Leerink Partners Downgrades Merus FY2027 Earnings Forecast

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) shares saw a slight decline following insider selling by a senior executive, with trading volume notably lower than usual. Despite this, the stock maintains a consensus 'Moderate Buy' rating among analysts, with price targets generally clustered around $111, though some recent reports have slightly lowered their targets. The company remains a significant holding for prominent investors like billionaire Cliff Asness, whose AQR Capital Management has continued to outperform the market with its diversified investment strategies. Asness, known for his value and momentum investing, includes Merck among his top picks with large upside potential. Analyst coverage and investor interest suggest ongoing confidence in Merck’s prospects, despite short-term share price fluctuations.