During the last three months, 6 analysts shared their evaluations of Merck & Co MRK, revealing diverse outlooks from bullish to bearish.
The table below summarizes their recent ratings, showcasing the evolving sentiments within the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
| Bullish | Somewhat Bullish | Indifferent | Somewhat Bearish | Bearish | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Ratings | 1 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Last 30D | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 1M Ago | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2M Ago | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 3M Ago | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Analysts provide deeper insights through their assessments of 12-month price targets, revealing an average target of $146.17, a high estimate of $155.00, and a low estimate of $134.00. This current average reflects an increase of 0.34% from the previous average price target of $145.67.
Interpreting Analyst Ratings: A Closer Look
The perception of Merck & Co by financial experts is analyzed through recent analyst actions. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
| Analyst | Analyst Firm | Action Taken | Rating | Current Price Target | Prior Price Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terence Flynn | Morgan Stanley | Raises | Equal-Weight | $134.00 | $132.00 |
| Louise Chen | Cantor Fitzgerald | Maintains | Overweight | $155.00 | $155.00 |
| Louise Chen | Cantor Fitzgerald | Maintains | Overweight | $155.00 | $155.00 |
| Louise Chen | Cantor Fitzgerald | Maintains | Overweight | $155.00 | $155.00 |
| Robyn Karnauskas | Truist Securities | Raises | Buy | $143.00 | $142.00 |
| Louise Chen | Cantor Fitzgerald | Maintains | Overweight | $135.00 | $135.00 |
Key Insights:
- Action Taken: In response to dynamic market conditions and company performance, analysts update their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise', or 'Lower' their stance, it signifies their reaction to recent developments related to Merck & Co. This insight gives a snapshot of analysts' perspectives on the current state of the company.
- Rating: Gaining insights, analysts provide qualitative assessments, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings reflect expectations for the relative performance of Merck & Co compared to the broader market.
- Price Targets: Analysts provide insights into price targets, offering estimates for the future value of Merck & Co's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.
Analyzing these analyst evaluations alongside relevant financial metrics can provide a comprehensive view of Merck & Co's market position. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with the assistance of our Ratings Table.
Stay up to date on Merck & Co analyst ratings.
Delving into Merck & Co's Background
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.
Merck & Co: Delving into Financials
Market Capitalization: Exceeding industry standards, the company's market capitalization places it above industry average in size relative to peers. This emphasizes its significant scale and robust market position.
Revenue Growth: Merck & Co displayed positive results in 3 months. As of 31 March, 2024, the company achieved a solid revenue growth rate of approximately 8.89%. This indicates a notable increase in the company's top-line earnings. In comparison to its industry peers, the company stands out with a growth rate higher than the average among peers in the Health Care sector.
Net Margin: Merck & Co's net margin surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive 30.19% net margin, the company effectively manages costs and achieves strong profitability.
Return on Equity (ROE): The company's ROE is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 12.22%, the company showcases effective utilization of equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): The company's ROA is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 4.48%, the company showcases effective utilization of assets.
Debt Management: Merck & Co's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average at 0.85, reflecting a lower dependency on debt financing and a more conservative financial approach.
The Significance of Analyst Ratings Explained
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 Benzinga Pro.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.
© 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
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