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.

On Friday, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) unveiled the selection of 15 additional drugs covered under Medicare Part D for price negotiations, building on efforts to reduce <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/08/40534249/novo-nordisks-ozempic-might-be-among-2027-medicare-price-negotiation-targets" rel="noreferrer noopener">prescription drug costs</a>.
These negotiations, mandated by the Inflation Reduction Act, will take place in 2025, with the new prices slated to take effect in 2027.
The selected drugs, used to treat conditions like cancer, diabetes, and asthma, represented approximately $41 billion in Medicare Part D costs between November 2023 and October 2024, accounting for 14% of the program's total expenses.
Under the finalized <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/hhs-announces-15-additional-drugs-selected-medicare-drug-price-negotiations-continued-effort-lower" rel="noreferrer noopener">guidance</a> for the second negotiation cycle, drug manufacturers have until February 28, 2025, to decide on their participation.
The selected drug list for the second cycle of negotiations is:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Novo Nordisk's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>) diabetes and weight loss drugs, Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Wegovy.</li>
<li>Pfizer Inc.'s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) Ibrance for breast cancer and Xtandi for prostate cancer.</li>
<li>GSK Plc's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GSK#NYSE">GSK</a>) Asthma and Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease treatment Trelegy Ellipta and Breo Ellipta.</li>
<li>Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.'s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEVA#NYSE">TEVA</a>) Huntington's disease and Tardive dyskinesia drug Austedo, Austedo XR.</li>
<li>Abbvie Inc.'s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>) irritable bowel syndrome treatment Linzess and depression drug Vraylar.</li>
<li>Bristol-Myers Squibb Co's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>) Pomalyst for a type of blood cancer.</li>
<li>Boehringer Ingelheim's lung disease drug Ofev and diabetes med Tradjenta.</li>
<li>AstraZeneca Plc&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) cancer drug Calquence</li>
<li>Salix Pharmaceuticals' irritable bowel syndrome drug Xifaxan</li>
<li>Merck &amp; Co Inc's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) diabetes drug Janumet; Janumet XR.</li>
<li>Amgen Inc's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>) psoriasis drug Otezla</li>
</ul>
CMS will evaluate factors such as the drug's clinical benefit, its role in addressing unmet medical needs, and its impact on specific populations, alongside considerations for research, production, and distribution costs.
The first negotiation cycle in 2023 resulted in agreements for price reductions on 10 drugs, with discounts ranging from 38% to 79% off list prices.
The new prices, effective January 2026, are expected to save $6 billion in prescription drug costs annually and reduce out-of-pocket expenses for Medicare beneficiaries by an <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/10/41166018/medicare-drug-price-negotiation-program-gets-final-guidance-for-second-cycle-1-5b-savings-expecte" rel="noreferrer noopener">estimated $1.5 billion</a>.
Looking ahead, CMS plans to expand the program, selecting up to 15 additional drugs for the third cycle and 20 more in subsequent cycles. The Inflation Reduction Act also introduces an out-of-pocket cap of $2,000 for Medicare Part D enrollees starting in 2025. Approximately 11 million beneficiaries are expected to benefit from the cap, saving a projected $7.2 billion annually.
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Popular Ozempic, Wegovy Selected For Next Round Of Medicare Drug Price Negotiations

<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/17/medicare-drug-price-negotiations-list-includes-ozempic.html" title="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/17/medicare-drug-price-negotiations-list-includes-ozempic.html">https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/17/medicare-drug-price-negotiations-list-includes-ozempic.html</a>

'Ozempic Is In The Next Round Of Medicare Drug Price Negotiations. See The Full List Of 15 Medications' - CNBC

Looking into the current session, Merck &amp; Co Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) shares are trading at $99.85, after a 0.20% increase. Moreover, over the past month, the stock increased by 1.33%, but in the past year, fell by 15.94%. Shareholders might be interested in knowing whether the stock is undervalued, even if the company is performing up to par in the current session. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736946007_0.png" alt="Past Year Chart" />

<h3>How Does Merck &amp; Co P/E Compare to Other Companies?</h3>
The P/E ratio measures the current share price to the company's EPS. It is used by long-term investors to analyze the company's current performance against it's past earnings, historical data and aggregate market data for the industry or the indices, such as S&amp;P 500. A higher P/E indicates that investors expect the company to perform better in the future, and the stock is probably overvalued, but not necessarily. It also could indicate that investors are willing to pay a higher share price currently, because they expect the company to perform better in the upcoming quarters. This leads investors to also remain optimistic about rising dividends in the future. 
Merck &amp; Co has a lower P/E than the aggregate P/E of 26.93 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/2025/1736946007_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

Price Over Earnings Overview: Merck & Co

Leerink Partners analyst Daina Graybosch maintains Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) with a Outperform and lowers the price target from $136 to $119.

Price Target

Analyst Ratings

Leerink Partners Maintains Outperform on Merck & Co, Lowers Price Target to $119

According to JP Morgan, U.S. large-cap biopharma stocks have underperformed the broader market for two consecutive years, with mixed sentiment shaping <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42638844/large-biopharma-lags-market-jp-morgans-2025-outlook-on-eli-lilly-merck-and-more" rel="noreferrer noopener">investor outlook for 2025</a>.
Despite strong fundamentals and advancements in drug pipelines, factors such as political uncertainty and sector rotation have hindered the sector&#8217;s performance relative to the S&amp;P 500.
In 2024, biopharma stocks rose by 9.6%, falling short of the S&amp;P 500&#8217;s 28.5% surge. However, JP Morgan analysts maintain a positive outlook for several key players.
Ahead of the 2025 JPM Healthcare Conference, JP Morgan highlights some investor expectations as sentiment remains mixed for the US Large Cap BioPharma group heading into 2025. The conference is scheduled between 13 January and 16 January.
Obesity is expected to remain a major focus for the industry. The sector&#8217;s focus on the below advancements highlights the growing importance of obesity treatments and related drug innovations:
<ul>
<li>Eli Lilly And Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>): Increased emphasis on incretin therapies as production capacity grows and direct-to-consumer advertising gains traction. Key data catalysts: Phase 3 results for orforglipron, an oral <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/23/07/33339766/ozempic-alternatives-these-two-drugs-show-promise-in-affordability-and-effectiveness-for-weight-l" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">small molecule GLP-1</a>.</li>
<li>Initial outcomes data for tirzepatide <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/08/40460727/eli-lillys-famed-obesitydiabetes-treatment-tirzepatide-shows-potential-to-cut-risk-of-developing-" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in type 2 diabetes</a>.</li>
</ul>
Several new product launches are on the radar for 2025. Bristol Myers Squibb &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>) stands out as a top pick, with the anticipated launch of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/09/41064867/schizophrenia-treatment-revolution-fda-approves-bristol-myers-squibb-cobenfy-as-new-class-of-trea" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cobenfy for schizophrenia</a>.
JP Morgan analyst Chris Schott expects a strong adoption once broader insurance coverage, expected by the second half of 2025, is in place.
Gilead Sciences Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GILD#NASDAQ">GILD</a>) is also preparing for a mid-2025 launch of lenacapavir for pre-exposure prophylaxis, with promising uptake <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42468692/gilead-unveils-new-yearly-hiv-injection-to-offer-hope-for-less-frequent-preventive-dosing" rel="noreferrer noopener">projected into 2026</a>.
Additionally, JP Morgan is monitoring Merck &amp; Co Inc&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) Winrevair for pulmonary arterial hypertension, which has already <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42768614/uk-approves-mercks-hypertension-drug-acquired-via-11-billion-acceleron-pharma-deal" rel="noreferrer noopener">exceeded early expectations</a>, and Gilead&#8217;s Livdelzi for primary biliary cholangitis, expected to see more significant growth in 2025 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/11/42016935/gilead-unveils-long-term-data-from-seladelpar-in-patients-with-rare-liver-disease" rel="noreferrer noopener">as access improves</a>.
The analyst is watching for updates on how companies are approaching business development after a relatively quiet 2024. While major changes are not anticipated in the size or type of deals pursued by large-cap companies, JP Morgan expects M&amp;A activity to pick up in 2025.
Large deals over $25 billion remain unlikely, with mid-sized deals around $5-15 billion likely to focus on later-stage, lower-risk assets.
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Image via Shutterstock

Analyst Color

GILD

REGN

Obesity Treatments, M&A Activity To Take Center Stage During Upcoming JPM Healthcare Conference

UBS analyst Colin Bristow maintains Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) with a Buy and lowers the price target from $125 to $120.

