最新ニュース Merck & Co (NYSE:MRK) 株価情報

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&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mergers-and-acquisitions">M&amp;A efforts will continue</a>.
That&#8217;s according to a Goldman Sachs analyst report, which details the company&#8217;s growth strategy. Analyst Asad Haider explained in a Friday note that Merck acknowledges that deal-making is getting more complex. However, management remains aggressive and committed to pursuing M&amp;A, Haider adds. 
While market conditions influence how they assess value, a gap persists between what buyers are willing to pay and sellers&#8217; expectations. Despite this, Merck is confident deals will happen and has transactions in the pipeline. 
M&amp;A remains a key pillar of Merck's growth strategy, with potential deal sizes up to—and possibly beyond—$15 billion.
Goldman Sachs analysts maintain a buy rating. The firm adjusted the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MRK/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">price target from $103 to $99</a> to reflect additional risk from recent ACIP developments and China inventory related to Gardasil on 2026 adjusted EPS. 
The price adjustment comes as Merck releases first-quarter 2025 adjusted earnings of $2.22 per share. That&#8217;s up 7% year over year (+12% on constant currency), beating <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/earnings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the consensus of $2.14</a>.
The company said the outlook includes the impact of tariffs implemented to date by the U.S. government on imports from other countries, as well as the tariffs imposed by foreign governments on the U.S., the most significant of which relate to China.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/04/44824274/merck-signs-nearly-500-million-licensing-deal-with-austria-based-cyprumed-for-tablet-based-peptide-delivery" rel="noreferrer noopener">Merck Signs Nearly $500 Million Licensing Deal With Austria-Based Cyprumed For Tablet-Based Peptide Delivery</a>
Quarterly sales came in at $15.53 billion, <a 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" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beating the consensus of $15.31 billion</a>.
Tariffs will result in incremental costs of approximately $200 million, which will primarily be recorded in the cost of sales and negatively impact the gross margin.
Goldman Sachs said Friday that company management is working to improve its supply chain by strengthening its U.S. manufacturing presence. The company has already spent $12 billion since 2017 and plans to invest another $9 billion, with more spending expected.
The company also said it&#8217;s already adjusting its supply chain and inventory, and it&#8217;s now better prepared to handle any tariff-related disruptions in 2025.
Looking ahead, management noted that it has started identifying opportunities to shift manufacturing or adjust priorities at existing plants to stay competitive in the long term.
Price Action: MRK stock is up 1.68% at $81.18&nbsp;at the last check Friday.
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Merck Stays Confident On M&A Despite Market Uncertainty: Analyst

Summit Therapeutics Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMMT#NASDAQ">SMMT</a>) stock is trading lower on Friday.
On Thursday, Summit Therapeutics&#8217; partner Akeso Inc. received the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for its PD-1 monoclonal antibody, penpulimab-kcqx, in combination with cisplatin or carboplatin and gemcitabine for the first-line treatment of adult recurrent or metastatic non-keratinizing <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" rel="noreferrer noopener">nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC)</a>.
FDA also <a target="_blank" href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/akeso-announces-fda-approval-for-penpulimab-kcqx-in-two-bla-indications-for-comprehensive-treatment-of-advanced-nasopharyngeal-carcinoma-302437965.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">approved</a> penpulimab-kcqx as a single agent for adults with metastatic non-keratinizing NPC with disease progression on or after platinum-based chemotherapy and with at least one other prior line of therapy.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/03/44463128/analyst-initiates-coverage-on-undervalued-summit-therapeutics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Analyst Initiates Coverage On &#8216;Undervalued&#8217; Summit Therapeutics</a>
Penpulimab-kcqx was developed independently by Akeso, and further development and commercialization were managed through a joint venture with Chia Tai-Tianqing Pharmaceutical Group.
&#8220;This milestone marks penpulimab-kcqx as Akeso&#8217;s first internally developed innovative biologic to receive FDA approval&#8230;and marks Akeso&#8217;s successful entry into&nbsp;the United States&nbsp;regulatory system for the first time,&#8221; the company said in a press release on Thursday.
Penpulimab-kcqx has been approved in&nbsp;China&nbsp;for two indications:
<ul>
<li>First-line treatment of advanced NPC.</li>
<li>Second or later line treatment of advanced NPC.</li>
</ul>
The company added that the recent FDA approval of penpulimab-kcqx offers a new immunotherapy option for advanced NPC patients in the U.S.
The FDA approval is based on the international Phase 3 trial AK105-304 and the pivotal AK105-202 study, which supported the two Biologics License Application (BLA) for penpulimab-kcqx.
These studies demonstrated the drug&#8217;s clinical benefits and favorable safety profile across two stages of treatment for metastatic NPC.
Akeso and Summit Therapeutic are collaborating to develop ivonescimab, a PD-1/VEGF bispecific antibody.
On Wednesday, Akeso released topline data from the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/04/44963467/why-is-summit-therapeutics-stock-soaring-on-wednesday" rel="noreferrer noopener">Phase 3 HARMONi-6/K112-306 trial</a>.
The trial evaluated Summit Therapeutic&#8217;s ivonescimab in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy, compared with tislelizumab, an anti-PD-1 antibody, in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy in patients with locally advanced or metastatic squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC),&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/04/b44944372/ivonescimab-in-combination-with-chemotherapy-achieves-statistically-significant-superiority-in-pfs" rel="noreferrer noopener">irrespective of PD-L1 expression</a>.
The trial met its primary endpoint of progression-free survival (PFS).
In September 2024, Summit Therapeutics&nbsp;released data from the primary analysis of the Phase 3 HARMONi-2 trial of ivonescimab&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/41724651/summit-therapeutics-unique-investment-in-oncology-lead-drug-candidate-shows-promise" rel="noreferrer noopener">conducted in China</a>.
Ivonescimab monotherapy demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in the trial&#8217;s primary endpoint, progression-free survival, compared to monotherapy Merck &amp; Co Inc&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) Keytruda (pembrolizumab), achieving a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/09/40771038/summit-therapeutics-lung-cancer-candidate-surpasses-mercks-multi-billion-dollar-keytruda-cuts-ris" rel="noreferrer noopener">hazard ratio (HR) of 0.51</a>.
On Friday, China&#8217;s National Medical Products Administration <a target="_blank" href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ivonescimab-receives-nmpa-approval-for-first-line-treatment-of-pd-l1-positive-nsclc-based-on-breakthrough-head-to-head-phase-iii-trial-demonstrating-superior-efficacy-over-pembrolizumab-302438600.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">approved</a> supplemental application for ivonescimab for use as a monotherapy for the first-line treatment of PD-L1-positive (TPS ≥ 1%) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients who are negative for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene mutations and anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene mutations.
This indication marks Ivonescimab&#8217;s second major approval.
Price Action: SMMT stock is down 36.8% at $23.21 at the last check Friday.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/45012329/amazon-sellers-hike-prices-on-essentials-as-trumps-china-tariffs-squeeze-margins" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon Sellers Hike Prices On Essentials As Trump China Tariffs Squeeze Margins</a></li>
</ul>

