Merck & Co (NYSE:MRK) Stock, Quote.Headers.trade-ideas

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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On Saturday, Pfizer Inc (NYSE: PFE) presented positive trial data for experimental drug designed for patients suffering from cancer cachexia during the European Society for Medical Oncology 2024 Congress.

Pfizer Advances On Its Cancer Journey

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Merck&#39;s Keytruda Secures First FDA-Approval For Rare Form Aggressive Cancer

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Merck reported topline data from its HERTHENA-Lung02 phase 3 trial of patritumab deruxtecan in EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer, showing significant improvement in progression-free survival compared to chemotherapy.

Merck/Daiichi Sankyo Partnered Lung Cancer Candidate Meets Primary Goal In Late-Stage Study

Merck & Co Inc

Marker Therapeutics Inc

Innovative technology represents a breakthrough scientific achievement for one of the most common feline infectious diseases

Merck Animal Health Announces Expansion Of NOBIVAC NXT Platform With First And Only RNA-Particle Technology Vaccine For Feline Leukemia Virus

Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bearish approach towards Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in MRK usually suggests something big is about to happen.
We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 11 extraordinary options activities for Merck &amp; Co. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.
The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 45% leaning bullish and 54% bearish. Among these notable options, 2 are puts, totaling $84,071, and 9 are calls, amounting to $500,344.
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $110.0 and $125.0 for Merck &amp; Co, spanning the last three months.
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Merck &amp; Co stands at 3469.29, with a total volume reaching 7,958.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Merck &amp; Co, situated within the strike price corridor from $110.0 to $125.0, throughout the last 30 days.
<h3>Merck &amp; Co 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727118928_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$1.74</td>
<td>$1.65</td>
<td>$1.68</td>
<td>$117.00</td>
<td>$120.4K</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$2.77</td>
<td>$2.72</td>
<td>$2.72</td>
<td>$120.00</td>
<td>$98.3K</td>
<td>4.8K</td>
<td>64</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$0.76</td>
<td>$0.72</td>
<td>$0.75</td>
<td>$120.00</td>
<td>$67.2K</td>
<td>9.8K</td>
<td>998</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$9.95</td>
<td>$9.85</td>
<td>$9.89</td>
<td>$115.00</td>
<td>$49.4K</td>
<td>298</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$3.0</td>
<td>$2.98</td>
<td>$2.98</td>
<td>$115.00</td>
<td>$45.2K</td>
<td>4.5K</td>
<td>468</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>Current Position of Merck &amp; Co</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 3,262,924, the price of MRK is down by -1.08%, reaching $115.9.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 38 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Merck &amp; Co</h3>
A total of 2 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $155.0.
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; Reflecting concerns, an analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald lowers its rating to Overweight with a new price target of $155. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald has revised its rating downward to Overweight, adjusting the price target to $155. 
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