UBS Maintains Buy on Merck & Co, Lowers Price Target to $120

Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades and downgrades, please see our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">analyst ratings page</a>.
<ul>
<li>Needham raised the price target for Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRM#NYSE">CRM</a>) from $375 to $400. Needham analyst Scott Berg maintained a Buy rating. Salesforce shares closed at $324.93 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CRM/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Truist Securities slashed Merck &amp; Co., Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) price target from $130 to $110. Truist Securities analyst Robyn Karnauskas downgraded the stock from Buy to Hold. Wendy&#8217;s shares closed at $101.02 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MRK/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>Canaccord Genuity raised the price target for Intuitive Machines, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUNR#NASDAQ">LUNR</a>) from $17.5 to $26. Canaccord Genuity analyst Austin Moeller maintained a Buy rating. Intuitive Machines shares closed at $19.87 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/LUNR/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>Piper Sandler increased the price target for Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ADSK#NASDAQ">ADSK</a>) from $311 to $357. Piper Sandler analyst Clarke Jeffries upgraded the stock from Neutral to Overweight. Autodesk shares closed at $290.82 on Tuesday. See how other analysts view this stock.</li>
<li>B of A Securities boosted Ferguson Enterprises Inc. (NYSE FERG) price target from $185 to $225. B of A Securities analyst Arnaud Lehmann upgraded the stock from Underperform to Buy. Ferguson shares settled at $172.21 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/FERG/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Jefferies raised GE HealthCare Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GEHC#NASDAQ">GEHC</a>) price target from $95 to $103. Jefferies analyst Matthew Taylor upgraded the stock from Hold to Buy. GE HealthCare shares closed at $83.37 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/GEHC/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>Deutsche Bank raised Workday, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WDAY#NASDAQ">WDAY</a>) price target from $265 to $300. Deutsche Bank analyst Brad Zelnick upgraded the stock from Hold to Buy. Workday shares closed at $249.68 on Tuesday.  <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WDAY/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Morgan Stanley boosted the price target for NetEase, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTES#NASDAQ">NTES</a>) from $90 to $108. Morgan Stanley analyst Alex Poon upgraded the stock from Equal-Weight to Overweight. NetEase shares settled at $89.72 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NTES/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Truist Securities raised Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>) price target from $62 to $65. Truist Securities analyst Robyn Karnauskas maintained a Buy rating. Bristol-Myers Squibb shares closed at $57.14 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BMY/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>JP Morgan cut MercadoLibre, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MELI#NASDAQ">MELI</a>) price target from $2,150 to $1,950. JP Morgan analyst Marcelo Santos maintained a Neutral rating. MercadoLibre shares closed at $1,771.22 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MELI/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
</ul>
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ADSK

GEHC

LUNR

MELI

NTES

WDAY

Salesforce To Rally More Than 23%? Here Are 10 Top Analyst Forecasts For Wednesday

Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades, downgrades and initiations, please see our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">analyst ratings page</a>.
<ul>
<li>Truist Securities analyst Robyn Karnauskas downgraded the rating for Merck &amp; Co., Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) from Buy to Hold and lowered the price target from $130 to $110. Merck shares closed at $101.02 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MRK/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>Goldman Sachs analyst Alex Scott downgraded American International Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AIG#NYSE">AIG</a>) from Buy to Neutral and lowered the price target from $83 to $79. American Intl shares closed at $72.59 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AIG/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>Deutsche Bank analyst Brad Zelnick downgraded the rating for Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) from Buy to Hold and lowered the price target from $207 to $190. Palo Alto shares closed at $175.51 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/PANW/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Citigroup analyst Vikram Bagri downgraded the rating for SolarEdge Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SEDG#NASDAQ">SEDG</a>) from Neutral to Sell and cut the price target from $12 to $9. SolarEdge Technologies shares closed at $17.59 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SEDG/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Deutsche Bank analyst Brad Zelnick downgraded Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ADBE#NASDAQ">ADBE</a>) from Buy to Hold and lowered the price target from $600 to $475. Adobe shares closed at $422.63 on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ADBE/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
</ul>
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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="589" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/08071359/image-45-1024x589.png" alt="" class="wp-image-723790" style="width:567px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/08071359/image-45-1024x589.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/08071359/image-45-300x172.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/08071359/image-45-768x441.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/08071359/image-45.png 1082w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
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Downgrades

ADBE

PANW

SEDG

This Adobe Analyst Is No Longer Bullish; Here Are Top 5 Downgrades For Wednesday

Merck Announced That The National Medical Products Administration Of China Approved Gardasil [Human Papillomavirus Quadrivalent (Types 6, 11, 16, And 18) Vaccine] For Use In Males 9-26 Years Of Age To Help Prevent Certain HPV-related Cancers And Diseases

Truist Securities analyst Robyn Karnauskas downgrades Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) from Buy to Hold and lowers the price target from $130 to $110.

Truist Securities Downgrades Merck & Co to Hold, Lowers Price Target to $110

Jefferies upgraded Instil Bio (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TIL#NASDAQ">TIL</a>), noting that 2024 was a banner year for the PD-(L)1xVEGF class.
Summit Therapeutics&#8217; (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMMT#NASDAQ">SMMT</a>) data from the primary analysis of the Phase 3 HARMONi-2 trial of ivonescimab conducted in China demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in 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>) <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">Keytruda (pembrolizumab)</a>.
The trial update sparked industry buzz and drove Summit Therapeutic&#8217; stock up around 150%, BioNTech SE (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BNTX#NASDAQ">BNTX</a>) up ~40%, and Instil Bio up ~500%.
Jefferies estimates the PD-(L)1xVEGF class could reach over $40 billion, similar to the PD-(L)1 class.
Analyst Kelly Shi expects the hype to continue in 2025 with two key upcoming catalysts: Ivonescimab HARMONi-2 overall survival data (expected in YE25/Early26) and first global Phase 3 data (expected in mid-25).
The analyst anticipates positive results from both and continued excitement to attract more deals in the space.
Jefferies analyst sees an encouraging upside for Instil Bio as its SYN2510 is the third US asset with a global trial planned in 2025.
In September, Instil and ImmuneOnco Biopharmaceuticals (Shanghai) announced the global registrational strategy for the PD-L1xVEGF bispecific antibody SYN-2510/IMM2510 in combination with chemotherapy in front-line non-small cell lung cancer and in front-line <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/09/g40873356/instil-bio-and-immuneonco-announce-global-registrational-strategy-for-pd-l1xvegf-bispecific-antibo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">triple-negative breast cancer</a>.
Jefferies upgraded Instil Bio from Hold to Buy with a price target of $52, over a 300% jump from a prior target of $11.
SYN2510 is a promising contender in its field, with significant potential driven by clinical data updates and business development interest in this drug class.
In 2024, three deals with a total upfront of $1.4 billion and a deal value of $6.4 billion were announced.
SYN2510 (PD-L1xVEGF-trap), BioNTech&#8217;s Biotheus <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/11/41949384/biontech-boosts-oncology-strategy-with-800-million-china-based-biotheus-acquisition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deal for BNT327</a> and Merck&#8217;s LM-299 deal mark the first big Pharma joining the fray, adding confidence in its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/b41967094/merck-enters-into-exclusive-global-license-for-lm-299-an-investigational-anti-pd-1vegf-bispecific-" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mechanism of action</a>.
Price Action: TIL stock is up 22.4% at $24.90 at last check Tuesday.
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Upgrades

