15 Best Large-Cap Value Stocks to Buy in 2025

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

Analyst Upside as of January 20, 2025: 33%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 86

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) is a pharmaceutical giant in the United States that specializes in producing vaccines and providing hospital care services. The company has more than 60 programs in phase 2 clinical trials, 30 plus in phase 3 trials, and over 5 are under review. In the third quarter of 2024, MRK generated $16.7 billion in worldwide sales, of which Keytruda, its star drug, generated $7.4 billion, an increase of 17%. In addition to that, during Q3 the company presented data for four of its approved medicines and six in the pipeline.

On January 14, Akash Tewari, an analyst at Jefferies maintained a buy rating on the stock with a price target of $150. Tewari gave a buy rating on the stock because of MRK’s plans to launch the subcutaneous version of Keytruda earlier than expected. The analyst believes that the decision to accelerate the program will allow Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) to capture greater market share and generate robust revenue. He was also optimistic about the company’s strategic upgrades to other therapeutics.

In the full fiscal year of 2024, Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) expects revenue to range between $63.6 billion and $64.1 billion. The company remains confident in its diversified portfolio and sustainable engine for innovation, which is expected to drive growth in the future.