SMMT

What's Going On With Summit Therapeutics Stock On Friday?

<a href="https://www.statnews.com/2025/04/25/akeso-wins-chinese-approval-for-cancer-drug-ivonescimab-keytruda-rival/" title="https://www.statnews.com/2025/04/25/akeso-wins-chinese-approval-for-cancer-drug-ivonescimab-keytruda-rival/">https://www.statnews.com/2025/04/25/akeso-wins-chinese-approval-for-cancer-drug-ivonescimab-keytruda-rival/</a>

Global

'Akeso Wins Chinese Approval For Cancer Drug Positioned To Rival Merck's Keytruda; Company Discloses Early Data Hinting At A Survival Benefit' - STAT News

U.S. equities are pushing higher for a third straight session, eyeing the longest winning streak since the Trump tariff announcement on April 2, as optimism over corporate earnings and easing trade <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets">tensions boosts risk sentiment.</a>
Positive quarterly results and robust guidance from U.S. firms is fueling hopes the economy can weather the ongoing tariff headwinds and avoid a recession.
Meanwhile, signs of a potential thaw in the U.S.-China trade conflict emerged, with the White House reportedly considering exceptions for certain Chinese auto parts.
At midday trading in New York, the Nasdaq 100 surged 2.2%, climbing above the 19,000 mark for the first time in two weeks. The S&amp;P 500 advanced 1.5%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average underperformed, rising 0.9%.
Technology stocks broadly outperformed, with strength concentrated in the Magnificent Seven and the semiconductor space.
Among major movers, ServiceNow Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOW#NASDAQ">NOW</a>) soared 15% after reporting results that beat Wall Street expectations and issuing bullish forward guidance. In contrast, shares of International Business Machines Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBM#NYSE">IBM</a>) slumped 8% as the tech giant showed lower-than-expected non-GAAP earnings. 
In the consumer staples sector, Procter &amp; Gamble (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PG#NYSE">PG</a>) dropped more than 5% after missing revenue estimates.
Treasury yields continued to ease, with yields on the 10-year Treasury down 5 basis points to 4.33%. 
Gold rebounded modestly after suffering a 2.7% slide on Wednesday. Natural gas prices extended their losing streak, plunging 4.9% and heading for a tenth consecutive negative session. 
In the crypto market, Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) eased 0.5% to trade at $93,300. 
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Thursday&#8217;s Performance In Major US Indices, ETFs</h2>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Major Indices</td>
<td>Price</td>
<td>%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>19,095.73</td>
<td>2.2%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>5,456.36</td>
<td>1.5%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>1,943.95</td>
<td>1.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Jones</td>
<td>39,944.47</td>
<td>0.9%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Updated by 12:15 p.m. ET</figcaption></figure>
According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/?utm_source=BZprocontent&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">Benzinga Pro</a>&nbsp;data:
<ul>
<li>The&nbsp;SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) rose 1.5% up to $543.71.</li>
<li>The&nbsp;SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>) rose 0.9% to $399.51.</li>
<li>The tech-heavy&nbsp;Invesco QQQ Trust Series&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>)&nbsp;rallied 2.1% to $464.72.</li>
<li>The&nbsp;iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>) rallied 1.5% to $193.08.</li>
<li>The&nbsp;Technology&nbsp;Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>) outperformed, up 3%; the&nbsp;Consumer Staples&nbsp;Select Sector SPDR Fund&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLP#NYSE">XLP</a>) lagged, down 0.8%.</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Thursday&#8217;s Stock Movers</h2>
Stocks reacting to earnings included: 
<ul>
<li>Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMG#NYSE">CMG</a>): up 0.6%</li>
<li>O'Reilly Automotive, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORLY#NASDAQ">ORLY</a>): down 3.1%</li>
<li>Raymond James Financial, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RJF#NYSE">RJF</a>): up 0.7%</li>
<li>Molina Healthcare, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MOH#NYSE">MOH</a>): down 6.4%</li>
<li>Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TXN#NASDAQ">TXN</a>): up 6.0%</li>
<li>FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FE#NYSE">FE</a>): up 0.4%</li>
<li>ServiceNow, Inc. up 14.9%</li>
<li>Lam Research Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LRCX#NASDAQ">LRCX</a>): up 5.5%</li>
<li>ResMed Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RMD#NYSE">RMD</a>): up 10.0%</li>
<li>Discover Financial Services (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DFS#NYSE">DFS</a>): up 3.6%</li>
<li>International Business Machines Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBM#NYSE">IBM</a>): down 7.6%</li>
<li>Newmont Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NEM#NYSE">NEM</a>): up 3.6%</li>
<li>Rollins, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ROL#NYSE">ROL</a>): up 1.2%</li>
<li>United Rentals, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/URI#NYSE">URI</a>): up 8.9%</li>
<li>Tyler Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TYL#NYSE">TYL</a>): down 3.0%</li>
<li>Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EW#NYSE">EW</a>): up 7.1%</li>
<li>Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LVS#NYSE">LVS</a>): up 5.2%</li>
<li>Alaska Air Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALK#NYSE">ALK</a>): down 9.7%</li>
<li>American Airlines Group Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>): up 2.3%</li>
<li>PepsiCo, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PEP#NASDAQ">PEP</a>): down 4.1%</li>
<li>CBRE Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CBRE#NYSE">CBRE</a>): up 2.5%</li>
<li>Entergy Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ETR#NYSE">ETR</a>): up 0.4%</li>
<li>The Procter &amp; Gamble Company: down 5.3%</li>
<li>Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>): down 0.2%</li>
<li>Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>): down 0.2%</li>
<li>Valero Energy Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VLO#NYSE">VLO</a>): down 1.8%</li>
<li>Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>): down 5.3%</li>
<li>Dow Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DOW#NYSE">DOW</a>): up 2.1%</li>
<li>Willis Towers Watson Public Limited Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WTW#NASDAQ">WTW</a>): down 5.2%</li>
<li>Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSCO#NASDAQ">TSCO</a>): down 4.8%</li>
<li>Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HAS#NASDAQ">HAS</a>): up 16.1%</li>
<li>CMS Energy Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMS#NYSE">CMS</a>): up 2.3%</li>
<li>Xcel Energy Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XEL#NASDAQ">XEL</a>): down 1.8%</li>
<li>CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CNP#NYSE">CNP</a>): up 1.8%</li>
<li>LKQ Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LKQ#NASDAQ">LKQ</a>): down 10.7%</li>
<li>PG&amp;E Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PCG#NYSE">PCG</a>): down 0.8%</li>
<li>Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KDP#NASDAQ">KDP</a>): down 0.6%</li>
<li>Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FCX#NYSE">FCX</a>): up 5.5%</li>
<li>Merck &amp; Co., Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>): down 0.6%</li>
<li>Nasdaq, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NDAQ#NASDAQ">NDAQ</a>): down 0.4%</li>
<li>L3Harris Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LHX#NYSE">LHX</a>): up 0.4%</li>
<li>Pool Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/POOL#NASDAQ">POOL</a>): down 6.1%</li>
<li>Dover Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DOV#NYSE">DOV</a>): up 1.8%</li>
<li>West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WST#NYSE">WST</a>): down 2.2%</li>
<li>Ameriprise Financial, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMP#NYSE">AMP</a>): down 0.2%</li>
<li>Fiserv, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FI#NYSE">FI</a>): down 16.4%</li>
<li>The Interpublic Group of Companies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IPG#NYSE">IPG</a>): up 3.4%</li>
<li>Allegion plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALLE#NYSE">ALLE</a>): up 9.7%</li>
<li>Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNP#NYSE">UNP</a>): down 3.1%</li>
</ul>
Stocks slated to report earnings after the bell include T-Mobile US, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TMUS#NASDAQ">TMUS</a>), VeriSign, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRSN#NASDAQ">VRSN</a>), Eastman Chemical Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EMN#NYSE">EMN</a>), Principal Financial Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFG#NASDAQ">PFG</a>), Physicians Realty Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DOC#NYSE">DOC</a>), The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HIG#NYSE">HIG</a>), Weyerhaeuser Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WY#NYSE">WY</a>), Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RSG#NYSE">RSG</a>), Digital Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DLR#NYSE">DLR</a>), Gilead Sciences, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GILD#NASDAQ">GILD</a>), Erie Indemnity Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ERIE#NASDAQ">ERIE</a>), Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>), and Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>).
Read also: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44985682/apples-ai-delays-rising-cost-pressures-trigger-price-target-cut-from-bank-of-america">Apple AI Delays, Rising Cost Pressures Trigger Price Target Cut From Bank Of America</a></li>
</ul>
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Wall Street Rally Extends Into Third Day: What's Driving Markets Thursday?