Movers

BNTX

SMMT

Bullish Outlook On Instil Bio's Investigational Cancer Drug: Jefferies Sees Over 300% Stock Upside

High-rolling investors have positioned themselves bearish on Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), and it's important for retail traders to take note. 
\This activity came to our attention today through Benzinga's tracking of publicly available options data. The identities of these investors are uncertain, but such a significant move in MRK often signals that someone has privileged information.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 8 options trades for Merck &amp; Co. This is not a typical pattern.
The sentiment among these major traders is split, with 12% bullish and 50% bearish. Among all the options we identified, there was one put, amounting to $30,498, and 7 calls, totaling $404,215.
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $50.0 to $115.0 for Merck &amp; Co over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Examining the volume and open interest provides crucial insights into stock research. This information is key in gauging liquidity and interest levels for Merck &amp; Co's options at certain strike prices. Below, we present a snapshot of the trends in volume and open interest for calls and puts across Merck &amp; Co's significant trades, within a strike price range of $50.0 to $115.0, over the past month.
<h3>Merck &amp; Co Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736276440_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 align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/19/25</td>
<td>$14.4</td>
<td>$13.95</td>
<td>$14.3</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$173.0K</td>
<td>219</td>
<td align="right">121</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$14.05</td>
<td>$13.1</td>
<td>$13.6</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$54.5K</td>
<td>420</td>
<td align="right">40</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$3.25</td>
<td>$2.62</td>
<td>$2.87</td>
<td>$115.00</td>
<td>$43.0K</td>
<td>131</td>
<td align="right">177</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$2.12</td>
<td>$2.07</td>
<td>$2.08</td>
<td>$110.00</td>
<td>$41.6K</td>
<td>5.8K</td>
<td align="right">22</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$9.15</td>
<td>$8.95</td>
<td>$9.03</td>
<td>$95.00</td>
<td>$36.1K</td>
<td>500</td>
<td align="right">47</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>Where Is Merck &amp; Co Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 5,413,468, the MRK's price is up by 1.57%, now at $101.29. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 28 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Merck &amp; Co</h3>
2 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $113.0.
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;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; An analyst from BMO Capital downgraded its action to Market Perform with a price target of $105. 
&#x2A; In a cautious move, an analyst from B of A Securities downgraded its rating to Buy, setting a price target of $121. 
Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for Merck &amp; Co with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

Options

Unpacking the Latest Options Trading Trends in Merck & Co

On Monday, Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) announced the acquisition of WuXi Vaccines&#8216; manufacturing site in Dundalk, Co Louth, marking a significant expansion of its operations in Ireland.
The $520.1 million (500 million euros) investment highlights Merck&#8217;s commitment to the region. It builds on a 3 billion euro investment in Ireland over the past three years.
The move aligns with Merck&#8217;s broader growth strategy, which includes plans to add approximately 1,000 jobs nationwide in the coming year.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42638844/large-biopharma-lags-market-jp-morgans-2025-outlook-on-eli-lilly-merck-and-more" rel="noreferrer noopener">Big Biopharma Trails Behind The Market: JP Morgan&#8217;s 2025 Outlook on Eli Lilly, Merck, and More</a>
The Dundalk facility, spanning 15,520 square meters, is a three-story manufacturing hub.
It houses drug substance and product manufacturing units and quality control laboratories dedicated to producing vaccine products for global distribution. The site currently employs around 200 professionals and plans to hire an additional 150 workers.
The acquisition brings Merck&#8217;s total locations in Ireland to eight, covering Carlow, Cork, Dublin, Louth, Meath and Tipperary. Over 3,000 people are employed across the network.
Merck and WuXi Vaccines are now entering a formal handover process, expected to conclude in the first half of 2025. Once complete, the facility will bolster Merck&#8217;s ability to meet the growing global vaccine demand.
In 2024, Merck announced a 1 billion euro investment across its Carlow and Dunboyne facilities, further showcasing its commitment to scaling its Irish operations.
Price Action: MRK stock is up 0.24% at $99.96 during the premarket session at last check Tuesday.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/42843417/nvidia-highlights-ai-chips-powering-pubg-robotics-chatgpt-moment-automotive-expansion-and-more-at-ces-event" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nvidia Highlights AI Chips Powering PUBG, Robotics &#8216;ChatGPT Moment,&#8217; Automotive Expansion And More At CES Event</a></li>
</ul>

Contracts

Merck Buys WuXi Vaccines' Irish Manufacturing Facility For Over $500 Million

WIIM

Merck & Compnay and OPKO Health shares are trading higher after the companies announced a license and collaboration agreement to develop an Epstein-Barr virus vaccine.

OPKO Health's ModeX Therapeutics Begins Phase I Trial For Epstein-Barr Virus Vaccine In Collaboration With Merck; First Participant Dosed, Milestone Payment Triggered By Merck

JPMorgan has reset the valuation for Viking Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VKTX#NASDAQ">VKTX</a>) and Structure Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GPCR#NASDAQ">GPCR</a>).
Analyst Hardik Parikh cites several reasons for recovery, including pathways for strategic partnership with pharma, some clinical trial data points and additional clarity on the incoming administration&#8217;s policies on GLP-1 access.
The analyst writes that <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/VKTX" rel="noreferrer noopener">Viking Therapeutics</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/GPCR" rel="noreferrer noopener">Structure Therapeutics</a> are attractive pure-play options for investing in the T2D/obesity market opportunity overall.
The note continues, saying that Viking Therapeutics and Structure Therapeutics remain attractive partners for pharmaceutical companies looking to enter the T2D/obesity market relatively quickly.
It expects a reasonable case to make that many pharmaceutical companies, in addition to Merck &amp; Co. Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), could be active in the space. Hence, Viking Therapeutics and Structure Therapeutics still have abundant pathways <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/12/42560386/whats-going-on-with-viking-therapeutics-stock-on-wednesday" rel="noreferrer noopener">to strategic partnerships</a>.
Viking Therapeutics and Structure Therapeutics can help address growth gaps for pharma over time, analyst Parikh says, and sees an apparent disconnect on valuation abates over time.
The analyst sees the competitive bar for VK2735 primarily unchanged, at least in the near term, after Novo Nordisk A/S&#8217; (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>) phase 3 Redefine-1 data showed weight loss from cagriSema that is on par with Eli Lilly And Co.&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>) Zepbound.
The Street broadly expected the Redefine-1 trial of CagriSema to show ~25% weight loss, raising the benchmark <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42613036/novo-nordisks-hybrid-weight-loss-drug-falls-short-on-expectations-stock-plunges" rel="noreferrer noopener">injectables in development</a>.
Viking Therapeutics highlighted new clinical data from its VK2735 obesity program in two poster presentations&nbsp;at ObesityWeek&nbsp;2024.
Cohorts receiving VK2735 demonstrated dose-dependent reductions in mean body weight from baseline, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/11/41712739/viking-therapeutics-reveals-early-stage-from-experimental-oral-obesity-drug-showing-weight-loss-a" rel="noreferrer noopener">ranging up to 8.2%</a>.
JPMorgan suggests that VK2735&#8217;s weight-loss effectiveness in its upcoming Phase 3 trial (starting in early 2025) could slightly surpass Zepbound&#8217;s ~22% reduction at 72 weeks and remain competitive with CagriSema.
However, the firm believes Eli Lilly&#8217;s retatrutide may set the highest standard for efficacy, potentially achieving weight loss in the high 20% range, based on Phase 3 data expected in 2026. While this creates a challenging benchmark for VK2735, its tolerability could offer an edge over retatrutide, which is expected to have slightly more side effects than Zepbound.
Last month, Structure Therapeutics selected ACCG-2671 as its lead oral small molecule amylin receptor agonist for obesity and related diseases. The compound is expected to be in Phase 1 clinical development by the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/12/g42539839/structure-therapeutics-announces-selection-of-lead-oral-small-molecule-amylin-receptor-agonist-acc" rel="noreferrer noopener">end of 2025</a>.
In November, Structure Therapeutics dosed the first patient in Phase 2b ACCESS trial of GSBR-1290 obese or overweight patients with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/g41953633/structure-therapeutics-announces-first-patients-dosed-in-phase-2b-access-clinical-study-evaluating" rel="noreferrer noopener">weight-related comorbidity</a>.
VKTX, GCPR Price Actions: Viking Therapeutics stock is down 0.56% at $42.65, and Structure Therapeutics stock is down 0.25% at $27.51 at publication Monday.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/01/42819611/cvs-health-aetna-files-lawsuit-against-drugmakers-for-alleged-inflated-generic-drug-prices" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CVS Health&#8217;s Aetna Files Lawsuit Against Drugmakers For Alleged Inflated Generic Drug Prices</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock.com

