Merck & Co., Inc. operates as a healthcare company worldwide. It operates through two segments, Pharmaceutical and Animal Health. The Pharmaceutical segment offers human health pharmaceutical products in the areas of oncology, hospital acute care, immunology, neuroscience, virology, cardiovascular, and diabetes under the Keytruda, Bridion, Adempas, Lagevrio, Belsomra, Simponi, and Januvia brands, as well as vaccine products consisting of preventive pediatric, adolescent, and adult vaccines under the Gardasil/Gardasil 9, ProQuad, M-M-R II, Varivax, RotaTeq, Live Oral, Vaxneuvance, Pneumovax 23, and Vaqta names. The Animal Health segment discovers, develops, manufactures, and markets veterinary pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and health management solutions and services, as well as digitally connected identification, traceability, and monitoring products. The company serves drug wholesalers and retailers, hospitals, and government agencies; managed health care providers, such as health maintenance organizations, pharmacy benefit managers, and other institutions; and physicians, wholesalers, government entities, veterinarians, distributors, animal producers, farmers, and pet owners. It has development and commercialization agreement for three of Daiichi Sankyo's deruxtecan ADC candidates, which include patritumab deruxtecan, ifinatamab deruxtecan, and raludotatug deruxtecan for the treatment of multiple solid tumors both as monotherapy and/or in combination with other treatments; and AstraZeneca PLC to co-development and co-commercialize AstraZeneca's Lynparza products for multiple cancer types, and Koselugo for multiple indications. The company also has a collaboration agreement with Eisai Co., Ltd., Bayer AG, and Ridgeback Biotherapeutics LP, as well Moderna, Inc. Merck & Co., Inc. was founded in 1891 and is headquartered in Rahway, New Jersey.

Merck & Company демонстрирует стабильные финансовые показатели, отражая сильные стороны компании в ключевых метриках. P/E со значением 17.01 указывает на недооцененность по сравнению с отраслевой медианой, что позитивно для инвесторов. Высокие показатели ROE и ROA, значительно превышающие медианные значения, свидетельствуют о высокой эффективности компании. При этом, доля долгового финансирования (debt/equity) выше медианы, что увеличивает риски. Тем не менее, рост выручки и чистой прибыли по годам укрепляет основную оценку. Дивидендная доходность была снижена до нуля, что также является негативным аспектом. В целом, несмотря на некоторые слабые стороны, такие как высокая долговая нагрузка и отсутствие дивидендов, положительные тенденции в прибыли и рентабельности добавляют оптимизма к оценке компании.

Merck & Company, Inc.

The following companies are expected to report earnings prior to market open on 04/30/2026. Visit our Earnings Calendar for a full list of expected earnings releases.
Eli Lilly and Company (LLY)is reporting for the quarter ending March 31, 2026. The large cap pharmaceutical company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 6 analysts that follow the stock is $7.06. This value represents a 111.38% increase compared to the same quarter last year. LLY missed the consensus earnings per share in the 1st calendar quarter of 2025 by -5.11%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for LLY is 25.86 vs. an industry ratio of 15.00, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Mastercard Incorporated (MA)is reporting for the quarter ending March 31, 2026. The financial transactions company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 12 analysts that follow the stock is $4.40. This value represents a 17.96% increase compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year MA has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 4th calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 13.33%. Caterpillar, Inc. (CAT)is reporting for the quarter ending March 31, 2026. The machinery company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 10 analysts that follow the stock is $4.55. This value represents a 7.06% increase compared to the same quarter last year. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for CAT is 35.73 vs. an industry ratio of 13.20, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Merck & Company, Inc. (MRK)is reporting for the quarter ending March 31, 2026. The large cap pharmaceutical company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 5 analysts that follow the stock is $-1.51. This value represents a 168.02% decrease compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year MRK has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 4th calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 0.49%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for MRK is 22.50 vs. an industry ratio of 15.00, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
ConocoPhillips (COP)is reporting for the quarter ending March 31, 2026. The oil company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 8 analysts that follow the stock is $1.65. This value represents a 21.05% decrease compared to the same quarter last year. COP missed the consensus earnings per share in the 4th calendar quarter of 2025 by -5.56%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for COP is 14.70 vs. an industry ratio of -3.00, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Parker-Hannifin Corporation (PH)is reporting for the quarter ending March 31, 2026. The machinery company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 8 analysts that follow the stock is $7.85. This value represents a 13.11% increase compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year PH has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 4th calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 6.99%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for PH is 31.00 vs. an industry ratio of 12.40, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (BMY)is reporting for the quarter ending March 31, 2026. The biomedical (gene) company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 10 analysts that follow the stock is $1.44. This value represents a 20.00% decrease compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year BMY has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 4th calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 9.57%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for BMY is 9.28 vs. an industry ratio of -6.40, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Altria Group (MO)is reporting for the quarter ending March 31, 2026. The tobacco company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 5 analysts that follow the stock is $1.24. This value represents a 0.81% increase compared to the same quarter last year. MO missed the consensus earnings per share in the 4th calendar quarter of 2025 by -0.76%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for MO is 12.09 vs. an industry ratio of 13.00.
Southern Company (SO)is reporting for the quarter ending March 31, 2026. The electric power utilities company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 7 analysts that follow the stock is $1.21. This value represents a 1.63% decrease compared to the same quarter last year. SO missed the consensus earnings per share in the 4th calendar quarter of 2025 by -1.79%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for SO is 20.61 vs. an industry ratio of 18.20, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Trane Technologies plc (TT)is reporting for the quarter ending March 31, 2026. The technology services company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 6 analysts that follow the stock is $2.53. This value represents a 3.27% increase compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year TT has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 4th calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 1.42%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for TT is 32.59 vs. an industry ratio of 11.50, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Quanta Services, Inc. (PWR)is reporting for the quarter ending March 31, 2026. The engineering company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 7 analysts that follow the stock is $1.76. This value represents a 11.39% increase compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year PWR has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 4th calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 4.33%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for PWR is 52.71 vs. an industry ratio of 11.10, implying that they will have a higher earnings growth than their competitors in the same industry.
Intercontinental Exchange Inc. (ICE)is reporting for the quarter ending March 31, 2026. The securities exchange company's consensus earnings per share forecast from the 8 analysts that follow the stock is $2.22. This value represents a 29.07% increase compared to the same quarter last year. In the past year ICE has beat the expectations every quarter. The highest one was in the 4th calendar quarter where they beat the consensus by 2.4%. Zacks Investment Research reports that the 2026 Price to Earnings ratio for ICE is 19.39 vs. an industry ratio of 22.40.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Pre-Market Earnings Report for April 30, 2026 : LLY, MA, CAT, MRK, COP, PH, BMY, MO, SO, TT, PWR, ICE

