Merck stock rises despite cautious 2026 outlook as patent losses loom
Merck shares rose 3.1% to $116.86 after fourth-quarter earnings beat estimates, with Keytruda sales up 7% to $8.37 billion. The company forecast 2026 sales of $65.5–$67.0 billion, below Wall Street expectations, citing patent expirations and pricing pressure. Gardasil sales fell 34% to $1.03 billion. The FDA accepted Merck’s application for Winrevair, with a decision expected by September 2026.