GPCR

VKTX

Viking Therapeutics, Structure Therapeutics Positioned As Key Pharma Partners For Weight Loss Products: Analyst

Last Friday, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency approved Merck &amp; Co Inc&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) Winrevair (sotatercept) for adult patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
Sotatercept is used, in combination with other medicines, to treat PAH in adults with moderate or marked physical activity limitations and improve exercise capacity.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/sotatercept-approved-to-treat-adult-patients-with-pulmonary-arterial-hypertension-pah" rel="noreferrer noopener">recommended</a> dosing schedule is one injection every three weeks via self-administration.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42638844/large-biopharma-lags-market-jp-morgans-2025-outlook-on-eli-lilly-merck-and-more" rel="noreferrer noopener">Big Biopharma Trails Behind The Market: JP Morgan&#8217;s 2025 Outlook on Eli Lilly, Merck, and More</a>
In March 2024, the FDA approved&nbsp;Winrevair (sotatercept-csrk), for injection, 45mg, 60mg for adults with PAH to increase exercise capacity, improve WHO functional class, and reduce the risk of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/03/37958211/mercks-11b-bet-pays-as-fda-approves-sotatercept-for-rare-lung-disease" rel="noreferrer noopener">clinical worsening events</a>.&nbsp;
A main study was conducted involving 323 patients with PAH. The study showed that sotatercept was more effective than placebo at improving the ability of adults with PAH to exercise. The main measure of effectiveness was the difference in the distance patients could walk in 6 minutes before and after treatment.
After 24 weeks of treatment, sotatercept given in addition to other PAH medicines, improved the distance patients could walk in 6 minutes by around 34 meters, compared with 1 meter in patients who received a placebo instead. The median (average) treatment difference between the sotatercept and placebo groups was 40.8 meters.
In November, Merck&nbsp;revealed topline results from the Phase 3 ZENITH study evaluating Winrevair (sotatercept-csrk) in adults with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH, WHO Group 1) functional class (FC) III or IV at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/11/42169558/why-is-merck-stock-trading-higher-on-monday" rel="noreferrer noopener">high risk of mortality</a>.
ZENITH met its primary endpoint of time to first morbidity or mortality event (all-cause death, lung transplantation, or PAH worsening-related hospitalization of ≥ 24 hours).
Price Action: MRK stock is up 0.56% at $100.04 at last check Thursday.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42766874/equinor-powers-up-empire-wind-1-project-with-financing-package-details" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Equinor Powers Up Empire Wind 1 Project With Financing Package: Details</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Merck

UK Approves Merck's Hypertension Drug Acquired Via $11 Billion Acceleron Pharma Deal

Investors have many strategies when looking at stocks and options, including sector rotation, earnings strength and upcoming catalysts. Value investors often look for strong earnings strength <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/dividend-stocks">from dividend stocks.</a>
The Dow Jones Industrial Average includes many dividend-paying stocks, including many blue-chip companies that have consistently raised their dividends.
Here&#8217;s a look at the top-yielding Dow Jones stocks heading into 2025.
What Happened: The<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/dow-jones-industrial-average"> Dow Jones Industrial Average</a> hit a record high of 45,000 in December as one of many stock indexes to post gains after the 2025 presidential election.
As of Dec. 27, 18 of the Dow Jones Industrial Average stocks have gained year-to-date, while 12 components are trading lower compared to the start of 2024.
While investors can bet on the entire Dow Jones Industrial Average through ETFs like the Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>), investors can also pick individual stocks from the 30 components of the index. Through Dec. 27, the ETF is up 13.4% year-to-date.
One popular strategy is to look at the &#8220;Dogs of the Dow,&#8221; which often coincides with the beaten-down stocks of the index that also offer high dividend payouts.
Here are the highest-yielding Dow Jones Industrial Average stocks to start 2025, with the dividend yield and stock performance in 2024 listed below.
<ol>
<li>Verizon Communications (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VZ#NYSE">VZ</a>): 6.79% yield, +5.9% in 2024</li>
<li>Chevron Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>): 4.53% yield, -3.5% in 2024</li>
<li>Amgen Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>): 3.62% yield, -8.8% in 2024</li>
<li>Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>): 3.42% yield, -7.5% in 2024</li>
<li>Merck &amp; Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>): 3.25% yield, -8.5% in 2024</li>
<li>Coca-Cola Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KO#NYSE">KO</a>): 3.11% yield, +6.0% in 2025</li>
<li>International Business Machines (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBM#NYSE">IBM</a>): 3% yield, +36.2% in 2024</li>
<li>Cisco Systems (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>): 2.68% yield, +18.0% in 2024</li>
<li>McDonald's Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MCD#NYSE">MCD</a>): 2.41% yield, -1.0% in 2024</li>
<li>Procter &amp; Gamble (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PG#NYSE">PG</a>): 2.37% yield, +15.7% in 2024</li>
</ol>
Seven of the top 10 highest-yielding stocks heading into 2025 also appeared on the top 10 list to start 2024 with Merck, McDonald's and Procter &amp; Gamble the newcomers to the Dogs of the Dow list for the new year.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/broad-u-s-equity-etfs/24/11/41724410/nvidia-joining-dow-jones-industrial-average-where-tech-giant-ranks-in-the-index-why-sh">Nvidia Joining Dow Jones Industrial Average: Where Tech Giant Ranks In The Index, Why Sherwin-Williams Addition Could Be More Important</a>
Component Changes Impact Yields: It's worth noting that dividend investors will have to look elsewhere to chase some of the higher-yielding stocks they have become accustomed to.
Walgreens Boots Alliance (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBA#NASDAQ">WBA</a>), which yields 10.40% and Dow Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DOW#NYSE">DOW</a>), which yields 6.99% have been replaced and removed from the index.
New 2024 Dow Jones Industrial Average components don't come with high dividend yields. Sherwin-Williams Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHW#NYSE">SHW</a>) has a dividend yield of 0.80%, NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) has a dividend yield of 0.03% and Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) does not pay a dividend.
This means that the yield on ETFs that track the Dow Jones Industrial Average will be lower, with the goal of potentially stronger returns by replacing the underperforming stocks with stocks that have performed better over the past five years.
The latest 30 Dow Jones Industrial Average components see 28 stocks paying out dividends with Amazon and Boeing Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>) the exceptions.
The average dividend yield of the Dow Jones Industrial Average is around 2%.
Did You Know?
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<li>Congress Is Making Huge Investments.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/gov-trades/?utm_source=BZprocontent123024" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get Tips On What They Bought And Sold Ahead Of The 2024 Election With Our Easy-to-Use Tool</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Dividends

