x187.png 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15033102/image-5-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 975px) 100vw, 975px" /></figure>
This acquisition wasn't made out of desperation but from a position of strategic foresight. ADC technology, which Seagen pioneered, allows for more precise targeting of cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. This approach is increasingly seen as the future of cancer treatment, with the global ADC market projected to grow at a CAGR of over 10% through 2030.
Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla's comment that "We are not acquiring the golden eggs. We are acquiring the goose that laid the golden eggs" captures the strategic rationale perfectly. The long-term value lies not just in current products but in Seagen's innovation engine.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a>Financial Strength Despite Headwinds</a></h2>
While near-term revenue pressures are real, Pfizer's financial position remains remarkably strong:
Q1 2025 Performance:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Revenue of $13.72 billion</li>
<li>Adjusted EPS of $0.92 (significantly above analyst expectations of $0.66)</li>
<li>Maintained full-year guidance despite external challenges</li>
</ul>
Balance Sheet Strength:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Substantial cash flow generation</li>
<li>Dividend well-covered by earnings</li>
<li>Continued cost optimization (targeting $7.7 billion in savings by 2027)</li>
</ul>
In its Q1 2025 earnings call, Pfizer's management noted they are "trending towards the upper end" of their adjusted EPS guidance range for 2025, suggesting operational efficiency and cost discipline are bearing fruit.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a>Competitive Landscape: How Pfizer Stacks Up</a></h2>
To fully appreciate Pfizer's investment potential, we need to compare it to major competitors:
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="975" height="609" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15033126/image-6.png" alt="" class="wp-image-12981" srcset="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15033126/image-6.png 975w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15033126/image-6-300x187.png 300w,https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15033126/image-6-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 975px) 100vw, 975px" /></figure>
Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>):
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Market Cap: ~$395 billion</li>
<li>P/E Ratio: ~25x</li>
<li>Dividend Yield: ~3.0%</li>
<li>Growth Challenges: Facing Stelara patent expiration in 2025 and ongoing talc litigation</li>
</ul>
Merck &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>):
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Market Cap: ~$208 billion</li>
<li>P/E Ratio: ~16x</li>
<li>Dividend Yield: ~2.9%</li>
<li>Growth Challenges: Heavy reliance on Keytruda, which faces patent expiration later this decade</li>
</ul>
AbbVie (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>):
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Market Cap: ~$340 billion</li>
<li>P/E Ratio: ~20x</li>
<li>Dividend Yield: ~3.6%</li>
<li>Growth Challenges: Recovering from Humira patent cliff through Skyrizi and Rinvoq growth</li>
</ul>
Compared to these peers, Pfizer offers significantly more attractive valuation metrics while facing similar industry-wide challenges. The valuation gap implies the market believes Pfizer's growth prospects are substantially worse than its competitors, an assumption not supported by the company's pipeline and strategic initiatives.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a>Catalysts for Revaluation in 2025-2026</a></h2>
Several potential catalysts could drive a significant revaluation of Pfizer in the next 12-24 months:
<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Pipeline Milestones: Multiple late-stage readouts, particularly from oncology programs, are expected in 2025-2026, including data from the promising disitamab vedotin program for bladder cancer.</li>
<li>Margin Expansion: Pfizer's cost optimization initiatives are projected to deliver $7.7 billion in savings by 2027, potentially lifting adjusted operating margins.</li>
<li>Oncology Revenue Growth: The oncology portfolio, particularly the former Seagen products, is projected to deliver strong growth as new indications are approved and commercial execution improves.</li>
<li>GLP-1 Program Advancement: Progress with danuglipron, Pfizer's oral GLP-1 candidate, could position the company in the rapidly growing obesity market.</li>
<li>Potential Divestments or Spin-offs: Strategic portfolio optimization could unlock shareholder value, with non-core assets potentially being divested.</li>
</ol>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a>Investment Risks</a></h2>
No investment thesis is complete without acknowledging risks:
<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Patent Cliff Pressures: Pfizer faces patent expirations for Inlyta (2025) and Xtandi (2027), which will impact revenue in the near term.</li>
<li>Seagen Integration Challenges: Realizing the full potential of the Seagen acquisition depends on successful integration and pipeline execution.</li>
<li>Pharmaceutical Pricing Pressure: The Inflation Reduction Act and potential future drug pricing reforms could impact profitability.</li>
<li>Competition in Oncology: The oncology space is highly competitive, with many companies pursuing similar targets.</li>
<li>Tariff Uncertainties: As noted in recent earnings calls, potential pharmaceutical tariffs create uncertainty.</li>
</ol>
However, at current valuation levels, much of this risk appears to be already priced into the stock, creating an asymmetric risk-reward profile.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion: The Case for Pfizer's Resurgence</h2>
Pfizer's dramatic fall from grace has created a compelling opportunity for patient investors. The company's strategic pivot to oncology, particularly through the Seagen acquisition, has positioned it at the forefront of one of the most promising areas in medicine. While near-term challenges are real, the current valuation reflects an overly pessimistic view that fails to account for Pfizer's pipeline potential and strategic transformation.
With multiple catalysts on the horizon and a dividend yield providing substantial income while waiting for the investment thesis to play out, Pfizer offers one of the most attractive risk-reward profiles in the pharmaceutical sector today.
For investors willing to look beyond the current negative sentiment, Pfizer at today's prices represents a rare opportunity to acquire a premier pharmaceutical innovator at a deep discount to its intrinsic value.
Image Credit: Generated Using AI

