Merck (MRK) delivered good results last quarter. But this slow-growing company has a stock that’s been lackluster during 2023.

Merck’s (MRK) current drugs (Keytruda & Gardasil) & pipeline (PRA023) could lead to $20 in EPS, and perhaps a $200 stock long-term.

Drivers of Merck’s (MRK) quarter were its cancer treatment Keytruda (+20%) and the human papillomavirus vaccine Gardasil (+35%).

Merck (MRK) was a solid stock in 2022. Now in 2023, the shares are lagging the stock market as growth stock are in favor.

Merck (MRK) is the perfect stock for a Bear Market. Investors know this, that’s why the drug stock is doing so well right now.

Merck (MRK) is a nice safe stock to own during a rough bear Market. But investors need to understand the growth might be slow.

Merck (MRK) stock has some appeal for stock portfolios that are sick of this Bear Market. I like the low P/E of 13 and 3% yield.