AMZN

CSCO

SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF Trust

NVDA

Dogs Of The Dow: Top 10 High-Yield Stocks Offering Dividends Up To 6.8% In 2025

The year 2024 saw the U.S. stock market make new records, with major indices breaching key milestones. While many stocks witnessed a stellar rally this year, analysts still expect some blue-chip equities to rise further as they forecast a better return potential.
Dow&#8217;s Performance In 2024
The Dow Jones Industrial Average index hit a record eight 1,000-point milestones this year. It started the year around the 37,000 level and breached the 45,000 level at the beginning of December. It took only seven trading days for the index to go from 44,000 to 45,000, the second fastest 1,000-point milestone ever.
Following that the index also saw one of its longest 10-day losing streak, the first ever since 1974. These 10 days of underperformance stems from a confluence of factors. 
The Dow doesn&#8217;t include all &#8220;Magnificent 7&#8221; stocks like Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) and Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>). The recent inclusion of Nvidia Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) in the Dow has also pulled the index down because of the stock&#8217;s underperformance.
Dow&#8217;s constituent UnitedHealth Group Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) has experienced a substantial decline this month following the tragedy with its CEO&#8217;s shooting. Moreover, in essence, the Dow&#8217;s historical advantage of its price-weighted indexing has become a significant disadvantage in today&#8217;s market. This is because, unlike market capitalization-weighted indices, higher-priced stocks have more weight in the calculation of a price-weighted index.
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Dow Jones Stocks With The Best And Worst Return Potential</h4>
Analysts still expect that a group of stocks led by Caterpillar Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CAT#NYSE">CAT</a>), UnitedHealth and Sherwin-Williams Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHW#NYSE">SHW</a>) within the Dow will rise even more, according to estimates compiled by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com">Benzinga</a>. Others on the list are the Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>), Chevron Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>) and Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>).
To be sure, analysts keep updating their forecasts based on company performance and may change their estimates as the new earnings season begins.
Selection Criteria:
<ul>
<li>The thirty blue-chip stocks in Down Jones.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The highest and lowest return potential is based on the average 12-month target prices from <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro data</a>.</li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Companies</td>
<td>M-Cap</td>
<td>Highest PT ($/Share)</td>
<td>Lowest PT ($/Share)</td>
<td>Consensus PT ($/Share)</td>
<td>Upside/Downside Potential</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Caterpillar Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CAT#NYSE">CAT</a>)</td>
<td>176.73B</td>
<td>515</td>
<td>174</td>
<td>331.35</td>
<td>31.68%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UnitedHealth Group Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>)</td>
<td>460.26B</td>
<td>675</td>
<td>460</td>
<td>608.16</td>
<td>28.95%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sherwin-Williams Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHW#NYSE">SHW</a>)</td>
<td>86.71B</td>
<td>450</td>
<td>249</td>
<td>371.19</td>
<td>24.08%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>)</td>
<td>2,365.04B</td>
<td>290</td>
<td>197</td>
<td>247.05</td>
<td>23.82%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>)</td>
<td>347.83B</td>
<td>215</td>
<td>40</td>
<td>168</td>
<td>22.41%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chevron Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>)</td>
<td>256.71B</td>
<td>212</td>
<td>160</td>
<td>179.36</td>
<td>21.42%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE: MRK</td>
<td>248.03B</td>
<td>155</td>
<td>104</td>
<td>126.24</td>
<td>20.76%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Salesforce Inc. (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/crm#NYSE">CRM</a>)</td>
<td>328.87B</td>
<td>450</td>
<td>236</td>
<td>378.52</td>
<td>20.60%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>)</td>
<td>3,246.07B</td>
<td>600</td>
<td>465</td>
<td>508</td>
<td>18.21%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Visa Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/V#NYSE">V</a>)</td>
<td>622.63B</td>
<td>375</td>
<td>252</td>
<td>318.42</td>
<td>17.69%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Source: Benzinga.com (Data as of Dec. 22, 2024)</figcaption></figure>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42430296/carson-researchs-50-year-study-suggests-that-the-26-months-old-bull-market-is-far-from-over">Is The 26-Month Bull Market Over? Here Is What Carson Research&#8217;s 50-Year Old Study Tells Us</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Caterpillar Inc</h3>
<ul>
<li>Caterpillar Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CAT#NYSE">CAT</a>) has the highest return potential of 31.68% among the Dow Jones constituents.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The 28 analysts tracking the company have a consensus price target of $331.35 per share, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CAT/analyst-ratings">Benzinga</a>. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Truist Securities&#8217; Jamie Cook raised the price target from $454 to $471 per share on Dec. 19, 2024 as he expects significant investments in infrastructure, likely driven by government initiatives and private sector projects to fuel demand for Caterpillar&#8217;s equipment.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Citigroup analyst Kyle Menges maintained a &#8216;buy&#8217; rating on the company and raised the price target from $435 to $460 apiece on Dec. 9, 2024.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>On Dec. 9, JPMorgan analyst Tami Zakaria also reaffirmed her bullish stance on Caterpillar, maintaining a &#8216;buy&#8217; rating on the stock. Concurrently, she raised the firm&#8217;s price target for Caterpillar from $500 to $515 per share.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">UnitedHealth Group</h3>
<ul>
<li>UnitedHealth Group Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) has the second highest return potential of 28.95% among the Dow Jones constituents.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The 26 analysts tracking the company have a consensus price target of $331.35 per share, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/UNH/analyst-ratings">Benzinga</a>.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Oppenheimer raised its price target to $640 from $610 apiece on Dec.6, 2024. The primary reason for the price target increase is that the Oppenheimer analyst is updating their financial model. This update appears to be based solely on the publicly available information disclosed by UnitedHealth in their 8-K filing.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Stephens &amp; Co raised its target price to $675 from $605 per share on Dec. 5, 2024, after conducting a detailed review of the 2025 guidance metrics that UnitedHealth had shared before the fatal shooting of CEO Brian Thompson that led to the cancellation of their investor conference.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Deutsche Bank also increased its target from $595 to $625 apiece as it believes investor positioning into the event is mostly neutral to positive, with almost no one expecting a negative revision versus the third quarter outlook.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sherwin-Williams Company</h3>