Long Ideas

Opinion

Why Pfizer Is Poised For A Strong Comeback: My Top Pick For 2025

The study also met a secondary endpoint of overall survival (OS) in patients whose tumors express PD-L1. The study is evaluating KEYTRUDA&#xAE; (pembrolizumab), Merck's anti-PD-1 therapy, in combination with chemotherapy (paclitaxel) with or without bevacizumab for these patients. The trial is continuing and OS for the full study population will be evaluated at a future analysis.&nbsp;

Merck's Keytruda Phase 3 KEYNOTE-B96 Trial (Also Known As ENGOT-ov65) Met Its Primary Endpoint Of Progression-free Survival For Patients With Platinum-resistant Recurrent Ovarian Cancer Whose Tumors Expressed PD-L1 And In All Comers

The U.S. Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services (CMS) on Monday issued a draft guidance for public comment on the third cycle of negotiations under the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program (Negotiation Program) to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45234032/fda-expands-surprise-inspections-at-foreign-drug-and-food-facilities-targets-double-standards-in-overseas-manufacturing-oversight" rel="noreferrer noopener">lower prescription drug prices</a>.
The draft guidance introduces new policies that would, for the first time, include drugs covered under Medicare Part B in the Medicare <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" rel="noreferrer noopener">Drug Price Negotiation Program</a>.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-releases-draft-guidance-third-cycle-medicare-drug-price-negotiation-program-lower-drug-prices" rel="noreferrer noopener">guidance</a> also explains how CMS plans to renegotiate prices for some drugs already negotiated for 2026 or 2027.
It clarifies how drugmakers must make the negotiated prices available in those years and extends similar rules for Part D drugs through 2028.
The first round of negotiations, covering 10 Part D drugs, ended in August 2024. A second round, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43062779/popular-ozempic-wegovy-selected-for-next-round-of-medicare-drug-price-negotiations" rel="noreferrer noopener">involving 15 more Part D drugs</a>, is currently underway.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/05/45341590/trumps-drug-pricing-executive-order-could-rattle-pharma-stocksprice-cuts-up-to-80" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump&#8217;s New Drug Pricing Executive Order Could Rattle Pharma Stocks, With Price Cuts Of Up To 80%: Novo Nordisk, Pfizer And J&amp;J Fall In Premarket</a>
By Feb. 1, 2026, CMS will announce up to 15 additional drugs, covered under either Part D or Part B, for possible negotiation in the third round. Negotiations for this third group will happen in 2026, with new prices taking effect Jan. 1, 2028.
On the same date, CMS will publish the list of drugs selected for initial price negotiations for 2028 and announce any drugs picked for a first round of renegotiation. Those updated prices will also start on January 1, 2028.
CMS invites the public to comment on this draft guidance, including the drug selection process, how negotiated prices are implemented, and ways to improve the program.
The public comment period is open for 45 days. Comments must be submitted by June 26.
Goldman Sachs analyst Asad Haider says investors are concerned about fixed-combination drugs. The draft points out cases where one ingredient affects how the drug is absorbed but doesn&#8217;t treat the disease itself. This has led to worries that some subcutaneous (SC) versions of drugs that IV originally gave might be included in Medicare price negotiations under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) earlier than expected.
The prior CMS guidance issued under the Biden Administration suggested that sub-q formulations of IV drugs could be excluded from IRA price negotiations.
Stocks of companies with key SC drugs in focus, Johnson &amp; Johnson&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>) Darzalex Faspro, Bristol-Myers Squibb &amp; Co&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>) Opdivo Qvantig, and Merck &amp; Co Inc&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) subcutaneous pembrolizumab/Keytruda (in development), are trading lower.
&#8220;At a higher level, we view this development as another aspect of policy uncertainty that continues to persist, in addition to the Most Favored Nation Executive Order and potential for tariffs&#8230;In our view, this underscores a need for the industry to pursue novel innovations over incremental life cycle management strategies — a dynamic which we believe could lead to increased M&amp;A activity,&#8221; analyst Haider writes.
Price Action: JNJ stock is down 1.45% at $146.30, BMY stock is down 2.64% at $45.38, and MRK stock is down 2.46% at $74.74&nbsp;at the last check on Wednesday.
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Analyst Color