AstraZeneca AZN reported first-quarter 2026 core earnings of $2.58 per share, which marginally beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.57. The bottom line rose 4% year over year on a reported basis and 5% at constant exchange rate (CER).
Total revenues of $15.29 billion rose 13% on a reported basis and 8% at CER, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $14.96 billion.
All growth rates mentioned below are on a year-over-year basis and at CER.
AZN shares began trading on the NYSE on Feb. 2. Earlier, in the United States, investors traded AstraZeneca through a different structure called American Depositary Shares (ADS) on Nasdaq.
AZN’s Product Sales & Alliance Revenues
Product sales increased 7% to $14.39 billion.
Alliance revenues rose 26% to $825 million, driven by continued revenue growth from partnered medicines. Alliance revenues include royalties and profit share from partnered medicines, such as Enhertu and Tezspire, in geographies where its partner books product sales.
AstraZeneca’s Key Oncology Drugs Drive Growth
Here, we have discussed AstraZeneca’s total drug revenues by including Alliance and Collaboration revenues in each revenue figure.
In Oncology, Tagrisso recorded revenues of $1.83 billion, up 5% year over year, driven by strong demand across all indications and regions, partly offset by tender outcomes and phasing in Emerging Markets, and seasonal variability in Japan ahead of fiscal year-end. Tagrisso sales missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.86 billion.
Lynparza's total revenues rose 2% to $781 million, driven by increased market share/demand growth for all approved indications and continued uptake in breast and prostate cancers across Europe. The growth was partially offset by the impact of generic launches in China and by VBP-associated stock compensation costs. The drug’s sales, however, beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $755 million.
AstraZeneca markets Lynparza in partnership with Merck MRK. During the quarter, the company did not record any milestone payment from partner Merck related to the drug.
Imfinzi generated sales of $1.69 billion in the quarter, up 30%, driven by strong demand growth across all regions from existing indications and new launches. Imfinzi sales, however, missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.79 billion. Sales of Calquence rose 17% to $923 million in the quarter. New breast cancer drug Truqap recorded $198 million in revenues in the first quarter of 2026, up 47% year over year on achieving peak share in second-line biomarker-altered metastatic breast cancer.
Newly approved drug Datroway, for which it has a partnership with Daiichi Sankyo, recorded revenues of $43 million in the quarter compared with $40 million in the previous quarter.
Year to date, the stock has risen 1.5% against the industry’s 1.6% decline.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
AZN’s CVRM Segment Performance
In CVRM, Farxiga recorded product sales of $2.24 billion, down 3%, despite continued demand growth across chronic kidney disease and heart failure indications and SGLT2 class growth. However, sales were affected by generic competition in some markets like China, Japan and the United Kingdom and the VBP impact in China. Farxiga sales, however, beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.08 billion.
Brilinta/Brilique sales totaled $105 million in the reported quarter, down 67%, due to the generic launch in Europe and the United States.
Wainua recorded $51 million in product sales during the quarter, up 28% year over year, driven by strong demand growth in transthyretin amyloid polyneuropathy.
AZN’s R&I Segment Performance
In R&I, Symbicort sales declined 1% to $747 million as demand for an authorized generic was offset by price pressures in the United States and generic erosion in Europe. The drug’s sales, however, beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $734 million.
Fasenra recorded sales of $483 million in the quarter, up 11% year over year, driven by strong demand growth and market share gains. The recent launch for the EGPA indication also benefited sales in some countries. The drug’s sales beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $478 million.
Breztri recorded sales of $353 million, up 13% year over year, driven by a consistent share increase in a growing market.
Pulmicort sales declined 11% to $149 million due to continued generic competition in Emerging Markets.
New product Airsupra generated $37 million in product sales in the quarter, up 31% year over year. The product’s U.S. launch momentum remains strong.
New lupus drug, Saphnelo, recorded sales of $171 million, up 24% year over year, driven by demand growth in the U.S. market and ongoing launches in Europe and Established RoW.
Tezspire recorded total revenues of $303 million, up 34% year over year, driven by demand growth and launch uptake in multiple markets. AstraZeneca has a partnership with Amgen AMGN for Tezspire. Amgen records product sales in the United States, and AstraZeneca records its share of U.S. gross profits as Alliance revenues. AstraZeneca books product sales in markets outside the United States.
AstraZeneca PLC Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
AZN’s Rare Disease, V&I and Other Segment
In the Rare Disease portfolio, Soliris sales fell 14% to $389 million due to conversion to Ultomiris and biosimilar erosion in Europe and the United States.
Ultomiris revenues amounted to $1.27 billion, up 18%, driven by demand growth across indications, geographic expansions in new markets and continued conversion from Soliris.
In Other Medicines, sales of Nexium declined 9% to $253 million.
In V&I Therapies, AstraZeneca recorded $116 million in revenues from Beyfortus, including alliance revenues received from partner Sanofi SNY and sales of the manufactured Beyfortus product to Sanofi. Revenues increased 3% year over year.
AZN Reiterates 2026 Guidance
AstraZeneca reconfirmed its financial guidance for 2026.
It continues to expect total revenues to grow by a mid-to-high single-digit percentage at CER.
Core EPS is expected to increase by a low double-digit percentage at CER.
AZN’s Zacks Rank
Currently, AstraZeneca has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days
Just released: Experts distill 7 elite stocks from the current list of 220 Zacks Rank #1 Strong Buys. They deem these tickers "Most Likely for Early Price Pops."
Since 1988, the full list has beaten the market more than 2X over with an average gain of +23.9% per year. So be sure to give these hand picked 7 your immediate attention.
See them now >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

