Merck's Stock Surges 1.68% on FDA and EU Approvals Strategic Deals $1.2B Volume Ranks 49th

On August 21, 2025, Merck (MRK) traded at $86.19, reflecting a 1.68% gain with a trading volume of $1.2 billion, ranking 49th in market activity. The stock’s performance was driven by regulatory and therapeutic developments. The U.S. FDA granted Breakthrough Therapy designation for Merck’s antibody-drug conjugate ifinatamab deruxtecan, targeting advanced small cell lung cancer, signaling potential for accelerated approval. Additionally, the European Commission approved Ogsiveo (nirogacestat) for desmoid tumors, expanding the company’s oncology portfolio. A $10 million milestone payment from Janux Therapeutics for a cancer therapy collaboration further underscored Merck’s strategic partnerships.

Positive momentum also emerged from market dynamics. Merck’s Keytruda remains a focal point, with recent EU approval for gastric cancer and adjuvant treatment in non-small cell lung cancer, reinforcing its role in oncology. Institutional investor activity, including purchases by Juncture Wealth Strategies and Renaissance Technologies, highlighted confidence in the stock. Meanwhile, Medicare pricing negotiations, which included Merck’s drugs, created mixed sentiment but did not immediately impact trading patterns.

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