Merck & Co Option Alert: Jul 18 $110 Calls Sweep (37) above Ask!: 20000 vs 21539 OI

Merck & Co Option Alert: Jul 18 $110 Calls Sweep (37) above Ask!: 20000 @ $0.511 vs 21539 OI; Ref=$84.865

Merck & Co (NYSE:MRK) 주식

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.

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마조리 테일러 그린 하원의원(공화당, 조지아주)은 주식 시장에 상당한 영향을 미쳤던 도널드 트럼프 대통령의 글로벌 관세 유예 발표 직전 및 당일에 자신이 주식을 대량으로 매입했다고 공개했다. 

마조리 테일러 그린 美하원의원, 트럼프의 상호관세 90일 유예 직전 대규모 주식 매입

Eli Lilly and Co.

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도널드 트럼프 대통령은 수요일(9일) 상호관세를 90일 동안 일시 중단했지만, 나중에 집무실에서 기자들과의 대화에서 제약 회사들이 관세에 직면할 것이라고 확인했다. 

트럼프의 의약품 관세 확인...일라이릴리·애브비·리제네론·브리스톨 등 제약주 급락

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도널드 트럼프 대통령은 화요일(8일) 외국 의약품에 대한 &#34;주요 관세&#34; 계획을 공개했다.트럼프 대통령은 전국공화당의회위원회(NRCC) 만찬에서 이렇게 말했다. &#34;우리는 곧 의약품에 대한 주요 관세를 발표할 것이다...관세 소식을 들으면 회사들은 중국을 떠날 것이다...대부분 제품이 미국에서 판매되기 때문이다.&#34;

트럼프의 의약품 관세 계획...뱅크오브아메리카에서 제시한 타임라인은?

Merck & Co Inc

Marker Therapeutics Inc

MARKY CORP by MARKY CORP.

Companies with a long history of paying dividends and consistently hiking them remain appealing to income-focused investors. Merck, Black Hills, and Virtus Investment Partners have rewarded shareholders for years and recently announced dividend increases. These companies currently offer dividend yields of around 4-6%.
Merck
Merck (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) is a healthcare company that manufactures pharmaceutical products to treat various conditions in many therapeutic areas, including cardiometabolic disease, cancer and infections.&nbsp;
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Merck has raised its dividends every year for the last 14 years. According to its most recent dividend hike announcement on Nov. 19, the company increased the quarterly payout from $0.77 to $0.81 per share, equal to an annual figure of $3.24 per share. The current dividend yield on the stock is 4.09%.&nbsp;
Merck&#8217;s annual revenue as of Dec. 31 stood at $64.17 billion. In its Q4 2024 earnings report on Feb. 4, it posted revenues of $15.62 billion and EPS of $1.72. Both figures beat the Street estimates.
Trending: It&#8217;s no wonder Jeff Bezos holds over $250 million in art — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/masterworks">this alternative asset has outpaced the S&amp;P 500 since 1995, delivering an average annual return of 11.4%. Here&#8217;s how everyday investors are getting started.</a>
Black Hills
Black Hills Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BKH#NYSE">BKH</a>) operates as an electric and natural gas utility company in the U.S.&nbsp;
Black Hills has raised its dividends every year for the last 55 years. In its most recent dividend hike announcement on Jan. 24, it increased the quarterly payout from $0.65 to $0.676 per share, which is equal to an annual figure of $2.70 per share. Currently, the dividend yield on the stock is 4.63%.
Black Hills&#8217; annual revenue as of Dec. 31 stood at $2.13 billion. As per the company&#8217;s Q4 2024 earnings release on Feb. 5, it posted revenues of $597.10 million, missing the consensus of $944 million, while EPS of $1.37 came in above the consensus estimate of $1.34.
How to put $100 in your retirement fund each month with Black Hills stock? Check out this <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/01/43313814/how-to-put-100-in-your-retirement-fund-each-month-with-black-hills-stock">article by Benzinga</a> to learn more.
See Also: Hasbro, MGM, and Skechers trust this AI marketing firm — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/rad-intel">invest pre-IPO from $0.60 per share now</a>.
Virtus Investment Partners
Virtus Investment Partners (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRTS#NYSE">VRTS</a>) is a publicly owned investment manager. The firm primarily provides its services to individual and institutional clients.&nbsp;
Virtus has raised its dividends consecutively for the past seven years. In its most recent dividend hike announcement on Aug. 15, the company's board increased its quarterly payout by 18% to $2.25 per share, which is equal to $9 per share annually. More recently, in its dividend announcement on Feb. 27, the company maintained the payout at the same level. The current dividend yield on the stock is 5.95%.
Its annual revenue as of Dec. 31 stood at $902.82 million. In its most recent earnings release on Jan. 31, the company posted Q4 2024 revenues of $233.49 million and EPS of $7.50. Both figures came in above the consensus estimates.
Merck, Black Hills, and Virtus Investment Partners are good choices for investors seeking reliable passive income. Their dividend yields of around 4-6% and long history of consistent hikes make them attractive to income-focused investors.
Check out this <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44778984/why-regency-centers-cme-group-and-trinity-industries-are-winners-for-passive-income">article by Benzinga</a> for three more stocks offering high dividend yields.
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Personal Finance

VRTS

Why Merck, Black Hills, And Virtus Investment Partners Are Winners For Passive Income