Merck & Co Unusual Options Activity For September 23

On Saturday, Pfizer Inc (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/pfe#NYSE">PFE</a>) presented positive trial data for experimental drug designed for patients suffering from&nbsp;cancer cachexia during the European Society for Medical Oncology 2024 Congress. Affecting as many as&nbsp;9 million people across the globe, cancer cachexia is a life-threatening condition that causes cancer patients to lose appetite and consequently, weight.
<h3>Paving The Way For The World&rsquo;s First Treatment For Cancer Cachexia</h3>
The mid-stage trial results showed that patients that were treated with the experimental drug that Pfizer developed showed improvements in body weight, muscle mass, quality of life and physical function. Therefore, the drug which is a monoclonal antibody called ponsegromab could become the first treatment approved in the U.S. specifically&nbsp;for this condition. This would translate to Pfizer saving many lives as 80% of cancer patients who suffer from this condition are not expected to make it beyond a year of being diagnosed as they are unable to meet their body&rsquo;s energy and nutritional needs. The condition also makes the general treatment of cancer less effective and lowers the odds of survival as it leaves the patient even weaker, unable to tolerate the treatment.&nbsp;
<h3>The Trial</h3>
Involving&nbsp;187 patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer, pancreatic cancer or colorectal cancer and high levels of a key driver of cachexia, patients who took the highest dose of ponsegromab, which is 400 milligrams, over the course of 12 weeks&nbsp;observed a&nbsp;5.6% increase in weight compared to those patients who received a placebo. Patients who took lower doses of 200 or 100-milligrams observed roughly 3.5% and 2% increase in body weight compared to the placebo group. Pfizer added that experts consider weight gain greater than 5% as a &ldquo;clinically meaningful difference&rdquo; when it comes to cancer patients with cachexia and noted that increased appetite and improvement in physical activity is what was most encouraging.&nbsp;&nbsp;The good news is that no significant side effects of the drug were observed. Pfizer is planning to begin late-stage development studies in 2025 that can be used to file for approval, while also studying the effect of ponsegromab in a phase two trial in patients diagnosed with heart failure.
Catching up to Moderna Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/mrna#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>) and others on the cancer front.
It&rsquo;s no secret that Pfizer has turned to oncology in an effort to combat the Covid-19 decline.&nbsp;&nbsp;To turn its business around, it targeted as many as 8 blockbuster cancer drugs by the end of this decade. One of its main Covid-19 rivals, Moderna is expected to launch its experimental cancer vaccine as early as next year.
Together with Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/mrk#NYSE">MRK</a>), Moderna is currently testing their combined treatment for advanced melanoma in a large-scale Phase III trial. Approximately, 1,089 patients at more than 165 sites across the globe will be tested to assess the efficiency of the experimental vaccine mRNA-4157 that Moderna and Merck co-developed, along with the immunotherapy drug, Keytruda, that is already a blockbuster for Merck. The study will assess the efficiency of the treatment that Moderna and Merck created in achieving a recurrence-free survival, while the secondary endpoints are distant metastasis-free survival, along with overall survival and safety.
&nbsp;
Codenamed mRNA-4359, Moderna also designed a vaccine to boost people&#39;s immunity to better recognize and fight a variety of advanced solid tumor cancers. During the above-mentioned congress that took place in Barcelona, Spain, on Saturday, researchers at King&rsquo;s College London&nbsp;presented&nbsp;Phase I/II trial to test Moderna&rsquo;s vaccine candidate, more precisely its ability to sensitize the immune system to two specific proteins commonly common in tumor cells as well as other cells that suppress the immune system, PD-L1 and IDO1.&nbsp;From 16 patients diagnosed with advanced lung cancer, melanoma, and other solid tumors who were able to have their responses measured, eight patients showed no signs of their tumors growing and there were no new tumors formed. In addition, tests found that the vaccine seemed to generate a noticeable increase in immune cells that could recognize PD-L1 and IDO1.&nbsp;While more data will be needed to know whether mRNA-4359 can work as hoped, these results are promising.&nbsp;
The future of cancer treatment looks bright.
Besides vaccines designed to help patients combat cancer, Mainz Biomed N.V. (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/mynz#NASDAQ">MYNZ</a>) advanced on the early screening and prevention front. A molecular genetics diagnostic company specialized in the early detection of cancer,&nbsp;Mainz Biomed is currently seeking FDA approval for its colorectal cancer test, ColoAlert. With an innovative portfolio of mRNA biomarkers, Mainz Biomed is promising to set a new gold standard for noninvasive detection of advanced adenoma, which is a well-known pre-cancerous condition. This week, Mainz Biomed announced its newest Brand Ambassador,&nbsp;Petra Smeltzer Starke, known serving as&nbsp;General Counsel to the White House Council of Economic Advisors and Senior Advisor to President Obama. Ms. Smeltzer Starke&rsquo;s role will be to help to raise awareness on the importance of early detection of colorectal cancer. If diagnosed early, up to 90% of colorectal cancer cases can be treated successfully. Therefore, early screening makes all the difference.&nbsp;
By the looks of it, years ahead seem promising when it comes to revolutionizing cancer treatment.&nbsp;
DISCLAIMER: This content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as investing advice.
This article is from an unpaid external contributor. It does not represent Benzinga&#39;s reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.

The first opinion recommends the approval of KEYTRUDA in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel, followed by KEYTRUDA as a single agent, for the first-line treatment of adult patients with primary advanced or recurrent endometrial carcinoma who are candidates for systemic therapy.
The second positive opinion recommends the approval of KEYTRUDA in combination with chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for the treatment of FIGO (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) 2014 Stage III-IVA locally advanced cervical cancer in adults who have not received prior definitive therapy.
The CHMP&#39;s recommendations will now be reviewed by the European Commission for marketing authorization in the European Union (EU), and final decisions are expected in the&nbsp;fourth quarter&nbsp;of 2024.

Merck Says European Medicines Agency's CHMP Adopted Positive Opinions Recommending Approval Of Keytruda (Pembrolizumab), Its Anti-PD-1 Therapy, For Two Indications In Gynecologic Cancers

