Welcome to our dedicated page for Merck & Co. news (Ticker: MRK), a resource for investors and traders seeking the latest updates and insights on Merck & Co. stock.
Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, is a renowned American multinational pharmaceutical company headquartered in Rahway, New Jersey. Originally the American arm of Germany's Merck Group founded in 1668, Merck has established itself as a global leader in pharmaceuticals and vaccines.
Merck's core business is the development and manufacturing of medications and vaccines spanning several therapeutic areas such as cardiometabolic diseases, cancer, and infections. The company's immuno-oncology platform, particularly strong in cancer treatment, is a significant revenue driver. The firm’s oncology portfolio includes groundbreaking immunotherapies like KEYTRUDA, designed to treat melanoma and other cancers. KEYTRUDA, in combination with other therapies, has shown promising results in reducing cancer recurrence and improving survival rates.
Merck also boasts a robust vaccine business, offering vaccines for pediatric diseases and human papillomavirus (HPV). Their commitment to public health extends to Merck for Mothers, an initiative aimed at improving maternal health globally. In 2024, Merck surpassed its goal early by reaching over 30 million women with programs promoting safe, high-quality maternal care.
The company's animal health division is another sector of its diverse operations, providing solutions to improve animal health and productivity.
From a geographical perspective, nearly half of Merck's sales are generated in the United States. Financially, Merck maintains a solid position with ongoing investments in research and development to fuel innovation. The company is actively engaged in numerous partnerships and collaborative research initiatives to accelerate the development of new therapies.
Merck’s mission is rooted in scientific excellence and an unwavering commitment to improving lives. The company continues to invest in leading-edge research, with over 2,250 ongoing clinical trials, including more than 1,600 trials evaluating combination regimens. This dedication underpins Merck's strategy to address complex health challenges and advance global health.
Merck (NYSE: MRK) has initiated a cash tender offer for all outstanding shares of Imago BioSciences (NASDAQ: IMGO) at $36 per share. This follows a definitive agreement announced on November 21, 2022, to acquire Imago. The tender offer is set to expire on January 10, 2023. Upon successful completion, Imago will merge into a Merck subsidiary and become a wholly-owned entity. The tender offer is subject to conditions, including the tender of a majority of Imago's shares and necessary regulatory approvals. Closing is expected in Q1 2023.
Merck (NYSE: MRK) announced the presentation of new data on investigational drugs, including favezelimab, zilovertamab vedotin, and nemtabrutinib, at the 64th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting from Dec. 10-13, 2022, in New Orleans and virtually. Key findings will involve nearly 40 abstracts showcasing advancements in blood cancer treatments, including new insights on KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab). Dr. Gregory Lubiniecki emphasized Merck's commitment to enhancing the treatment landscape for blood cancer patients and the importance of their growing pipeline of therapies.
Merck (NYSE: MRK) announced a quarterly dividend of
Merck (NYSE: MRK) announced positive topline results from the pivotal Phase 3 KEYNOTE-859 trial, where KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) combined with chemotherapy significantly improved overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall response rate (ORR) for patients with HER2-negative advanced gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma. The independent Data Monitoring Committee confirmed these statistically significant findings. No new safety concerns were identified. Results will be presented at future medical meetings and submitted for regulatory review.
Merck's potential approval for LYNPARZA in combination with abiraterone for treating metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) has gained a positive opinion from the European Medicines Agency's CHMP. The Phase 3 PROpel trial results showed a 34% reduction in disease progression or death compared to placebo, with median radiographic progression-free survival of 24.8 months. While the safety profile aligns with prior studies, 14% of patients discontinued treatment due to side effects, including anemia and fatigue.
Merck (NYSE: MRK) announced a new systematic literature review published in the Expert Review of Vaccines, detailing the global effectiveness of the GARDASIL vaccine. Covering 138 studies from 23 countries, the review highlights significant reductions in high-grade cervical lesions and HPV infections among vaccinated populations. Key findings include a 73% reduction in CIN3+ lesions in females aged 14-17 and a 96% decrease in vaccine-type HPV infections. The review underscores the necessity of expanding vaccination efforts to combat HPV-related cancers globally.
Veeva Systems (NYSE: VEEV) has announced a ten-year strategic partnership with Merck (NYSE: MRK), building upon their existing 12-year collaboration. The agreement entails Merck adopting a Veeva-first approach for new software and data solutions, aimed at reducing operational costs and enhancing patient and healthcare professional experiences. Veeva will offer a strategic pricing model and seek Merck's input on product development. This partnership is designed to accelerate Merck's digital transformation and improve efficiency in utilizing Veeva’s integrated platform.
Merck (MRK) reported strong third-quarter 2022 results, with worldwide sales of $15.0 billion, a 14% increase year-over-year. Key drivers include KEYTRUDA sales rising 20% to $5.4 billion and GARDASIL growing 15% to $2.3 billion. Non-GAAP EPS for the quarter was $1.85, up 4% compared to last year. Despite positive momentum, GAAP EPS fell 29% to $1.28 due to increased costs related to collaborations and licensing agreements. The company raised its full-year sales outlook to between $58.5 billion and $59.0 billion, while lowering GAAP EPS expectations to $5.68-$5.73.
Merck (NYSE: MRK) announced the retirement of Kenneth C. Frazier after 30 years, effective November 30, 2022. He served as CEO from 2011 to 2021 and as chairman since 2011. The board has elected Robert M. Davis, currently CEO and president, as the new chairman, effective December 1, 2022. Frazier's tenure is marked by significant investments in research and product launches that have advanced global health initiatives. Davis's leadership is anticipated to build upon Frazier's legacy of purpose-driven leadership and commitment to stakeholders.
Merck (NYSE: MRK) announced that the European Commission approved an expanded indication for VAXNEUVANCE, a 15-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine. This approval allows active immunization for infants, children, and adolescents against diseases caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. In total, VAXNEUVANCE is now available in all 27 EU Member States and three additional countries. Key studies involving approximately 8,400 participants demonstrated noninferior immune responses compared to existing vaccines. Merck aims to strengthen protection against pneumococcal disease in vulnerable populations.
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