8 analysts have shared their evaluations of Merck & Co MRK 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.
| Bullish | Somewhat Bullish | Indifferent | Somewhat Bearish | Bearish | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Ratings | 2 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Last 30D | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 1M Ago | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2M Ago | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 3M Ago | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
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.
Interpreting Analyst Ratings: A Closer Look
The standing of Merck & 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.
| Analyst | Analyst Firm | Action Taken | Rating | Current Price Target | Prior Price Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louise Chen | Cantor Fitzgerald | Maintains | Overweight | $155.00 | $155.00 |
| Louise Chen | Cantor Fitzgerald | Maintains | Overweight | $155.00 | $155.00 |
| Carter Gould | Barclays | Lowers | Overweight | $142.00 | $145.00 |
| Geoff Meacham | B of A Securities | Lowers | Buy | $145.00 | $150.00 |
| Mohit Bansal | Wells Fargo | Lowers | Equal-Weight | $125.00 | $140.00 |
| Colin Bristow | UBS | Lowers | Buy | $142.00 | $148.00 |
| Terence Flynn | Morgan Stanley | Raises | Equal-Weight | $134.00 | $132.00 |
| Louise Chen | Cantor Fitzgerald | Maintains | Overweight | $155.00 | $155.00 |
Key Insights:
- 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 & Co. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.
- Rating: Analyzing trends, analysts offer qualitative evaluations, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Merck & Co compared to the broader market.
- Price Targets: Analysts predict movements in price targets, offering estimates for Merck & Co's future value. Examining the current and prior targets offers insights into analysts' evolving expectations.
To gain a panoramic view of Merck & Co's market performance, explore these analyst evaluations alongside essential financial indicators. Stay informed and make judicious decisions using our Ratings Table.
Stay up to date on Merck & Co analyst ratings.
Unveiling the Story Behind 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.
A Deep Dive into Merck & Co's Financials
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 & 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 & 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 & 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 & 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 & Co's debt-to-equity ratio is below industry norms, indicating a sound financial structure with a ratio of 0.87.
What Are Analyst Ratings?
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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