Wednesday, the FDA approved Merck &amp; Co Inc&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) Keytruda (pembrolizumab) in combination with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy for the first-line treatment of adult patients with unresectable advanced or metastatic <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/09/b40915575/fda-approves-mercks-keytruda-pembrolizumab-plus-pemetrexed-and-platinum-chemotherapy-as-first-line" rel="noreferrer noopener">malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM).</a>
The approval marks the first indication for Keytruda in MPM in the U.S.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/09/40896344/merckdaiichi-sankyo-partnered-lung-cancer-candidate-meets-primary-goal-in-late-stage-study" rel="noreferrer noopener">Merck/Daiichi Sankyo Partnered Lung Cancer Candidate Meets Primary Goal In Late-Stage Study</a>.
MPM&nbsp;is&nbsp;a rare, aggressive cancer that forms in the lining of the lungs and chest.
The approval is based on pivotal Phase 2/3 IND.227/KEYNOTE-483 trial data.
Keytruda plus chemotherapy demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in overall survival (OS), reducing the risk of death by 21% compared to chemotherapy alone.
Median OS was 17.3 months for Keytruda plus chemotherapy versus 16.1 months for chemotherapy alone.
Keytruda plus chemotherapy also significantly improved progression-free survival (PFS) versus chemotherapy alone.
The overall response rate (ORR) was significantly higher for Keytruda plus chemotherapy versus chemotherapy alone (52% versus 29%), respectively.
Adverse reactions occurring in patients with MPM were generally similar to those in other patients receiving Keytruda in combination with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy.
In August, Merck discontinued two Keytruda <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/08/40627374/merck-pulls-plug-on-two-keytruda-late-stage-studies-on-underwhelming-data" rel="noreferrer noopener">late-stage studies</a>.
<ul>
<li>Phase 3 KEYNOTE-867 trial evaluating Keytruda (pembrolizumab) in combination with stereotactic body radiotherapy for stage I or II non-small cell lung cancer, including those who are medically inoperable or <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/08/b40621006/merck-provides-update-on-phase-3-keynote-867-and-keynote-630-trials" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">have refused surgery</a>.</li>
<li>Phase 3 KEYNOTE-630 trial of Keytruda for the adjuvant treatment of patients with high-risk locally advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) following surgery and radiation, based on the recommendation of an independent DMC.</li>
</ul>
Price Action: MRK stock is trading 0.04% higher at $118.34&nbsp;at the last check on Wednesday.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/24/09/40919923/consumer-giant-reckitt-seeks-help-from-investment-banks-to-evaluate-options-for-homecare-brands-baby" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Consumer Giant Reckitt Seeks Help From Investment Banks To Evaluate Options For Homecare Brands, Baby Formula</a>.</li>
</ul>

Merck's Keytruda Secures First FDA-Approval For Rare Form Aggressive Cancer

Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bullish approach towards Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in MRK usually suggests something big is about to happen.
We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 8 extraordinary options activities for Merck &amp; Co. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.
The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 75% leaning bullish and 0% bearish. Among these notable options, 4 are puts, totaling $160,474, and 4 are calls, amounting to $152,824.
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $100.0 to $145.0 for Merck &amp; Co over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Merck &amp; Co stands at 3342.14, with a total volume reaching 7,571.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Merck &amp; Co, situated within the strike price corridor from $100.0 to $145.0, throughout the last 30 days.
<h3>Merck &amp; Co 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726680732_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$0.2</td>
<td>$0.01</td>
<td>$0.1</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$65.1K</td>
<td>8.5K</td>
<td>6.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$5.1</td>
<td>$5.05</td>
<td>$5.05</td>
<td>$140.00</td>
<td>$62.1K</td>
<td>195</td>
<td>125</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$1.53</td>
<td>$1.46</td>
<td>$1.46</td>
<td>$105.00</td>
<td>$42.3K</td>
<td>7.3K</td>
<td>290</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$3.7</td>
<td>$2.99</td>
<td>$3.5</td>
<td>$135.00</td>
<td>$35.0K</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
<td>100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$2.65</td>
<td>$2.61</td>
<td>$2.65</td>
<td>$145.00</td>
<td>$28.0K</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>145</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.
Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Merck &amp; Co, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.
<h3>Current Position of Merck &amp; Co</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 3,730,655, the price of MRK is up by 0.01%, reaching $118.3.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 36 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On Merck &amp; Co</h3>
In the last month, 2 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $155.0.
<ul>
<li>An analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald has revised its rating downward to Overweight, adjusting the price target to $155. </li>
<li>An analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald has revised its rating downward to Overweight, adjusting the price target to $155. </li>
</ul>
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Merck &amp; Co, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Behind the Scenes of Merck & Co's Latest Options Trends

The FDA Approves Merck's Keytruda In Combination With Pemetrexed And Platinum Chemotherapy, For The First-line Treatment Of Adult Patients With Unresectable Advanced Or Metastatic Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma

In today's fast-paced and competitive business landscape, it is essential for investors and industry enthusiasts to thoroughly analyze companies before making investment decisions. In this article, we will conduct a comprehensive industry comparison, evaluating Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) against its key competitors in the Pharmaceuticals industry. By examining key financial metrics, market position, and growth prospects, we aim to provide valuable insights for investors and shed light on company's performance within the industry.
<h3>Merck &amp; Co Background</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.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Company</th>
<th>P/E</th>
<th>P/B</th>
<th>P/S</th>
<th>ROE</th>
<th>EBITDA (in billions)</th>
<th>Gross Profit (in billions)</th>
<th>Revenue Growth</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Merck &amp; Co Inc</td>
<td>21.84</td>
<td>6.86</td>
<td>4.81</td>
<td>13.0%</td>
<td>$7.45</td>
<td>$12.37</td>
<td>7.16%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eli Lilly and Co</td>
<td>113.74</td>
<td>61.32</td>
<td>21.44</td>
<td>22.5%</td>
<td>$4.12</td>
<td>$9.13</td>
<td>35.98%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Novo Nordisk AS</td>
<td>45.94</td>
<td>36.50</td>
<td>16.01</td>
<td>18.97%</td>
<td>$35.74</td>
<td>$57.79</td>
<td>25.34%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Johnson &amp; Johnson</td>
<td>25.26</td>
<td>5.62</td>
<td>4.74</td>
<td>6.62%</td>
<td>$7.8</td>
<td>$15.58</td>
<td>4.31%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AstraZeneca PLC</td>
<td>38.37</td>
<td>6.20</td>
<td>5.03</td>
<td>5.01%</td>
<td>$4.12</td>
<td>$10.76</td>
<td>13.33%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Novartis AG</td>
<td>23.92</td>
<td>5.67</td>
<td>4.94</td>
<td>7.97%</td>
<td>$5.25</td>
<td>$9.7</td>
<td>9.6%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sanofi SA</td>
<td>30.80</td>
<td>1.78</td>
<td>2.74</td>
<td>1.53%</td>
<td>$2.03</td>
<td>$7.97</td>
<td>6.53%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>GSK PLC</td>
<td>14.71</td>
<td>4.71</td>
<td>1.91</td>
<td>8.32%</td>
<td>$2.31</td>
<td>$5.76</td>
<td>9.84%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Zoetis Inc</td>
<td>38.09</td>
<td>17.72</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>12.45%</td>
<td>$0.97</td>
<td>$1.69</td>
<td>8.3%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Takeda Pharmaceutical Co Ltd</td>
<td>44.38</td>
<td>0.85</td>
<td>1.50</td>
<td>1.26%</td>
<td>$388.51</td>
<td>$821.04</td>
<td>14.11%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd</td>
<td>20.07</td>
<td>3.78</td>
<td>3.87</td>
<td>4.84%</td>
<td>$21.72</td>
<td>$46.34</td>
<td>13.87%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLC</td>
<td>18.57</td>
<td>1.80</td>
<td>1.96</td>
<td>4.52%</td>
<td>$0.36</td>
<td>$0.91</td>
<td>6.95%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Organon &amp; Co</td>
<td>5.38</td>
<td>37.33</td>
<td>0.85</td>
<td>203.12%</td>
<td>$0.43</td>
<td>$0.94</td>
<td>-0.06%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Corcept Therapeutics Inc</td>
<td>34.04</td>
<td>6.74</td>
<td>7.48</td>
<td>6.14%</td>
<td>$0.04</td>
<td>$0.16</td>
<td>39.15%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Prestige Consumer Healthcare Inc</td>
<td>18.01</td>
<td>2.17</td>
<td>3.32</td>
<td>2.94%</td>
<td>$0.08</td>
<td>$0.15</td>
<td>-4.36%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Average</td>
<td>33.66</td>
<td>13.73</td>
<td>6.13</td>
<td>21.87%</td>
<td>$33.82</td>
<td>$70.57</td>
<td>13.06%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
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 </style>When closely examining Merck &amp; Co, the following trends emerge: 
<ul>
<li>
A Price to Earnings ratio of 21.84 significantly below the industry average by 0.65x suggests undervaluation. This can make the stock appealing for those seeking growth.
</li>
<li>
Considering a Price to Book ratio of 6.86, which is well below the industry average by 0.5x, the stock may be undervalued based on its book value compared to its peers.
</li>
<li>
With a relatively low Price to Sales ratio of 4.81, which is 0.78x the industry average, the stock might be considered undervalued based on sales performance.
</li>
<li>
The company has a lower Return on Equity (ROE) of 13.0%, which is 8.87% below the industry average. This indicates potential inefficiency in utilizing equity to generate profits, which could be attributed to various factors.
</li>
<li>
With lower Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) of $7.45 Billion, which is 0.22x below the industry average, the company may face lower profitability or financial challenges.
</li>
<li>
With lower gross profit of $12.37 Billion, which indicates 0.18x below the industry average, the company may experience lower revenue after accounting for production costs.
</li>
<li>
The company's revenue growth of 7.16% is significantly lower compared to the industry average of 13.06%. This indicates a potential fall in the company's sales performance.
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Debt To Equity Ratio</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726585251_0.png" alt="debt to equity" />
The debt-to-equity (D/E) ratio indicates the proportion of debt and equity used by a company to finance its assets and operations.
Considering the debt-to-equity ratio in industry comparisons allows for a concise evaluation of a company's financial health and risk profile, aiding in informed decision-making.
When examining Merck &amp; Co in comparison to its top 4 peers with respect to the Debt-to-Equity ratio, the following information becomes apparent:
<ul>
<li>
Merck &amp; Co is in a relatively stronger financial position compared to its top 4 peers, as evidenced by its lower debt-to-equity ratio of 0.87.
</li>
<li>
This implies that the company relies less on debt financing and has a more favorable balance between debt and equity.
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Takeaways</h3>
For Merck &amp; Co in the Pharmaceuticals industry, the PE, PB, and PS ratios are all low compared to peers, indicating potential undervaluation. However, the low ROE, EBITDA, gross profit, and revenue growth suggest weaker financial performance relative to industry competitors. This may reflect challenges in generating profits and growth for Merck &amp; Co within the sector.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Trading Ideas

