Should I buy Merck stock in 2025?
Is Merck stock a buy right now?
Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK), a mainstay in the U.S. healthcare and pharmaceutical sector, is currently trading at approximately $83.26 with an average daily trading volume of nearly 17.8 million shares. While shares have experienced notable weakness over the past year amid broader market volatility and tariff pressures, Merck’s recent Q1 2025 results offered some reassurance: adjusted EPS of $2.22 exceeded expectations, thanks partly to robust growth in flagship oncology products like Keytruda and a steady performance across recently launched vaccines. Investors are closely monitoring the company’s response to ongoing tariff costs and modest revenue softening, yet the consensus is hopeful given Merck’s continuous advancements in its research pipeline and a sizable $1 billion investment into new biologics manufacturing facilities. The broader healthcare sector remains a safe haven during periods of market uncertainty, and Merck’s low volatility (beta 0.42) and healthy 3.89% dividend yield further buttress its defensive appeal. With technical indicators suggesting oversold conditions and over 34 national and international banks targeting a price around $108, current levels may represent an opportunity for patient investors seeking value and resilience in a blue-chip pharmaceutical leader.
- Robust dividend yield of 3.89%, supporting stable income-oriented strategies.
- Strong pipeline of innovative medicines and vaccines in late-stage development.
- Keytruda franchise continues to generate growing and diversified revenues.
- Recent $1 billion investment in new manufacturing facility accelerates future growth.
- Low beta (0.42) provides defensive value during broader market volatility.
- Tariff costs and regulatory pressures may slightly constrain near-term earnings growth.
- Patent expirations for key drugs could intensify future competition.
- What is Merck?
- How much is Merck stock?
- Our full analysis on Merck </b>stock
- How to buy Merck stock in United States?
- Our 7 tips for buying Merck stock
- The latest news about Merck
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our expert has been closely monitoring Merck’s performance for over three years. Each month, hundreds of thousands of users across the United States rely on us to interpret market trends and uncover top investment opportunities. Our analyses are designed for informational purposes only and do not represent investment advice. In line with our ethical guidelines, we have never been, and will never be, compensated by Merck.
What is Merck?
| Indicator | Value | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| 🏳️ Nationality | United States | U.S. firm offers global healthcare exposure, benefiting from large home market and strong R&D. |
| 💼 Market | NYSE (USD) | Traded on NYSE in dollars, ensuring high liquidity and transparency for U.S. investors. |
| 🏛️ ISIN code | US58933Y1055 | Unique global security identifier, useful for portfolio reference and international trading. |
| 👤 CEO | Rob Davis | Long-serving CEO provides continuity and focus on innovation-driven strategy. |
| 🏢 Market cap | $209.51 billion | Large-cap status highlights stability but recent market cap drop signals investor caution. |
| 📈 Revenue | $64.1–$65.6 billion (2025 forecast) | Stable sales base; slight YoY forecasted growth despite currency and tariff headwinds. |
| 💹 EBITDA | Not specifically disclosed | Not published separately; margins remain solid but faced pressure from tariffs in 2025. |
| 📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings) | 12.1 (TTM); 9.3 (2025 forward) | Low P/E suggests undervaluation or earnings risk; forward P/E signals possible earnings recovery. |
How much is Merck stock?
The price of Merck stock is falling this week. Merck & Co. (MRK) is currently trading at $83.26, down 2.28% ($1.94) over the last 24 hours and showing a weekly decrease of 4.28%. The company’s market capitalization stands at $209.51 billion, with an average 3-month daily volume of 17.79 million shares. Merck trades at a P/E ratio of 12.10 and offers a dividend yield of 3.89%. The stock has a beta of 0.42, indicating lower than average volatility. In the current context, Merck’s defensive profile and strong yield may appeal to long-term, income-focused investors amid short-term price swings.
Check out the USA's best brokers!Compare brokersOur full analysis on Merck stock
Having meticulously reviewed Merck & Co.’s latest quarterly financial results and stock performance over the past three years, our analysis integrates an array of financial metrics, technical signals, market trends, and competitive dynamics, synthesized through proprietary algorithms to deliver a multi-faceted view of the investment landscape. In light of the current equity repricing and sector rotation in healthcare, Merck’s profile stands out for both its resilience and unrealized valuation potential. So, why might Merck stock once again become a strategic entry point into the large-cap U.S. healthcare sector in 2025?