Three <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">healthcare-themed ETFs</a> were in sharp spotlight Thursday as the sector got through a wild trading day, fueled by UnitedHealth&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) earnings disappointment and steep stock decline. While insurers weighed down on broad healthcare gauges, a drugmakers rally, led by Eli Lilly (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>), limited the damage.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/04/44869920/unitedhealth-ceo-says-high-cost-of-us-health-care-simply-not-sustainable">UnitedHealth CEO Says High Cost Of US Health Care &#8216;Simply Not Sustainable&#8217;</a>
ETFs In Spotlight
Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLV#NYSE">XLV</a>)
<ol>
<li></li>
</ol>
1-Day Return (Thursday): -0.6%
Top holdings of this fund are Eli Lilly, UnitedHealth, Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>). UnitedHealth dropped 2.4%, spooking XLV early in the session. The ETF trimmed losses, however, as Eli Lilly rallied 14.3% on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/04/44878381/eli-lilly-rallies-over-14-notches-best-day-since-june-2000-on-oral-weight-loss-drug-results-analysts-react">good weight-loss pill trial news</a>, calling out the group&#8217;s internal divergency. Barring Thursday&#8217;s turmoil, though, XLV is off just 1.5% for the year so far and commands a 17x forward-earnings multiple—below its five-year history and the large-cap S&amp;P 500&#8217;s 20x multiple, according to Barron&#8217;s.
iShares U.S. Pharmaceuticals ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IHE#NYSE">IHE</a>)
<ol start="2">
<li></li>
</ol>
1-Day Performance: +4.6%
IHE surged as investors rotated into large-cap pharma stocks, bolstered by Eli Lilly's rally. The gains came despite a nearly 8% drop in Novo Nordisk (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>), Lilly's rival in the GLP-1 space.
SPDR S&amp;P Pharmaceuticals ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XPH#NYSE">XPH</a>)
<ol start="3">
<li></li>
</ol>
1-Day Performance: +2.15%
XPH tracked gains across a broader basket of pharmaceutical names, benefiting from bullish sentiment on drugmakers following Lilly's breakthrough.
Market Context: A Sector Of Contrasts
UnitedHealth&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/04/44869920/unitedhealth-ceo-says-high-cost-of-us-health-care-simply-not-sustainable">poor earnings and soft guidance</a> spooked healthcare investors, highlighting how exposed insurers are to firm-specific disappointments and policy-level risks. The 22% decline in the stock not only heavily burdened XLV—where it is the second-largest position—but pulled down peers CVS Health (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVS#NYSE">CVS</a>), Humana (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>), and Elevance Health (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ELV#NYSE">ELV</a>) too.
However, the overall message of the day was one of subtlety and not panic. Eli Lilly&#8217;s explosion proved the influence of innovation in developing market-driving catalysts within the health-care sector. It provided the stimulus that helped neutralize weakness within managed care and indicated how investors in ETFs are able to still uncover segments of strength despite sector-wide selloffs.
At the same time, Johnson &amp; Johnson kept its steady pace going with the help of strong earnings.
Device and medical equipment manufacturers like Medtronic (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MDT#NYSE">MDT</a>), Zimmer Biomet (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZBH#NYSE">ZBH</a>), and Stryker (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SYK#NYSE">SYK</a>) are also attracting investor attention as Wall Street is wagering on secular demand from the aging population.
Takeaway
The health care industry remains far from monolithic. Thursday&#8217;s ETF action underscored the increasing divide between pressured insurers and pharma names benefiting from innovation tailwinds. For investors in ETFs, the message is simple: thematic selectivity is key. Though political headlines and earnings fluctuations might continue to shock portions of the industry, solid fundamentals within pharma and medtech imply there&#8217;s still ample healthy opportunity to go around.
Read Next: 
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ETF Shake-Up: UNH's Meltdown Meets LLY's Moonshot

Analysts' ratings for Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) over the last quarter vary from bullish to bearish, as provided by 9 analysts.
The table below provides a snapshot of their recent ratings, showcasing how sentiments have evolved over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">5</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts provide deeper insights through their assessments of 12-month price targets, revealing an average target of $111.33, a high estimate of $125.00, and a low estimate of $96.00. Experiencing a 7.14% decline, the current average is now lower than the previous average price target of $119.89. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1744916419_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Decoding Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Look</h2>
In examining recent analyst actions, we gain insights into how financial experts perceive Merck &amp; Co. The following summary outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
&#x7C; Analyst &#x7C; Analyst Firm &#x7C; Action Taken &#x7C; Rating &#x7C;Current Price Target&#x7C; Prior Price Target &#x7C; 
&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C;---------------&#x7C;---------------&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C; 
&#x7C;Vamil Divan &#x7C;Guggenheim &#x7C;Maintains &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $115.00&#x7C;$115.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;James Shin &#x7C;Deutsche Bank &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Hold &#x7C; $105.00&#x7C;$128.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Vamil Divan &#x7C;Guggenheim &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $115.00&#x7C;$122.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Tim Anderson &#x7C;B of A Securities &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $112.00&#x7C;$118.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Evan David Seigerman&#x7C;BMO Capital &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Market Perform &#x7C; $96.00&#x7C;$105.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Andrew Baum &#x7C;Citigroup &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $115.00&#x7C;$125.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Terence Flynn &#x7C;Morgan Stanley &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Equal-Weight &#x7C; $106.00&#x7C;$113.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Andrew Baum &#x7C;Citigroup &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $125.00&#x7C;$130.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Terence Flynn &#x7C;Morgan Stanley &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Equal-Weight &#x7C; $113.00&#x7C;$123.00 &#x7C;
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts frequently update their recommendations based on evolving market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Merck &amp; Co. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Unveiling insights, analysts deliver qualitative insights into stock performance, from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Merck &amp; Co compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts set price targets as an estimate of a stock's future value. Comparing the current and prior price targets provides insight into how analysts' expectations have changed over time. This information can be valuable for investors seeking to understand consensus views on the stock's potential future performance.</li>
</ul>
Analyzing these analyst evaluations alongside relevant financial metrics can provide a comprehensive view of Merck &amp; Co's market position. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with the assistance of our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MRK/analyst-ratings?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Stay up to date on Merck &amp; Co analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Unveiling the Story Behind Merck &amp; Co</h2>
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.
<h3>Merck &amp; Co's Financial Performance</h3>
Market Capitalization Analysis: With an elevated market capitalization, the company stands out above industry averages, showcasing substantial size and market acknowledgment.
Positive Revenue Trend: Examining Merck &amp; Co's financials over 3M reveals a positive narrative. The company achieved a noteworthy revenue growth rate of 6.79% as of 31 December, 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 &amp; Co's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional net margin, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable net margin of 23.96%, the company showcases strong profitability and effective cost management.
Return on Equity (ROE): Merck &amp; Co's ROE stands out, surpassing industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 8.24%, the company demonstrates effective use of equity capital and strong financial performance.
Return on Assets (ROA): The company's ROA is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROA of 3.19%, the company showcases effective utilization of assets.
Debt Management: Merck &amp; Co's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average. With a ratio of 0.8, the company relies less on debt financing, maintaining a healthier balance between debt and equity, which can be viewed positively by investors.
<h2>The Significance of Analyst Ratings Explained</h2>
Analysts are specialists within banking and financial systems that typically report for specific stocks or within defined sectors. These people research company financial statements, sit in conference calls and meetings, and speak with relevant insiders to determine what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts will rate each stock once a quarter. 
Analysts may supplement their ratings with predictions for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue, offering investors a more comprehensive outlook. However, investors should be mindful that analysts, like any human, can have subjective perspectives influencing their forecasts.
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This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Assessing Merck & Co: Insights From 9 Financial Analysts

Guggenheim analyst Vamil Divan reiterates Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) with a Buy and maintains $115 price target.

Price Target

Reiteration

Guggenheim Reiterates Buy on Merck & Co, Maintains $115 Price Target

In the current session, Merck &amp; Co Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) is trading at $78.17, after a 1.26% decrease. Over the past month, the stock decreased by 17.47%, and in the past year, by 37.65%. With performance like this, long-term shareholders are more likely to start looking into the company's price-to-earnings ratio. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1744747248_0.png" alt="Past Year Chart" />

<h3>How Does Merck &amp; Co P/E Compare to Other Companies?</h3>
The P/E ratio is used by long-term shareholders to assess the company's market performance against aggregate market data, historical earnings, and the industry at large. A lower P/E could indicate that shareholders do not expect the stock to perform better in the future or it could mean that the company is undervalued. 
Merck &amp; Co has a lower P/E than the aggregate P/E of 26.97 of the Pharmaceuticals industry. Ideally, one might believe that the stock might perform worse than its peers, but it's also probable that the stock is undervalued. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1744747248_1.png" alt="Guage" />

In summary, while the price-to-earnings ratio is a valuable tool for investors to evaluate a company's market performance, it should be used with caution. A low P/E ratio can be an indication of undervaluation, but it can also suggest weak growth prospects or financial instability. Moreover, the P/E ratio is just one of many metrics that investors should consider when making investment decisions, and it should be evaluated alongside other financial ratios, industry trends, and qualitative factors. By taking a comprehensive approach to analyzing a company's financial health, investors can make well-informed decisions that are more likely to lead to successful outcomes.