Competitor Analysis: Evaluating Merck &amp; Co And Competitors In Pharmaceuticals Industry

Tuesday, Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) released topline data from the&nbsp;HERTHENA-Lung02&nbsp;phase 3 trial of patritumab deruxtecan in patients with locally advanced or metastatic&nbsp;EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who received prior EGFR tyrosine kinase <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/09/b40893317/patritumab-deruxtecan-demonstrated-statistically-significant-improvement-in-progression-free-survi" rel="noreferrer noopener">inhibitor (TKI) treatment</a>.
The study met its primary endpoint of progression-free survival (PFS), with patritumab deruxtecan demonstrating a statistically significant improvement versus platinum plus pemetrexed induction chemotherapy followed by pemetrexed maintenance chemotherapy.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/09/40694793/despite-medicare-negotiations-americans-may-still-have-to-pay-more-for-prescription-drugs" rel="noreferrer noopener">Despite Medicare Negotiations, Americans May Still Have To Pay More For Prescription Drugs</a>.
Overall survival (OS) data were immature at the time of the analysis, and the trial will continue to assess OS, a secondary endpoint.
Patritumab deruxtecan is a specifically engineered potential first-in-class HER3-directed DXd antibody drug conjugate (ADC) discovered by Daiichi Sankyo Ltd (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DSNKY#OTC">DSNKY</a>) and being jointly developed by Daiichi Sankyo and Merck.
The safety profile seen in HERTHENA-Lung02 was consistent with that observed for patritumab deruxtecan in previous lung cancer clinical trials, with no new safety signals identified.
The majority of interstitial lung disease (ILD) events were low-grade (grades 1 and 2). Two grade 5 ILD events were observed.
Recently,&nbsp;Summit Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMMT#NASDAQ">SMMT</a>)&nbsp;released data from the primary analysis of the Phase 3 HARMONi-2 trial of ivonescimab conducted in China,&nbsp;sponsored by collaboration&nbsp;partner&nbsp;Akeso, Inc.
The trial evaluated monotherapy ivonescimab against Merck&#8217;s Keytruda (pembrolizumab) in patients with locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer whose tumors have <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">positive PD-L1 expression</a>.
Ivonescimab monotherapy demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in the trial&#8217;s primary endpoint, progression-free survival, compared to monotherapy pembrolizumab, achieving a hazard ratio of 0.51.
Price Action: MRK stock is up 0.39% at $118.42 during the premarket session at last check Tuesday.
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</ul>

The&nbsp;HERTHENA-Lung02&nbsp;phase 3 trial evaluating patritumab deruxtecan in patients with locally advanced or metastaticEGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who received prior EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment met its primary endpoint of progression-free survival (PFS), demonstrating a statistically significant improvement versus platinum plus pemetrexed induction chemotherapy followed by pemetrexed maintenance chemotherapy.
Overall survival (OS) data were immature at the time of the analysis and the trial will continue to further assess OS, a secondary endpoint.

Daiichi Sankyo And Merck Report Patritumab Deruxtecan Showed Statistically Significant Progression-Free Survival Improvement In EGFR-Mutated Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Population

8 analysts have shared their evaluations of Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) during the recent three months, expressing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
The following table summarizes their recent ratings, shedding light on the changing sentiments within the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Indifferent</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">4</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Insights from analysts' 12-month price targets are revealed, presenting an average target of $144.12, a high estimate of $155.00, and a low estimate of $125.00. This current average represents a 2.29% decrease from the previous average price target of $147.50. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726513241_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Interpreting Analyst Ratings: A Closer Look</h2>
The standing of Merck &amp; Co among financial experts is revealed through an in-depth exploration of recent analyst actions. The summary below outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Louise Chen</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louise Chen</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Carter Gould</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$142.00</td>
<td>$145.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Geoff Meacham</td>
<td>B of A Securities</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$145.00</td>
<td>$150.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mohit Bansal</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$125.00</td>
<td>$140.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colin Bristow</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$142.00</td>
<td>$148.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Terence Flynn</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$134.00</td>
<td>$132.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louise Chen</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
<td>$155.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts adapt their recommendations to changing market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their response 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: Analyzing trends, analysts offer qualitative evaluations, ranging 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 predict movements in price targets, offering estimates for Merck &amp; Co's future value. Examining the current and prior targets offers insights into analysts' evolving expectations.</li>
</ul>
To gain a panoramic view of Merck &amp; Co's market performance, explore these analyst evaluations alongside essential financial indicators. Stay informed and make judicious decisions using our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MRK/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">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>A Deep Dive into Merck &amp; Co's Financials</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: Above industry benchmarks, the company's market capitalization emphasizes a noteworthy size, indicative of a strong market presence.
Positive Revenue Trend: Examining Merck &amp; Co's financials over 3 months reveals a positive narrative. The company achieved a noteworthy revenue growth rate of 7.16% as of 30 June, 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 net margin is impressive, surpassing industry averages. With a net margin of 33.86%, the company demonstrates strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Merck &amp; Co's ROE excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 13.0%. This signifies robust financial management and efficient use of shareholder equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Merck &amp; Co's ROA stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 4.99%, the company demonstrates effective utilization of assets and strong financial performance.
Debt Management: Merck &amp; Co's debt-to-equity ratio is below industry norms, indicating a sound financial structure with a ratio of 0.87.
<h2>What Are Analyst Ratings?</h2>
Within the domain of banking and financial systems, analysts specialize in reporting for specific stocks or defined sectors. Their work involves attending company conference calls and meetings, researching company financial statements, and communicating with insiders to publish "analyst ratings" for stocks. Analysts typically assess and rate each stock once per quarter.
Some analysts publish their predictions for metrics such as growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide additional guidance with their ratings. When using analyst ratings, it is important to keep in mind that stock and sector analysts are also human and are only offering their opinions to investors.
If you want to keep track of which analysts are outperforming others, you can view updated analyst ratings along withanalyst success scores in <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Analyst Ratings

