Merck (NYSE:MRK) KGaA MKGAF is a science and technology company specializing in the fields of healthcare, life science and performance materials. The company's portfolio comprises a wide array of products ranging from innovative pharmaceuticals and biopharmaceuticals to life science tools, specialty chemicals and high-tech materials.
The company is focused on oncology, multiple sclerosis, infertility, growth disorders, selected cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, women’s and children’s health, cough and cold as well as everyday health protection.
The company reports its results in three business sectors – Healthcare, Life Science and Performance Materials.
At its 2016 Capital Market Day, the company provided an update on its objectives up to 2018. Beginning 2017, the company aims to gain approval of one medicine or new indication every year.
We have highlighted some of the key stats from this just-revealed announcement below:
Earnings: The company’s third-quarter 2017 earnings per American Depositary Receipt (ADR) came in at $1.77, compared to the year-ago figure of $1.90.
Revenue: The company posted revenues of $4.35 billion in the reported quarter. The Healthcare and Life Science segment drove the company’s organic growth.
Key Stats: The company’s multiple sclerosis therapy, Mavenclad, received recommendation from NICE for approval in UK. Bavencio received approval in the EU and Japan for treating metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma in late September. Moreover, Merck completed the divestment of its Biosimilars business to Fresenius as a part of its strategy to become a leading science and technology company.
Guidance Reiterated: For 2017, the company maintained its net sales forecast in the range of €15.3 billion – €15.7 billion. The company expects net sales to be at the lower end of the expected range due to appreciating Euro. The company reiterated its earnings per share forecast in the range of €6.15 - €6.50.
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