<ul>
<li>Sherwin-Williams Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHW#NYSE">SHW</a>) has a return potential of 24.08% going into 2025.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>A consensus price target of $371.19 per share was maintained by 25 analysts that track the company, as per <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SHW/analyst-ratings">Benzinga</a>. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Greg Melich from Evercore ISI raised the price target of the Ohio-based paints, coatings and related products manufacturer to $420 from $400 per share on Nov. 7, 2024.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>RBC Capital&#8217;s Arun Viswanathan lowered his target on the company from $455 to $446 per share on Oct. 24, 2024. While acknowledging that third-quarter results might not have met investor expectations, Viswanathan emphasized the company&#8217;s potential for market share gains and the positive impact of its upcoming price increase scheduled for January 2025.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Citigroup adjusted its price target from $430 to $420 apiece on Oct. 24 as it anticipates choppy demand in the first half of 2025, which could hinder the rapid pass-through of interest rate cuts.</li>
</ul>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/11/42383725/trump-administrations-deregulation-efforts-to-lift-energy-oil-and-gas-sectors-ai-frenzy-to-aid-faang-stocks-and-nvidia-says-fintech-insider">Trump&#8217;s Deregulation Efforts To Benefit Energy, Oil And Gas Sectors, While AI Frenzy Will Boost FAANG Stocks And Nvidia, Says Fintech Insider</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Amazon.com Inc</h3>
<ul>
<li>Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) has a return potential of 23.82% going into 2025.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>A consensus price target of $247.05 per share was maintained by 39 analysts that track the company, as per <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AMZN/analyst-ratings">Benzinga</a>. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Tigress Financial&#8217;s Ivan Feinseth umped is price target from $245 to $290 apiece on Dec.20, 2024 as it believes Amazon is well-positioned for continued success, driven by robust retail trends, effective utilization of generative AI and its fulfillment network, and the strategic integration of AI across its entire business.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The expectations of strong long-term growth driven by operational efficiency and sustained momentum across its business segments led Bernstein to raise its target price from $235 to $265 per share on Dec. 18, 2024.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>According to JPMorgan analyst Douglas Anmuth, Amazon is a best idea for 2025, and confidence in AWS growth in the months to come is a major reason for that. He raised its target price from $250 to $280 apiece on Dec. 18, 2024.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Johnson &amp; Johnson</h3>
<ul>
<li>Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>) has the fifth highest return potential in Dow of 22.41% going into 2025.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The 21 analysts tracking the company have a consensus price target of $168 apiece, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/JNJ/analyst-ratings">Benzinga</a>. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Citigroup&#8217;s Joanne Wuensch lowered Johnson &amp; Johnson&#8217;s price target from $185 to $175 per share while maintaining a &#8216;buy&#8217; rating on Dec. 11, 2024.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>BofA Securities reinstated coverage of Johnson &amp; Johnson with a &#8216;neutral&#8217; rating and a $166 price target on Dec. 10, 2024. BofA notes that J&amp;J&#8217;s current valuation premium to peers may limit upside potential. However, the analyst acknowledges a &#8220;fairly interesting&#8221; pipeline and anticipates that resolving the talc litigation in 2025 would be beneficial. This analysis was part of BofA&#8217;s broader coverage initiation of 11 large-cap U.S. pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Wolfe Research analyst Alexandria Hammond commenced coverage of Johnson &amp; Johnson with an &#8216;outperform&#8217; recommendation and established a price target of $190 per share on Nov. 15, 2024</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Chevron Corporation</h3>
<ul>
<li>Chevron Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>) has a return potential of 21.42% going into 2025.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The 24 analysts tracking the company have a consensus price target of $179.36 apiece, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CVX/analyst-ratings">Benzinga</a>.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Piper Sandler analyst Ryan Todd reduced his price target on the company from $184 to $173 per share on Dec. 19, 2024, while maintaining a &#8216;buy&#8217; rating. Piper Sandler suggests the valuation gap between Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>) and Chevron implies a probability of over 65% of the Hess Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HES#NYSE">HES</a>) deal failing out. This scenario presents a potential 15%-25% upside, while a successful deal offers a 5%-10% downside ahead of the upcoming arbitration.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Despite this deal uncertainty, Piper expects Chevron to deliver strong portfolio performance in 2025, driven by project starts and controlled capital expenditures. This is projected to result in a significant free cash flow increase of $6-$7 billion.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Wells Fargo analyst Roger Read raised his target price from $171 to $188 apiece on Dec. 9, 2024</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Truist Securities raised its price target on Chevron to $160 from $155 while maintaining a &#8216;hold&#8217; rating, on Dec. 6, 2024. The analyst highlights Chevron&#8217;s significant inventory, including ample royalties, and expects improved capital efficiency to drive a cash flow inflection in the coming year.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Merck &amp; Co Inc</h3>
<ul>
<li>Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) has the seventh highest return potential in Dow of 20.76% going into 2025.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The 27 analysts tracking the company have a consensus price target of $126.24 apiece, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MRK/analyst-ratings">Benzinga</a>.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>BMO Capital Markets downgraded Merck to &#8216;market perform&#8217; from &#8216;outperform&#8217; lowering the price target from $136 to $105 apiece, on Dec. 20, 2024. The downgrade reflects concerns about the company&#8217;s Gardasil franchise in China and the potential revenue gap as Keytruda faces increased competition from biosimilars and generic drugs.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Tim Anderson from BofA Securities maintains his bullish stance on Merck with a &#8216;buy&#8217; rating, while adjusting the price target downward to $121 from $127 per share, on Dec. 10, 2024.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Truist analyst Robyn Karnauskas reaffirms a &#8216;buy&#8217; rating for Merck on Nov. 7, 2024, but lowers the price target to $130 from $132 apiece.</li>
</ul>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42642834/market-breadth-turns-positive-after-a-rare-14-day-negative-streak-history-suggests-gains-ahead">Market Breadth Rebounds As Risk Appetite Makes A Comeback: This Analyst Predicts Gains Ahead After S&amp;P 500&#8217;s Record Negative Streak</a></li>
</ul>
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Top 7 Blue-Chip Stocks With The Best Return Potential Going Into 2025