Merck&nbsp;&amp; Co. Inc&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) reported the first-quarter 2025 adjusted earnings of $2.22 per share, up 7% year over year (+12% on constant currency), beating <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">the consensus of $2.14</a>.
Merck reported quarterly sales of $15.53 billion, beating the consensus of $15.31 billion.
Sales declined 2% on a reported basis but increased 1% on a constant currency basis.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/04/44824274/merck-signs-nearly-500-million-licensing-deal-with-austria-based-cyprumed-for-tablet-based-peptide-delivery" rel="noreferrer noopener">Merck Signs Nearly $500 Million Licensing Deal With Austria-Based Cyprumed For Tablet-Based Peptide Delivery</a>
The pharmaceutical unit booked $13.64 billion in revenue, down 3% year over year (-1% excluding exchange), driven by declines in vaccines, virology, and immunology, partially offset by growth in oncology, cardiology, and diabetes.
Keytruda sales increased 4% (+6% on constant currency) to $7.21 billion, driven by increased global uptake in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/04/b44974360/merck-announces-first-quarter-2025-financial-results" rel="noreferrer noopener">earlier-stage indications</a>.
Gardasil/Gardasil 9 sales declined 41% to $1.33 billion, primarily due to lower demand in China, partially offset by higher demand in most international regions, particularly in Japan, and higher pricing and demand in the U.S. Excluding China, sales grew 14%, or 16%, excluding the impact of foreign exchange.
Winrevair sales were $280 million. Animal Health sales increased 5% to $1.6 billion, excluding the impact of foreign exchange, sales grew 10%.
Guidance:&nbsp;Merck revises fiscal year 2025 adjusted EPS guidance <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43461426/mercks-gardasil-vaccine-slowdown-in-china-bites-again-stock-falls-on-lower-than-expected-2025-outlook" rel="noreferrer noopener">from $8.88-$9.03</a> to $8.82-$8.97 compared to the consensus of $8.95.
The company reaffirmed its 2025 sales guidance of $64.10 billion to $65.60 billion versus the consensus of $65 billion.
Merck says the outlook includes the impact of tariffs implemented to date by the U.S. government on imports from other countries, as well as the tariffs imposed by foreign governments on the U.S., the most significant of which relate to China.
Merck estimates that these tariffs will result in incremental costs of approximately $200 million, which will primarily be recorded in the cost of sales and negatively impact the gross margin.
In March, Merck opened a new $1 billion, 225,000-square-foot vaccine manufacturing facility at its site in Durham, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/03/44252770/merck-injects-1-billion-to-expand-vaccine-production-in-us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">North Carolina</a>.
The expansion is a crucial component of the more than $12 billion Merck has invested in the U.S. since 2018. It's focused on expanding domestic manufacturing and research and development capabilities. The company also aims to create new jobs in the U.S. with an additional $ 8 billion in capital investment by 2028.
Price Action:&nbsp;MRK stock is down 0.85% at $78.07 at the last check on Thursday.
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</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Merck's Q1 Earnings Beat Wall Street, Adjusts 2025 Profit Outlook As Tariffs May Result In Incremental Cost Of $200 Million

