NEW YORK, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Gross Law Firm issues the following notice to shareholders of Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE: MRK).Shareholders who purchased shares of MRK during the class period listed are encouraged to contact the firm regarding possible lead plaintiff appointment. Appointment as lead plaintiff is not required to partake in any recovery.CONTACT US HERE:https://securitiesclasslaw.com/securities/merck-co-inc-loss-submission-form/?id=132974&from=4 CLASS PERIOD: February 3, 2022 to Febru ...

Group 1: Market Overview - In 2023, 70 sample American companies generated over $3,000 billion in revenue from the Chinese market, contributing 12% to their global revenue[6] - The total global revenue of these companies exceeded $2.5 trillion, with a year-on-year growth of 1.1%[6] - The average revenue from the Chinese market for these companies was $4.39 billion, with a median of $2.16 billion[30] Group 2: Investment Trends - In 2023, the actual foreign investment in China reached $163.25 billion, ranking China as the second-largest recipient of foreign investment globally[15] - The number of newly established foreign-invested enterprises in China increased by 39.7% year-on-year, totaling 54,000[15] - The compound annual growth rate of U.S. investment in China from 2020 to 2023 was 13.5%, significantly higher than the overall growth rate of 3% for foreign investment in China[20] Group 3: Industry Performance - The consumer sector in China saw a compound annual growth rate of 19.4% from 2020 to 2023, double the global growth rate of 9.1%[50] - The healthcare sector in China grew by 16.8% during the same period, while the global healthcare market declined by 2%[59] - The information technology sector contributed the highest revenue share, averaging 25.7% of total revenue from the Chinese market[30]

Merck (MRK) ended the recent trading session at $92.25, demonstrating a +1.84% swing from the preceding day's closing price. The stock's change was more than the S&P 500's daily gain of 1.59%. Elsewhere, the Dow gained 1.39%, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq added 1.63%.Prior to today's trading, shares of the pharmaceutical company had lost 8.46% over the past month. This has lagged the Medical sector's loss of 0.63% and the S&P 500's loss of 2.42% in that time.Market participants will be closely following the f ...

Core Viewpoint - Merck's stock has declined 7.8% following the announcement of its fourth-quarter 2024 results and disappointing guidance for 2025, despite beating earnings and sales estimates [1][2]. Financial Performance - In Q4 2024, Merck's sales of the Gardasil vaccine declined by 17% due to weak demand in China, and sales of the new drug Winrevair also missed estimates [2]. - Merck's 2025 revenue guidance is projected between $64.1 billion and $65.6 billion, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 2% to 4%, which fell short of investor expectations [15][17]. - The earnings per share guidance for 2025 is set between $8.88 and $9.03, also below expectations [17]. Product Portfolio and Strengths - Keytruda, a PD-L1 inhibitor, is Merck's most significant product, accounting for approximately 50% of pharmaceutical sales and driving steady revenue growth [3][4]. - Merck is pursuing innovative strategies to enhance Keytruda's long-term growth, including combinations with other immuno-oncology drugs and a personalized mRNA therapeutic cancer vaccine in collaboration with Moderna [5][6]. Pipeline and Strategic Moves - Merck's pipeline has nearly tripled in the past three years, with several new vaccines and drugs expected to launch in the next five years, including the 21-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, Capvaxive, and Winrevair [8][9]. - The company has made strategic acquisitions, including Eyebiotech Limited and Harpoon Therapeutics, to bolster its pipeline [7]. Challenges and Risks - Concerns are rising regarding Merck's reliance on Keytruda, especially with its patent expiration in 2028, and the need for diversification in its product lineup [10][11]. - Competitive pressure is increasing, particularly from Summit Therapeutics' ivonescimab, which has shown potential to outperform Keytruda in clinical studies [12]. - Sales of Gardasil have also been affected by economic conditions in China, leading to a temporary halt in shipments to manage inventory levels [13][14]. Market Performance - Merck's stock has underperformed, losing 28.7% over the past year compared to a 0.1% increase in the industry [18][19]. - The stock is currently trading below its 50-day and 200-day moving averages, indicating weak market sentiment [18]. Valuation - Merck's shares trade at a forward price/earnings ratio of 9.89, which is lower than the industry average of 17.48 and its five-year mean of 13.22, suggesting potential attractiveness from a valuation perspective [20].

Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the industry or companies involved Core Insights - The report tracks the performance of American companies in China, highlighting that 70 sample companies generated over $2.5 trillion in global revenue in the 2023 fiscal year, with a stable contribution rate of 12% from the Chinese market, indicating resilience and growth potential [5][6][30] - The Chinese market is the second-largest market for 40% of the sample companies, with total revenue exceeding $300 billion in 2023, despite a year-on-year decline of 3.7% [6][30] - The report emphasizes the importance of adapting to local market demands and regulatory changes, with companies like Procter & Gamble integrating sustainability into their business models and Merck focusing on data security [6][30] Summary by Sections Section 1: Review of American Companies in China - In 2023, the number of newly established foreign-invested enterprises in China increased by 39.7%, with a total of 54,000 new companies [15][16] - The actual use of foreign capital reached $163.25 billion, ranking China as the second-largest recipient of foreign investment globally [15][16] - The report notes that the U.S. accounted for approximately 2.1% of the actual investment in China, ranking ninth among investment sources [16][19] Section 2: Industry Trends - The report categorizes industries into five main categories, with significant growth observed in the consumer sector, healthcare, and energy chemicals, while the industrial sector showed contraction [44][50] - The consumer sector in China has seen a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 19% over the past four years, significantly outpacing global growth [55] - The healthcare sector is highlighted as a key growth area, with a 2% increase in revenue in China, contrasting with a global decline of 2% [59] Section 3: Outlook for American Companies in China - The report discusses the strategic actions of typical American companies in China, focusing on local market adaptation and innovation [6][30] - It identifies key market environments to watch, emphasizing the importance of regulatory compliance and sustainable business practices [6][30] Appendix: Revenue Data and Growth Rates - The report includes detailed revenue data for 70 sample companies, showing a median revenue of $2.16 billion and an average of $4.39 billion from the Chinese market [30][31] - It provides insights into revenue growth rates across various sectors, with notable increases in the semiconductor and consumer electronics industries [34][35][38]

Investors can contact the law firm at no cost to learn more about recovering their losses LOS ANGELES, Feb. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Portnoy Law Firm advises Merck & Co., Inc. ("Merck" or the "Company") (NYSE: MRK) investors of a class action representing investors that bought securities between February 3, 2022 and February 3, 2025, inclusive (the "Class Period"). Merck investors have until April 14, 2025 to file a lead plaintiff motion. Investors are encouraged to contact attorney Lesley F. Portno ...

Group 1 - The Gross Law Firm has issued a notice to shareholders of Merck & Co., Inc. regarding a class action lawsuit related to misleading statements about Gardasil's expected revenue [1] - The class period for the lawsuit is from February 3, 2022, to February 3, 2025, during which Merck projected $11 billion in sales from Gardasil by 2030 [1] - On February 4, 2025, Merck announced it would not achieve the projected sales due to a halt in shipments to China, leading to a significant stock price drop of over 9% in one day [1] Group 2 - Shareholders are encouraged to register for the class action by April 14, 2025, to potentially become lead plaintiffs and receive updates on the case [2] - The Gross Law Firm aims to protect investors' rights and seeks recovery for losses incurred due to misleading statements that inflated Merck's stock price [3]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses a class action lawsuit against Merck & Co., Inc. for alleged violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, focusing on misleading statements regarding the company's revenue outlook and the performance of its Gardasil product during the class period from February 3, 2022, to February 3, 2025 [1][3]. Summary by Sections Class Action Lawsuit Details - The lawsuit, titled Cronin v. Merck & Co., Inc., allows purchasers of Merck securities during the specified class period to seek appointment as lead plaintiff by April 14, 2025 [1][2]. - Allegations include that Merck executives misrepresented the company's revenue outlook and downplayed competition risks related to Gardasil, particularly in China [3]. Financial Impact and Stock Performance - On July 30, 2024, Merck disclosed a significant drop in shipments from its distributor, leading to a nearly 10% decline in stock price [4]. - Following the release of fourth quarter fiscal year 2024 results on February 4, 2025, which reported a 3% decline in Gardasil sales to $8.6 billion, Merck's stock fell over 9% [5]. Legal Process and Representation - The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 allows investors to seek lead plaintiff status, with the lead plaintiff representing the interests of the class [6]. - Investors can choose their legal representation, and participation as lead plaintiff does not affect the ability to share in any potential recovery [6]. About Robbins Geller - Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP is a prominent law firm specializing in securities fraud cases, having secured $6.6 billion for investors in class action cases, making it a leader in the field [7].