U.S. Fda Says Merck's Zinplava, Injection, 25 mg/1 ml To Be Discontinued On Jan 31, 2025

With the recent rise of diseases, pharmaceutical companies are pushing boundaries in medicine, from life-saving treatments to pioneering global healthcare solutions. Hence, investing in established pharmaceutical stocks, Pfizer (PFE), Johnson & Johnson (JNJ), and Merck & Co. (MRK) presents a compelling opportunity to capitalize for the long term. Read more... The pharmaceutical sector plays a crucial role in tackling global health issues, from combating infectious diseases to addressing chronic illnesses. The companies in this sector are not only developing groundbreaking treatments but also improving access to life-saving drugs.
Amid this backdrop, investors looking to tap into the pharmaceutical sector might consider buying these three fundamentally strong pharma stocks Pfizer Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/PFE/">PFE</a>), Johnson &amp; Johnson (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/JNJ/">JNJ</a>), and Merck &amp; Co., Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/MRK/">MRK</a>) for potential gain.
As the world faces rising healthcare demands, innovative pharmaceutical firms are stepping up to meet these challenges. Technological advancements such as AI-driven drug discovery and precision medicine enable faster development of treatments and personalized care, <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/life-sciences/our-insights/generative-ai-in-the-pharmaceutical-industry-moving-from-hype-to-reality">addressing the unique needs of individual patients</a>. Pharmaceutical manufacturers are already using Gen AI foundational models to identify targets, develop validation assays, and assist in preclinical testing to determine their effectiveness.
One of the key drivers of growth in the pharmaceutical sector is the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and cancer. Companies investing in advanced therapies, including biologics and gene editing, are positioned to benefit from this trend. With <a href="https://www.fda.gov/drugs/novel-drug-approvals-fda/novel-drug-approvals-2024">50 novel drugs approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)</a> in 2024, the pharmaceutical sector is likely to see sustained growth and long-term relevance.
Furthermore, the U.S. pharmaceutical market is anticipated to reach $764.06 billion by 2033, <a href="https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/us-pharmaceuticals-market-report#:~:text=The%20U.S.pharmaceutical%20market%20is%20expected%20to%20grow%20at%20a,USD%200.76%20billion%20by%202030.">exhibiting a CAGR of 5.5%</a>.
Now, let us dive deep into the fundamentals of three <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/pharmaceuticals/">Medical – Pharmaceuticals</a> stocks, starting with third.
Stock #3: Pfizer Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/PFE/">PFE</a>)
PFE is a global leader in biopharmaceuticals, offering a wide range of medicines and vaccines across several therapeutic areas. Its diverse portfolio spans treatments for cardiovascular conditions, metabolic issues, migraines, women's health, and infectious diseases, including COVID-19 prevention and treatment. It also explores future mRNA and antiviral therapies and provides biosimilars for chronic immune and inflammatory conditions.
On December 20, PFE received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for BRAFTOVI&#xAE; (encorafenib) in combination with cetuximab and mFOLFOX6 for the treatment of patients with BRAF V600E-Mutant metastatic colorectal cancer. This approval is first-in-line in the development of innovative medicines for the hardest-to-treat cancers, also expanding PFE's portfolio.
Moreover, on November 20, PFE announced that it received approval from the European Commission (EC) for HYMPAVZI for the routine prevention of bleeding episodes in patients 12 years of age and older weighing at least 35 kg with severe hemophilia A without FVIII inhibitors or severe hemophilia B without FIX inhibitors. this approval will strengthen PFE's position in the genetic disease treatment market as HYMPAVZI is the first and only anti-tissue factor pathway inhibitor approved by EC.
PFE pays a $1.72 per share dividend annually, translating to a 6.72% yield on the current share price. Its four-year dividend yield is 4.32%.
PFE's total revenues for the third quarter (ended September 30, 2024) increased 31.2% year-over-year to $17.70 billion. The company's non-GAAP net income stood at $6.05 billion compared to the prior-year quarter's loss of $968 million, while its <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/e/eps.asp">earnings per share</a> came in at $1.06 versus a loss of $0.17 per share last year.
As a result of its impressive performance, the company updated its fiscal year 2024 financial guidance, increasing its revenue projection to a range of $61 billion to $64 billion, up from the previous estimate of $59.50 billion to $62.50 billion. Additionally, it has raised its adjusted EPS guidance to a new range of $2.75 to $2.95, higher than the prior forecast of $2.45 to $2.65.
Analysts expect PFE's revenue for the fourth quarter (ended December 2024) to grow 20.3% year-over-year to $17.14 billion, while its EPS for the same period is expected to increase 360.4% from the prior year-quarter to $0.46. Moreover, the company has surpassed Street revenue and EPS estimates in three of the trailing four quarters.
Shares of PFE have surged 4.5% over the past month to close the last trading session at $26.72.
PFE's <a href="https://stocknews.com/powr-ratings/">POWR Ratings</a> reflect this robust outlook. The stock has an overall rating of B, which equates to Buy in our proprietary rating system. The POWR Ratings are calculated by considering 118 different factors, with each factor weighted to an optimal degree.
PFE has an A grade for Growth and a B for Value. It is ranked #34 out of 151 stocks in the <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/pharmaceuticals/">Medical - Pharmaceuticals</a> industry.
<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/PFE/">Click here</a> to see the additional ratings for PFE (Momentum, Stability, Sentiment, and Quality).
Stock #2: Johnson &amp; Johnson (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/JNJ/">JNJ</a>)
JNJ is engaged in the research and development, manufacture, and sale of healthcare products primarily focused on human health and well-being. The company offers a diversified range of products through the Innovative Medicine segment and MedTech segment.
On January 10, JNJ announced European CE mark approval of the Dual Energy THERMOCOOL SMARTTOUCH&#x2122; SF Catheter for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. This offers electrophysiologists the ability to switch between radiofrequency and pulsed field energy in a single, fully integrated catheter, delivering safe and effective procedures for patients.
On December 30, JNJ announced that it had received the European Commission approval for RYBREVANT&#xAE; (amivantamab) in combination with LAZCLUZE&#x2122; (lazertinib) for the first-line treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in adults with EGFR mutations. This multitargeted, chemotherapy-free combination as shown superior efficacy compared to Osimertinib monotherapy for treating EGFR-mutated NSCLC.
For the nine-month period that ended September 30, 2024, JNJ's sales to customers increased 4% year-over-year to $66.30 billion. Its gross profit rose 4.5% from the year-ago value to $45.96 billion. The company's net earnings from continuing operations amounted to $6.84 billion, representing a 15.7% increase from the same period last year. Also, its net earnings per share from continuing operations for the period increased 24.1% year-over-year to $4.38.
JNJ's revised outlook for the fiscal year 2024 anticipates operational sales in the range of $89.40 billion to $89.80 billion, marking a 6.6% growth compared to 2023, largely fueled by recent acquisitions. The company also projects adjusted EPS between $9.88 and $9.98.
Street expects JNJ's revenue for the fiscal year (ended December 2024) to increase 4.3% year-over-year to $88.78 billion. Its EPS for the same year is expected to register a marginal growth from the prior year, settling at $9.96.
JNJ shares have declined marginally intraday, closing the last trading session at $142.06.
JNJ's strong fundamentals are reflected in its POWR Ratings. The stock has an overall rating of A, which equates to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system.
JNJ has a B grade for Value, Stability, Sentiment, and Quality. It is ranked #14 in the same industry.
<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/JNJ/">Click here</a> to see the additional ratings for JNJ (Growth and Momentum).
Stock #1: Merck &amp; Co., Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/MRK/">MRK</a>)
MRK is a global healthcare company offering health solutions through its prescription medicines, including biological therapies, vaccines, and animal health products. It operates through two segments: Pharmaceutical and Animal Health.
On January 8, MRK announced the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of China approved GARDASIL [Human Papillomavirus Quadrivalent (Types 6, 11, 16, and 18) Vaccine] for use in males aged 9 to 26. This approval makes GARDASIL the first HPV vaccine in China, helping MRK strengthen its position.
On December 20, MRK announced the closing of the exclusive global license agreement for LM-299, a novel investigational PD-1/VEGF bispecific antibody, from LaNova Medicines Ltd. This agreement will allow MRK to develop, manufacture, and commercialize LM-299.
During the nine-month period ended September 30, 2024, MRK's sales increased 6.7% year-over-year to $48.54 billion, while its pharmaceutical segment's sales improved by 7.2% from the prior year's value to $43.36 billion. The company's net income attributable rose significantly from the year-ago value to $13.37 billion, while its EPS stood at $5.26, up considerably year-over-year.
According to the full-year 2024 guidance, MRK forecasts worldwide sales to range from $63.60 billion to $64.10 billion, an increase from the previous guidance of $63.40 billion to $64.40 billion. The company also expects non-GAAP EPS to be between $7.72 and $7.77.
The consensus revenue estimate of $15.52 billion for the fiscal fourth quarter (ending December 2024) represents a 6.1% increase year-over-year. The consensus EPS estimate of $1.79 for the current quarter indicates a considerable improvement year-over-year.
The company has an impressive surprise history; it surpassed the consensus revenue and EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters.
The stock declined marginally intraday, closing the last trading session at $99.25.
MRK's bright prospects are reflected in its POWR Ratings. The stock has an overall rating of A, which translates to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system.
It also has an A grade for Quality and a B for Value and Stability. Within the same industry, it is ranked #10.
<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/MRK/">Click here</a> to see MRK's ratings for Growth, Momentum, and Sentiment.
What To Do Next?
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<hr />
JNJ shares were trading at $143.12 per share on Monday morning, up $1.06 (+0.75%). Year-to-date, JNJ has declined -1.04%, versus a -1.64% rise in the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index during the same period.
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: ShreyaRathi</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/0.jpeg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;"><a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=shreya-rathi">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/jnj-mrk-pfe-3-pharmaceutical-stocks-addressing-global-health-challenges/>3 Pharmaceutical Stocks Addressing Global Health Challenges</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