AZN Q1 Earnings and Sales Beat, Key Drugs Offset Generic Pressure

Moderna MRNA is scheduled to report first-quarter 2026 results on May 1, before the opening bell. The company’s earnings beat estimates by 18.85% in the last reported quarter.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for sales is pegged at $223.5 million, while that for earnings is pinned at a loss of $2.29 per share. Both metrics indicate improvement over the year-ago period.
Factors Likely to Shape Moderna’s Upcoming Results
Moderna is likely to have reported product sales in the quarter from three marketed products — two COVID-19 vaccines (Spikevax and mNexspike) and an RSV vaccine (mResvia). A significant portion of product sales is expected to have come from the COVID-19 vaccines.
We expect minimal product sales of the company's RSV vaccine, mResvia. This softer outlook is likely due to stiff competition and the strong foothold of the competing RSV vaccines marketed by GSK and Pfizer.
Earlier this month, Moderna secured approval in the EU for mCombriax (mRNA-1083), the first combination vaccine for active immunization against COVID-19 and influenza. This marks the fourth marketed product in the company’s portfolio. Investors will likely seek updates on commercialization plans for this vaccine, as well as Moderna’s timeline for FDA resubmission.
The initial filing for mCombriax was voluntarily withdrawn last year after the agency requested additional efficacy data for the flu component. This issue was addressed with positive late-stage data announced in June 2025, where the company’s standalone flu shot, mRNA-1010, demonstrated superior efficacy compared with GSK’s approved influenza vaccine. mCombriax integrates mNexspike with mRNA-1010.
Moderna is developing more than 30 mRNA-based investigational candidates across different stages of clinical studies, targeting various indications, including cancer. Investors will likely focus on updates surrounding pipeline development.
An important candidate in Moderna’s pipeline is intismeran autogene, a personalized cancer therapy, which is being developed in collaboration with Merck MRK. The companies are already evaluating this therapy in three pivotal phase III studies — one in melanoma and two in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Moderna and Merck are also studying the therapy across various mid-stage studies for other cancer indications, such as bladder cancer and renal carcinoma. Investors will likely seek updates from management on the progress of this MRK-partnered therapy.
MRNA’s Earnings Surprise History
The firm’s performance has been impressive over the past four quarters. Its earnings beat estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, delivering an average surprise of 34.40%.
Moderna, Inc. Price and EPS Surprise
Moderna’s Stock Movement
Year to date, Moderna’sshares have rallied 65% againstthe industry’s 1% decline.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
What Our Model Predicts for MRNA
Our proven model does not predict an earnings beat for Moderna this time around. The combinationofa positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat. This is not the case here, as you will see below. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they're reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Earnings ESP: Moderna has an Earnings ESP of -25.75%. The Most Accurate Estimate stands at a loss of $2.87 per share, while the Zacks Consensus Estimate is pegged at a loss of $2.29.
Zacks Rank: MRNA currently carries a Zacks Rank #3. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Stocks With the Favorable Combinations
Here are some drug/biotech stocks that have the right combination of elements to beat on earnings this time around:
Agenus AGEN has an Earnings ESP of +7.69% and a Zacks Rank #1 at present.
Shares of AGEN have risen 30% year to date. The company’s earnings beat estimates in two of the trailing four quarters, while missing the mark on the other two occasions. Agenus delivered an average surprise of 31.42%.
Inovio Pharmaceuticals INO has an Earnings ESP of +3.33% and a Zacks Rank #2 at present.
Shares of INO have lost 33% year to date. The company’s earnings beat estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, delivering an average surprise of 57.94%.
Zacks' Research Chief Names "Stock Most Likely to Double"
Our team of experts has just released the 5 stocks with the greatest probability of gaining +100% or more in the coming months. Of those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian highlights the one stock set to climb highest.
This top pick is a little-known satellite-based communications firm. Space is projected to become a trillion dollar industry, and this company's customer base is growing fast. Analysts have forecasted a major revenue breakout in 2025. Of course, all our elite picks aren't winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks' Stocks Set to Double like Hims & Hers Health, which shot up +209%.
Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Moderna Gears Up to Report Q1 Earnings: Here's What to Expect

