Merck (MRK) as a Reliable Dividend Player in the Dogs of the Dow Lineup

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) is included among the 11 Dogs of the Dow Dividend Stocks to Buy Now.

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) has faced stock pressure due to its reliance on Keytruda but is diversifying. On July 9, Merck announced it would acquire UK biotech Verona Pharma for $10 billion, adding Ohtuvayre, a promising COPD treatment approved last year, to its portfolio. Ohtuvayre has had a strong launch and is being studied for more uses. Some analysts predict its sales could reach $4 billion, potentially making it another blockbuster for Merck.

In its first quarter earnings, Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) highlighted that it began the year with strong progress, driven by growing contributions from its recently commercialized medicines and vaccines, along with ongoing advancements in its pipeline. It is focused and determined to fully capitalize on near-term opportunities while swiftly advancing the next wave of innovations that will improve patient outcomes and create long-term value for all stakeholders.

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) is also popular because of its dividend growth history, which spans 16 consecutive years. Currently, the company offers a quarterly dividend of $0.81 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.82%, as of July 26.

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