Group 1 - The article discusses the undervaluation of Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE: MRK) amidst peak pessimism, suggesting potential investment opportunities in the company [1] - Allka Research has over two decades of experience in identifying undervalued assets across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals [1] - The firm emphasizes a conservative investment approach, aiming to deliver substantial returns and strategic insights to clients [1] Group 2 - Allka Research aims to simplify investment strategies, making them accessible to both seasoned and novice investors [1] - The mission of Allka Research includes providing thought-provoking analyses and informed perspectives to the Seeking Alpha community [1] - The firm seeks to empower investors by demystifying the complexities of investing, fostering a community of informed market participants [1]

Regulatory Approvals - The company received FDA approval in January 2024 for a treatment related to Stage III-IVA cervical cancer based on the KEYNOTE-A18 trial[31]. - In February 2024, the company obtained China's NMPA approval for a first-line treatment of locally advanced or metastatic biliary tract carcinoma based on the KEYNOTE-966 trial[31]. - The company achieved FDA full approval in January 2024 for a treatment of HCC secondary to hepatitis B, transitioning from accelerated to full approval based on the KEYNOTE-394 trial[31]. - The FDA issued a Complete Response Letter (CRL) for the BLA of MK-1022 due to findings from a third-party manufacturing facility inspection, with no issues identified regarding efficacy or safety data[104]. - The FDA accepted a supplemental NDA for MK-6482 for priority review, with a target action date set for May 26, 2025[105]. - V116, a 21-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, is under review in the EU and Japan, with a recommendation for approval expected by the second quarter of 2025[106]. - Keytruda (MK-3475) is under review in the EU and Japan for first-line treatment of unresectable advanced malignant pleural mesothelioma, with a positive opinion from EMA's CHMP[110]. - The FDA accepted the BLA for MK-1654 (clesrovimab) with a PDUFA date set for June 10, 2025, aimed at protecting infants from RSV[108]. Market and Pricing Pressures - The company reported that global health care cost containment pressures negatively impacted sales performance in 2024, affecting pricing and market access[37]. - The company anticipates ongoing pricing pressures from managed care organizations and government programs, which could adversely affect sales and profit margins[40]. - The Company faces increasing pricing pressure due to consolidation among health care entities, which enhances purchasing strength and may adversely affect revenue[42]. - Legislative changes from the IRA will impose financial penalties for drugs with price increases exceeding inflation rates, affecting the Company's pricing strategy starting in 2026[43]. - The Company anticipates a decline in U.S. sales of Keytruda after government price setting takes effect on January 1, 2028[43]. - The American Rescue Plan Act eliminates the cap on Medicaid rebates starting January 2024, potentially increasing rebate payments for the Company[46]. - In China, the recent NRDL update resulted in an average price reduction of 63% for new entries, indicating significant pricing pressure[60]. - The volume-based procurement (VBP) program in China has led to average price reductions of over 50% for mature products in recent rounds[60]. - The EU's Health Technology Assessment Regulation will begin in 2025, influencing pricing and reimbursement decisions for new products[54]. - The Company is subject to government-mandated annual price reductions in Japan, with the next reduction scheduled for April 2025[59]. - The Company expects ongoing pricing pressures and market access challenges in emerging markets due to government price controls[61]. Competition and Market Strategy - The company is facing increasing competition from generic and biosimilar products, which may impact sales of existing products[34]. - The company is refining its sales and marketing efforts to adapt to changing industry conditions and competition[35]. - The company is well-positioned to respond to evolving health care environments and market forces through continuous evaluation and adaptation of its business practices[39]. - The company has received multiple product approvals in 2024 and 2025, indicating a strong pipeline of new treatments[30]. - Merck is diversifying its oncology portfolio with numerous Phase 3 programs focused on immuno-oncology, precision molecular targeting, and tissue targeting[111]. - The company focuses on breakthrough science for unmet medical needs, prioritizing research and development resources on candidates with clear advantages for patients and payers[89]. - The company maintains a strategy of supplementing internal research through acquisitions and external alliances across the entire spectrum of collaborations[89]. - The company is actively pursuing acquisitions and external alliances to complement its internal research capabilities[481]. - Merck's recent transactions reflect a strategic focus on expanding its product pipeline and market presence through significant investments[481]. Research and Development - As of December 31, 2024, approximately 23,500 employees were engaged in the company's research and development activities[88]. - The company is pursuing multiple candidates in its clinical pipeline across various disease areas, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and infectious diseases[90]. - Research and development expenses decreased significantly to $17,938 million in 2024 from $30,531 million in 2023[432]. - The company’s research and development model aims to increase productivity and improve the probability of success in drug development[89]. - The company is committed to ensuring that externally sourced programs remain an important component of its pipeline strategy[89]. - Merck's MK-7962 (Winrevair) shows positive topline results in Phase 