ImmunityBio IBRX is moving from a U.S.-led launch to a broader international rollout. Authorizations now span the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Saudi Arabia, and Macau, covering about 34 countries and territories. The next phase is converting those clearances into steady demand.
Global scale is a familiar differentiator in immuno-oncology. Large-cap peers such as Merck MRK and Bristol Myers Squibb BMY show how market access and execution can amplify a therapy’s reach once approvals expand.
IBRX Expands Beyond the U.S. With Multiple Authorizations
With multiple jurisdictions now cleared, attention shifts to early utilization and ordering patterns across new markets. The commercial question is less about adding authorizations and more about building repeatable launch mechanics.
Because each region has its own procurement and access pathway, “commercial readiness” can become the gating factor for near-term contribution.
ImmunityBio Turns Saudi Authorization Into Early Commercial Sales
Saudi Arabia is the first proof point of speed. On April 21, Anktiva became commercially available, supported by regional partners Biopharma and Cigalah Healthcare.
The launch included initial patient identification, helping reduce the lag from clearance to use. Saudi authorization covers bladder cancer and lung cancer patients, including Anktiva with checkpoint inhibitors for metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
IBRX Gets a Foothold in Asia Through Macau’s Approval
Macau delivered the company’s first authorization in Asia. The March 20 decision covers Anktiva plus Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) for BCG-unresponsive carcinoma in situ (CIS) non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), with or without papillary tumors.
Outcomes cited from QUILT-3.032 include a 71% complete response rate and a 26.6-month median duration of response, supporting a durability narrative as the company builds an Asian foothold.
ImmunityBio, Inc. Price and Consensus
ImmunityBio’s EU Conditional Nod Creates a Big Market Test
The European Commission granted conditional marketing authorization on Feb. 16 for Anktiva plus BCG in BCG-unresponsive NMIBC CIS, with or without papillary tumors.
Coverage includes European Union member states plus Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein. The company framed this as the first immunotherapy authorized in Europe for the indication, a “first” that can aid awareness as access work begins.
IBRX Must Navigate Europe’s Country-by-Country Reimbursement
Europe’s next hurdle is reimbursement country by country. ImmunityBio is prioritizing the “Big 5,” with Germany expected to commercialize first in 2026.
That structure can slow the revenue ramp even after authorization, since pricing and rollout timelines vary by market.
ImmunityBio Builds Optionality With Scalable NK Cell Manufacturing
In March 2026 manufacturing engineering programs, 64 subjects were treated with no procedure-related serious adverse events reported. The company also reported producing up to 5 billion natural killer cells from a single apheresis, enabling multiple doses within 12 days.
Management’s “World Bank of NK Cells” concept is intended to support scalable supply, and phase I combination experience in relapsed or refractory solid tumors reported no serious adverse events.
IBRX Road Map for the Next Wave of Value-Defining Events
ImmunityBio expects additional data readouts in non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer studies in the fourth quarter of 2026 and plans a U.S. regulatory filing with the FDA based on those results.
The phase II BCG-naïve NMIBC CIS study has completed enrollment, with data expected in the fourth quarter of 2026 and a potential U.S. filing by the end of 2026 if results are positive. A resubmitted supplemental biologics license application seeking label expansion for papillary disease keeps another regulatory track active.
Into early 2026, the share price has tended to respond to upward estimate revisions and execution milestones. That makes launch follow-through and late-2026 readouts central to the next leg of the story.
IBRX’s Zacks Rank
ImmunityBio currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Research Chief Names "Single Best Pick to Double"
From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all.
This company targets millennial and Gen Z audiences, generating nearly $1 billion in revenue last quarter alone. A recent pullback makes now an ideal time to jump aboard. Of course, all our elite picks aren’t winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks’ Stocks Set to Double like Nano-X Imaging which shot up +129.6% in little more than 9 months.
Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

IBRX Global Rollout: EU, MENA, and Asia Shape 2026-27 Catalysts

ImmunityBio IBRX enters 2026 with a commercial story that is unusually concentrated. Anktiva is the company’s first marketed product, and it is already the clear topline driver.
What matters now is whether demand signals from the U.S. launch hold, and whether late-stage bladder readouts in 2026 expand the pool of patients who can receive the regimen.
IBRX Sets the Baseline With Anktiva’s U.S. Launch
Anktiva is ImmunityBio’s first marketed product and the primary engine behind revenue. The FDA approved Anktiva in April 2024 in combination with Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) for adults with BCG-unresponsive non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) with carcinoma in situ (CIS), with or without papillary tumors.
Commercial activity started quickly. Initial shipments began in May 2024, which set the starting line for the current ramp and explains why the near-term narrative remains product-led.
ImmunityBio Sees Demand Signals in 2025 Exit Rate
The 2025 revenue profile showed a step-change that reflects full-year commercialization. Total revenue reached $113.3 million in 2025 versus $14.7 million in 2024, with product revenue accounting for $113.0 million.
Momentum strengthened into the year-end exit rate. Fourth-quarter net product sales were $38.3 million, up 20% sequentially and 431% year over year. Management also pointed to repeat prescribing behavior as a key adoption signal, which matters because durability in physician ordering patterns is often what sustains a launch beyond the initial early-adopter wave.
IBRX Gets a Reimbursement Tailwind From the J-Code
Reimbursement mechanics can influence how fast a specialty product moves from interest to routine use. ImmunityBio received a permanent J-code for Anktiva effective Jan. 1, 2025.
The company tied that coding milestone to streamlined reimbursement and broader U.S. uptake through 2025. In practice, cleaner billing can reduce friction for community sites and shorten the time between a decision to treat and the start of therapy, supporting adoption velocity as the commercial footprint expands.
ImmunityBio, Inc. Price and Consensus
ImmunityBio Moves the Regimen Earlier in Bladder Care
The current foundation is the approved setting in BCG-unresponsive NMIBC with carcinoma in situ. From there, ImmunityBio’s strategy is to move Anktiva earlier in care by advancing it into additional NMIBC populations.
That “earlier-in-care” push is central because it is the most direct path to expanding the addressable patient pool within bladder cancer. It also helps frame why 2026 trial cadence is so important: the commercial opportunity scales meaningfully if use broadens beyond the initial labeled slice of non-muscle invasive disease.
IBRX Highlights Pivotal Trial Progress in BCG-Naïve NMIBC
The pivotal program to watch is QUILT-2.005, a randomized study evaluating Anktiva plus BCG versus BCG alone in BCG-naïve NMIBC.
An interim analysis indicated the study retains sufficient statistical power, and enrollment reached 366 patients ahead of schedule. The company also reported a statistically significant improvement in duration of complete response for the combination therapy, with no new safety concerns. Additional readouts are expected in the fourth quarter of 2026, and ImmunityBio plans to file with the FDA based on the results.
ImmunityBio Adds Guideline Support While FDA Label Lags
Guidelines can shape physician comfort even before a label broadens. In March 2026, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network updated its bladder cancer guidelines to include Anktiva plus BCG for BCG-unresponsive NMIBC with papillary-only disease.
That same update is an important nuance for investors: this specific papillary-only population is described as not yet FDA-approved for Anktiva. Even so, guideline visibility can reinforce clinical confidence and raise awareness in urology practices, which can influence real-world utilization while regulatory work continues.
IBRX Sets Near-Term Checkpoints Into Q1 and Q4 2026
The first near-term commercial checkpoint is early 2026 revenue trajectory. ImmunityBio reported preliminary first-quarter 2026 net product revenue of approximately $44.2 million, representing about 168% year-over-year growth and a 15% sequential increase.
From there, the next major catalyst window is the expected fourth-quarter 2026 data cadence across bladder programs, led by additional QUILT-2.005 readouts. The setup matters because estimate movements were mixed ahead of first-quarter earnings, and the stock has historically been responsive to execution milestones and periods of positive surprise.
In a bladder cancer landscape where large oncology players like Merck MRK compete with established immunotherapy franchises and smaller uro-oncology specialists like UroGen Pharma URGN target non-muscle invasive disease, ImmunityBio’s 2026 will likely come down to two things: sustaining U.S. adoption while proving Anktiva can move earlier in care.
IBRX’s Zacks Rank
ImmunityBio currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Research Chief Names "Single Best Pick to Double"
From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all.
This company targets millennial and Gen Z audiences, generating nearly $1 billion in revenue last quarter alone. A recent pullback makes now an ideal time to jump aboard. Of course, all our elite picks aren’t winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks’ Stocks Set to Double like Nano-X Imaging which shot up +129.6% in little more than 9 months.
Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

