Merck & Co Stock Price, News & Analysis

Merck (NYSE: MRK) has launched a cash tender offer for all outstanding shares of Acceleron Pharma Inc. (NASDAQ: XLRN), following their definitive acquisition agreement announced on Sept. 30, 2021.

Stockholders of Acceleron will receive $180 per share upon successful closing. The tender offer expires at 5:00 p.m. ET on Nov. 10, 2021. The deal is contingent upon receiving regulatory approvals and the majority of Acceleron shares being tendered.

Organon (NYSE: OGN) announced FDA clearance for its updated Jada® System, designed to treat abnormal postpartum uterine bleeding effectively. Postpartum hemorrhage cases have risen significantly in the U.S. The updated system features a new kit configuration and improved ease of use, enhancing treatment options in maternal health. The reconfigured Jada system is set to be available in January 2022. This strategic move follows Organon's acquisition of Alydia Health, reinforcing its commitment to women's health.

Merck has submitted an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) application to the U.S. FDA for molnupiravir, a new oral antiviral treatment for mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in high-risk adults. The decision follows positive results from the Phase 3 MOVe-OUT trial, showing a 50% reduction in hospitalization or death among treated patients compared to placebo. Merck aims to produce 10 million treatment courses by the end of 2021 and has secured supply agreements with the U.S. government and other nations, ensuring global access if authorized.

Merck (NYSE: MRK) has launched Uncovering TNBC, a docuseries aimed at addressing challenges faced by Black women diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Hosted by actress Yvonne Orji, the initiative highlights the health disparities and encourages advocacy for better health care. Black women are approximately twice as likely to develop TNBC compared to their white counterparts. The program includes a three-episode web series featuring real-life stories and educational resources tailored for Black women and their families dealing with TNBC.

Merck (NYSE: MRK) announced promising interim results from the Phase 3 MOVe-OUT trial for molnupiravir, an oral antiviral for treating COVID-19. The trial revealed a 50% reduction in hospitalization or death among patients receiving molnupiravir compared to placebo (7.3% vs 14.1%). No deaths occurred in the treatment group. Following these results, Merck plans to seek Emergency Use Authorization in the U.S. The study involved 775 patients, with full recruitment set for 1,550. Molnupiravir could be the first oral treatment for COVID-19, contingent on authorization.

Avoro Capital, a significant stakeholder in Acceleron Pharma (XLRN), has expressed concerns over the proposed acquisition by Merck (MRK) at $180 per share. This price represents a mere 38% premium, significantly lower than the average 89% for similar transactions since 2020. Avoro argues that the deal undervalues Acceleron, especially with promising data for its sotatercept candidate, currently in phase 3 trials and designated as a Breakthrough Therapy by the FDA. Avoro calls for a reassessment of the merger valuation due to the company's growing potential.

Merck (NYSE: MRK) has announced its acquisition of Acceleron Pharma (NASDAQ: XLRN) for $180 per share, totaling approximately $11.5 billion. This strategic move aims to enhance Merck's cardiovascular pipeline, particularly with the integration of sotatercept, a promising therapy in Phase 3 development for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The deal underscores Merck's commitment to sustainable growth and innovation in treating cardiovascular diseases and is expected to close in Q4 2021.

Merck (NYSE: MRK) has appointed Thomas H. Glocer as independent lead director of its Board of Directors, effective immediately. Mr. Glocer, who joined the board in 2007, brings extensive expertise in management and international business, having previously served as CEO of Thomson Reuters. CEO Rob Davis praised Glocer’s valuable contributions and looks forward to their continued collaboration. Merck has a long-standing commitment to advancing health care through innovative medicines and vaccines, positioning itself as a leader in biopharmaceutical research.

Merck (NYSE: MRK) will host its third-quarter 2021 sales and earnings call on October 28 at 8:00 a.m. EDT. This event will provide an overview of the company’s quarterly performance and future outlook. Investors can listen to the call via a live webcast on Merck's website, with a replay available afterward. Merck has a longstanding commitment to developing innovative medicines and vaccines, focusing on diseases like cancer and infectious diseases. For more details, visit Merck’s investor relations page.