Merck Lifts 2026 Profit Guidance Amid Strong Semiconductor Demand

Merck KGaA, a German diversified group, has raised its core profit guidance for 2026. The company expects adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) to be between 5.9 billion euros and 6.3 billion euros, up from the previous guidance of between 5.7 billion euros and 6.1 billion euros.

This prediction is based on robust operating performance and easing foreign exchange headwinds, according to CEO Kai Beckmann. Merck's semiconductor business has seen strong demand due to growing AI-related spending, with customers continuing to report capacity bottlenecks for AI technologies.

Merck's quarterly adjusted EBITDA rose 9.4% to 1.60 billion euros, exceeding analysts' average estimate of 1.53 billion euros. The company has also completed its $11.3 billion acquisition of Bio-Techne in June, adding additional capabilities across research, bioprocessing, and advanced therapeutics.