IBRX: What Anktiva's Bladder Data Says About 2026 Sales

The first-quarter 2026 reporting cycle for the Medical sector is about to accelerate, as most companies are scheduled to release results over the next two weeks. The earnings season for the drug and biotech sector began earlier this month when pharma bellwether Johnson & Johnson reported solid first-quarter results, beating estimates for both earnings and sales. Reflecting the strong performance, J&J modestly raised its 2026 financial guidance, signaling confidence in sustained growth across both its Innovative Medicine and MedTech businesses.
Last week, Swiss pharma giant Roche reported first-quarter 2026 results, which were weighed down by unfavorable foreign-exchange movements, as weakness in the U.S. dollar adversely impacted international sales. Nonetheless, the company’s underlying operational performance was solid as robust growth in key products helped offset declining sales of legacy drugs.
Also, last week, French pharma giant Sanofi reported strong first-quarter results, beating estimates for both earnings and sales. Higher sales of blockbuster drug, Dupixent, and contributions from new products like Altuviiio and Ayvakit continued to drive the top-line growth.
Per the Zacks classification, the pharma/biotech industry falls under the broader Medical sector, comprising pharma/biotech and generic companies, and medical device companies.
Per the Earnings Trends report, as of April 22, 13.8% of the companies in the Medical sector — representing 27.5% of the sector’s market capitalization — reported quarterly earnings. Out of these, 87.5% surpassed earnings estimates, while 87.5% beat the same for revenues. Earnings increased 2% year over year, while revenues rose 3.6%. Overall, first-quarter earnings of the Medical sector are expected to decrease 7.1%, while sales are projected to rise 6.3% from the year-ago quarter.
Eli Lilly LLY, Merck MRK, AbbVie ABBV, Bristol Myers BMY and Biogen BIIB are all slated to release their first-quarter results this week. Let us examine how these biotech/pharma companies are likely to have performed in the soon-to-be-reported quarter.
Eli Lilly
Eli Lilly’s performance has been mixed, with the company exceeding earnings expectations in three of the trailing four quarters while missing on the remaining occasion. It delivered a four-quarter earnings surprise of 7.96%, on average. In the last reported quarter, LLY delivered a positive earnings surprise of 7.87%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for first-quarter sales and earnings is pegged at $17.78 billion and $7.26 per share, respectively.
Per our proven model, companies with the combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) have a good chance of delivering an earnings beat. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Eli Lilly has an Earnings ESP of -4.83% and a Zacks Rank #3 at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
In the first quarter of 2026, like the past few quarters, the key drivers of Lilly’s top-line growth are likely to have been its popular GLP-1 drugs, diabetes drug Mounjaro and obesity drug Zepbound, driven by high demand trends, partially offset by lower pricing.
LLY is scheduled to report its first-quarter 2026 earnings on April 30, before market open.
Eli Lilly and Company Price and EPS Surprise
Merck
Merck’s performance has been solid, with the company exceeding earnings expectations in each of the trailing four quarters. It delivered a four-quarter earnings surprise of 4.76%, on average. In the last reported quarter, MRK delivered an earnings surprise of 0.49%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for first-quarter top line is pegged at $15.90 billion, while the same for the bottom line stands at a loss of $1.51 per share.
MRK has an Earnings ESP of +3.14% and a Zacks Rank #3, indicating a likely positive earnings surprise this time around.
Merck’s top-line growth in the first quarter is expected to be driven by higher sales of Keytruda and other oncology drugs, Animal Health and new products, which may have been partially offset by lower sales of Gardasil and some other vaccines, as well as generic competition for some key drugs.
MRK is set to report its first-quarter 2026 earnings on April 30, before market open.
Merck & Co., Inc. Price and EPS Surprise
AbbVie
AbbVie’s performance has been impressive, with its earnings exceeding expectations in each of the trailing four quarters. It delivered a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 3.17%. In the last reported quarter, ABBV delivered an earnings surprise of 1.88%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for first-quarter sales and earnings is pegged at $14.78 billion and $2.62 per share, respectively.
ABBV has an Earnings ESP of 0.00% and a Zacks Rank #3 at present.
AbbVie’s top-line growth in the first quarter is likely to have been driven by higher sales of newer immunology drugs, Skyrizi and Rinvoq. We expect both drugs to have expanded their market share across all approved indications.
Also, sales of the company’s flagship drug Humira are likely to have continued their downward trend due to biosimilar erosion.
ABBV is set to report first-quarter 2026 earnings on April 29, before the opening bell.
AbbVie Inc. Price and EPS Surprise
Bristol Myers
Bristol Myers has an excellent track record. Its earnings beat estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, delivering an average surprise of 18.84%. In the previously reported quarter, the company’s earnings beat estimates by 9.57%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for first-quarter sales and earnings is pegged at $10.92 billion and $1.44 per share, respectively.
BMY has an Earnings ESP of -1.02% and a Zacks Rank #3 at present.
In the first quarter of 2026, Bristol Myers’ top line is likely to have gained from an increase in growth portfolio sales. The growth portfolio primarily comprises sales from drugs like Opdivo, Opdivo Qvantig, Orencia, Yervoy, Reblozyl, Camzyos, Breyanzi, Opdualag, Zeposia, Abecma, Sotyku, Krazati and Cobenfy.
However, as in the previous quarters, total quarterly revenues are likely to have been adversely impacted by a decline in sales from the legacy portfolio, which includes Eliquis, Revlimid, Pomalyst, Sprycel and Abraxane, among others.
BMY is scheduled to report first-quarter 2026 results on April 30, before market open.
Bristol Myers Squibb Company Price and EPS Surprise
Biogen
Biogen’s performance has been mixed, with the company exceeding earnings expectations in three of the trailing four quarters while missing on the remaining occasion. It delivered a four-quarter earnings surprise of 19.77%, on average. In the last reported quarter, BIIB delivered a positive earnings surprise of 23.60%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for first-quarter sales and earnings is pegged at $2.25 billion and $2.96 per share, respectively.
BIIB has an Earnings ESP of -1.25% and a Zacks Rank #3 at present.
In the first quarter of 2026, lower sales of Biogen’s multiple sclerosis (“MS”) drugs, excluding Vumerity, are likely to have been offset by sequential revenue growth of new products. Also, sales of Biogen’s spinal muscular atrophy drug, Spinraza, are likely to have declined in the first quarter due to lower revenues in international markets.
Sales of Biogen’s newly launched drug Skyclarys for Friedreich’s ataxia are likely to have continued to improve sequentially, backed by demand growth and geographic expansion in outside U.S. markets.
BIIB will report first-quarter 2026 results on April 29, before market open.
Biogen Inc. Price and EPS Surprise
Radical New Technology Could Hand Investors Huge Gains
Quantum Computing is the next technological revolution, and it could be even more advanced than AI.
While some believed the technology was years away, it is already present and moving fast. Large hyperscalers, such as Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Oracle, and even Meta and Tesla, are scrambling to integrate quantum computing into their infrastructure.
Senior Stock Strategist Kevin Cook reveals 7 carefully selected stocks poised to dominate the quantum computing landscape in his report, Beyond AI: The Quantum Leap in Computing Power.
Kevin was among the early experts who recognized NVIDIA's enormous potential back in 2016. Now, he has keyed in on what could be "the next big thing" in quantum computing supremacy. Today, you have a rare chance to position your portfolio at the forefront of this opportunity.
See Top Quantum Stocks Now >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Will These 5 Drug Bigwigs Surpass Q1 Earnings Forecasts?

