13 analysts have expressed a variety of opinions on Merck & Co MRK over the past quarter, offering a diverse set of opinions 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 | 6 | 1 | 6 | 0 | 0 |
| Last 30D | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 1M Ago | 4 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| 2M Ago | 1 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| 3M Ago | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
The 12-month price targets assessed by analysts reveal further insights, featuring an average target of $112.46, a high estimate of $125.00, and a low estimate of $96.00. Observing a downward trend, the current average is 9.49% lower than the prior average price target of $124.25.
Analyzing Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Breakdown
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| James Shin | Deutsche Bank | Lowers | Hold | $105.00 | $128.00 |
| Vamil Divan | Guggenheim | Lowers | Buy | $115.00 | $122.00 |
| Tim Anderson | B of A Securities | Lowers | Buy | $112.00 | $118.00 |
| Evan David Seigerman | BMO Capital | Lowers | Market Perform | $96.00 | $105.00 |
| Andrew Baum | Citigroup | Lowers | Buy | $115.00 | $125.00 |
| Terence Flynn | Morgan Stanley | Lowers | Equal-Weight | $106.00 | $113.00 |
| Andrew Baum | Citigroup | Lowers | Buy | $125.00 | $130.00 |
| Terence Flynn | Morgan Stanley | Lowers | Equal-Weight | $113.00 | $123.00 |
| Daina Graybosch | Leerink Partners | Lowers | Outperform | $119.00 | $136.00 |
| Colin Bristow | UBS | Lowers | Buy | $120.00 | $125.00 |
| Robyn Karnauskas | Truist Securities | Lowers | Hold | $110.00 | $130.00 |
| Evan David Seigerman | BMO Capital | Lowers | Market Perform | $105.00 | $136.00 |
| Tim Anderson | B of A Securities | Announces | Buy | $121.00 | - |
Key Insights:
- Action Taken: Analysts respond to changes in market conditions and company performance, frequently updating their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Merck & Co. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.
- Rating: Offering a comprehensive view, analysts assess stocks qualitatively, spanning from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Merck & Co compared to the broader market.
- Price Targets: Analysts navigate through adjustments in price targets, providing estimates for Merck & Co's future value. Comparing current and prior targets offers insights into analysts' evolving expectations.
Understanding these analyst evaluations alongside key financial indicators can offer valuable insights into Merck & Co's market standing. Stay informed and make well-considered decisions with our Ratings Table.
Stay up to date on Merck & Co analyst ratings.
About 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.
Merck & Co: A Financial Overview
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's revenue growth over a period of 3 months has been noteworthy. As of 30 September, 2024, the company achieved a revenue growth rate of approximately 4.35%. This indicates a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company encountered difficulties, with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Health Care sector.
Net Margin: Merck & Co's net margin is impressive, surpassing industry averages. With a net margin of 18.95%, the company demonstrates strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Merck & Co's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROE, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROE of 7.17%, the company showcases efficient use of equity capital and strong financial health.
Return on Assets (ROA): The company's ROA is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 2.74%, the company showcases effective utilization of assets.
Debt Management: With a below-average debt-to-equity ratio of 0.86, Merck & Co adopts a prudent financial strategy, indicating a balanced approach to debt management.
Analyst Ratings: Simplified
Analyst ratings serve as essential indicators of stock performance, provided by experts in banking and financial systems. These specialists diligently analyze company financial statements, participate in conference calls, and engage with insiders to generate quarterly ratings for individual stocks.
Some analysts also offer predictions for helpful metrics such as earnings, revenue, and growth estimates to provide further guidance as to what to do with certain tickers. It is important to keep in mind that while stock and sector analysts are specialists, they are also human and can only forecast their beliefs to traders.
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