Merus' Positive Cancer Trial Results Send MRUS Stock Soaring 30%

Merus (MRUS) stock surged 30.54% after the company released interim results from its ongoing Phase 2 trial of petosemtamab in combination with pembrolizumab for head and neck cancer. The treatment achieved a median overall response rate of 63% and median progression-free survival of nine months. Analysts are optimistic about the drug's potential and have updated their coverage, with a consensus rating of Strong Buy and an average price target of $88.58.

Merus N.V. (MRUS) stock surged 30.54% following the release of interim results from its ongoing Phase 2 trial of petosemtamab in combination with pembrolizumab for head and neck cancer. The treatment achieved a median overall response rate of 63% and a median progression-free survival of nine months [1].

The interim data, presented at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting on June 2, demonstrated significant efficacy. The overall response rate of 63% and the 79% overall survival rate at 12 months indicate strong potential for long-term patient outcomes [1]. Additionally, the median progression-free survival of nine months adds to the positive clinical profile of the treatment.

Analysts are optimistic about the drug's potential. H.C. Wainwright, for example, issued a "Buy" rating on December 2, 2024, highlighting the promising results and the drug's potential to become a new standard of care in head and neck cancer [2].

The stock's performance reflects investor confidence in Merus' progress. The company has seen increased institutional investment, with 95 investors adding shares to their portfolios in the most recent quarter [3]. Despite the promising results, investors should be aware of potential risks, such as the high rate of grade 3 or higher treatment-emergent adverse events (60%) and the need for additional funding [1].

Merus will hold a conference call and webcast for investors on May 22, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. ET, to discuss these results further. Investors are encouraged to participate to gain a deeper understanding of the company's progress and future plans [1].

References:
[1] https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/merus-nv-reports-positive-interim-clinical-data-petosemtamab-combination-pembrolizumab
[2] https://www.quiverquantitative.com/analyst-ratings/mrus
[3] https://www.quiverquantitative.com/institutional-holdings/mrus