Analysts on Wall Street project that Merck (MRK) will announce quarterly loss of -$1.51 per share in its forthcoming report, representing a decline of 168% year over year. Revenues are projected to reach $15.9 billion, increasing 2.4% from the same quarter last year.
The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 18.4% lower over the last 30 days to the current level. This reflects how the analysts covering the stock have collectively reevaluated their initial estimates during this timeframe.
Before a company reveals its earnings, it is vital to take into account any changes in earnings projections. These revisions play a pivotal role in predicting the possible reactions of investors toward the stock. Multiple empirical studies have consistently shown a strong association between trends in earnings estimates and the short-term price movements of a stock.
While investors typically use consensus earnings and revenue estimates as a yardstick to evaluate the company's quarterly performance, scrutinizing analysts' projections for some of the company's key metrics can offer a more comprehensive perspective.
That said, let's delve into the average estimates of some Merck metrics that Wall Street analysts commonly model and monitor.
Based on the collective assessment of analysts, 'Sales- Vaccines- Vaxneuvance' should arrive at $220.75 million. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of -4%.
The consensus estimate for 'Sales- Oncology- Welireg' stands at $192.28 million. The estimate points to a change of +40.4% from the year-ago quarter.
The collective assessment of analysts points to an estimated 'Sales- Oncology- Keytruda' of $7.73 billion. The estimate points to a change of +7.3% from the year-ago quarter.
It is projected by analysts that the 'Sales- Animal health' will reach $1.67 billion. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +5.4%.
Analysts predict that the 'Sales- Hospital Acute Care- Bridion - U.S.' will reach $359.36 million. The estimate suggests a change of -4.9% year over year.
Analysts' assessment points toward 'Sales- Oncology- Keytruda - International' reaching $3.13 billion. The estimate suggests a change of +8% year over year.
The consensus among analysts is that 'Sales- Diabetes- Janumet - U.S.' will reach $53.77 million. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of -17.3%.
The average prediction of analysts places 'Sales- Oncology- Alliance revenue- Lynparza - U.S.' at $149.70 million. The estimate suggests a change of +3.2% year over year.
According to the collective judgment of analysts, 'Sales- Oncology- Alliance revenue- Lynparza - International' should come in at $178.43 million. The estimate points to a change of +6.2% from the year-ago quarter.
Analysts forecast 'Sales- Oncology- Alliance revenue- Lenvima - U.S.' to reach $155.51 million. The estimate suggests a change of -16.4% year over year.
The combined assessment of analysts suggests that 'Sales- Oncology- Alliance revenue- Lenvima - International' will likely reach $75.77 million. The estimate points to a change of +5.2% from the year-ago quarter.
Analysts expect 'Sales- Hospital Acute Care- Zerbaxa - U.S.' to come in at $43.46 million. The estimate suggests a change of +3.5% year over year.
View all Key Company Metrics for Merck here>>>
Over the past month, shares of Merck have returned -6.5% versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +9.3% change. Currently, MRK carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), suggesting that its performance may align with the overall market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Radical New Technology Could Hand Investors Huge Gains
Quantum Computing is the next technological revolution, and it could be even more advanced than AI.
While some believed the technology was years away, it is already present and moving fast. Large hyperscalers, such as Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Oracle, and even Meta and Tesla, are scrambling to integrate quantum computing into their infrastructure.
Senior Stock Strategist Kevin Cook reveals 7 carefully selected stocks poised to dominate the quantum computing landscape in his report, Beyond AI: The Quantum Leap in Computing Power.
Kevin was among the early experts who recognized NVIDIA's enormous potential back in 2016. Now, he has keyed in on what could be "the next big thing" in quantum computing supremacy. Today, you have a rare chance to position your portfolio at the forefront of this opportunity.
See Top Quantum Stocks Now >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Exploring Analyst Estimates for Merck (MRK) Q1 Earnings, Beyond Revenue and EPS

