Strategic Resilience and Financial Analysis of Merck & Co., Inc.: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in the Pharmaceutical Industry

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK), a prominent player in the global pharmaceutical industry, known for its significant contributions to healthcare through the development of innovative drugs and vaccines. Merck's core focus areas include pharmaceuticals, vaccines, animal health, and healthcare services, with its flagship oncology drug Keytruda being a major revenue contributor. The company faces challenges such as regulatory changes in drug pricing and competition from biosimilars and generics. To mitigate these challenges, Merck has initiated restructuring plans, including the 2024 Restructuring Plan, to optimize operational efficiency and achieve significant cost savings. The paper also presents a comparison of Merck's financial performance with industry peers - Johnson & Johnson, AbbVie and Bristol-Myers Squibb - and evaluates liquidity, solvency and profitability metrics. Despite certain challenges, Merck's robust market positioning, strategic acquisitions, and active involvement in the development of COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics underscore its potential for sustainable growth. Overall, the study concludes that Merck's strategic investments, coupled with its strong financial position and proactive restructuring efforts, make it an attractive investment prospect, particularly in its core therapeutic areas of oncology and immunology. This paper suggests that future research could delve deeper into the long-term impact of R&D investments, the intricacies of restructuring plans, and evolving market trends to provide a more nuanced understanding of Merck's strategic planning.