Can Merck Keep Growing?

With shares of Merck (NYSE:MRK) trading around $44, is MRK an OUTPERFORM, WAIT AND SEE or STAY AWAY? Let’s analyze the stock with the relevant sections of our CHEAT SHEET investing framework:

C = Catalyst for a Stock’s Movement

Merck provides various health solutions through its prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies, animal health, and consumer care products worldwide. With an increasing amount of people living longer, healthcare is becoming a main concern for many. Merck is a giant in this industry so they are well-positioned to capitalize on this movement. Look for Merck to continue its dominance as a provider of healthcare solutions worldwide.

T = Technicals on the Stock Chart are Mixed

Merck is a stock that has been whipsawing around over the last decade. The stock has seen periods of euphoric rises that are often followed by periods of steep declines. Since the fierce stock market decline in 2008, Merck stock has risen on higher highs and higher lows, like most stocks. This uptrend should remain in tact until the stock hits a zone of significant selling pressure, more than likely near the $60 price area.