Merck MRK continues to encounter persistent challenges with its second-largest product, Gardasil, a vaccine approved to prevent certain cancers caused by the human papillomavirus. While Gardasil’s sales grew steadily through 2022, growth began to slow down in 2024.
Gardasil sales plunged 39% year over year to $5.2 billion in 2025.
Sales of Gardasil are declining due to weak performance in China, which resulted from sluggish demand trends amid an economic slowdown. Lower demand in China resulted in above-normal channel inventory levels at Merck’s commercialization partner in China, Zhifei.
Accordingly, Merck decided to temporarily halt shipments of Gardasil in China to allow Zhifei to burn down existing inventory. The company is also seeing lower demand for the vaccine in Japan, with sales not expected to improve in 2026.
We expect Gardasil sales to decline due to lower demand in China as well as Japan in the first quarter.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Gardasil’s first-quarter sales stands at $1.18 billion.
MRK’s Other Vaccines & Competition in the Space
Besides Gardasil, Merck markets vaccines like ProQuad/ M-M-R II/Varivax (measles, mumps, rubella and varicella virus vaccine), Vaxneuvance (pneumococcal 15-valent conjugate vaccine), RotaTeq (rotavirus vaccine), Pneumovax 23 (pneumococcal vaccine polyvalent) and its newest jab, Capvaxive (21-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine).
Sales of some other Merck vaccines, like Proquad, M-M-R II, Varivax, Rotateq and Pneumovax 23, also declined in 2025.
However, as seen in previous quarters, sales of the new vaccine, Capvaxive, are likely to have improved sequentially in the first quarter, driven by growing demand.
Also, Merck’s newest respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) antibody, Enflonsia (clesrovimab), was approved in the United States in June 2025. The RSV antibody was approved in Europe earlier this month.
Enflonsia recorded sales worth $21 million in the fourth quarter of 2025, which declined sequentially due to a lower-than-expected infant immunization rate and high inventory levels in the market. As Merck prepares to report its first-quarter 2026 results, it remains to be seen how Enflonsia performs in the quarter.
Enflonsia faces competition from AstraZeneca AZN/Sanofi’s SNY RSV antibody Beyfortus, which is approved for a similar indication.
In the first quarter of 2026, the AZN/SNY antibody recorded sales worth €284 million, up 2.8% on a year-over-year basis.
Besides antibodies, some vaccines have been approved for preventing RSV in certain patients in the United States. These include Pfizer’s Abrysvo, GSK’s Arexvy and Moderna’s mRESVIA.
MRK's Price Performance, Valuation and Estimates
Year to date, shares of Merck have increased 8.9% against the industry’s 5.4% decline. The stock has also outperformed the sector and the S&P 500 during the same time frame, as seen in the chart below.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, Merck is trading at a premium compared to the industry. Going by the price/earnings ratio, the company’s shares currently trade at 17.69 forward earnings, higher than 16.62 for the industry and higher than its 5-year mean of 12.68.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 earnings per share has decreased from $5.18 to $4.93, while the same for 2027 has declined from $9.98 to $9.91 over the past 60 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
MRK's Zacks Rank
Merck currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days
Just released: Experts distill 7 elite stocks from the current list of 220 Zacks Rank #1 Strong Buys. They deem these tickers "Most Likely for Early Price Pops."
Since 1988, the full list has beaten the market more than 2X over with an average gain of +23.9% per year. So be sure to give these hand picked 7 your immediate attention.
See them now >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Will Lower Gardasil Sales Hurt MRK's Vaccines Sales in Q1 Earnings?

While Eli Lilly LLY is a market leader in the GLP-1 segment, thanks to its tirzepatide medicines Mounjaro (for diabetes) and Zepbound (for obesity), the company also generates a meaningful portion of revenues from its oncology franchise. In 2025, LLY’s oncology sales totaled $9.38 billion, representing year-over-year growth of 7%, and accounted for around 14% of the company’s total revenues.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Eli Lilly’s overall oncology portfolio sales during the first quarter of 2026 is pegged at $2.15 billion. A significant portion of these revenues is likely to be generated from sales of the company’s blockbuster breast cancer drug, Verzenio. Sales of this drug are expected to have been driven by higher volumes due to increased demand in ex-U.S. markets, partially offset by a decline in sales in the United States.
Sales of RET inhibitor Retevmo and the newer lymphoma drug Jaypirca are also expected to have contributed positively to top-line growth during the quarter. However, these gains are likely to have been partially offset by lower sales of older cancer drugs like Alimta and Cyramza, which are being impacted by competition from immuno-oncology agents in the United States.
Eli Lilly secured FDA approval for its new breast cancer drug, Inluriyo (imlunestrant), in late 2025 and was subsequently launched in the United States. Investors will look out for the sales numbers for Inluriyo on the first-quarter earnings call.
As markets await another strong quarter from Eli Lilly’s GLP-1 portfolio, investors will also keep an eye on the company’s oncology unit, which is showing consistent growth fueled by innovation. This could help reassure investors that Lilly’s earnings trajectory is not solely tied to the obesity segment ahead of the first-quarter results on April 30.
Competition in the Oncology Space
Other bigger players in the oncology space include AstraZeneca AZN, Merck MRK and Pfizer PFE.
For AstraZeneca, oncology sales now account for nearly 44% of total revenues. Sales in its oncology segment rose 17% in 2025. AstraZeneca’s strong oncology performance was driven by medicines, such as Tagrisso, Lynparza, Imfinzi, Calquence and Enhertu (in partnership with Daiichi Sankyo).
Merck’s oncology sales grew more than 9% in 2025, driven by key oncology medicines, such as PD-L1 inhibitor Keytruda and PARP inhibitor Lynparza, which it markets in partnership with AstraZeneca. MRK’s Keytruda, approved for several types of cancer, alone accounted for about 49% of Merck’s total revenues in 2025.
Pfizer’s oncology revenues in 2025 grew more than 8% on a reported basis, driven by drugs like Xtandi, Lorbrena, the Braftovi-Mektovi combination and Padcev. The segment now accounts for about 27% of Pfizer’s overall sales.
LLY’s Stock Price, Valuation and Estimates
Shares of Eli Lilly have lost 14.3% year to date compared with the industry’s 5.5% decline. The company has also underperformed the sector and the S&P 500 during the same time frame, as seen in the chart below.
LLY Stock Price Movement
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
From a valuation standpoint, LLY stock is expensive. Going by the price/earnings ratio, the company’s shares currently trade at 25.09 forward earnings, higher than 16.61 for the industry. However, the stock is trading below its five-year mean of 34.56.
LLY Stock Valuation
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Estimates for Eli Lilly’s 2026 earnings have declined from $34.04 to $33.64 per share in the past 60 days, and estimates for 2027 earnings have declined from $42.44 to $42.08 per share over the same time frame.
LLY Estimate Movement
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Eli Lilly currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Zacks' Research Chief Names "Stock Most Likely to Double"
Our team of experts has just released the 5 stocks with the greatest probability of gaining +100% or more in the coming months. Of those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian highlights the one stock set to climb highest.
This top pick is a little-known satellite-based communications firm. Space is projected to become a trillion dollar industry, and this company's customer base is growing fast. Analysts have forecasted a major revenue breakout in 2025. Of course, all our elite picks aren't winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks' Stocks Set to Double like Hims & Hers Health, which shot up +209%.
Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Here's How Eli Lilly's Oncology Drugs Are Poised Ahead of Q1 Earnings