A Closer Look at 8 Analyst Recommendations For Merck & Co

Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Louise Chen reiterates Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) with a Overweight and maintains $155 price target.

Price Target

Reiteration

Cantor Fitzgerald Reiterates Overweight on Merck & Co, Maintains $155 Price Target

On Saturday, NuCana plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NCNA#NASDAQ">NCNA</a>)&nbsp;presented final data from the Phase 2 NuTide:701 study at the ESMO Congress on NUC-7738 in combination with Merck &amp; Co Inc's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) Keytruda (pembrolizumab) for metastatic melanoma who were refractory to or had relapsed on prior <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/09/g40864700/nucana-presents-encouraging-data-on-nuc-7738-in-combination-with-pembrolizumab-in-pd-1-inhibitor-r" rel="noreferrer noopener">PD-1 inhibitor therapy</a>.
In this 12-patient cohort, most patients had received at least two prior lines of PD-1 inhibitor therapy.
Nine out of twelve (75%) achieved disease control, including two patients who achieved Partial Responses.
One of these patients, who had received two prior lines of PD-1 inhibitor-based therapy and had progressed on their latest treatment of ipilimumab plus nivolumab within two months, achieved a 55% reduction in tumor volume.
Seven of the 12 patients had a progression-free survival time of over five months.
Hugh Griffith, NuCana's Founder and CEO, said, "We are very excited to share these data on NUC-7738 in combination with pembrolizumab in PD-1 inhibitor refractory and resistant patients with melanoma. Outcomes in this patient population are very poor, with median progression-free survival of 2-3 months with the current standard of care, so we are very encouraged that the majority of patients who received this combination achieved a progression-free survival of more than five months."
In addition to achieving these encouraging efficacy signals, the combination of NUC-7738 and pembrolizumab had a favorable safety profile.
The company says NUC-7738 can sensitize PD-1-resistant tumors to rechallenge with PD-1 inhibitors due to its ability to target multiple aspects of the tumor microenvironment (TME) via the disruption of RNA polyadenylation and subsequent changes to gene expression in cancer cells.
Data from tumor biopsies obtained before and after NUC-7738-based treatment demonstrated increases in genes related to antigen presentation and T-cell activation.
In August, NuCana discontinued NuTide:323 study following a pre-planned initial analysis and recommendation from the NuTide:323&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/08/40651009/nucana-stock-plunges-on-colorectal-combo-therapy-trial-setback-ends-mid-stage-study-after-disappo" rel="noreferrer noopener">Study Steering Committee</a>.
While there were prognostic imbalances favoring the control arm, the Steering Committee believed that the combination of NUC-3373 with leucovorin, irinotecan, and bevacizumab (NUFIRI+bev) was unlikely to achieve the study's primary objective of superior Progression-Free Survival compared to the control arm of 5-FU, leucovorin, irinotecan, and bevacizumab (FOLFIRI+bev) in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ncna" rel="noreferrer noopener">the final analysis</a>.
Price Action: NCNA stock is up 166.50% at $6.62 during the premarket session at last check Monday.
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Movers

NCNA

NuCana's Encouraging Data From Resistant Melanoma Treatment Provides Some Relief After Disappointing Colorectal Cancer Data, Stock Surges

<ul>
<li>Results delivered in prestigious Proffered Paper oral presentation at ESMO Congress 2024</li>
<li>In patients with any PD-L1 expression (CPS ≥1), efti in combination with KEYTRUDA outperformance is largest in CPS ≥20 with 31.0% ORR (34.5% ORR including partial response after data cut-off) versus 18.5% ORR for KEYTRUDA</li>
<li>Efti in combination with KEYTRUDA led to a high durability of response of 17.5 months in patients with any PD-L1 expression and combination continues to have favourable safety profile</li>
<li>Statistically significant increase in absolute lymphocyte count biomarker seen in the efti in combination with KEYTRUDA arm shows efti's biological activity in a randomised setting
<ul>
<li>Based on the high unmet need and encouraging results to date, with Overall Survival expected in 2025, the path forward will be discussed with regulatory agencies</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>

