Merck (MRK) Price Target Lifted at Morgan Stanley as Biopharma Outlook Improves

Core Viewpoint - Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) is experiencing positive momentum driven by its oncology drug Keytruda and strategic acquisitions, with a favorable outlook for the biopharma sector as policy concerns diminish [2][3][4]. Group 1: Stock Performance and Outlook - Morgan Stanley raised its price target for Merck to $102 from $100, maintaining an Equal Weight rating, citing an improved outlook for the biopharma sector [2]. - Merck's shares have increased by over 22% in the past six months, largely attributed to the success of Keytruda, which now represents approximately 50% of the company's revenue [3]. Group 2: Product Pipeline and Acquisitions - Merck is expanding its product pipeline, recently agreeing to acquire Cidara Therapeutics for about $9.2 billion, focusing on developing a long-acting antiviral for influenza [4]. - The antiviral product, CD388, aims to provide broader and longer-lasting protection against multiple flu strains, distinguishing itself from traditional flu vaccines [4]. Group 3: Company Overview - Merck & Co., Inc. is a global biopharmaceutical company dedicated to discovering, developing, and delivering innovative medicines, vaccines, and animal health products to improve and save lives worldwide [5].