U.S. durable goods orders jumped sharply in March, marking the biggest gain since July 2024, but the high single-digit headline spike hides a mixed picture that casts doubt on whether factory momentum was firing on all cylinders ahead of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/donald-trump">Trump's April 2 tariff move.</a>
New orders for manufactured durable goods climbed by 9.2% to $315.7 billion in March, rising for a third consecutive month and far surpassing expectations for a modest 2% gain, according to data released Thursday by the U.S. Census Bureau. 
The outcome marked the strongest increase in over eight months and the second-largest monthly gain over the past five years.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Transportation Orders Takes Off, But With A Caveat</h2>
Transportation equipment orders soared 27%, or $26.5 billion, to $124.6 billion, making it the single largest driver of the total gain. 
Most of that, however, came from one specific category: nondefense aircraft and parts, which skyrocketed by a staggering 139% to $44.6 billion.
Stripping out the volatile transportation category, new durable goods orders were unchanged at $191.1 billion, a clear sign that underlying demand remains tepid.
Outside the transportation sector, capital goods orders stood out with a notable 24.3% increase to $127.2 billion, driven by a 29.4% surge in non-defense capital goods.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Where Is The Weakness?</h2>
Several other core manufacturing categories showed either minimal growth or outright contraction.
Computers and electronic products saw new orders slip 1.2% to $25.4 billion. Within that, computers and related products declined 2.9%, the steepest drop among all sub-categories.
Electrical equipment, appliances and components orders dipped 0.5%, while fabricated metal products barely moved, gaining just 0.2%.
Defense aircraft orders fell 9.4% to $5.6 billion, suggesting that recent DOGE-related spending cuts could be weighing on the Defense Department's procurement activity.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Market Reactions</h2>
The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.2% in premarket trading Thursday, following a 1% gain the previous day.
Boeing Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>), the biggest beneficiary of the aircraft orders jump, gave up 0.5% in early trading after climbing as much as 6% Wednesday. 
Within blue-chip stocks, Salesforce Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRM#NASDAQ">CRM</a>) rose 3.7% while Merck &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) added 1.9%. 
International Business Machines Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBM#NYSE">IBM</a>) dropped 6% after weaker-than-expected guidance.
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</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Macro Economic Events

Econ #s

Economics

Durable Goods Orders Jump 9.2% In March, But One Category Tells The Real Story

Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) lowers FY2025 Adj EPS guidance from $8.88-$9.03 to $8.82-$8.97 vs $8.95 analyst estimate. Affirms FY2025 sales outlook from $64.10 billion-$65.60 billion to $64.10 billion-$65.60 billion vs $65.00 billion estimate.

Merck & Co Lowers FY2025 Adj EPS Guidance from $8.88-$9.03 to $8.82-$8.97 vs $8.95 Est; Affirms FY2025 Sales Guidance of $64.10B-$65.60B vs $65.00B Est

Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $2.22 per share which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $2.14 by 3.74 percent. This is a 7.25 percent increase over earnings of $2.07 per share from the same period last year. The company reported quarterly sales of $15.53 billion which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $15.31 billion by 1.46 percent. This is a 1.56 percent decrease over sales of $15.78 billion the same period last year.

Earnings Beats

Merck & Co Q1 Adj. EPS $2.22 Beats $2.14 Estimate, Sales $15.53B Beat $15.31B Estimate

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Earnings Scheduled For April 24, 2025