Intraday Update

Price Over Earnings Overview: Merck & Co

Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) and privately held Cyprumed GmbH signed a non-exclusive license and option agreement on Tuesday to develop oral formulations of Merck's peptides using Cyprumed's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drug delivery technology</a>.
Cyprumed is a drug delivery technology company based in Innsbruck, Austria. The company focuses on developing technology platforms for the oral administration of therapeutic peptides, including GLP-1 analogs, macrocycles, and mini-proteins.
Cyprumed's proprietary delivery platforms <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cyprumed.net/press-release/license-and-option-agreement-with-msd/" rel="noreferrer noopener">feature</a> tablet formulations.
Under the terms of the agreement, Merck gains non-exclusive global rights to Cyprumed's oral peptide delivery platform for an undisclosed number of targets.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44724763/pharma-industry-faces-jitters-as-trump-hints-at-historic-tariffs-bofa-outlines-probable-timeline" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pharma Industry Faces Jitters As Trump Hints At Historic Tariffs, BofA Outlines Probable Timeline</a>
The agreement also grants Merck the option to license Cyprumed's technology for use with individual targets exclusively.
Cyprumed will be eligible to receive up to $493 million in upfront, development, regulatory, and net sales milestones associated with the approval of any products under the collaboration.
Cyprumed may receive additional payments if Merck exercises its Exclusive License Option.
Under the agreement, the US drug giant will be responsible for the research, development, manufacturing, and commercialization of any product utilizing the Cyprumed delivery technology.
"We look forward to collaborating with the Cyprumed team to leverage their technology to help advance our macrocyclic peptide development efforts," said Allen C. Templeton, vice president of pharmaceutical sciences at MSD Research Laboratories.
Merck <a target="_blank" href="https://www.msd.com/research/product-pipeline/" rel="noreferrer noopener">has</a> two peptide therapies in development, including:
<ul>
<li>Enlicitide decanoate (MK-0616) is a Phase 3 investigational inhibitor of Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9). The company has five listed studies running for the asset under the CORALreef program. Merck is developing enlicitide decanoate in partnership with UCB Pharmaceuticals.</li>
<li>Efinopegdutide (MK-6024) is an investigational dual GLP-1/glucagon receptor agonist being developed under an agreement with Hanmi Pharmaceutical. Merck has four listed studies for the asset for Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis.</li>
</ul>
In March, Merck&nbsp;and&nbsp;Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd entered into an exclusive license agreement for HRS-5346, an investigational oral small molecule Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), inhibitor currently being evaluated in a Phase 2&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/03/44477157/merck-partners-with-hengrui-pharma-in-177-billion-deal-for-cardiovascular-treatment" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clinical trial in China</a>.
Lipoprotein (a), or Lp(a), is a type of lipoprotein produced in the liver that carries cholesterol, fats, and proteins in the blood.
Price Action: MRK stock is down 1.63% at $77.88 at the last check on Tuesday afternoon.
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</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Contracts

Merck Signs Nearly $500 Million Licensing Deal With Austria-Based Cyprumed For Tablet-Based Peptide Delivery

<a href="https://www.biospace.com/deals/merck-eyes-oral-peptide-delivery-with-cyprumed-deal-worth-up-to-493m">https://www.biospace.com/deals/merck-eyes-oral-peptide-delivery-with-cyprumed-deal-worth-up-to-493m</a>
<h2>Merck has not disclosed which of its peptide therapies it plans to develop oral formulations for.</h2>
<a href="https://www.biospace.com/employer/248338/merck-co">Merck</a> on Tuesday <a href="https://www.biospace.com/press-releases/cyprumed-enters-license-and-option-agreement-with-msd-for-the-development-of-oral-peptide-therapeutics">entered</a> into a nonexclusive licensing and option pact with Austrian biotech Cyprumed in a bid to make its peptide drugs orally available.
Details of the deal were scant. Merck will pay up to $493 million, a sum inclusive of the upfront fee plus development, regulatory and commercialization milestones of any product that may arise from the partnership.
In exchange for its investment, Merck will gain access to Cyprumed's proprietary platform to develop novel oral formulations of the pharma's peptide therapies, though Merck is tight-lipped about specifics. The company did not reveal how many and which of its assets it plans to make orally available. The pharma also did not disclose priority indications.
According to Tuesday's news release, Cyprumed's platform can be used on several types of peptides, including GLP-1 analogs, mini-proteins and macrocycles.
Under the terms of the agreement, Merck will also have the exclusive option to license Cyprumed's technology for individual targets, in which case Cyprumed will be eligible for additional payments. Merck will be responsible for trialing these oral drug formulations and will take charge of their manufacturing and marketing.
According to its <a href="https://www.msd.com/research/product-pipeline/">pipeline page</a>, Merck has two peptide therapies in development: the late-stage enlicitide decanoate, being studied for high cholesterol, and the Phase II efinopegdutide, a dual agonist of GLP-1 and GIP receptors, to treat metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (<a href="https://www.biospace.com/drug-development/7-late-stage-mash-candidates-that-could-reshape-the-market">MASH</a>).
Enlicitide decanoate, which blocks PCSK9, is already orally available. The pharma has five listed studies running for the asset under the CORALreef program. Merck is developing enlicitide decanoate in partnership with UCB Pharmaceuticals.
Meanwhile, efinopegdutide is delivered via a subcutaneous injection. Currently, Merck has four listed studies for the asset, including one that <a href="https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04944992">directly compares</a> it with Novo Nordisk's semaglutide, looking at the drugs' ability to lower liver fat levels in patients with MASH.
Both the Cyprumed deal and the decision to study efinopegdutide in an obesity-adjacent indication fits with Merck's strategy in the weight loss arena. At the 45th Goldman Sachs Healthcare Conference in June 2024, CEO Robert Davis said that the pharma will focus its R&amp;D efforts on orals rather than injectables, and that it will prioritize drugs that deliver cardiometabolic benefits in addition to weight reduction.
"I think everything is couched in terms of obesity first," Davis said at the time, noting that pharma then considers other health outcomes for "supporting the reimbursement within the broader obesity space."

