Group 1: Federal Reserve Actions - The Federal Reserve cut the benchmark rate by 0.25 points to approximately 3.9% in late October, marking the second cut of the year to support growth and hiring despite inflation remaining above the 2% target [1] - Two Fed officials indicated that future rate reductions will depend on incoming data rather than a predetermined easing strategy, leading to a market reaction where the dollar strengthened and gold prices fell [2] Group 2: Investment Focus - Investors are increasingly prioritizing dependable cash flow and balance sheet strength, with a focus on high-yield stocks like Merck (MRK) and Duke Energy (DUK) as safer dividend options in a volatile market [3] Group 3: Merck & Company Overview - Merck & Co. has a market capitalization of approximately $252.7 billion and offers a forward annual dividend of $3.24 per share, resulting in a forward yield of 3.09% and a payout ratio of 37.38% [4] - As of December 3, Merck's stock price is $102.81, reflecting a year-to-date increase of 3.2% and a 0.82% rise over the last 52 weeks [5] Group 4: Financial Performance - Merck's latest quarterly report for the period ending September 25 showed total worldwide sales of $17.3 billion, representing a 4% year-over-year increase, or 3% when excluding currency effects [7] - KEYTRUDA was a significant revenue driver with sales of $8.1 billion, up 10% reported and 8% on a constant-currency basis, while WINREVAIR revenue surged by 141% to $360 million [7] - GARDASIL/GARDASIL 9 sales decreased to $1.7 billion, down 24%, while Animal Health sales grew by 9% to $1.6 billion [8] - The company reported GAAP EPS of $2.32 and non-GAAP EPS of $2.58, exceeding the consensus estimate of $2.36 by $0.22, representing a 9.32% upside surprise [8]

Core Viewpoint - A class action lawsuit has been filed against Merck & Co., Inc. alleging that the company made false and misleading statements regarding its revenue outlook and growth prospects for Gardasil, particularly in relation to competition and drug approval developments [1][2]. Group 1: Allegations of Misleading Statements - The lawsuit claims that Merck created a false impression of having reliable information about its projected revenue and growth for Gardasil while downplaying competitive risks and drug approval challenges [2]. - It is alleged that Merck's optimistic reports regarding growth and demand in China were not reflective of the actual situation, indicating a material decline in the company's ability to drive demand for Gardasil [2]. Group 2: Impact on Stock Price - Following the announcement on July 30, 2024, regarding a significant drop in shipments from its distributor, Merck's stock price fell nearly 10% [3]. - On February 4, 2025, after disclosing a 3% decline in Gardasil sales to $8.6 billion, Merck's stock price dropped more than 9% [4]. Group 3: Legal Representation - Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C. is investigating potential claims on behalf of long-term stockholders of Merck and is encouraging individuals with information or questions to reach out [1][5].

Faruqi & Faruqi, LLP Securities Litigation Partner James (Josh) Wilson Encourages Investors Who Suffered Losses Exceeding $100,000 In Merck To Contact Him Directly To Discuss Their Options If you suffered losses exceeding $100,000 in Merck between February 3, 2022 and February 3, 2025 and would like to discuss your legal rights, call Faruqi & Faruqi partner Josh Wilson directly at 877-247-4292 or 212-983-9330 (Ext. 1310). [You may also click here for additional information] NEW YORK, April 13, 2025 (GLOBE ...