IMMP

Immutep's Efti In Combination With MSD's KEYTRUDA Leads To Efficacy With Favourable Safety In First Line Head And Neck Cancer

<ul>
<li>In the Phase 3 LEAP-012 trial, KEYTRUDA plus LENVIMA in combination with TACE reduced the risk of disease progression or death by&nbsp;34%&nbsp;compared to TACE alone</li>
<li>Late-breaking first interim analysis results are being presented during a Presidential Symposium session at the European Society for Medical Oncology Congress 2024</li>
</ul>

ESALF

Reported Saturday, Merck And Eisai's Phase 3 LEAP-012 Trial OF KEYTRUDA-LENVIMA Combo Shows 34% Reduction In Progression For Advanced Liver Cancer

<ul>
<li>KEYNOTE-A18 is the first Phase 3 study of an immunotherapy in combination with CRT to demonstrate a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in overall survival versus CRT alone in these patients</li>
<li>Results&nbsp;were selected for the official press briefing and presentation during a Presidential Symposium session at the European Society for Medical Oncology Congress 2024 and published simultaneously in&nbsp;The Lancet</li>
</ul>

Reported Saturday, Merck's KEYTRUDA Plus Chemoradiotherapy Slashes Mortality Risk By 33% In Patients With Newly Diagnosed High-Risk Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer

<ul>
<li>KEYTRUDA is the first anti-PD-1/L1 therapy in combination with trastuzumab and chemotherapy to demonstrate a statistically significant improvement in OS in this patient population</li>
<li>Results from the final analysis of KEYNOTE-811 are being presented during a Proffered Paper Session at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congress 2024 and published simultaneously in the&nbsp;New England Journal of Medicine</li>
<li>In the U.S., KEYTRUDA, in combination with trastuzumab and chemotherapy, is indicated under accelerated approval for first-line treatment in the subset of this patient population whose tumors express PD-L1 (Combined Positive Score [CPS] &ge;1), based on prior KEYNOTE-811 results</li>
</ul>

Reported Saturday, Merck's KEYTRUDA Plus Trastuzumab and Chemotherapy Extends Survival In Advanced Gastric Cancer Or GEJ Adenocarcinoma

At 10 years, more than one-third (34.0%) of patients with advanced melanoma were alive after treatment with KEYTRUDA, compared to&nbsp;23.6%&nbsp;of patients treated with ipilimumab
For patients with advanced melanoma, these long-term follow-up data showed the 10-year OS rate for KEYTRUDA was&nbsp;34.0%&nbsp;versus&nbsp;23.6%&nbsp;for ipilimumab. KEYTRUDA demonstrated a sustained OS benefit, reducing the risk of death by&nbsp;29%&nbsp;(HR=0.71 [95%&nbsp;CI, 0.60-0.85]). At 10 years, KEYTRUDA more than doubled the median OS compared to ipilimumab (32.7 months versus 15.9 months).

Reported Sunday, Merck's KEYTRUDA Achieves Sustained 10-Year Survival Advantage Over Ipilimumab In Advanced Melanoma

Thursday,&nbsp;Moderna&nbsp;Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>)&nbsp;unveiled key updates at its annual R&amp;D Day by reducing annual R&amp;D spending by $1.1 billion by 2027, enabling a focus on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/09/40834547/moderna-outlines-post-covid-roadmap-cuts-research-budget-forecasts-2025-sales-below-expectations" rel="noreferrer noopener">ten prioritized products</a>.
The company expects R&amp;D expenses to fall from $4.8 billion in 2024E to $3.6 billion—$3.8 billion in 2027.
The strategy, expanding its portfolio into oncology and rare diseases, positions Moderna to deliver ten product approvals within the next three years.
Oppenheimer downgraded Moderna stock from Outperform to Perform and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MRNA/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">removed the price target</a>.
Oppenheimer analyst writes that with a restructured R&amp;D budget, Moderna&#8217;s non-respiratory assets will play a larger role in shaping the pipeline and face increased pressure to reach commercialization.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/09/40754517/modernas-investigational-mpox-vaccine-more-effective-than-current-approved-shot-animal-study-show" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moderna&#8217;s Investigational Mpox Vaccine More Effective Than Current Approved Shot, Animal Study Shows</a>.
RBC Capital Market decreased the price target from $90 to $75 while maintaining the Sector rating.
The analyst notes the COVID-19 vaccine maker pushed its breaking-even event by two years to 2028.
The analyst remains confident in Moderna&#8217;s cancer vaccine and the potential of its broader platform over the long term. However, near-term challenges continue to be seen, such as declining COVID-19 vaccination rates and the gradual uptake of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine.
Needham&#8217;s analyst highlights substantial commercial and competitive challenges in the respiratory vaccine market across all indications. Investors appear to view cytomegalovirus (CMV) as a less significant commercial opportunity, while the rare disease programs, including MMA and PA, are expected to have only modest peak sales potential, estimated at around $500 million.
The analyst says the INT Oncology program, developed in partnership with Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), offers the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/06/39138772/moderna-merck-reveal-three-year-data-for-individualized-cancer-therapy-in-high-risk-melanoma-pati" rel="noreferrer noopener">most upside potential</a>. However, progress has been slow, and revenue from this program is unlikely to materialize before 2027 or later. Needham maintains the Hold rating.
William Blair notes that Moderna&#8217;s pattern of issuing high financial expectations, followed by lowered guidance, has negatively impacted the company&#8217;s stock.
Since cutting its 2024 revenue forecast during its second-quarter earnings 2024 call, the stock has <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/08/40139012/moderna-stock-trading-lower-on-dismal-guidance-analysts-cuts-price-targets-noting-c" rel="noreferrer noopener">dropped approximately 40%</a>.
The analyst highlights that although Moderna has now pushed back its goal of breaking even to 2028, it will still need to double its revenue from the projected $3.0 billion-$3.5 billion in 2024 to $6.0 billion by 2028 to achieve breakeven along with reduced operating costs and streamlined COGS.
Piper Sandler reiterates the Overweight rating on Moderna but lowers the price target to $115 from $157.
Price Action: MRNA stock closed lower by 2.01% to $68.28 on Friday.
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Photo via <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Moderna_COVID-19_vaccine_%282021%29_F.jpg">Wikimedia Commons</a>