'Merck Eyes Oral Peptide Delivery With Cyprumed Deal Worth Up To $493M' - BioSpace

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) disclosed her significant stock purchases made just before and on the day of President Donald Trump&#8216;s announcement to pause global tariffs. This announcement had a substantial impact on the stock market.
What Happened: Based on the information disclosed to the House, Greene bought stocks valued between $21,000 and $315,000 on April 8 and 9. On April 8, she also sold Treasury bills worth between $50,000 and $100,000, according to the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/gov-trades/members/marjorie-taylor-greene" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;Benzinga Government Trades tracker.</a>
Greene&#8217;s stock purchases included shares in several companies, such as&nbsp;Apple Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), which has since appreciated by approximately 5%. She also invested in other tech firms, energy companies like&nbsp;Devon Energy Corporation&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DVN#NYSE">DVN</a>), and pharmaceutical giant&nbsp;Merck &amp; Company&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>).
On April 8, Greene bought stocks in&nbsp;Palantir Technologies Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NYSE">PLTR</a>) and&nbsp;Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>). These transactions occurred&nbsp;as government bond yields were&nbsp;on the rise amidst the tariff turmoil.
Here's a look at the stocks Greene purchased during the period:
<ul>
<li>Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ADBE#NASDAQ">ADBE</a>)</li>
<li>Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>)</li>
<li>Amazon Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>)</li>
<li>Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>)</li>
<li>Applied Materials Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMAT#NASDAQ">AMAT</a>)</li>
<li>ASML Holding N.V (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ASML#NASDAQ">ASML</a>)</li>
<li>Blackstone Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BX#NYSE">BX</a>)</li>
<li>Cummins Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMI#NYSE">CMI</a>)</li>
<li>Devon Energy Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DVN#NYSE">DVN</a>)</li>
<li>FedEx Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FDX#NYSE">FDX</a>)</li>
<li>JP Morgan Chase (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>)</li>
<li>Merck &amp; Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>)</li>
<li>Nike Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NKE#NYSE">NKE</a>)</li>
<li>NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>)</li>
<li>Palantir Technologies (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>)</li>
<li>Qualcomm Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>)</li>
<li>Southern Copper Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SCCO#NYSE">SCCO</a>)</li>
<li>Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>)</li>
</ul>
SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/04/44805507/jensen-huang-praised-by-trump-nvidia-wouldnt-be-doing-500-billion-ai-infrastructure-commitment-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jensen Huang Praised By Trump: Nvidia &#8216;Wouldn&#8217;t Be Doing&#8217; $500 Billion AI Infrastructure Commitment Without Tariffs</a>
Why It Matters: Greene&#8217;s stock trades have raised eyebrows, especially considering the timing of her purchases. The trades coincided with former President Trump&#8217;s tariff pause announcement, which led to a significant surge in the stock market. 
This has led to calls for an investigation into potential insider trading related to President Trump&#8217;s market communications before the tariff pause announcement. Key Democratic lawmakers, including Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), have expressed concerns about possible corruption. Schiff and Warren pointed out a post on Truth Social where Trump<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44747573/adam-schiff-and-elizabeth-warren-call-for-investigation-into-possible-insider-trading-by-trump-allie"> encouraged buying stocks</a> just hours before the tariff pause announcement that sent markets soaring.
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of New York&nbsp;urged a ban on stock trading by members of Congress following the revelation of Ms. Greene's investment activities. He told <a href="https://jeffries.house.gov/2025/04/14/leader-jeffries-we-are-going-to-hold-republicans-accountable-for-any-effort-to-dismantle-social-security/">MSNBC </a>on Monday, "We obviously have to continue to highlight why this is problematic."
<ul>
<li>READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/tech/25/04/44804849/amazon-founder-jeff-bezos-once-made-his-grandmother-cry-trying-to-show-off-his-math-skills-that-day-his-gran" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon Founder Jeff Bezos Once Made His Grandmother Cry Trying To Show Off His Math Skills — That Day, His Grandfather Gave Him A Life-Changing Piece Of Wisdom</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Shutterstock
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Marjorie Taylor Greene Made Large Stock Purchases Ahead Of Trump's 90-Day Tariff Pause: Hakeem Jeffries Calls It 'Problematic'

Even as President Donald Trump paused the reciprocal tariffs for 90 days on Wednesday, he later confirmed in a conversation with reporters at his Oval Office that pharmaceutical companies would face tariffs.
What Happened: The rally in pharma stocks was short-lived after the stocks reversed course on Thursday. When a reporter asked President Trump if he would go ahead and levy tariff duties on pharmaceutical stocks, he said, &#8220;Yeah, well, I will be because we want them coming back.&#8221;
&#8220;You know, we realized during COVID-19 that we don&#8217;t make our drugs and our pharmaceuticals in this country. So, I realized that, and it was a big realization,&#8221; he added.
Citing the emergency during COVID-19, he stated that he wanted the pharma companies to produce drugs in the U.S.
&#8220;We had to go to China to get drugs, we had to go to other places, we don&#8217;t make it. That&#8217;s because we let them leave, and now if they want to come back, we&#8217;re going to put tariffs on the pharmaceutical companies, and they&#8217;re going to all want to come back,&#8221; Trump said.
The pharma stocks tumbled on Thursday after Trump&#8217;s confirmation of tariffs.
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Pharma Stocks</td>
<td>Thursday&#8217;s Performance</td>
<td>YTD Performance</td>
<td>One Year Performance</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eli Lilly And Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>)</td>
<td>-4.35%</td>
<td>-7.35%</td>
<td>-5.09%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>)</td>
<td>-3.14%</td>
<td>-2.92%</td>
<td>3.99%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>)</td>
<td>-6.10%</td>
<td>-11.15%</td>
<td>2.73%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REGN#NASDAQ">REGN</a>)</td>
<td>-5.26%</td>
<td>-23.60%</td>
<td>-40.63%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>)</td>
<td>-3.87%</td>
<td>-18.87%</td>
<td>-18.03%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gilead Sciences Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GILD#NASDAQ">GILD</a>)</td>
<td>-3.66%</td>
<td>10.36%</td>
<td>47.71%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Merck &amp; Co Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>)</td>
<td>-5.32%</td>
<td>-21.80%</td>
<td>-38.53%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Amgen Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>)</td>
<td>-3.33%</td>
<td>8.54%</td>
<td>4.23%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>)</td>
<td>-1.51%</td>
<td>3.24%</td>
<td>-0.07%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/04/44755181/pentagon-slashes-5-1-billion-in-accenture-deloitte-booz-allen-contracts-thats-a-lot-of-consulting">Pentagon Slashes $5.1 Billion In Accenture, Deloitte, Booz Allen Contracts: &#8216;That&#8217;s A Lot Of Consulting&#8217;</a>
Why It Matters: Despite a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs, base global tariffs of 10% and China tariffs of 125%, along with sector-specific tariffs of 25% on steel and aluminum, auto, and auto parts remain in place. Adding to it, the President hinted that he could soon announce tariffs on pharmaceutical companies.
Here are some of the pharmaceutical industry-linked exchange-traded funds that could be impacted.
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Pharma ETFs</td>
<td>YTD Performance</td>
<td>One Year Performance</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VanEck Pharmaceutical ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PPH#NASDAQ">PPH</a>)</td>
<td>-7.02%</td>
<td>-7.51%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>iShares US Pharmaceuticals ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IHE#NYSE">IHE</a>)</td>
<td>-7.04%</td>
<td>-6.08%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Invesco Pharmaceuticals ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PJP#NYSE">PJP</a>)</td>
<td>-10.13%</td>
<td>-4.37%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SPDR S&amp;P Pharmaceuticals ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XPH#NYSE">XPH</a>)</td>
<td>-14.05%</td>
<td>-11.45%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>KraneShares MSCI All China Health Care Index ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KURE#NYSE">KURE</a>)</td>
<td>2.88%</td>
<td>0.35%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>First Trust Nasdaq Pharmaceuticals ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTXH#NASDAQ">FTXH</a>)</td>
<td>-11.54%</td>
<td>-10.18%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Direxion Daily Pharmaceutical &amp; Medical (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PILL#NYSE">PILL</a>)</td>
<td>-41.35%</td>
<td>-43.86%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
Price Action: After Thursday&#8217;s fall, following Wednesday&#8217;s rebound, the Nasdaq 100 index was 17.46% lower than its previous high of 22,222.61 points. The S&amp;P 500 index was down 14.31% from its record of 6,147.43 points, and the Dow Jones declined 12.16% from its 52-week high of 45,073.63 points.
The SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) and Invesco QQQ Trust ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>), which track the S&amp;P 500 index and Nasdaq 100 index, respectively, ended lower on Thursday. The SPY was down 4.38% to $524.58, while the QQQ declined 4.25% to $446.18, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a> data.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/04/44728276/spy-qqq-call-volumes-spiked-minutes-before-tariff-pause-announcement-alexandria-ocasio-cortez-demands-disclosure-from-congress-members" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SPY, QQQ Call Volumes Spiked Minutes Before Tariff Pause Announcement: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Demands Disclosure From Congress Members</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Eli Lilly, AbbVie, Bristol Myers, Regeneron, And Other Pharma Companies Slide As Donald Trump Confirms Tariffs On Pharma Companies