Summit Therapeutics Inc.'s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMMT#NASDAQ">SMMT</a>) partner, Akeso, Inc., released topline data from the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" rel="noreferrer noopener">Phase 3 HARMONi-6/K112-306 trial</a> on Wednesday.
The trial is evaluating ivonescimab in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy compared with tislelizumab, an anti-PD-1 antibody, in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy in patients with locally advanced or metastatic squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/04/b44944372/ivonescimab-in-combination-with-chemotherapy-achieves-statistically-significant-superiority-in-pfs" rel="noreferrer noopener">irrespective of PD-L1 expression</a>.
HARMONi-6 is a study conducted in China sponsored by Akeso with all relevant data exclusively generated, managed, and analyzed by Akeso.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/03/44463128/analyst-initiates-coverage-on-undervalued-summit-therapeutics" rel="noreferrer noopener">Analyst Initiates Coverage On ‘Undervalued' Summit Therapeutics</a>
The trial met its primary endpoint of progression-free survival (PFS).
At a prespecified interim analysis conducted by an Independent Data Monitoring Committee, ivonescimab plus chemotherapy demonstrated a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in PFS compared to BeiGene, Ltd's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ONC#NASDAQ">ONC</a>) Tevimbra (tislelizumab) plus chemotherapy.
The PFS benefit was demonstrated in patients with either PD-L1-positive or PD-L1-negative tumors.
Akeso noted that this Phase 3 study identified no new safety signals.
The full data set for HARMONi-6 will be presented at an upcoming major medical conference later this year.
The companies add that before HARMONi-6, there were no known Phase 3 trials in NSCLC that showed a statistically significant improvement compared to PD-(L)1 inhibitor therapy in combination with chemotherapy in a head-to-head setting.
Summit is currently enrolling patients in the HARMONi-3 Phase 3 study sponsored by Summit to evaluate ivonescimab combined with chemotherapy compared to Merck &amp; Co Inc's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) Keytruda (pembrolizumab) combined with chemotherapy in patients with first-line metastatic, squamous and non-squamous NSCLC.
In September 2024, Summit Therapeutics&nbsp;released data from the primary analysis of the Phase 3 HARMONi-2 trial of ivonescimab <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/41724651/summit-therapeutics-unique-investment-in-oncology-lead-drug-candidate-shows-promise" rel="noreferrer noopener">conducted in China</a>.
Ivonescimab monotherapy demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in the trial's primary endpoint, progression-free survival, compared to monotherapy pembrolizumab, achieving a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/09/40771038/summit-therapeutics-lung-cancer-candidate-surpasses-mercks-multi-billion-dollar-keytruda-cuts-ris" rel="noreferrer noopener">hazard ratio (HR) of 0.51</a>.
In February, Summit Therapeutics announced a clinical trial collaboration with Pfizer Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>)&nbsp;to evaluate ivonescimab with several of Pfizer's antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) across <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/02/b43907587/summit-therapeutics-announces-clinical-trial-collaboration-with-pfizer-to-evaluate-ivonescimab-in-" rel="noreferrer noopener">multiple solid tumor settings</a>.
Under the terms of the agreement, Summit will provide ivonescimab for use in the proposed studies, and Pfizer will be responsible for conducting the studies' operations. Summit and Pfizer will oversee the studies. Both parties retain their respective rights to their products. The studies combining ivonescimab with Pfizer's vedotin ADCs are planned to begin in the middle of this year.
Price Action: SMMT stock is up 21.11% at $33.11 at the last check Wednesday.
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Photo by Piotr Swat via Shutterstock

Why Is Summit Therapeutics Stock Soaring On Wednesday?

Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) will be reporting its first-quarter earnings on Thursday before the market opens. Wall Street expects earnings per share of $2.14 and revenue of $15.33 billion.
The stock is down a painful 38.04% over the past year and has dropped 20.73% year-to-date. Even in the past month, it&#8217;s off by 14.85%, making it one of the more bruised names among Big Pharma peers.
Let's look at what the charts indicate for Merck stock and how it currently maps against Wall Street estimates.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/04/44907790/gilead-cancer-drug-combined-with-mercks-drug-effective-in-difficult-to-treat-type-of-breast-cancer">Gilead Cancer Drug Combined With Merck&#8217;s Drug Effective In Difficult To Treat Type Of Breast Cancer</a>
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Merck Stock Is In A Bearish Mess Ahead Of Q1 Earnings</h1>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0423"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="627" height="489" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/23123431/Screenshot-2025-04-23-at-10.04.18-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-884728" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/23123431/Screenshot-2025-04-23-at-10.04.18-PM.png 627w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/23123431/Screenshot-2025-04-23-at-10.04.18-PM-300x234.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 627px) 100vw, 627px" /></a></figure>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0423" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chart created using Benzinga Pro</a>
Technically, Merck stock is in a bearish mess — but not without glimmers of optimism. Merck stock is trading well below its five-, 20- and 50-day exponential moving averages, a sign the stock is in a strongly bearish trend. However, there's an undercurrent of buying pressure that could set up a bullish reversal if earnings offer any upside surprise.
At $78.56, Merck&#8217;s stock is just above its eight-day simple moving average (SMA) of $78.32 — a short-term bullish signal. But zoom out and it gets grim: the 20-day SMA sits at $82.12 and the 50-day SMA at $87.48, both pointing to technical bearish signals. 
The 200-day SMA? A daunting $102.90.
Momentum indicators also flash red: the MACD (moving average convergence/divergence) is at a negative at 3.36, and the RSI (relative strength index) is at 36.36, hovering near oversold territory. 
In short, bears still run the show — unless bulls latch onto a strong first quarter earnings.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Merck Analysts See 29% Upside</h1>
Ratings &amp; Consensus Estimates: Despite the technical gloom, the Street isn't giving up just yet. Merck holds a Buy consensus rating with a mean price target of $121. More recently, Cantor Fitzgerald, Guggenheim and Deutsche Bank issued fresh ratings, averaging a $101.67 target, implying a potential upside of 29.41% from current levels.
MRK Stock Price Action: Merck stock was trading at $78.68, down 0.37% at the time of publication Wednesday.
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Photo: Shutterstock

Technicals

Previews

Merck Stock Slumps Ahead Of Q1 Earnings: Can Bulls Find Relief In Buying Pressure?

Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Carter Gould initiates coverage on Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) with a Neutral rating and announces Price Target of $85.

Initiation

Cantor Fitzgerald Initiates Coverage On Merck & Co with Neutral Rating, Announces Price Target of $85

The approval is based on data from the pivotal Phase 3 IND.227/KEYNOTE-483 trial, which demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in overall survival, progression-free survival and overall response rate in patients randomized to KEYTRUDA in combination with chemotherapy compared with patients randomized to chemotherapy alone.&nbsp;
This pivotal trial was led by the Canadian Cancer Trials Group in collaboration with the National Cancer Institute of Naples and the Intergroupe Francophone de Cancérologie Thoracique.

Health Canada Has Approved Merck's Keytruda (Pembrolizumab) In Combination With Pemetrexed And Platinum Chemotherapy For The First-line Treatment Of Adult Patients With Unresectable Advanced Or Metastatic Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma.

