10 Most Profitable Blue Chip Stocks to Buy Now

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4. Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK)

Net Profit Margin: 26.7%

Last year’s net income: $19.44 billion

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 91

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) is a global biopharmaceutical company focusing on both human and animal health. Its pharmaceutical division develops and markets a wide range of medicines, vaccines, and biologic therapies. Some notable products include immunotherapy for various cancers and a vaccine against HPV. The Animal Health segment provides veterinary pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and health management solutions for livestock and companion animals.

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) delivered strong growth in 2024, driven by robust demand for KEYTRUDA in oncology, the successful launch of WINREVAIR, and strong performance in the Animal Health business. However, the company faced challenges with GARDASIL in China, leading to a decision to temporarily pause shipments through at least midyear due to elevated channel inventory and challenging market dynamics. Despite this setback, MRK expects strong growth in the second half of 2025 and into 2026 and 2027. With a $19.44 billion net profit generated in 2024, MRK is one of the most profitable stocks on our list.

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) has made significant progress in its research efforts, with 20 potential new growth drivers, almost all with a blockbuster opportunity. MRK has nearly tripled the number of assets in late-phase development across various therapeutic areas and modalities over the past three years, representing over $50 billion of potential revenue opportunity. The company remains focused on breakthrough science and innovation, with promising developments across oncology, cardiometabolic, immunology, HIV, and ophthalmology, while maintaining a strong position to pursue additional science-driven, value-creating business development opportunities.

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