Merck Stock Hits All-Time High as mRNA Therapy Shines

Merck's stock has surged to an all-time high of $153.53, up 78% over the past year, driven by its mRNA cancer therapy's positive Phase 3 readout with Moderna.

This achievement marks a milestone for Merck and represents the first-ever positive Phase 3 results for an mRNA cancer therapy in history, providing proof-of-concept for this new therapeutic modality.

Goldman Sachs has raised its price target to $160 from $140, maintaining a Buy rating, while UBS downgraded to Neutral at $150 due to the stock's run-up.