Gilead Sciences, Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GILD#NASDAQ">GILD</a>) on Monday released topline results from the Phase 3 ASCENT-04/KEYNOTE-D19 study of Trodelvy&nbsp;(sacituzumab govitecan-hziy) plus Merck &amp; Co Inc&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care">Keytruda&nbsp;(pembrolizumab)</a>.
The trial demonstrated that Trodelvy plus Keytruda&nbsp;significantly improved progression-free survival (PFS) compared to Keytruda and chemotherapy in patients with inoperable (unresectable) locally advanced or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTNBC) whose tumors express <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/04/b44895548/trodelvy-plus-keytruda-demonstrates-a-statistically-significant-and-clinically-meaningful-improvem" rel="noreferrer noopener">PD-L1 (CPS ≥ 10)</a>.
The study met its primary endpoint, showing a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in PFS.
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The safety profile of Trodelvy plus Keytruda in the ASCENT-04 study was consistent with each agent&#8217;s known safety profile. No new safety signals were identified with the combination.
&#8220;These findings are the first to show the transformative potential of an antibody-drug conjugate combined with an immuno-oncology agent in early treatment lines of metastatic breast cancer,&#8221; said Dietmar Berger Chief Medical Officer, Gilead Sciences.
Overall survival (OS) is a key secondary endpoint and was not mature at the time of the PFS primary analysis. However, in the ASCENT-04 study, there was an early trend in improvement for OS with Trodelvy plus Keytruda.
Gilead will continue to monitor OS outcomes, with ongoing patient follow-up and further analyses planned.
Detailed results from the study will be presented at a future medical meeting and discussed with regulatory authorities.
The use of Trodelvy plus Keytruda in patients with previously untreated PD-L1+ metastatic TNBC is investigational, and the safety and efficacy of this use have not been established.
Trodelvy is the only approved Trop-2-directed antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) that has demonstrated meaningful survival advantages in two types of metastatic breast cancers: 2L+ mTNBC and pre-treated HR+/HER2- mBC.
It is a Category 1 preferred treatment for both indications per the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines) and the only ADC with an ESMO Magnitude of Clinical Benefit Scale (MCBS) rating of 5 for mTNBC.
Trodelvy also has an MCBS rating of 4 for women with HR+/HER2- mBC.
Currently, Gilead has three ongoing Phase 3 studies investigating Trodelvy across HER2- (IHC 0, IHC 1+ or IHC 2+/ISH–) mBC, including the upcoming ASCENT-03 pivotal trial in 1L mTNBC patients who are not candidates for PD-L1 based therapy, the ASCENT-05 pivotal trial in patients with early-stage TNBC, and the ASCENT-07 pivotal trial in patients with HR+/HER2- mBC who have received endocrine therapy.
Trodelvy is also being investigated in additional Phase 3 studies in other disease settings, including lung and gynecological cancers.
Price Action: GILD stock is down 0.46% at $104.06 at the last check Monday.
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Gilead Cancer Drug Combined With Merck's Drug Effective In Difficult To Treat Type Of Breast Cancer

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">Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 5.04%</li>
<li>UBS analyst Trung Huynh maintained a Neutral rating and cut the price target from $60 to $54 on April 11, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 64%.</li>
<li>Wells Fargo analyst Mohit Bansal maintained an Equal-Weight rating and raised the price target from $60 to $62 on Feb. 7, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 69%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On April 14, Bristol Myers Squibb announced topline data from the Phase 3 ODYSSEY-HCM trial of Camzyos (mavacamten) for symptomatic New York Heart Association (NYHA) class II-III non-obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (nHCM).</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s real-time newsfeed alerted to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0421">latest BMY 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=0421"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="913" height="853" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/21025025/image-32.png" alt="" class="wp-image-879019" style="width:590px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/21025025/image-32.png 913w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/21025025/image-32-300x280.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/21025025/image-32-768x718.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 913px) 100vw, 913px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Viatris Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VTRS#NASDAQ">VTRS</a>)</h3>
<ul>
<li>Dividend Yield: 6.35%</li>
<li>Piper Sandler analyst David Amsellem reiterated a Neutral rating and cut the price target from $14 to $10 on March 5, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 69%.</li>
<li>B of A Securities analyst Jason Gerberry maintained an Underperform rating and lowered the price target from $11 to $10 on Feb. 28, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 61%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On April 14, Viatris named Hemanth J. Varghese as Chief Strategy Officer.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro'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=0421">VTRS 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=0421"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="913" height="842" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/21025258/image-33.png" alt="" class="wp-image-879022" style="width:616px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/21025258/image-33.png 913w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/21025258/image-33-300x277.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/21025258/image-33-768x708.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 913px) 100vw, 913px" /></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>
<li>Dividend Yield: 4.15%</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 74%.</li>
<li>Citigroup analyst Andrew Baum maintained a Buy rating and cut the price target from $125 to $115 on Feb. 5, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 70%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On April 15, Merck and privately held Cyprumed GmbH signed a non-exclusive license and option agreement on Tuesday to develop oral formulations of Merck&#8217;s peptides using Cyprumed&#8217;s drug delivery technology.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;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=0421">news </a></li>
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Dividends