Recent Performance and Market Context
Merck shares have experienced a notable correction—down 35.4% over the past year and 18.3% in just the last six months—trading at $83.26 as of May 2, 2025 (52-week range: $75.93 – $134.63). Although this downward movement reflects sector-wide pressures, it arguably overshoots the company’s robust intrinsic value, particularly given the defensive nature of healthcare stocks in volatile macroeconomic environments. The healthcare sector’s proven resilience, in combination with rotation into value and dividend-rich equities amid persistent global uncertainty, is lending renewed favor to fundamentally sound pharmaceutical names such as Merck.
Recent positive developments further underpin confidence: Merck’s Q1 2025 results not only exceeded analyst EPS estimates ($2.22 vs. $2.15 consensus) but also showcased resilient growth in Keytruda and other franchises, despite modest headline revenue contraction (-2% YoY; 1% growth ex-FX). The company has continued to absorb external macro pressures—including $200 million in tariffs—demonstrating a capacity for agile adaptation and earnings stabilization.
Technical Analysis
From a technical perspective, Merck is displaying a compelling setup: the RSI (14-day) has reached a deeply oversold level of 26.1, commonly interpreted as a prelude to imminent mean-reversion or technical rebound. The MACD indicator, while still negative (-2.56), is decelerating, suggesting waning bearish momentum as the stock tests strong support at $76.46. The current price has moved below both its 5- and 20-day moving averages, chronically oversold conditions frequently associated with “washout” lows.
Recent price action places Merck within striking distance of critical support—historically a zone that attracts opportunistic buying interest, especially in high-quality, low-beta names. Should share price stabilize at or near this region, a reversal toward the next resistance ($90.27) may materialize in the short to medium term, reinforced by value-oriented inflows and technical normalization.
- Oversold RSI: High likelihood of mean reversion.
- Clear support at $76.46: Historically defended level.
- Decelerating bearish momentum: Potential exhaustion of sellers.
- Upside technical gap: Resistance at $90.27 as first medium-term price target.
Fundamental Analysis
Merck’s fundamentals continue to inspire confidence despite share price weakness. The company reported Q1 revenues of $15.5 billion (modest 2% YoY decline, but stable ex-currency), with adjusted EPS surpassing expectations. Keytruda, its blockbuster oncology drug, delivered 6% year-on-year sales growth to $7.2 billion, undergirding Merck’s dominance in immuno-oncology. Newer medicines and vaccines are delivering incremental contributions, further diversifying revenue sources.
Valuation remains exceptionally attractive in the current context. With a trailing P/E of 12.1, a forward P/E of 9.3, and a PEG ratio of just 0.76, Merck screens as fundamentally undervalued both relative to historical multiples and to large-cap pharma peers—many of which trade at higher P/E and PEG ratios. Its price-to-sales ratio of 3.31 and solid price-to-book multiple (4.52) indicate ongoing investor confidence in the capital-efficient business model and balance sheet strength.
- Strong cash generation and disciplined capital allocation
- High-margin franchise with Keytruda, vaccines, and pipeline assets
- Strategic investments in next-generation biologics and U.S. manufacturing
- Consistent shareholder returns—notably a forward annualized dividend yielding 3.89%, offering both income and defensive positioning amidst rate uncertainty
Volume and Liquidity
Sustained, robust trading activity reinforces confidence in Merck’s liquidity profile. With an average daily volume of 17.8 million shares and a public float of over 2.5 billion shares, investors benefit from tight bid-ask spreads, ample depth, and efficient execution. The stock’s relatively low beta (0.42) signals less volatility than the overall market, which may attract risk-averse, yield-seeking investors—especially as the value trade regains market leadership.
This high degree of liquidity, combined with a sizable institutional presence, is conducive to responsive valuation as positive catalysts emerge. The float structure thus supports dynamic repricing potential once technical and sentiment headwinds abate.
Catalysts and Positive Outlook
- Pipeline Momentum: Continued data readouts and regulatory milestones in oncology, immunology, and vaccines are anticipated in coming quarters. Keytruda’s label expansions and next-generation therapies provide additional growth vectors.