U.S.&nbsp;President Donald Trump, on Tuesday, disclosed plans for a "major tariff" on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/tariffs" rel="noreferrer noopener">foreign pharmaceuticals</a>.
"We're&nbsp;going to be announcing very&nbsp;shortly a major tariff on&nbsp;pharmaceuticals… when they hear that&nbsp;they will leave China, they&nbsp;will leave other places because… most of their product&nbsp;is sold here," Trump expressed at&nbsp;a National Republican <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44708204/trump-hints-at-major-tariff-on-imported-pharmaceuticals-us-pharma-stocks-tumble-in-wednesday-pre-market" rel="noreferrer noopener">Congressional Committee&nbsp;dinner</a>.
He also told reporters on board his Air Force One plane that "pharma" tariffs would arrive "at a level that you haven't really seen before," saying these would be announced "in the near future," BBC <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cedyylj1v32o" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a> added.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44698325/trump-tariff-strategy-self-inflicted-market-debacle-says-wedbush-analyst" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Tariff Strategy Creates ‘Self-Inflicted Market Debacle': Analyst</a>
When President Trump announced tariffs last week, he excluded pharmaceuticals from the new tariffs, likely a relief for the industry under pressure following his prior comments suggesting a 25% tariff&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/04/44652075/us-tariffs-spare-drugmakers-but-threaten-diabetes-device-industry" rel="noreferrer noopener">on pharmaceutical imports</a>.&nbsp;
On Wednesday, in a surprise announcement from President Donald Trump, a 90-day pause on tariffs for countries that have not retaliated <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/tariffs" rel="noreferrer noopener">against U.S. trade measures.</a>
The news ignited a broad risk-on rally, catapulting major indices to multi-month highs and sending volatility plunging.
Trump's latest Truth Social post slammed China for showing "a lack of respect" and declared an immediate 125% tariff hike on Chinese goods.
"At some point, hopefully in the near future, China will realize that the days of ripping off the U.S.A. and other Countries is no longer sustainable or acceptable," he said.
He praised the over 75 countries that, in his words, "have not, at my strong suggestion, retaliated in any way, shape, or form."
As a reward, those countries would benefit from a temporary 10% reciprocal tariff and a 90-day pause on additional duties.
The biopharma industry has historically been shielded from tariffs, including during Trump's first term.
Although Trump didn't provide many details, his remarks have unsettled buyers, especially those who depend on medicines from India. India provides nearly half of all generic drugs used in the U.S., helping cut billions from healthcare costs.
The U.S. is a major market, buying about a third of India's $13 billion in yearly drug exports.
Indian drug companies warn that if tariffs are added, they'd have to raise prices—which could increase healthcare costs in the U.S.
Even though some companies like Cipla and Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RDY#NYSE">RDY</a>) have factories in the U.S., most say it's too expensive to move production for low-profit generic drugs.
BofA Securities analyst says if the Trump administration plans to impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, it would likely do so through a "Section 232 investigation" under the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to determine whether importing certain goods threatens national security.
The typical timeline for a Section 232 investigation is about a year. If the same timeline applied here, tariffs on drug imports likely wouldn't take effect until late in the year—at the earliest.
It's unclear whether the Section 232 investigation into the drug industry is about to start, but based on recent comments from the administration, it seems possible. However, launching an investigation doesn't guarantee that tariffs will follow.
As the first quarter 2025 earnings season starts soon, analyst Tim Anderson says it will be worth watching whether companies discuss potential tariffs during earnings calls.
That said, any actual earnings impact likely wouldn't show up until sometime after 2025, which could leave investors with more questions than answers.
Wedbush analyst Daniel Ives <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44698325/trump-tariff-strategy-self-inflicted-market-debacle-says-wedbush-analyst" rel="noreferrer noopener">on Tuesday wrote</a> that "saying we can just make this in the USA" understates how complex the supply chain in Asia really is—and how electronics, chips, semiconductors, hardware, and smartphones have been built for U.S. consumers over the past 30 years."
Shares of major drugmakers such as Gilead Sciences&nbsp;Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GILD#NASDAQ">GILD</a>), Merck&nbsp;&amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), Eli Lilly&nbsp;And Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>), AstraZeneca&nbsp;Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>), Roche&nbsp;Holdings AG (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RHHBY#OTC">RHHBY</a>), Sanofi&nbsp;SA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNY#NASDAQ">SNY</a>), Novartis&nbsp;AG (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVS#NYSE">NVS</a>), Argenx&nbsp;SE (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARGX#NASDAQ">ARGX</a>), UCB&nbsp;SA (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UCBJY#OTC">UCBJY</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UCBJF#OTC">UCBJF</a>), Novo Nordisk&nbsp;A/S (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>), Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REGN#NASDAQ">REGN</a>) GSK Plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GSK#NYSE">GSK</a>) and Pfizer Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) fell on Wednesday, only reverse course later after the 90-day tariff pause.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/04/44723376/goldman-sachs-scraps-recession-call-after-trumps-surprise-tariff-pause-as-wall-street-marks-strongest-day-since-2008" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goldman Sachs Scraps Recession Call After Trump's Surprise Tariff Pause As Wall Street Marks Strongest Day Since 2008</a></li>
</ul>
Photo by MargJohnsonVA via Shutterstock

Pharma Industry Faces Jitters As Trump Hints At Historic Tariffs, BofA Outlines Probable Timeline

