Merck calls itself a vibrant science and technology company. It indeed is a technology-intensive enterprise with business segments in healthcare, electronics, and life sciences. Merck is the world’s oldest pharmaceutical and chemical company. It was founded more than 350 years ago. Even today, the company is one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world. One of the secrets to its long life is high family control. The Merck family owns around 70% of the company’s shares. Merck’s operations are quite complex, and it has 250 companies under its control. Merck is present in more than 180 countries. If you are looking for drug manufacturers general stocks, then Merck will most likely feature in any shortlist. There are plenty of healthcare stocks to choose from. There is also greater awareness about the sector since the outbreak of the pandemic. Therefore, thorough research is recommended before picking any stock.
Merck Healthcare
Merck has a range of products and solutions in its healthcare segment. It delivers these solutions through biological therapies, vaccines, prescription medicines, and animal health products. Its pharmaceutical business segment deals in preventive and therapeutic agents. Such drugs are usually sold by prescription. Merck sells its drugs through retailers and wholesalers, government agencies, hospitals, and other healthcare providers. Merck has also made a foray into health analytics and the health technology area as part of its transition into newer technologies. Pharmaceutical sales for Merck account for more than 90% of overall sales. Merck employs over 74,000 people globally. In 2020 alone, the company hired close to 10,000 employees. It continues to be among the best healthcare stock picks.
Drug Manufacturers General Stocks
Merck’s stock closed at $71.93 on 21st September 2021. The dividend yield at the time was a very reasonable 3.61%. The stock was not far from its 52-week low of $68.29. The stock has been in a sideways range for more than two years.