VTRS

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

Companies with a long history of paying dividends and consistently hiking them remain appealing to income-focused investors. Merck, Black Hills, and Virtus Investment Partners have rewarded shareholders for years and recently announced dividend increases. These companies currently offer dividend yields of around 4-6%.
Merck
Merck (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) is a healthcare company that manufactures pharmaceutical products to treat various conditions in many therapeutic areas, including cardiometabolic disease, cancer and infections.&nbsp;
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Merck has raised its dividends every year for the last 14 years. According to its most recent dividend hike announcement on Nov. 19, the company increased the quarterly payout from $0.77 to $0.81 per share, equal to an annual figure of $3.24 per share. The current dividend yield on the stock is 4.09%.&nbsp;
Merck&#8217;s annual revenue as of Dec. 31 stood at $64.17 billion. In its Q4 2024 earnings report on Feb. 4, it posted revenues of $15.62 billion and EPS of $1.72. Both figures beat the Street estimates.
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Black Hills
Black Hills Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BKH#NYSE">BKH</a>) operates as an electric and natural gas utility company in the U.S.&nbsp;
Black Hills has raised its dividends every year for the last 55 years. In its most recent dividend hike announcement on Jan. 24, it increased the quarterly payout from $0.65 to $0.676 per share, which is equal to an annual figure of $2.70 per share. Currently, the dividend yield on the stock is 4.63%.
Black Hills&#8217; annual revenue as of Dec. 31 stood at $2.13 billion. As per the company&#8217;s Q4 2024 earnings release on Feb. 5, it posted revenues of $597.10 million, missing the consensus of $944 million, while EPS of $1.37 came in above the consensus estimate of $1.34.
How to put $100 in your retirement fund each month with Black Hills stock? Check out this <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/01/43313814/how-to-put-100-in-your-retirement-fund-each-month-with-black-hills-stock">article by Benzinga</a> to learn more.
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Virtus Investment Partners
Virtus Investment Partners (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRTS#NYSE">VRTS</a>) is a publicly owned investment manager. The firm primarily provides its services to individual and institutional clients.&nbsp;
Virtus has raised its dividends consecutively for the past seven years. In its most recent dividend hike announcement on Aug. 15, the company's board increased its quarterly payout by 18% to $2.25 per share, which is equal to $9 per share annually. More recently, in its dividend announcement on Feb. 27, the company maintained the payout at the same level. The current dividend yield on the stock is 5.95%.
Its annual revenue as of Dec. 31 stood at $902.82 million. In its most recent earnings release on Jan. 31, the company posted Q4 2024 revenues of $233.49 million and EPS of $7.50. Both figures came in above the consensus estimates.
Merck, Black Hills, and Virtus Investment Partners are good choices for investors seeking reliable passive income. Their dividend yields of around 4-6% and long history of consistent hikes make them attractive to income-focused investors.
Check out this <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44778984/why-regency-centers-cme-group-and-trinity-industries-are-winners-for-passive-income">article by Benzinga</a> for three more stocks offering high dividend yields.
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Personal Finance

VRTS

Why Merck, Black Hills, And Virtus Investment Partners Are Winners For Passive Income

Three <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">healthcare-themed ETFs</a> were in sharp spotlight Thursday as the sector got through a wild trading day, fueled by UnitedHealth&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) earnings disappointment and steep stock decline. While insurers weighed down on broad healthcare gauges, a drugmakers rally, led by Eli Lilly (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>), limited the damage.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/04/44869920/unitedhealth-ceo-says-high-cost-of-us-health-care-simply-not-sustainable">UnitedHealth CEO Says High Cost Of US Health Care &#8216;Simply Not Sustainable&#8217;</a>
ETFs In Spotlight
Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLV#NYSE">XLV</a>)
<ol>
<li></li>
</ol>
1-Day Return (Thursday): -0.6%
Top holdings of this fund are Eli Lilly, UnitedHealth, Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>). UnitedHealth dropped 2.4%, spooking XLV early in the session. The ETF trimmed losses, however, as Eli Lilly rallied 14.3% on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/04/44878381/eli-lilly-rallies-over-14-notches-best-day-since-june-2000-on-oral-weight-loss-drug-results-analysts-react">good weight-loss pill trial news</a>, calling out the group&#8217;s internal divergency. Barring Thursday&#8217;s turmoil, though, XLV is off just 1.5% for the year so far and commands a 17x forward-earnings multiple—below its five-year history and the large-cap S&amp;P 500&#8217;s 20x multiple, according to Barron&#8217;s.
iShares U.S. Pharmaceuticals ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IHE#NYSE">IHE</a>)
<ol start="2">
<li></li>
</ol>
1-Day Performance: +4.6%
IHE surged as investors rotated into large-cap pharma stocks, bolstered by Eli Lilly's rally. The gains came despite a nearly 8% drop in Novo Nordisk (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>), Lilly's rival in the GLP-1 space.
SPDR S&amp;P Pharmaceuticals ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XPH#NYSE">XPH</a>)
<ol start="3">
<li></li>
</ol>
1-Day Performance: +2.15%
XPH tracked gains across a broader basket of pharmaceutical names, benefiting from bullish sentiment on drugmakers following Lilly's breakthrough.
Market Context: A Sector Of Contrasts
UnitedHealth&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/04/44869920/unitedhealth-ceo-says-high-cost-of-us-health-care-simply-not-sustainable">poor earnings and soft guidance</a> spooked healthcare investors, highlighting how exposed insurers are to firm-specific disappointments and policy-level risks. The 22% decline in the stock not only heavily burdened XLV—where it is the second-largest position—but pulled down peers CVS Health (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVS#NYSE">CVS</a>), Humana (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>), and Elevance Health (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ELV#NYSE">ELV</a>) too.
However, the overall message of the day was one of subtlety and not panic. Eli Lilly&#8217;s explosion proved the influence of innovation in developing market-driving catalysts within the health-care sector. It provided the stimulus that helped neutralize weakness within managed care and indicated how investors in ETFs are able to still uncover segments of strength despite sector-wide selloffs.
At the same time, Johnson &amp; Johnson kept its steady pace going with the help of strong earnings.
Device and medical equipment manufacturers like Medtronic (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MDT#NYSE">MDT</a>), Zimmer Biomet (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZBH#NYSE">ZBH</a>), and Stryker (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SYK#NYSE">SYK</a>) are also attracting investor attention as Wall Street is wagering on secular demand from the aging population.
Takeaway
The health care industry remains far from monolithic. Thursday&#8217;s ETF action underscored the increasing divide between pressured insurers and pharma names benefiting from innovation tailwinds. For investors in ETFs, the message is simple: thematic selectivity is key. Though political headlines and earnings fluctuations might continue to shock portions of the industry, solid fundamentals within pharma and medtech imply there&#8217;s still ample healthy opportunity to go around.
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Sector ETFs