President Donald Trump has declared that his administration is on the brink of imposing a significant tariff on <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44627820/trumps-reciprocal-tariffs-on-india-exempt-pharma-easing-mark-cubans-price-hike-concerns">pharmaceuticals imported from foreign countries.</a>
What Happened: President Trump, on Tuesday, disclosed plans for a &#8220;major tariff&#8221; on foreign pharmaceuticals. Trump is hopeful that this move will prompt drug companies to shift their operations to the U.S., <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/apr/09/donald-trump-flags-major-tariff-on-pharmaceuticals-as-us-senator-criticises-whack-on-australia">reported</a> The Guardian.
&#8220;We&#8217;re going to be announcing very shortly a major tariff on pharmaceuticals&#8230; when they hear that they will leave China, they will leave other places because&#8230; most of their product is sold here,&#8221; Trump expressed at a National Republican Congressional Committee dinner.
Despite exempting pharmaceuticals from the recent round of reciprocal tariffs, Trump has been hinting for a long time that the drug industry would be a target. The President is of the view that the tariff will drive drug companies to return to the U.S., considering it is a significant market for their products. &#8220;The advantage we have over everybody is that we&#8217;re the big market. So we&#8217;re going to be announcing very shortly a major tariff on pharmaceuticals,&#8221; Trump added.
The President, however, did not divulge any specifics regarding the tariff increase or its potential impact.
Pharmaceutical stocks across the globe, including GlaxoSmithKline, Sanofi and India&#8217;s Teva Pharmaceuticals, tumbled on Wednesday.
In the U.S. pharmaceutical stocks, Pfizer (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) declined 3.5%, while Eli Lilly And Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>) lost 3.2%. AstraZeneca Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) fell 1.35%, while Amgen Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>) and Merck &amp; Co. Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) dropped 2.94% and 2.75%, respectively, during the Wednesday pre-market trading session.
SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44706492/trump-predicts-tremendous-thundering-landslide-in-2026-midterms-says-tariffs-will-help-republicans-win-bi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Predicts &#8216;Tremendous, Thundering Landslide&#8217; In 2026 Midterms, Says Tariffs Will Help Republicans Win Big</a>
Why It Matters: The $1.7 trillion revenue prescription drug industry has demonstrated a strong resilience to tariffs. The U.S., being the largest and most profitable market globally for prescription drugs and generic products, imports most of these from overseas. In 2024, drug imports reached $213 billion, more than two and a half times the total 10 years earlier. The proposed tariff could, in theory, help bring business back onshore.
However, companies like&nbsp;AstraZeneca Plc and&nbsp;Pfizer&nbsp;have extensive global manufacturing networks, including Ireland, Germany, Canada, the UK, and the U.S and are not restricted to India and China. Sources told Reuters that it could take up to 10 years to build and equip a factory in the U.S., due to stringent regulatory requirements from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Therefore, Trump&#8217;s tariff might necessitate drugmakers to overhaul a complex, expensive manufacturing system.
Meanwhile, after Trump indicated major tariffs on pharmaceuticals, EU drugmakers have urged European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to take "rapid and radical action" to address the growing "risk of an exodus" to the U.S., following a meeting in Brussels.
<ul>
<li>READ MORE: <a href="https://benzinga.com/25/04/44705972/ford-motor-general-motors-to-witness-higher-demand-as-american-automotives-reap-the-fruit-of-protectionism-says-e" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ford, GM To Witness &#8216;Higher Demand&#8217; As American Carmakers Set To &#8216;Reap The Fruit Of Protectionism,&#8217; Says Expert: Here&#8217;s A List Of Potential Gainers And Losers From Trump Tariffs</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Shutterstock
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Trump Hints At 'Major Tariff' On Imported Pharmaceuticals: Pfizer, Eli Lilly, Amgen And Other Stocks Tumble In Wednesday Pre-Market

Shares of the Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLV#NASDAQ">XLV</a>) are trading lower by 8.6% to $132.86 over the past week as tariff announcements from President Donald Trump last week spooked investors and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/04/44670193/wall-street-turmoil-deepens-as-trump-threatens-massive-china-tariffs-bitcoin-wobbles-at-78k-whats-driving-markets-monday">dragged major sectors</a> of the market lower. 
While healthcare is often viewed as a defensive play during times of uncertainty, the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care">sector</a> is not immune to the broader economic implications of escalating trade tensions.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Is XLV?</h2>
The Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund is an exchange-traded fund that tracks the performance of the Health Care Select Sector Index, which includes large U.S. healthcare companies across pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, healthcare equipment and managed care. Top holdings include Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>), UnitedHealth Group Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>), Pfizer Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>), Eli Lilly And Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>) and Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) .
Although healthcare demand tends to be less cyclical than sectors like industrials or energy, many of XLV's components are <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/04/44667104/speculators-raise-wagers-on-fed-emergency-rate-cuts-as-theories-of-self-induced-crash-gather-pace">exposed to global markets</a>, supply chains and regulatory dynamics—all of which can be disrupted by a trade war.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/44670684/whats-going-on-with-financial-select-sector-spdr-fund-xlf">What&#8217;s Going On With Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLF)?</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why Are Tariffs Hitting Healthcare—and XLV?</h2>
At first glance, healthcare might seem like an unlikely victim of tariff tensions, but the industry is more globally interconnected than it appears. Here's how tariff escalation is weighing on XLV and its underlying holdings:
<ul>
<li>Global Supply Chain Disruptions: Many medical devices and pharmaceutical ingredients are manufactured or sourced overseas. Tariffs on imported materials from countries like China can increase production costs for companies like Medtronic and Abbott Laboratories, which rely on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44663112/us-families-to-see-3800-annual-price-hike-says-experts-even-as-trump-indicates-tariff-windfall-of-tens-of-billions-of-dollars">international supply chains</a> to maintain margins and deliver products at scale. </li>
<li>Pricing Pressures Intensify: Healthcare companies already face intense political scrutiny over pricing. Tariffs add another <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/04/44668830/we-want-fairness-white-house-trade-adviser-navarro-says-trump-administration-is-focused-on-non-tariff-cheating">layer of cost inflation</a> that may be difficult to pass along to consumers or insurers. That's especially challenging for drugmakers and device manufacturers that operate under tight pricing regulations or depend on long-term contracts. </li>
<li>Global Growth Matters: Multinational pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer and Johnson &amp; Johnson derive a significant share of their revenue from international markets. A slowdown in global economic growth due to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44661965/trumps-reciprocal-tariff-threat-wipes-out-nearly-18-trillion-from-magnificent-7-dan-ives-warns-it-could-set-us-tech-back-a-decade-investors-know-math-and-the-sad-reality">trade tensions</a> can dampen demand for branded drugs and medical products abroad, squeezing top-line growth. </li>
<li>Market Volatility Hits Sentiment: Even though healthcare is traditionally considered defensive, the sector is still susceptible to broader market moves. Investors often rotate out of equities—including healthcare—during times of heightened uncertainty. Additionally, biotech and life sciences stocks, many of which are included in XLV, tend to be more volatile and sensitive to shifts in investor risk appetite.</li>
</ul>
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/04/44670193/wall-street-turmoil-deepens-as-trump-threatens-massive-china-tariffs-bitcoin-wobbles-at-78k-whats-driving-markets-monday">Wall Street Turmoil Deepens As Trump Threatens Massive China Tariffs, Bitcoin Wobbles At $78K: What&#8217;s Driving Markets Monday?</a>