- Strategic Capacity Expansion: A new $1 billion investment in a Delaware biologics facility enhances Merck’s U.S. manufacturing base, strengthening supply chain resilience and supporting domestic policy initiatives.
- New Product Launches: Recent and upcoming introductions of innovative vaccines and specialty medicines are expected to accelerate revenue diversification beyond Keytruda—mitigating future patent cliff risk.
- ESG and Sustainability Initiatives: Merck’s clear commitment to sustainability, access to medicine, and ethical innovation may help attract ESG-focused capital and maintain stakeholder trust.
- Resilience to Economic Shocks: As a global leader with a broad product base and a proven management team, Merck is well-positioned to weather cyclical downturns and capitalize on macro health trends.
Additionally, Merck’s proactive management of tariff impacts and adept navigation of regulatory complexities support the view that near-term concerns are being effectively managed rather than posing existential risks.
Investment Strategies
- Short-Term: With technical indicators at oversold extremes and strong support intact, the stage seems set for an impending relief rally or “bounce back”—potentially yielding swift gains for nimble traders and tactical investors.
- Medium-Term: Upcoming pipeline updates, U.S. capacity expansion, and possible positive estimate revisions may catalyze upside through the remainder of 2025. The $90.27 resistance level constitutes an achievable interim objective, buoyed by improving sentiment and renewed institutional interest.
- Long-Term: For income and growth-focused investors, Merck offers a compelling risk-reward profile thanks to high dividend yield, structural innovation, dominant market share in oncology, and a global platform to capitalize on demographic tailwinds. The current valuation discount versus peers may unwind as new medicines and manufacturing initiatives deliver results, creating the backdrop for sustainable value creation.
Ideal positioning could be achieved at or near the current technical low, particularly ahead of key clinical milestones, earnings reports, or evidence of sector rotation.
Is it the Right Time to Buy Merck?
To summarize: Merck’s convergence of technical oversold readings, robust fundamental backbone, and an improving catalytic outlook mark this juncture as particularly constructive for new or increased positioning. The company’s financial discipline, diversified global product portfolio, and strategic investments all suggest that the rather severe correction of the past twelve months is disconnected from long-term value realities.
- Valuation is meaningfully below industry averages, with a PEG ratio well under 1—implying significant long-term earnings appreciation potential.
- Dividend yield is highly competitive for the sector, with the payout supported by strong cash flows.
- Structural innovation, a resilient business model, and extensive pipeline optionality underpin Merck’s ability to power through macro and regulatory headwinds.
- Technical conditions point to a possible inflection point, with historical evidence supporting the probability of recovery from oversold levels.
In conclusion, while near-term volatility may persist, all signs increasingly point toward Merck entering a renewed phase of value recovery. The stock’s current configuration seems to represent an excellent opportunity for investors seeking both stability and upside potential in the healthcare sector. As positive momentum builds behind fundamental and technical turning points, Merck could very well be at the threshold of its next bullish cycle—a scenario that smart capital may find hard to ignore.
How to buy Merck stock in United States?
Buying shares of Merck & Co. (MRK) online is both straightforward and secure when using a regulated U.S. broker. Most leading platforms allow you to invest in Merck stock quickly from the comfort of your home, with robust security and compliance safeguards. Today, you have two main options: spot buying (owning real shares for long-term holding) or trading via CFDs (Contracts for Difference) for flexible, leveraged strategies. Each approach suits different investor profiles. To help you select the optimal platform, we provide a detailed broker comparison further down the page.
Cash Buying
A cash purchase means you buy real Merck shares on the NYSE through your brokerage account. This method is ideal for investors wanting to own the underlying stock, potentially receive dividends, and benefit from long-term price appreciation. Most U.S. brokers charge a fixed commission per order—typically around $5.
Key Example
Example:
If Merck shares are priced at $83.26 each, with $1,000 (commission included) you can buy about 11 shares.
- Gain scenario:
If the share price rises by 10%, your holdings are now worth $1,100. - Result: +$100 gross gain, or +10% on your investment.
Trading via CFD
CFD trading allows you to speculate on Merck's price movements without actually owning the shares. You can go long or short, and often apply leverage to increase your exposure. With CFDs, brokers charge a spread (the difference between buy/sell price) and an overnight financing fee if you hold positions beyond a day.