Analyst Color

Downgrades

Moderna Faces Analyst Downgrades Amid Revised R&D Restructured Strategy and Delayed Profitability Target

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with MRK, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
So how do we know what these investors just did? 
Today, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?utm_source=insights">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 8 uncommon options trades for Merck &amp; Co.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 0% bullish and 100%, bearish.
Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 4 are puts, for a total amount of $223,103, and 4 are calls, for a total amount of $197,991.
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $85.0 to $130.0 for Merck &amp; Co over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Merck &amp; Co's options for a given strike price. Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Merck &amp; Co's whale trades within a strike price range from $85.0 to $130.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Merck &amp; Co 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726256140_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$0.84</td>
<td>$0.82</td>
<td>$0.82</td>
<td>$114.00</td>
<td>$108.6K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$32.2</td>
<td>$32.0</td>
<td>$32.0</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
<td>$92.8K</td>
<td>136</td>
<td>29</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$0.96</td>
<td>$0.79</td>
<td>$0.96</td>
<td>$114.00</td>
<td>$54.0K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>3.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$2.72</td>
<td>$2.62</td>
<td>$2.61</td>
<td>$125.00</td>
<td>$44.3K</td>
<td>6.4K</td>
<td>186</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$0.99</td>
<td>$0.95</td>
<td>$0.99</td>
<td>$114.00</td>
<td>$32.5K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>4.3K</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.
Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Merck &amp; Co, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.
<h3>Present Market Standing of Merck &amp; Co</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 4,446,595, the MRK's price is down by -0.01%, now at $115.23. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 41 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Merck &amp; Co</h3>
Over the past month, 1 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $155.0.
<ul>
<li>Reflecting concerns, an analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald lowers its rating to Overweight with a new price target of $155.</li>
</ul>
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.

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Screenshot 2023-07-10 at 5.56.06 PM

GNPX

Gene Therapy Company Genprex, Inc. (NASDAQ: GNPX) Receives Fast Track Designation From The FDA For Its Small Cell Lung Cancer Drug Candidate

Press Releases

Ten-Year Data for Merck's KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) Demonstrates Sustained Overall Survival Benefit Versus Ipilimumab in Advanced Melanoma

KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) Plus Chemotherapy Before Surgery and Continued as Single Agent After Surgery Reduced Risk of Death by More Than One-Third (34%) Versus Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in High-Risk Early-Stage Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)

BeyondSpring Presents Efficacy/Safety Results from a Phase 2 Study of Pembrolizumab plus Plinabulin/Docetaxel in Metastatic NSCLC after Progressing on First-Line Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors at ESMO Congress 2024

PESG Releases Report on Nuvectis Pharma: With Summit Therapeutics Threatening to Dethrone Merck's Keytruda, Nuvectis' NXP900 is One to Watch

Could Nuvectis Pharma be the Next Summit Therapeutics? A New Report Highlights NXP900's Approach to NSCLC Treatment

Patritumab Deruxtecan Demonstrated Statistically Significant Improvement in Progression-Free Survival Versus Doublet Chemotherapy in Patients with Locally Advanced or Metastatic EGFR-Mutated Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer in HERTHENA-Lung02 Phase 3 Trial

FDA Approves Merck's KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) Plus Pemetrexed and Platinum Chemotherapy as First-Line Treatment for Adult Patients With Unresectable Advanced or Metastatic Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma (MPM)

Merck Receives Positive EU CHMP Opinions for KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) Regimens as Treatment for Patients With Two Types of Gynecologic Cancers

How Critical Demand for Metastatic Breast Cancer Therapies is Producing a Multi-Billion Dollar Opportunity for Biotechs

Merck Animal Health Announces Expansion of NOBIVAC® NXT Platform with the First and Only RNA-Particle Technology Vaccine for Feline Leukemia Virus

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