ETFs

streetTRACKS Dow Jones U.S. Large Cap Value Index Fund

iShares Dow Jones US Pharmaceuticals Index Fund

ETF Shake-Up: UNH's Meltdown Meets LLY's Moonshot

Analysts' ratings for Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) over the last quarter vary from bullish to bearish, as provided by 9 analysts.
The table below provides a snapshot of their recent ratings, showcasing how sentiments have evolved over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">5</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts provide deeper insights through their assessments of 12-month price targets, revealing an average target of $111.33, a high estimate of $125.00, and a low estimate of $96.00. Experiencing a 7.14% decline, the current average is now lower than the previous average price target of $119.89. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1744916419_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Decoding Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Look</h2>
In examining recent analyst actions, we gain insights into how financial experts perceive Merck &amp; Co. The following summary outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
&#x7C; Analyst &#x7C; Analyst Firm &#x7C; Action Taken &#x7C; Rating &#x7C;Current Price Target&#x7C; Prior Price Target &#x7C; 
&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C;---------------&#x7C;---------------&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C; 
&#x7C;Vamil Divan &#x7C;Guggenheim &#x7C;Maintains &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $115.00&#x7C;$115.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;James Shin &#x7C;Deutsche Bank &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Hold &#x7C; $105.00&#x7C;$128.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Vamil Divan &#x7C;Guggenheim &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $115.00&#x7C;$122.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Tim Anderson &#x7C;B of A Securities &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $112.00&#x7C;$118.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Evan David Seigerman&#x7C;BMO Capital &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Market Perform &#x7C; $96.00&#x7C;$105.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Andrew Baum &#x7C;Citigroup &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $115.00&#x7C;$125.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Terence Flynn &#x7C;Morgan Stanley &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Equal-Weight &#x7C; $106.00&#x7C;$113.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Andrew Baum &#x7C;Citigroup &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $125.00&#x7C;$130.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Terence Flynn &#x7C;Morgan Stanley &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Equal-Weight &#x7C; $113.00&#x7C;$123.00 &#x7C;
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts frequently update their recommendations based on evolving market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Merck &amp; Co. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Unveiling insights, analysts deliver qualitative insights into stock performance, from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Merck &amp; Co compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts set price targets as an estimate of a stock's future value. Comparing the current and prior price targets provides insight into how analysts' expectations have changed over time. This information can be valuable for investors seeking to understand consensus views on the stock's potential future performance.</li>
</ul>
Analyzing these analyst evaluations alongside relevant financial metrics can provide a comprehensive view of Merck &amp; Co's market position. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with the assistance of our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MRK/analyst-ratings?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Stay up to date on Merck &amp; Co analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Unveiling the Story Behind Merck &amp; Co</h2>
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>Merck &amp; Co's Financial Performance</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: With an elevated market capitalization, the company stands out above industry averages, showcasing substantial size and market acknowledgment.
Positive Revenue Trend: Examining Merck &amp; Co's financials over 3M reveals a positive narrative. The company achieved a noteworthy revenue growth rate of 6.79% as of 31 December, 2024, showcasing a substantial increase in top-line earnings. When compared to others in the Health Care sector, the company faces challenges, achieving a growth rate lower than the average among peers.
Net Margin: Merck &amp; Co's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional net margin, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable net margin of 23.96%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Merck &amp; Co's ROE stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 8.24%, the company demonstrates effective use of equity capital and strong financial performance.
Return on Assets (ROA): The company's ROA is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 3.19%, the company showcases effective utilization of assets.
Debt Management: Merck &amp; Co's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average. With a ratio of 0.8, the company relies less on debt financing, maintaining a healthier balance between debt and equity, which can be viewed positively by investors.
<h2>The Significance of Analyst Ratings Explained</h2>
Analysts are specialists within banking and financial systems that typically report for specific stocks or within defined sectors. These people research company financial statements, sit in conference calls and meetings, and speak with relevant insiders to determine what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts will rate each stock once a quarter. 
Analysts may supplement their ratings with predictions for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, offering investors a more comprehensive outlook. However, investors should be mindful that analysts, like any human, can have subjective perspectives influencing their forecasts.
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This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Assessing Merck & Co: Insights From 9 Financial Analysts

Guggenheim analyst Vamil Divan reiterates Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) with a Buy and maintains $115 price target.

Reiteration

Guggenheim Reiterates Buy on Merck & Co, Maintains $115 Price Target

In the current session, Merck &amp; Co Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) is trading at $78.17, after a 1.26% decrease. Over the past month, the stock decreased by 17.47%, and in the past year, by 37.65%. With performance like this, long-term shareholders are more likely to start looking into the company's price-to-earnings ratio. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1744747248_0.png" alt="Past Year Chart" />

<h3>How Does Merck &amp; Co P/E Compare to Other Companies?</h3>
The P/E ratio is used by long-term shareholders to assess the company's market performance against aggregate market data, historical earnings, and the industry at large. A lower P/E could indicate that shareholders do not expect the stock to perform better in the future or it could mean that the company is undervalued. 
Merck &amp; Co has a lower P/E than the aggregate P/E of 26.97 of the Pharmaceuticals industry. Ideally, one might believe that the stock might perform worse than its peers, but it's also probable that the stock is undervalued. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1744747248_1.png" alt="Guage" />

In summary, while the price-to-earnings ratio is a valuable tool for investors to evaluate a company's market performance, it should be used with caution. A low P/E ratio can be an indication of undervaluation, but it can also suggest weak growth prospects or financial instability. Moreover, the P/E ratio is just one of many metrics that investors should consider when making investment decisions, and it should be evaluated alongside other financial ratios, industry trends, and qualitative factors. By taking a comprehensive approach to analyzing a company's financial health, investors can make well-informed decisions that are more likely to lead to successful outcomes.

Intraday Update

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