3 Pharmaceutical Stocks Addressing Global Health Challenges

As a wave of volatility has been re-introduced to the system, investors are flocking toward blue-chip companies for stability and long-term growth potential. Thus, one could consider adding these three fundamentally sound blue-chip stocks, AbbVie (ABBV), Merck & Co. (MRK), and Johnson & Johnson (JNJ), with Strong Buy ratings from analysts. Read more… When markets get unpredictable, many investors turn to blue-chip stocks for stability. These companies are known for their solid financials, steady growth, and reliable dividends, making them a wise choice for anyone looking to weather economic ups and downs.
Below, I have highlighted three fundamentally strong blue-chip stocks from the healthcare and pharmaceutical sector: AbbVie Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/ABBV/">ABBV</a>), Merck &amp; Co., Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/MRK/">MRK</a>), and Johnson &amp; Johnson (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/JNJ/">JNJ</a>) that one could consider investing in the near term.
Healthcare stocks, in particular, have a reputation for being dependable. They often hold up well during tough economic times because the need for healthcare doesn't go away, no matter what the market is doing. In fact, healthcare is the third-largest industry in the S&amp;P 500, and it's poised for growth. PwC expects medical costs to <a href="https://www.pwc.com/us/en/industries/health-industries/library/behind-the-numbers.html">rise 8% in 2025</a> for group markets, driven by inflation, prescription drug spending, and higher demand for mental health services.
At the same time, inflation persists. In November, consumer prices <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2024/12/11/cpi-inflation-november-2024-annual-inflation-rate-accelerates-to-2point7percent-in-november-as-expected.html">rose at a 2.7%</a> annual rate, slightly higher than in October. As a result, the Federal Open Market Committee adjusted its monetary policy, cutting the overnight borrowing rate to a target range of 4.25%-4.5%. With uncertainty looming over the stock market, investors can look to invest in blue-chip stocks that offer stability, value, and diversification, shielding investments from potential downturns.
With that in mind, let's evaluate the three <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/pharmaceuticals/">Medical - Pharmaceuticals</a> picks, beginning with the third choice.
Stock #3: Johnson &amp; Johnson (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/JNJ/">JNJ</a>)
JNJ is engaged in researching, developing, manufacturing, and selling healthcare products primarily focused on human health and well-being. The company offers a diversified range of products through the Innovative Medicine and MedTech segments.
On December 30, 2024, JNJ announced that the European Commission approved RYBREVANT&#xAE; (amivantamab) in combination with LAZCLUZE&#x2122; (lazertinib) for the first-line treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in adults with EGFR mutations. This chemotherapy-free combination has shown superior efficacy compared to Osimertinib monotherapy for treating EGFR-mutated NSCLC.
Last year, in August, JNJ acquired V-Wave Ltd., a privately held company specializing in innovative heart failure treatment. The deal included an upfront payment of $60 million, with the potential for additional payments of up to $1.1 billion. This acquisition is set to enhance JNJ MedTech's position in the cardiovascular space, broadening its portfolio of advanced heart failure treatment options.
For the third quarter of 2024, which ended on September 29, JNJ's sales to customers increased 5.2% year-over-year to $22.47 billion. Its gross profit rose 5.2% from the year-ago value to $15.51 billion, while its adjusted net earnings from continuing operations amounted to $5.88 billion or $2.42 per share in the same period. Also, the company's <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/freecashflow.asp">free cash flow</a> for the quarter increased 16.9% year-over-year to $14 billion.
As per the updated guidance for the fiscal year 2024, JNJ forecasts operational sales between $89.20 billion and $89.60 billion, a 6% increase from 2023, primarily driven by recent acquisitions. The company also expects adjusted EPS between $9.97 and $10.07.
The consensus revenue estimate of $88.79 billion for the fiscal year 2024, which ended on December 31, represents a 4.3% increase year-over-year. The consensus EPS estimate of $9.96 for the same period indicates a marginal improvement year-over-year. The company has an impressive earnings surprise history; it surpassed the consensus EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters.
The stock has gained 1.1% year-to-date to close the last trading session at $146.23.
JNJ's <a href="https://stocknews.com/powr-ratings/">POWR Ratings</a> reflect its promising outlook. The stock has an overall rating of A, which equates to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system. The POWR Ratings are calculated by considering 118 different factors, with each factor weighted to an optimal degree.
JNJ has a B grade for Value, Stability, Sentiment, and Quality. It is ranked #14 out of 152 stocks in the <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/pharmaceuticals/">Medical - Pharmaceuticals</a> industry. <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/JNJ/">Click here</a> to see the additional ratings for JNJ (Growth and Momentum).
Stock #2: Merck &amp; Co., Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/MRK/">MRK</a>)
MRK is a global healthcare company offering health solutions through its prescription medicines, including biologic therapies, vaccines, and animal health products. It operates through two segments: Pharmaceutical and Animal Health.
On January 8, 2025, MRK announced that China's National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) has approved GARDASIL&#xAE; (Human Papillomavirus Quadrivalent Vaccine, Types 6, 11, 16, and 18) for use in males aged 9 to 26. With this approval, GARDASIL became the first HPV vaccine authorized in China for preventing HPV-related cancers and diseases in males.
On November 19, the company's board of directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.81 per share of the company's common stock for the first quarter of 2025. This dividend was paid to its shareholders on January 8, 2025.
With 14 years of consecutive dividend growth, MRK's annual dividend of $3.24 translates to a yield of 3.21% on the current share price. Its four-year average yield is 2.87%. The company's dividend payout has grown at a CAGR of 6.1% over the past three years.
MRK's sales for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024, increased 4.4% year-over-year to $16.66 billion, while its KEYTRUDA product sales improved by 17.2% from the year-ago value to $ 7.43 billion. The company's non-GAAP net income and non-GAAP EPS for the quarter stood at $3.98 billion and $1.57, respectively.
According to the full-year 2024 guidance, MRK forecasts worldwide sales to range from $63.60 billion to $64.10 billion, an increase from the previous guidance of $63.40 billion to $64.40 billion. The company also expects non-GAAP EPS to be between $7.72 and $7.77.
Analysts expect MRK's revenue for the fourth quarter (ended December 2024) to increase 5.9% year-over-year to $15.49 billion, while its EPS for the same period is expected to grow significantly from the prior year to $1.80. Moreover, the company topped the consensus revenue estimates in each of the trailing four quarters.
The stock has gained marginally year-to-date to close the last trading session at $99.85.
It is no surprise that MRK has an overall rating of A, equating to a Strong Buy in our POWR Ratings system. It also has an A grade for Quality and a B for Value and Stability. Within the same industry, it is ranked #8 out of 152 stocks.
In addition to the POWR Rating grades I've just highlighted, you can see MRK's Growth, Momentum, and Sentiment ratings <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/MRK/">here</a>.
Stock #1: AbbVie Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/ABBV/">ABBV</a>)
ABBV is a global diversified research-based biopharmaceutical company engaged in manufacturing and selling medications and therapies. It offers a comprehensive product portfolio across Immunology, Oncology, Neuroscience, Eye Care, Aesthetics, and Other Specialties.
On December 13, 2024, ABBV announced the acquisition of Nimble Therapeutics to strengthen its immunology pipeline further. The deal includes Nimble's lead asset, an investigational oral peptide IL-23R inhibitor currently in preclinical development for psoriasis, as well as a pipeline of innovative oral peptide candidates targeting various autoimmune diseases with significant unmet needs.
Additionally, ABBV will gain access to Nimble's proprietary peptide synthesis, screening, and optimization platform, designed to enable the discovery and optimization of oral peptide therapeutics.
On October 30, the company's board of directors increased the quarterly dividend from $1.55 to $1.64 per share, payable on February 14, 2025 to the shareholders of record on January 15, 2025. This reflects an increase of approximately 5.8%, continuing ABBV's strong commitment to returning cash to shareholders through a growing dividend.
It pays an annual dividend of $6.56, which translates to a yield of 3.65% at the current share price. Its four-year average dividend yield is 3.89%. Moreover, the company's dividend payouts have increased at an impressive CAGR of 7.7% over the past five years.
During the fiscal third quarter (ended September 30, 2024), ABBV's net revenue increased 3.8% year-over-year to $14.46 billion, while the company's Neuroscience segment reported net revenue of $2.36 billion, indicating a 15.6% growth from the prior-year quarter. ABBV's operating earnings came in at $3.83 billion, up 67.9% year-over-year, while its adjusted earnings per share grew 1.7% from the year-ago value to $3.
Looking ahead, ABBV forecasts full-year 2024 and raises its adjusted EPS to range between $10.90 and $10.94, from the prior forecast of $10.67 and $10.87.
Street expects ABBV's revenue and EPS for the fiscal fourth quarter (ended December 2024) to increase 3.5% and 3.4% year-over-year to $14.80 billion and $2.88, respectively. Moreover, it beat the revenue estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, which is promising.
Shares of ABBV have gained 6.7% over the past six months and 10.1% over the past year to close the last trading session at $178.50.
ABBV's strong fundamentals are reflected in its POWR Ratings. The stock has an overall rating of A, which translates to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system.
It has a B grade for Growth, Value, Stability, Sentiment, and Quality. Out of 152 stocks in the Medical - Pharmaceuticals industry, ABBV is ranked #3. <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/ABBV/">Click here</a> to see ABBV's rating for Momentum.
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<hr />
JNJ shares fell $0.01 (-0.01%) in after-hours trading Wednesday. Year-to-date, JNJ has declined -1.62%, versus a 0.58% rise in the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index during the same period.
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: Shweta Kumari</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Shweta-Kumari_Image-2.jpg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;">Shweta's profound interest in financial research and quantitative analysis led her to pursue a career as an investment analyst. She uses her knowledge to help retail investors make educated investment decisions.<a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=shweta-kumari">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/jnj-abbv-mrk-3-blue-chip-stocks-with-strong-buy-ratings-from-analysts/>3 Blue-Chip Stocks with Strong Buy Ratings from Analysts</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

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