Why Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLV) Is Moving

Several exemptions exist among President Donald Trump&#8216;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44621408/market-access-has-a-price-trump-unveils-list-of-tariffs-countries-targeted" target="_blank" rel="noopener">broad tariffs</a>, which were announced on Wednesday. 
The biopharma industry has historically been shielded from tariffs, including during Trump&#8217;s first term. Given its significant manufacturing presence in Europe, investors had feared global tariffs could disrupt the sector.
Morningstar <a href="https://www.morningstar.com/stocks/biopharma-industry-exempt-global-10-tariff-we-still-see-margin-tax-rate-risks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reports</a> that with the U.S. importing approximately $200 billion in pharmaceuticals in 2024, a 10% tariff could have cost the industry $20 billion, with some of the largest firms facing annual tariffs of up to $1 billion.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44642463/french-president-macron-suggests-suspension-of-eu-investments-in-us-amid-tariff-turmoil" rel="noreferrer noopener">French President Macron Suggests Suspension Of EU Investments In US Amid Tariff Turmoil, Vows &#8216;More Powerful&#8217; Response</a>
Goldman Sachs expects continued volatility in the biotechnology sector (XBI and S&amp;P 500 are down about 14% and 7% year-to-date, respectively), driven by broader economic <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/04/44631606/trumps-tariff-exemptions-include-semiconductors-pharmaceuticals-oil-and-more" rel="noreferrer noopener">uncertainty and unclear healthcare policy</a>.
Analyst Salveen Richter has analyzed geographic exposure and tax rates for individual companies and sees Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRTX#NASDAQ">VRTX</a>) and Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALNY#NASDAQ">ALNY</a>) in the strongest position, followed by Gilead Sciences Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GILD#NASDAQ">GILD</a>), Amgen Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMGN#NASDAQ">AMGN</a>) and Biogen Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BIIB#NASDAQ">BIIB</a>).
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REGN#NASDAQ">REGN</a>) raises some concerns due to its significant presence in Ireland. If tariffs are applied, they would likely increase the cost of goods sold since companies often import ingredients or finished products into the U.S.
Analyst Richter adds that <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AMGN" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amgen</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ALNY" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alnylam</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BIIB" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biogen</a>, and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/REGN" rel="noreferrer noopener">Regeneron</a> are the least exposed to Medicaid risk.
Goldman Sachs said Friday that it&#8217;s been hard to measure the exact impact of potential tariffs on U.S. biopharma due to limited public data on where drugs are made.
Their analysis shows limited manufacturing exposure to Canada, Mexico and China. Pharmaceuticals from Canada and Mexico are also likely exempt under the USMCA trade deal. However, some companies do rely heavily on manufacturing in the EU.
If tariffs are placed on drugs made outside the U.S. and kept in place, they could raise manufacturing costs. Companies often import ingredients or finished products before selling them in the U.S. Some manufacturers are reportedly speeding up shipments from Europe out of concern that tariffs may apply to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/03/44440233/pharmaceutical-firms-say-uk-investment-is-unlikely-unless-payment-levy-is-adressed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">those products,</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/03/44440233/pharmaceutical-firms-say-uk-investment-is-unlikely-unless-payment-levy-is-adressed" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> too</a>.
Goldman Sachs is also watching for exceptions or phased rollouts, pointing to a similar eight-year grace period in the Biosecure Act.
Still, the analyst writes that biopharma companies are generally resilient due to their high profit margins and globally spread operations.
Companies that produce small-molecule drugs might handle a U.S. manufacturing shift better than those making biologics since small molecules require less complex production.
Senator Ron Wyden has raised concerns about Pfizer Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) and Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) using offshore setups to reduce U.S. taxes.
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Photo: Shutterstock

ALNY

BIIB

VRTX

Vertex, Alnylam Best Positioned As Biopharma Braces For Tariff Impact, Goldman Sachs Flags Regeneron, Biogen Risks

BeiGene Ltd (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ONC#NASDAQ">ONC</a>) on Thursday announced the discontinuation of its clinical development program for ociperlimab (BGB-A1217), an anti-TIGIT antibody, as a potential <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">treatment for lung cancer</a>.
The Independent Data Monitoring Committee recommended terminating the ongoing Phase 3 AdvanTIG-302 trial based on its findings as part of a pre-<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/04/b44623473/beigene-provides-update-on-the-ociperlimab-bgb-a1217-clinical-development-program" rel="noreferrer noopener">planned futility analysis</a>.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/03/44107297/china-based-biotech-beigene-scores-fda-approval-for-tevimbra-chemo-combo-for-untreated-patients-with-esophageal-cancer" rel="noreferrer noopener">China-Based Biotech BeiGene Scores FDA Approval For Tevimbra/Chemo Combo For Untreated Patients With Esophageal Cancer</a>
The study&#8217;s purpose was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ociperlimab + tislelizumab compared with that of Merck &amp; Co Inc&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) Keytruda (pembrolizumab) in adults with high PD-L1, locally advanced/recurrent, or untreated metastatic NSCLC.
The overall efficacy and safety data <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/04/b44623473/beigene-provides-update-on-the-ociperlimab-bgb-a1217-clinical-development-program" rel="noreferrer noopener">assessment</a> suggested that the study was unlikely to meet the primary endpoint of overall survival.
No new safety signals were observed. After thorough deliberation, the company has decided to terminate the trial.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04746924" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> was expected to conclude in February 2027.
&#8220;We evaluate our clinical programs to focus our resources on the most promising clinically differentiated candidates while thoughtfully de-prioritizing others,&#8221; said Mark Lanasa, M.D., Ph.D., chief medical officer, Solid Tumors at BeiGene.
Results from this study will be shared later.
Price Action: ONC stock is down 4.2% at $263.04 at last check Thursday
Read Next:
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</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

BeiGene Discontinues Lung Cancer Drug Study After Interim Data Showed Limited Survival Benefit

Merck &amp; Co's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) short percent of float has fallen 9.26% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 37.13 million shares sold short, which is 1.47% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 2.31 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Merck &amp; Co Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1743616827_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Merck &amp; Co has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Merck &amp; Co's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Merck &amp; Co's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 4.19%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

Short Ideas

How Do Investors Really Feel About Merck & Co?

Merck (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, today announced the first presentation of results from the Phase 3 ZENITH trial evaluating WINREVAIR&#x2122; (sotatercept-csrk) compared to placebo in adults with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH, Group 1 PH) WHO&#x2A; functional class (FC) III or IV at high risk of mortality who were on maximum tolerated background PAH therapy. At a median follow-up of10.6 months (range, 0.3-26.1), WINREVAIR reduced the relative risk of major morbidity and mortality events (the composite of all-cause death, lung transplantation and PAH worsening-related hospitalization of ≥24 hours) by 76% (HR=0.24 [95% CI, 0.13-0.43]; p&lt;0.0001 [1-sided]) compared to placebo.For patients treated with WINREVAIR, 17.4% (n=15/86) experienced one or more major morbidity and mortality events, compared with 54.7% (n=47/86) of patients in the placebo arm. The safety profile of WINREVAIR in ZENITH was generally consistent with that observed in previous studies.