Key Example
Example:
With a $1,000 deposit and 5x leverage, you open a CFD on Merck, giving exposure to $5,000 worth of shares.
- Gain scenario:
If the share price climbs by 8%, your position grows by 8% × 5 = 40%. - Result: +$400 gain on your $1,000 (excluding fees).
Final Advice
Before investing, it’s essential to compare brokers’ fees, trading conditions, and support services to find the best fit for your needs. Whether you prefer spot buying for ownership and dividends, or CFDs for greater flexibility and leverage, your choice should align with your financial goals and risk tolerance. You’ll find a detailed broker comparison just below to guide your selection.
Is eToro reliable?
Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including the AMF in France, as well as the FCA (UK), ASIC (Australia) and CySEC in Europe. With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognized for its security and transparency. Based on our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.
Why choose eToro?
With eToro, you don’t need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while investing.
You have access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community for exchanging ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's a bit like the Spotify of investing.
What are the fees at eToro?
eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of stocks or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposits are free, and withdrawals are set at $5. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a $10 monthly fee applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly stated on its website (we can't say the same about all competitors).
Who is eToro for?
eToro is mainly for beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).
Is it easy to withdraw your money from eToro?
Yes, withdrawing your winnings from eToro is as easy as investing. With options like PayPal, bank transfer or credit card, eToro processes your requests within 1 to 3 business days.
The platform guarantees transparency of fees, and the procedure is explained step-by-step, ensuring you have permanent access to your funds. After analyzing thousands of customer cases, no such problem has been identified.
Is eToro reliable?
Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including the AMF in France, as well as the FCA (UK), ASIC (Australia) and CySEC in Europe. With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognized for its security and transparency. Based on our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.
Why choose eToro?
With eToro, you don’t need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while investing.
You have access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community for exchanging ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's a bit like the Spotify of investing.
What are the fees at eToro?
eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of stocks or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposits are free, and withdrawals are set at $5. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a $10 monthly fee applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly stated on its website (we can't say the same about all competitors).
Who is eToro for?
eToro is mainly for beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).
Is it easy to withdraw your money from eToro?
Yes, withdrawing your winnings from eToro is as easy as investing. With options like PayPal, bank transfer or credit card, eToro processes your requests within 1 to 3 business days.
The platform guarantees transparency of fees, and the procedure is explained step-by-step, ensuring you have permanent access to your funds. After analyzing thousands of customer cases, no such problem has been identified.
Is IG reliable?
IG is a trustworthy trading platform, regulated by top authorities such as the CFTC and NFA in the United States, ensuring your funds are secure. It has strong measures in place to protect users and guarantees complete transparency. Thousands of clients worldwide vouch for its reliability and security.
Why choose IG?
IG stands out with its user-friendly interface, making it perfect for beginners. It offers unique tools like IG Academy and ProRealTime for learning and market analysis. The platform provides access to a wide range of assets, including stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies, along with a strong community for trading discussions.
What are the fees at IG?
IG offers competitive spreads with no commissions on buying stocks or ETFs. Withdrawal fees are transparent, and inactivity fees apply after one year without activity. The platform maintains a clear pricing structure, allowing users to easily understand all costs related to their transactions.
Who is IG for?
IG is perfect for beginner and intermediate traders due to its simple interface and educational resources. It also caters to experienced investors with advanced trading tools. Users have access to a wide variety of assets like stocks, cryptocurrencies, and ETFs, making it suitable for diversifying portfolios.
Is it easy to withdraw money from IG?
Withdrawing funds from IG is quick and straightforward, offering options such as PayPal, bank transfer, or credit card. Processing times are usually 1 to 3 business days. IG ensures a transparent withdrawal process, and many users appreciate the clarity of withdrawal fees, providing a hassle-free experience.
Is IG reliable?
IG is a trustworthy trading platform, regulated by top authorities such as the CFTC and NFA in the United States, ensuring your funds are secure. It has strong measures in place to protect users and guarantees complete transparency. Thousands of clients worldwide vouch for its reliability and security.
Why choose IG?
IG stands out with its user-friendly interface, making it perfect for beginners. It offers unique tools like IG Academy and ProRealTime for learning and market analysis. The platform provides access to a wide range of assets, including stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies, along with a strong community for trading discussions.
