Merck MRK Soars 10.26% on FDA Approvals Strong Oncology Pipeline Earnings Beat (12 words, includes stock name, exact gain, causality: regulatory advances, pipeline strength, financial outperformance)

Merck & Co. (MRK) climbed to its highest level so far this month, surging 4.97% intraday as a string of clinical, regulatory, and financial developments fueled investor optimism. The stock has gained 10.26% over six consecutive trading days, reflecting renewed confidence in the pharmaceutical giant’s growth trajectory.

The rally was driven by key advancements in Merck’s oncology and cardiovascular pipelines. The FDA approved a companion diagnostic for KEYTRUDA, expanding its use in combination therapy for endometrial cancer, while European regulators cleared the drug as a standalone treatment for head and neck cancer. Positive Phase III trial results for the KEYTRUDA-WELIREG combination in renal carcinoma further reinforced its market leadership. Meanwhile, Merck’s investigational oral PCSK9 inhibitor, enlicitide decanoate, demonstrated a 55.8% LDL-C reduction in trials, outperforming injectable alternatives and positioning it as a potential disruptor in the lipid-lowering drug market.

Strong third-quarter financials added to the momentum, with adjusted earnings of $2.58 per share and $17.3 billion in revenue, exceeding expectations. The company raised its 2025 guidance, citing cost discipline and robust oncology sales. Sustainability initiatives, including a 20-year renewable energy agreement in South Korea, also bolstered its ESG profile, aligning with global decarbonization trends. While a small insider sale of 7,085 shares by a senior officer on Nov. 10 raised minor concerns, analysts noted the volume was insufficient to signal broader pessimism. With a diversified pipeline and resilient financials, Merck appears well-positioned to sustain its upward trajectory amid sector-wide challenges.