Government

Regulations

CMS Expands Medicare Drug Price Talks To Part B Meds In 2026 Shake Up

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Wednesday approved Merck &amp; Co. Inc.&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) Welireg (belzutifan) for adult and pediatric patients 12 years and older with locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma (PPGL).
This represents the first FDA approval of an oral therapy for PPGL,&nbsp;rare neuroendocrine tumors that can spread to other parts of the body.
Welireg received approval from <a target="_blank" href="https://www.merck.com/news/welireg-belzutifan-receives-first-european-commission-approval-for-two-indications/" rel="noreferrer noopener">the</a> FDA and European Medicines Agency for adult patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma&nbsp;(RCC).
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/04/44983460/mercks-q1-earnings-beat-wall-street-adjusts-2025-profit-outlook-as-tariffs-may-result-in-incremental-cost-of-200-million" rel="noreferrer noopener">Merck&#8217;s Q1 Earnings Beat Wall Street, Adjusts 2025 Profit Outlook As Tariffs May Result In Incremental Cost Of $200 Million</a>
Efficacy was evaluated in LITESPARK-015, an open-label, multi-cohort trial.
The major <a target="_blank" href="https://www.fda.gov/drugs/resources-information-approved-drugs/fda-approves-belzutifan-pheochromocytoma-or-paraganglioma" rel="noreferrer noopener">efficacy</a> outcome measure was objective response rate (ORR). Additional efficacy outcome measures were duration of response (DOR) and the number of patients who had a reduction in at least one antihypertensive medication by at least 50%, maintained for at least six months.
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>ORR was 26%.</li>
<li>Median DOR was 20.4 months.</li>
<li>Of the 60 patients on baseline antihypertensive medications, 19 (32%) had a reduction in at least one antihypertensive medication by at least 50% for at least six months.</li>
</ul>
The recommended belzutifan dose for adults is 120 mg administered orally once daily.
The recommended dose for pediatric patients 12 years and older is based on body weight. For pediatric patients weighing ≥ 40 kg, the dose is 120 mg orally once daily.
For pediatric patients weighing &lt; 40 kg, the dose is 80 mg orally once daily.
In the first quarter of 2025, Welireg generated sales of $137 million, 62% year over year.
Price Action: MRK stock is down 3.45% at $73.98&nbsp;at the last check on Wednesday.
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FDA Approves Merck's Kidney Cancer Drug For Rare Type Of Neuroendocrine Tumors