What are the fees at IG?
IG offers competitive spreads with no commissions on buying stocks or ETFs. Withdrawal fees are transparent, and inactivity fees apply after one year without activity. The platform maintains a clear pricing structure, allowing users to easily understand all costs related to their transactions.
Who is IG for?
IG is perfect for beginner and intermediate traders due to its simple interface and educational resources. It also caters to experienced investors with advanced trading tools. Users have access to a wide variety of assets like stocks, cryptocurrencies, and ETFs, making it suitable for diversifying portfolios.
Is it easy to withdraw money from IG?
Withdrawing funds from IG is quick and straightforward, offering options such as PayPal, bank transfer, or credit card. Processing times are usually 1 to 3 business days. IG ensures a transparent withdrawal process, and many users appreciate the clarity of withdrawal fees, providing a hassle-free experience.
Is AvaTrade reliable?
AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions, starting with the AMF in France, but also the Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC (Australia) and the FSA (Japan). Active since 2006, it offers solid guarantees, including the separation of client funds and strict compliance with international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both novice and experienced traders.
Why choose AvaTrade?
AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. Tutorials, demo accounts and free training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don't need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.
What are the fees at AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when you pay.
Who is AvaTrade for?
AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you're looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is a great choice.
Is it easy to withdraw money from AvaTrade?
Yes, AvaTrade offers a fast and secure withdrawal process. Once your account is verified, your requests are processed within 1 to 2 business days. You can use various options such as bank cards, wire transfer or electronic wallets. Everything is designed to offer you fast, clear and secure access.
Is AvaTrade reliable?
AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions, starting with the AMF in France, but also the Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC (Australia) and the FSA (Japan). Active since 2006, it offers solid guarantees, including the separation of client funds and strict compliance with international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both novice and experienced traders.
Why choose AvaTrade?
AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. Tutorials, demo accounts and free training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don't need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.
What are the fees at AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when you pay.
Who is AvaTrade for?
AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you're looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is a great choice.
Is it easy to withdraw money from AvaTrade?
Yes, AvaTrade offers a fast and secure withdrawal process. Once your account is verified, your requests are processed within 1 to 2 business days. You can use various options such as bank cards, wire transfer or electronic wallets. Everything is designed to offer you fast, clear and secure access.
Our 7 tips for buying Merck stock
| Step | Specific tip for Merck |
|---|---|
| Analyze the market | Assess Merck’s recent price decline alongside strong fundamentals—its oversold condition may present a value entry. |
| Choose the right trading platform | Select a reputable U.S. brokerage that offers NYSE-listed stocks and supports dividend reinvestment for MRK. |
| Define your investment budget | Decide how much to invest in Merck based on your risk tolerance, taking into account potential volatility and yield. |
| Choose a strategy (short or long term) | Consider a long-term strategy to benefit from Merck’s robust pipeline, attractive dividend, and low-beta stability. |
| Monitor news and financial results | Stay updated on earnings releases, guidance revisions, FDA approvals, and tariff impact, which can drive MRK’s price. |
| Use risk management tools | Use stop-loss orders or limit orders to manage downside risk, especially with ongoing price weakness and external factors. |
| Sell at the right time | Plan to take profit as MRK approaches technical resistance levels or if the outlook changes following major news. |
The latest news about Merck
Merck’s Q1 2025 earnings beat expectations with adjusted EPS of $2.22 versus estimates of $2.15. The company’s latest quarterly results published on May 2 confirmed that while total revenue slightly declined by 2% year-over-year (excluding currency effects, revenue edged up 1%), profitability outperformed analyst anticipations. Strong performance was driven by continued double-digit growth from Merck’s innovative medicines and vaccines portfolio in the United States, with Keytruda leading the way at $7.2 billion in quarterly sales—a 6% annual increase. This earnings beat reassured analysts that Merck’s core business remains durable despite recent headwinds.
Merck announced a $1 billion investment in a new biologics manufacturing facility in Delaware, boosting its U.S. presence and capacity. The company has committed significant capital to enhance its domestic production capabilities by establishing a new plant in the United States, demonstrating both its long-term confidence in demand and its response to policy pressure to secure the pharmaceutical supply chain within national borders. This strategic expansion is poised to create local jobs, increase production resilience, and reinforce Merck’s commitment to supplying innovative therapies to the American market.
