Alex Bobrov
The new target represents a 16.4% increase from Guggenheim’s previous forecast and implies roughly 13% upside from Merck’s latest closing price of $150.33.
The revision also continues a recent wave of bullish analyst updates for Merck. Wells Fargo recently raised its target to $170 from $150, Wolfe Research to $180 from $155, UBS to $175 from $145, and Morgan Stanley to $179 from $116.
MRK analyst targets
| Firm | New Target | Previous Target | Rating |
| Guggenheim | $170 | $146 | Buy |
| Wolfe Research | $180 | $155 | Outperform |
| Morgan Stanley | $179 | $116 | Overweight |
| UBS | $175 | $145 | Buy |
| Wells Fargo | $170 | $150 | Overweight |
Despite the increasingly bullish calls from several major firms, the broader analyst consensus remains more conservative. Data compiled by Investing.com puts the average 12-month target at about $149.50, with estimates ranging from $105 to $186 and an overall Buy consensus.
Guggenheim’s $170 target therefore sits well above the current consensus and signals increased confidence in Merck’s outlook.
Alex Bobrov