Merck MRK, along with its partner Eisai, announced that the phase III LITESPARK-012 study, which evaluated Keytruda-based triplet regimens for the first-line treatment of patients with advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC), failed to meet its primary endpoints.
The LITESPARK-012 study evaluated either the triplet therapy of Keytruda plus Lenvima plus Welireg or MK-1308A (a coformulation of Keytruda and quavonlimab – MRK’s investigational anti-CTLA-4 antibody) plus Lenvima versus Keytruda plus Lenvima for the first-line treatment of patients with advanced clear cell RCC.
At a pre-specified interim analysis, treatment with the combination regimens failed to meet the dual primary endpoints of progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) for the first-line treatment of patients with RCC versus Keytruda plus Lenvima.
The news sent Merck’s stock down nearly 4% following the announcement yesterday.
Year to date, shares of Merck have risen 6.9% against the industry’s decline of 3.8%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
MRK & Eisai’s Other Studies in LITESPARK Clinical Program
Keytruda is presently approved as adjuvant monotherapy and in combination regimens for certain patients with RCC in several countries across the world. Keytruda plus Lenvima is approved for the first-line treatment of adult patients with advanced RCC. Welireg is approved for treating certain patients with advanced clear cell RCC.
Earlier this year, the FDA accepted two supplemental new drug applications (sNDA) for review, seeking approval for Welireg plus Lenvima for the treatment of adult patients with advanced RCC with a clear cell component following a PD-1 or PD-L1 inhibitor. The FDA set a target action date of Oct. 4, 2026.
The sNDA was based on data from the phase III LITESPARK-011 study.
Although the data from the LITESPARK-012 study will not impact MRK and Eisai’s other ongoing studies in the LITESPARK clinical program, it could pose a setback for Merck as it continues its efforts to support Keytruda’s long-term growth and reduce risks ahead of the drug’s loss of patent exclusivity in 2028.
Keytruda generated sales of $31.7 billion in 2025, reflecting a 7% year-over-year increase. The drug alone accounts for around 55% of Merck’s pharmaceutical sales. Management expects the drug to reach peak sales of $35 billion by 2028. However, once biosimilars enter the market, Keytruda’s sales are likely to decline sharply.
FDA Approves MRK’s Two-Drug, Once-Daily HIV Pill
In a separate press release, Merck announced that the FDA has approved Idvynso, a new once-daily, oral, two-drug, single-tablet regimen of doravirine (100 mg) and islatravir (0.25 mg) for treating virologically suppressed adults with HIV-1 infection.
Idvynso is now approved for treating adults with virologically suppressed HIV-1 with no history of virologic treatment failure and no known substitutions associated with resistance to doravirine.
Following the nod, Idvynso became the first and only non-INSTI, tenofovir-free, once-daily, complete two-drug regimen to show non-inferior efficacy compared with Gilead Sciences’ GILD three-drug regimen Biktarvy (BIC/FTC/TAF) in a head-to-head phase III study.
Idvynso will be available in pharmacies after May 11. The FDA approval marks a major milestone for the company, as the drug is expected to broaden treatment options for HIV beyond currently available oral therapies, including GILD’s Biktarvy.
Merck & Co., Inc. Price
MRK’s Zacks Rank & Stocks to Consider
Merck currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Some better-ranked stocks in the biotech sector are Agenus AGEN and Amarin AMRN, each sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) presently. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Over the past 60 days, estimates for Agenus’ 2026 earnings per share have risen from 54 cents to $1.30, while loss per share estimates for 2027 have narrowed from $1.91 to $1.52 during the same time. AGEN shares have soared 24.5% year to date.
Agenus’ earnings beat estimates in two of the trailing four quarters, while missing the same on the remaining two occasions, with the average surprise being 31.42%.
Over the past 60 days, Amarin's loss per share estimates for 2026 have narrowed from $7.32 to $6.36, while the same for 2027 have narrowed from $5.97 to $4.64 during the same time. AMRN stock has risen 3.9% year to date.
Amarin's earnings beat estimates in three of the trailing four quarters, while missing the same on the remaining occasion, with the average surprise being 51.29%.
Beyond Nvidia: AI's Second Wave Is Here
The AI revolution has already minted millionaires. But the stocks everyone knows about aren't likely to keep delivering the biggest profits. Little-known AI firms tackling the world's biggest problems may be more lucrative in the coming months and years.
See Stocks Now >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.