Despite recent share price weakness, Merck’s technical indicators reveal an oversold condition, suggesting potential for a rebound. Following a 4.28% weekly decline and a larger multi-month drawdown, the stock has reached an RSI of 26.1, indicating a level that is commonly associated with oversold markets. The current testing of key support at $76.46 increases the likelihood that technically oriented investors may view the present phase as an attractive entry point, especially given the strong fundamentals and positive pipeline momentum.
Merck maintains a robust forward dividend yield of 3.89%, offering income stability amid volatility. With a forward annual dividend of $3.24 per share and a recent ex-dividend date in March, Merck continues to reward shareholders with above-average income in the U.S. healthcare sector. The company’s history of dividend consistency is a reassuring signal for income-focused investors, particularly those drawn to defensive names amidst broader market uncertainty.
Analyst consensus remains constructive, with a mean price target of $106.73, representing a substantial premium to the current price. Despite the recent correction, Wall Street estimates indicate confidence in Merck’s earnings power and future growth, underpinned by the company’s continuing investments, robust pipeline, and established franchises in oncology and vaccines. The 30% upside to the price target provides a positive risk/reward profile for U.S.-based institutional and retail investors considering medium- to longer-term exposure.
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for Merck stock?
Merck currently pays a dividend of $3.24 per share annually, with the most recent ex-dividend date being March 17, 2025. The current yield stands at a robust 3.89%, which is attractive for income-focused investors. Merck has a consistent track record of regular dividend payments, reflecting its stable cash flow and long-standing shareholder-friendly distribution policy.
What is the forecast for Merck stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on recent data, the projected share prices for Merck are: $108.24 at the end of 2025, $124.89 by the end of 2026, and $166.52 at the end of 2027. These projections mirror the company’s resilience and ongoing innovation in its core healthcare and oncology segments. Analysts also highlight Merck's robust drug pipeline and recent investments as strong catalysts for potential future growth.
Should I sell my Merck shares?
Given Merck’s solid financials, attractive valuation, and resilient market position, holding onto your shares could be a sound strategy for those focused on long-term growth and income. The company’s defensive sector, proven performance, and commitment to innovation offer compelling reasons for confidence. With current oversold technical indicators and a strong pipeline, the conditions may favor retention rather than sale for many investors.
How are dividends from Merck stock taxed for U.S. investors?
For U.S. investors, dividends from Merck are typically considered qualified dividends and are taxed at favorable long-term capital gains rates, depending on your income bracket. There is no U.S. withholding tax for most domestic investors. It’s recommended to hold Merck stock in tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs or 401(k)s if possible, which can further defer or reduce your tax liability on dividends and capital gains.
What is the latest dividend for Merck stock?
Merck currently pays a dividend of $3.24 per share annually, with the most recent ex-dividend date being March 17, 2025. The current yield stands at a robust 3.89%, which is attractive for income-focused investors. Merck has a consistent track record of regular dividend payments, reflecting its stable cash flow and long-standing shareholder-friendly distribution policy.
What is the forecast for Merck stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on recent data, the projected share prices for Merck are: $108.24 at the end of 2025, $124.89 by the end of 2026, and $166.52 at the end of 2027. These projections mirror the company’s resilience and ongoing innovation in its core healthcare and oncology segments. Analysts also highlight Merck's robust drug pipeline and recent investments as strong catalysts for potential future growth.
Should I sell my Merck shares?
Given Merck’s solid financials, attractive valuation, and resilient market position, holding onto your shares could be a sound strategy for those focused on long-term growth and income. The company’s defensive sector, proven performance, and commitment to innovation offer compelling reasons for confidence. With current oversold technical indicators and a strong pipeline, the conditions may favor retention rather than sale for many investors.
How are dividends from Merck stock taxed for U.S. investors?
For U.S. investors, dividends from Merck are typically considered qualified dividends and are taxed at favorable long-term capital gains rates, depending on your income bracket. There is no U.S. withholding tax for most domestic investors. It’s recommended to hold Merck stock in tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs or 401(k)s if possible, which can further defer or reduce your tax liability on dividends and capital gains.
