Core Thesis - Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK) is experiencing a bullish sentiment driven by significant institutional options trading and upcoming catalysts, suggesting a medium-term price increase [2][3][5]. Institutional Activity - On December 8, 2025, a large institutional trade involved the purchase of 30,000 April 17, 2026 $110 call contracts, amounting to approximately $300 million in notional exposure, indicating a strategic bet on MRK's price movement [2]. Strategic Options Positioning - The proposed strategy includes a split-strike risk reversal, selling April $85 puts to finance the $110 calls, which aims to limit downside risk while positioning for potential upside [3]. Fundamental Drivers - Key growth drivers include the launch of Winrevair, which is on track for blockbuster status, the sustained performance of the Keytruda franchise, and a robust pipeline with promising developments in cardiology, vaccines, and respiratory diseases [4]. Market Context - Merck is trading at a valuation discount within the healthcare sector, coupled with a strong dividend yield that provides a safety net, making it an attractive investment during a macro rotation into healthcare defensives [5]. Historical Performance - Since a previous bullish thesis in April 2025, MRK's stock price has increased by approximately 30.50%, attributed to improving margins and strong free cash flow generation [6].