Merck & Co Inc (MRK, Financial) released its 8-K filing on April 24, 2025, reporting its financial results for the first quarter of 2025. The company, known for its pharmaceutical products in areas such as cardiometabolic disease, cancer, and infections, as well as its substantial vaccine and animal health businesses, has shown resilience in a challenging market environment.
Performance Overview
Merck & Co Inc (MRK, Financial) reported total worldwide sales of $15.5 billion for the first quarter of 2025, a slight decrease of 2% compared to the same period in 2024. However, excluding the impact of foreign exchange, sales grew by 1%. This performance is significant as it reflects the company's ability to maintain growth despite currency headwinds.
Financial Achievements
The company's GAAP earnings per share (EPS) was $2.01, surpassing the analyst estimate of $1.94. The non-GAAP EPS was even higher at $2.22, indicating strong operational performance. This achievement is crucial for Merck & Co Inc (MRK, Financial) as it underscores the company's effective cost management and strategic focus on high-margin products.
Income Statement Highlights
Keytruda, a major contributor to Merck's sales, grew by 4% to $7.2 billion, with a 6% growth excluding foreign exchange impacts. Animal Health sales also showed robust growth, increasing by 5% to $1.6 billion, or 10% excluding foreign exchange. However, Gardasil/Gardasil 9 sales declined by 41% to $1.3 billion, highlighting a challenge in the vaccine segment.
Expense and Tax Information
Merck's gross margin improved to 78.0% from 77.6% in the previous year, driven by favorable product mix and lower restructuring costs. Selling, general, and administrative expenses rose by 3% to $2.6 billion, primarily due to higher administrative and promotional costs. Research and development expenses decreased by 9% to $3.6 billion, reflecting a reduction in acquisition-related charges.
Strategic Developments and Pipeline Expansion
Merck & Co Inc (MRK, Financial) continues to advance its pipeline with significant developments in oncology and infectious diseases. The company presented compelling data from various Phase 3 trials and expanded its pipeline through an exclusive license agreement with Hengrui Pharma for an investigational oral small molecule Lp(a) inhibitor.
“Our company made strong progress to start the year, with increasing contributions from our newer commercialized medicines and vaccines and continued advancement of our pipeline,” said Robert M. Davis, chairman and chief executive officer, Merck.
Analysis and Outlook
Merck & Co Inc (MRK, Financial)'s performance in the first quarter of 2025 demonstrates its resilience and strategic focus on high-growth areas. The company's ability to exceed earnings expectations and maintain sales growth despite currency challenges is a positive indicator for value investors. However, the decline in Gardasil sales and the impact of foreign exchange remain areas to watch.
For the full year 2025, Merck expects sales to be between $64.1 billion and $65.6 billion, with a non-GAAP EPS range of $8.82 to $8.97. This outlook reflects the company's confidence in its strategic initiatives and pipeline advancements.
Explore the complete 8-K earnings release (here) from Merck & Co Inc for further details.