Press Releases

FDA Approves Merck's WELIREG® (belzutifan) for the Treatment of Adults and Pediatric Patients 12 Years and Older With Locally Advanced, Unresectable, or Metastatic Pheochromocytoma or Paraganglioma (PPGL)

Merck Announces Phase 3 KEYNOTE-B96 Trial Met Primary Endpoint of Progression-Free Survival (PFS) in Patients With Platinum-Resistant Recurrent Ovarian Cancer Whose Tumors Expressed PD-L1 and in All Comers

Merck to Present New Clinical and Outcomes Research Data at The American Thoracic Society's (ATS) 2025 International Conference Demonstrating Commitment to Advancing Research in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

IDeate-Esophageal01 Phase 3 Trial of Ifinatamab Deruxtecan Initiated in Certain Patients with Pretreated Advanced or Metastatic Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Merck to Participate in the Bernstein 41st Annual Strategic Decisions Conference

Merck Announces Third-Quarter 2025 Dividend

Patritumab Deruxtecan Biologics License Application for Patients with Previously Treated Locally Advanced or Metastatic EGFR-Mutated Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Voluntarily Withdrawn

Merck's Investigational Zilovertamab Vedotin at 1.75 mg/kg Dose Plus Standard of Care Showed Promising Antitumor Activity, Including Complete Response Rate, in Patients With Relapsed/Refractory DLBCL in Phase 2 Portion of waveLINE-003 Trial

Merck Announces MK-1084, an Investigational KRAS G12C Inhibitor, Shows Antitumor Activity in Phase 1 Trial of Patients With Advanced Colorectal Cancer and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Whose Tumors Harbor KRAS G12C Mutations

KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) Plus Trodelvy® (sacituzumab govitecan-hziy) Reduced Risk of Disease Progression or Death by 35% Versus KEYTRUDA Plus Chemotherapy in First-Line PD-L1+ Metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)

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CNNマネーのFear and Greed指数は、全体の市場センチメントにわずかな改善を示しましたが、指数は木曜日も「恐怖」ゾーンに留まりました。
経済報告の発表に続き、米国株は下落
米国の景気は第1四半期に年率1.6％増となり、2023年第4四半期の年率3.4％の伸びから大幅な減少を記録しました。しかし、アナリストらは2.5％の増加を予想していました。個人消費支出のためのコア価格指数は、前の3か月間の2％から第1四半期に年率3.7％増となりました。
Merck &amp; Co., Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) は第1四半期の業績予想を上回る決算を発表し、2024年のガイダンスも上方修正しました。Bristol Myers Squibb &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>) の株価は、同社が第1四半期に損失を出した後に8％以上下落しました。 Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) の株価は、第1四半期の決算を発表してから10％以上下がりました。
S&amp;P 500指数のセクターのうち、コミュニケーションサービス、ヘルスケア、不動産では木曜日に大きな損失を記録しましたが、材料およびエネルギー株が全体の市場の傾向から逸脱して上昇しました。
ダウ平均は木曜日に約375ポイント下落し、38085.80で取引を終えました。S&amp;P500指数は5,048.42で0.46％下落し、ナスダック総合株価指数は前日比0.64％安の15,611.76で取引を終えました。
本日、Phillips 66（NYSE：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PSX#NYSE">PSX</a>）、Chevron Corporation（NYSE：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>）および Exxon Mobil Corporation（NYSE：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>）の決算を投資家は待っています。
木曜日、指数は現在40.2で、「恐怖」ゾーンに留まっていますが、先行読み込みは39.1でした。
CNNビジネスのFear &amp; Greedインデックスとは？
Fear &amp; Greed Indexは、現在の市場センチメントを測定する指標です。この指標は、恐怖が高まることで株価に圧力がかかる一方で、強欲が高まると逆の効果があるという前提に基づいています。この指標は7つの均等重み指標を基に計算されています。指標の幅は0から100で、0は最大の恐怖を示し、100は最大の強欲を示します。
今週注目のニュース： <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/04/38430578/top-3-financial-stocks-that-could-sink-your-portfolio-this-quarter">今四半期、あなたのポートフォリオに穴を空けるかもしれない3つの金融株</a>

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