Merck Highlights Phase 3 ZENITH Trial Evaluating WINREVAIR; Says Trial Stopped Early Due To 'overwhelming efficacy demonstrated in the primary endpoint'

Subcutaneous pembrolizumab administered every six weeks with a median injection time of two minutes, in combination with chemotherapy, shows consistent results across reported efficacy and safety endpoints compared to IV KEYTRUDA in combination with chemotherapy
A time and motion descriptive analysis shows nearly 50% reductions in patient chair and treatment room time, and in total active healthcare professional time related to treatment tasks, for subcutaneous pembrolizumab compared to IV KEYTRUDA
Applications for subcutaneous pembrolizumab are under review in the U.S. and Europe
Merck (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, today announced the first data presentation from the pivotal 3475A-D77 Phase 3 trial, evaluating the subcutaneous administration of pembrolizumab, together with berahyaluronidase alfa (MK-3475A; from now on referred to as "subcutaneous pembrolizumab"). Berahyaluronidase alfa is a variant of human hyaluronidase developed and manufactured by Alteogen Inc. These results are being presented today at the European Lung Cancer Congress (ELCC) 2025 (Abstract #8MO) and published simultaneously in Annals of Oncology.
The study met its primary endpoints, demonstrating noninferior pharmacokinetics (PK) for subcutaneous pembrolizumab administered with chemotherapy with a median injection time of two minutes, versus intravenous (IV) KEYTRUDA&#xAE; (pembrolizumab) administered with chemotherapy for the first-line treatment of adult patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The secondary endpoints of objective response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS) and duration of response (DOR) and safety were consistent for subcutaneous pembrolizumab with chemotherapy compared to IV KEYTRUDA with chemotherapy. Median overall survival (OS) was not reached in either arm.
Based on these data, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has accepted for review a Biologics License Application (BLA) seeking approval of subcutaneous pembrolizumab across all previously approved solid tumor indications for KEYTRUDA. The FDA has set a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA), or target action, date of Sept. 23, 2025. Additionally, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has validated an extension application to introduce a new pharmaceutical form and new route of administration for KEYTRUDA.
In addition, results of a prospective, observational time and motion descriptive analysis conducted alongside study 3475A-D77 show that, compared to IV KEYTRUDA, subcutaneous pembrolizumab reduced time for patients spent in-chair and in the treatment room by 49.7% and 47.4%, respectively, and reduced the total active time spent by healthcare professionals (HCPs) on treatment preparation, administration process and patient monitoring by 45.7%. These results are being presented as a poster at ELCC (Poster #33P). Pharmacokinetic, efficacy, safety and time and motion results are described further below.

Merck's Investigational Subcutaneous Pembrolizumab With Berahyaluronidase Alfa Demonstrates Noninferior Pharmacokinetics Compared To Intravenous KEYTRUDA In Pivotal 3475A-D77 Trial; A Time And Motion Descriptive Analysis Shows Nearly 50% Reductions In Patient Chair And Treatment Room Time

The European Commission Has Approved Merck's Capvaxive (Pneumococcal 21-valent Conjugate Vaccine) For Active Immunization For The Prevention Of Invasive Disease And Pneumonia Caused By Streptococcus Pneumoniae Serotypes In Individuals 18 Years Of Age And Older

The U.S. stock market had a mixed session on Tuesday. The Nasdaq Composite climbed nearly 80 points, or 0.5%, closing at 18,271.86, while the Dow remained largely flat at 42,587.50. The S&amp;P 500 edged up 0.2% to finish at 5,776.65.
Amidst these fluctuations, certain stocks grabbed the attention of retail traders and investors throughout the day.
GameStop Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GME#NYSE">GME</a>)
GameStop&#8217;s stock decreased by 0.82%, closing at $25.40. The stock reached an intraday high of $25.77 and a low of $24.99, with a 52-week range of $64.83 to $9.95. In the after-hours trading the stock shot up more than 8%. The company reported its <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/general/gaming/25/03/44482313/gamestop-q4-earnings-revenue-miss-eps-beat-shares-surge-as-board-approves-bitcoin-as-treasury-reserve-asset">fourth-quarter results</a>, revealing revenue of $1.283 billion, which fell short of the $1.48 billion consensus estimate. However, adjusted earnings per share of 30 cents exceeded analyst expectations of eight cents. The board&#8217;s approval of Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) as a treasury reserve asset added to the day&#8217;s developments.
FST Corp.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KBSX#NASDAQ">KBSX</a>)
FST Corp&#8217;s stock surged by 26.55%, closing at $2.86. The stock hit an intraday high of $2.96 and a low of $2.43, with a 52-week range of $15.48 to $1.26. The company announced the launch of a new graphite golf shaft under the KBS brand, designed to enhance shot distance and accuracy. This product is available in five weight classes at authorized dealers and custom fitting centers.
Merck &amp; Co Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>)
Merck&#8217;s stock fell by 4.81%, closing at $87.87. The stock recorded an intraday high of $92.31 and a low of $87.08, with a 52-week range of $134.63 to $81.04. The company entered an <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/03/44477157/merck-partners-with-hengrui-pharma-in-177-billion-deal-for-cardiovascular-treatment">exclusive license agreement</a> with Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals for a cardiovascular treatment, valued at $1.77 billion. This agreement focuses on an investigational oral small molecule Lipoprotein(a) inhibitor.
United Parcel Service, Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UPS#NYSE">UPS</a>)
UPS&#8217;s stock declined by 5.05%, closing at $109.95. The stock reached an intraday high of $116 and a low of $109.89, with a 52-week range of $157.99 to $109.4. UPS stock has been in focus after the <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/03/44467974/postmaster-general-louis-dejoy-resigns-amid-9-5-billion-loss-and-growing-as-usps-faces-competitive-heat-from-amazon-fedex-and-ups">resignation</a> of U.S. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy amid financial challenges and competitive pressures. UPS is one of the major competitors of USPS.
Tesla Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>)
Tesla&#8217;s stock rose by 3.45%, closing at $287.99. The stock hit an intraday high of $288.2 and a low of $271.28, with a 52-week range of $488.54 to $138.80. The electric vehicle manufacturer saw its weekly insured registrations in China <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/03/44471753/teslas-china-weekly-insured-numbers-hit-new-year-to-date-high-gary-black-says-tslas-europe-sales-decline-not-relevant">reach a new high</a> for the year, driven by increased production of the refreshed Model Y. 
Image via Shutterstock
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Prepare for the day&#8217;s trading <a href="https://editorial.benzinga.com/wp-admin/Premarket%20Movers%20&amp;%20News">with top premarket movers and news</a> by Benzinga.
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/shivdeep-dhaliwal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shivdeep Dhaliwal</a>

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Merck & Company shares are trading lower. The company announced it entered into an exclusive license agreement with Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals for HRS-5346.

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MRK DEADLINE MONDAY: ROSEN, TOP RANKED GLOBAL COUNSEL, Encourages Merck & Co., Inc. Investors with Losses in Excess of $100K to Secure Counsel Before Important April 14 Deadline in Securities Class Action – MRK

MRK Investors Have the Opportunity to Lead the Merck Securities Fraud Lawsuit with Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP

MRK Deadline Tomorrow: MRK Investors Have Opportunity to Lead Merck & Co., Inc. Securities Fraud Lawsuit

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INVESTOR ALERT: Pomerantz Law Firm Reminds Investors with Losses on their Investment in Merck & Co., Inc. of Class Action Lawsuit and Upcoming Deadlines - MRK

April 14, 2025 Deadline: Contact The Gross Law Firm to Join Class Action Suit Against MRK

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