MAAT INDEX

CLAIM #43657 · Merck & Company Inc (MRK) · 2026Q1 earnings call · Apr 30, 2026 · due Sep 30, 2026

For KEYTRUDA, recall that while growth benefited from the timing of wholesaler purchases in the first quarter, we will face a corresponding headwind in the third quarter.

Caroline Litchfield · CFO

PENDING
graded after results covering Sep 30, 2026 are reported

How to check this claim

Look at: KEYTRUDA quarter-over-quarter sales growth, Q3 2026 vs Q2 2026

It came true if: Q3 2026 KEYTRUDA sequential sales growth rate lower than Q2 2026 sequential growth rate (reflecting a deceleration/headwind versus prior quarter trend)

Where: Merck quarterly earnings release / 10-Q, KEYTRUDA segment sales

In context

%, which reflects the nontax deductible onetime charge for Cidara. We assume approximately 2.48 billion shares outstanding. Taken together, we expect EPS of $5.04 to $5.16, including a positive impact from foreign exchange of approximately $0.10 using mid-April rates. It is important to note that this guidance does not include the impact of the proposed acquisition of Terns, which is expected to close soon. We expect the transaction will result in a onetime charge that will increase research and development expense by approximately $5.8 billion or approximately $2.35 per share. In addition, ongoing investment to advance TERN-701 and the assumed cost of financing will negatively impact EPS by approximately $0.12 this year. As you consider your models, there are a few items to keep in mind. For KEYTRUDA, recall that while growth benefited from the timing of wholesaler purchases in the first quarter, we will face a corresponding headwind in the third quarter. For ENFLONSIA, consistent with the first quarter, we expect minimal sales in the second quarter, given the seasonal nature of the product and continued high levels of RSV monoclonal antibody inventory in the market. We are actively engaging customers in advance of the RSV season and remain focused on educating health care professionals and parents on the importance of protecting infants from this potentially serious disease and expect shipments to increase in the second half of the year. Lastly, we expect SG&A expenses to increase over the remainder of the year as we invest to maximize the impact of our recent and upcoming launches. Now turning to capital allocation, where our strategy remains unchanged. We will prioritize investments in our business to drive near- and long-term growth, i

Verify independently

SEC filings for MRK · Claim quote is verbatim from the 2026Q1 earnings call.