3 ZENITH study for PAH, leading to early termination due to overwhelming efficacy[107]. - The clinical development program for favezelimab was terminated after evaluation of data from the clinical program[120]. - The Phase 2b trial for MK-8189 did not meet its primary efficacy endpoint, halting further development in schizophrenia and related indications[120]. - Merck announced the discontinuation of the Phase 3 KeyVibe trials for MK-7684A due to meeting pre-specified futility criteria for overall survival[120]. - The company has several drug candidates under review with anticipated patent expirations extending into the 2040s, indicating a robust pipeline for future products[83]. Financial Performance - The Company achieved sales of $64,168 million in 2024, a 6.8% increase from $60,115 million in 2023[432]. - Net income attributable to Merck & Co., Inc. rose to $17,117 million in 2024, compared to $365 million in 2023[432]. - Cash dividends declared on common stock increased to $3.12 per share in 2024, up from $2.96 per share in 2023 and $2.80 per share in 2022, totaling $7,943 million in 2024[436]. - Net cash provided by operating activities rose to $21,468 million in 2024, compared to $13,006 million in 2023 and $19,095 million in 2022[438]. - The company reported a decrease in inventories by $835 million in 2024, following a decrease of $816 million in 2023[438]. - The total comprehensive income for 2024 included a net increase of $216 million, contrasting with a loss of $393 million in 2023[436]. - The company’s cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at the end of 2024 amounted to $13,318 million, up from $6,909 million in 2023[438]. - The U.S. provision for aggregate customer discounts covering chargebacks and rebates was $13.3 billion in 2024, up from $12.5 billion in 2023 and $12.3 billion in 2022[454]. Environmental Sustainability - The company is committed to reducing energy usage, water use, and greenhouse gas emissions as part of its environmental sustainability strategy[134]. - The Company aims to reduce Scope 1 and 2 operational GHG emissions by 46% by 2030, and Scope 3 GHG emissions by 30% by 2030, both from a 2019 baseline[135]. - The Company has set a net-zero target for GHG emissions across its global operations by 2045[135]. - Expenditures for environmental remediation were $4 million in 2024, with an estimated total of $26 million for 2025-2029[140]. - The company is committed to achieving its 2025 waste diversion goal of no more than 20% of global operational waste sent to landfills[142]. - The Environmental, Health and Safety Council oversees the company's environmental sustainability strategy and monitors performance against its goals[133]. Workforce and Employee Engagement - As of December 31, 2024, the company had approximately 75,000 employees worldwide, with 31,000 in the U.S. and 15,000 third-party contractors[124]. - The company's voluntary turnover rate was approximately 4.6% in 2024, down from 5.6% in 2023[124]. - In 2024, the company hired approximately 7,300 employees globally through various recruitment channels[127]. - Women comprise 52% of the company's workforce, and 39% of the senior management team are women[124]. - The company's benefits rank in the top quartile of Fortune 100 companies under the Aon 2024 Benefits Index[129]. - The company has been included in the Seramount 100 Best Companies ranking for 38 consecutive years[129]. - The company offers a minimum standard of 12 weeks of paid parental leave globally[129]. - The company received accolades such as the Business Group on Health's Best Employers Excellence in Health & Well-being in 2024[130]. Data Protection and Compliance - The company is subject to the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which can impose penalties of up to 4% of global revenue for non-compliance[70]. - The GDPR requires strict obligations for processing personal health data, including consent and notification to data protection authorities, adding complexity to data management[71]. - Merck has entered into EU-approved Standard Contractual Clauses to facilitate lawful data transfers from the EU to the U.S. following the Schrems II decision[71]. - The Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL) in China requires compliance for processing personal information, similar to GDPR but with unique requirements[75]. - The company has adopted a comprehensive global privacy program to manage evolving data protection requirements across multiple jurisdictions[76]. Acquisitions and Collaborations - Merck will acquire WuXi Vaccines' facility in Dundalk, Ireland for approximately $440 million, expected to close in Q1 2025[482]. - Merck recorded a charge of $588 million for the upfront payment related to the exclusive global license of MK-2010, with potential future payments totaling up to $2.8 billion[483]. - Merck acquired the aqua business of Elanco for $1.3 billion, enhancing its Animal Health portfolio with innovative products[487]. - Merck acquired EyeBio for $1.2 billion, with future contingent payments potentially reaching $1.7 billion[487]. - Merck's acquisition of Harpoon Therapeutics for $765 million included a charge of $656 million to R&D expenses, with no future contingent payments[492]. - In 2023, Merck acquired Prometheus Biosciences for $11 billion, with a charge of $10.2 billion to R&D expenses[494]. - Merck's collaboration with Daiichi Sankyo includes three ADC candidates, enhancing its development and commercialization capabilities[493]. - Merck entered a collaboration with Kelun-Biotech, making an upfront payment of $175 million for exclusive rights to develop up to seven investigational preclinical ADCs for cancer treatment[495]. - Merck paid $38 million to Kelun-Biotech for exercising a license option for one candidate, with potential future payments of up to $540 million in development-related payments and $1.5 billion in regulatory milestones[496]. - Merck's collaboration with Orna Therapeutics included an upfront payment of $150 million and potential future payments of up to $3.1 billion in sales-based milestones[500].