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Merck creates separate oncology arm ahead of Keytruda patent loss - Invezz# Merck creates separate oncology arm ahead of Keytruda patent loss[Health & pharma]Author[Vatsala Gaur]Feb 23, 2026, 14:11 PM- Company banks on pipeline growth and recent acquisitions to offset pressure.- Leadership changes aim to prepare for Keytruda's 2028 patent expiry.- Merck splits its human-health business into oncology and specialty divisions.Merck said on Monday that it will split its human-health operations into two separate ...

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The drug maker is splitting up its Human Health business before patent protection on its blockbuster treatment Keytruda expires in two years. ...

RAHWAY, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Merck Evolves Human Health Operating Structure to Support Portfolio Execution. ...

每经AI快讯，2月23日，默克公司设立独立癌症业务部门后，该公司股价盘前上涨1%。 ...

Core Viewpoint - Merck is restructuring its human-health business into two divisions to mitigate the impact of the impending patent loss of its leading drug, Keytruda [1] Group 1: Business Restructuring - Merck will create a separate division for its cancer drugs, which will include Keytruda [1] - The other division will focus on non-cancer products [1] Group 2: Market Context - The restructuring is a strategic response to the pressures associated with the patent expiration of Keytruda, which is Merck's top-selling drug [1]

Core Viewpoint - The drugmaker is restructuring its pharmaceuticals unit to enhance product launches ahead of a significant patent expiration [1] Group 1 - The company aims to bolster its product pipeline in anticipation of losing a crucial patent [1] - This strategic move is expected to improve the company's competitive position in the market [1] - The split of the pharmaceuticals unit is part of a broader strategy to optimize operations and focus on innovation [1]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Recommended" rating for the pharmaceutical industry [5] Core Insights - The underlying logic of the current pharmaceutical industry era is innovation and international expansion, with a focus on innovative drugs and technology-driven sectors [2][3] - The report highlights the strong performance of the CRO market and suggests a dual investment strategy focusing on both "0 to 1" technology innovation and low-position stocks [2][3] - The report emphasizes the ongoing trend of BD (Business Development) transactions in innovative drugs, with significant growth expected in 2026 [4][15] Summary by Sections 1. Key Events in the Pharmaceutical Industry During the Spring Festival - Innovative drug BD transactions have seen a strong start, with significant overseas development and registration progress for key products [13][14] - The total amount of BD transactions for innovative drugs in China for 2026 has already surpassed one-third of the total for 2025 [15] - The revision of the National Essential Medicines List Management Measures may signal changes in the essential medicines directory [28] 2. Pharmaceutical Market Review and Hotspot Tracking - The pharmaceutical sector's performance was relatively weak, with a weekly decline of 0.81%, ranking 20th among all industries [34][38] - The total trading volume for pharmaceuticals was 401.12 billion yuan, accounting for 3.83% of the total market, below the historical average of 7.09% [55] - The report notes a rising valuation level for the pharmaceutical industry, with a PE ratio of 29.25, which is below the historical average [52] 3. Stock Performance Review - The report lists the top-performing stocks, including Dongyangguang and Zhendemedical, while highlighting the underperformers like Huayuan Biology and *ST Sailong [58][59]

Core Viewpoint - Merck's shares have increased by 46% over the past year despite facing challenges, indicating resilience in the company's performance and potential for long-term investment [1][2]. Financial Performance - The company experienced weak financial results last year, particularly due to declining revenue from its HPV vaccine franchise, Gardasil and Gardasil 9 [1]. - Merck's market capitalization stands at $303 billion, with a current stock price of $121.99 and a gross margin of 81.5% [8]. Key Products and Competition - Keytruda, Merck's leading cancer drug, is the best-selling in the world but will lose patent exclusivity by 2028, facing potential competition from new entrants like Summit Therapeutics' ivonescimab [4][6]. - Despite anticipated competition, Keytruda is expected to maintain a strong market presence due to its wide range of approved indications and proven efficacy [6]. Product Development and Pipeline - Merck has diversified its product lineup with successful approvals such as Winrevair for pulmonary arterial hypertension and Capvaxive, a pneumonia vaccine, both contributing to solid sales [8][9]. - The company is expanding its pipeline with promising candidates, including a revolutionary influenza vaccine, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and overcoming competitive pressures [9]. Dividend and Investment Outlook - Merck's dividend has increased by 93.8% over the past decade, with a payout ratio of 45.1%, indicating strong potential for future dividend increases [10]. - The stock offers a forward yield of 2.8%, significantly higher than the S&P 500 average of 1.2%, making it an attractive option for income-seeking investors [10].