La catena delle opzioni mostra i dati chiave delle opzioni azionarie di Merck & Co a vari prezzi di esercizio e date di scadenza. I trader utilizzano queste informazioni per analizzare potenziali operazioni e valutare il sentiment del mercato per Merck & Co..

Merck & Co (NYSE:MRK) Azioni, Catena delle Opzioni

MERCK & CO. INC.

Merck & Co

Merck makes pharmaceutical products to treat several conditions in a number of therapeutic areas, including cardiometabolic disease, cancer, and infections. Within cancer, the firm's immuno-oncology platform is growing as a major contributor to overall sales. The company also has a substantial vaccine business, with treatments to prevent pediatric diseases as well as human papillomavirus, or HPV. Additionally, Merck sells animal health-related drugs. From a geographical perspective, just under half of the company's sales are generated in the United States.

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Merck & Co Inc

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Friday approved Merck &amp; Co Inc.&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) Keytruda (pembrolizumab) for adult patients with resectable locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) whose tumors express PD-L1 (combined positive score of at least 1), as a single agent as neoadjuvant treatment, continued as adjuvant treatment in combination with radiotherapy (RT) with or without cisplatin and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/06/b45921974/fda-approves-keytruda-pembrolizumab-for-pd-l1-resectable-locally-advanced-head-neck-squamous-cell-" rel="noreferrer noopener">then as a single agent</a>.
The approval introduces the first perioperative anti-PD-1 treatment regimen for adults with resectable locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma whose tumors express PD-L1 (CPS ≥1).
The approval is based on data from the pivotal Phase 3 KEYNOTE-689 trial.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/health-care/25/06/45845078/mercks-cholesterol-lowering-drug-hits-primary-goal-in-two-pivotal-trials" rel="noreferrer noopener">Merck&#8217;s Cholesterol Lowering Drug Hits Primary Goal In Two Pivotal Trials</a>
At the trial&#8217;s first pre-specified interim analysis, Keytruda before surgery (neoadjuvant), then continued after surgery (adjuvant) in combination with standard of care (SOC), RT with or without cisplatin, followed by Keytruda alone, reduced the risk of event-free survival (EFS) events (defined as disease recurrence, disease progression, or death) by 30% compared to adjuvant SOC.
Among the CPS ≥1 population, the median EFS was 59.7 months in the Keytruda arm versus 29.6 months in the SOC arm.
&#8220;The introduction of Keytruda as a perioperative treatment option for certain patients with resectable locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma represents a potentially significant shift in how we manage this disease,&#8221; the Keynote-689 trial&#8217;s principal investigator, Ravindra Uppaluri, said in a statement Friday.
Earlier in June, Merck reportedly approached Swiss biotech MoonLake Immunotherapeutics (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MLTX#NASDAQ">MLTX</a>) with a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/health-care/25/06/45743008/mercks-dealmaking-intensifies-with-moonlake-bid-as-keytruda-patent-cliff-nears-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">bid exceeding $3 billion</a>.
The potential deal signals renewed dealmaking activity as investor pressure has mounted on Merck to secure new assets, especially as its blockbuster <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer drug Keytruda</a> faces patent expiration as early as 2028.
In May, Merck&#8217;s Phase 3 KEYNOTE-B96 trial (also known as ENGOT-ov65), met its primary endpoint of progression-free survival (PFS) for platinum-resistant recurrent ovarian cancer whose tumors expressed PD-L1 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/05/45450568/merck-says-blockbuster-keytruda-based-regimen-can-help-certain-ovarian-cancer-patients-live-longer" rel="noreferrer noopener">and in all comers</a>.
The study also met a secondary endpoint of overall survival (OS) in patients whose tumors express PD-L1.
The Keytruda-based regimen demonstrated a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in PFS regardless of PD-L1 status compared to placebo plus chemotherapy <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/05/45450568/merck-says-blockbuster-keytruda-based-regimen-can-help-certain-ovarian-cancer-patients-live-longer" rel="noreferrer noopener">with or without bevacizumab</a>.
Price Action: MRK stock is trading higher by 0.40% to $82.15 at last check Friday.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/health-care/25/06/45912432/rfk-jr-appointee-to-cdc-advisory-committee-was-a-paid-expert-in-mercks-gardasil-lawsuit" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RFK Jr. Appointee To CDC Advisory Committee Was A Paid Expert In Merck&#8217;s Gardasil Lawsuit</a></li>
</ul>
Photo by tada images via Shutterstock

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Merck's Keytruda Secures FDA Nod For Head And Neck Cancer As First Immunotherapy For Use Around Surgery

Approval introduces the first perioperative anti-PD-1 treatment regimen for adults with resectable locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma whose tumors express PD-L1 (CPS ≥1)
 &nbsp;

Merck & Company Says FDA Has Approved KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) For PD-L1+ Resectable Locally Advanced Head & Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma As Neoadjuvant Treatment, Continued As Adjuvant Treatment Combined With Radiotherapy With Or Without Cisplatin Then As A Single Agent

Merck Animal Health, A Division Of Merck & Co,  Receives Positive Opinion For NUMELVI Tablets For Dogs From European Medicines Agency's Committee

Health Secretary&nbsp;Robert F. Kennedy Jr.&nbsp;named eight new members to the CDC&#8217;s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices on Wednesday, including several anti-vaccine proponents, after&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/health-care/25/06/45898417/rfk-jr-appoints-vaccine-critics-to-cdc-vaccine-panel-after-firing-entire-advisory-committee-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">dismissing all 17 existing advisers</a>.
Kennedy justified the overhaul to &#8220;re-establish public confidence in vaccine science,&#8221; claiming, without providing specific evidence, that prior Biden-appointed members had conflicts of interest. The new eight-member committee represents the minimum allowed under ACIP&#8217;s founding charter.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43166965/senate-hearings-loom-as-robert-f-kennedy-faces-scrutiny-over-conflicts-of-interest-in-mercks-gardasil-vaccine-litigation" rel="noreferrer noopener">RJK Jr.&#8217;s Involvement In Merck Lawsuit Faces Scrutiny Ahead Of Senate Hearing</a>
Martin Kulldorff, a biostatistician and epidemiologist, was among eight individuals selected by Kennedy to join the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).
Kulldorff has been an outspoken critic of COVID-19 lockdowns and vaccine mandates.
His appointment has also raised questions due to his paid involvement in litigation against a major vaccine manufacturer, <a href="https://www.yahoo.com/news/exclusive-kennedys-vaccine-adviser-expert-152349812.html">according</a> to Reuters.
Citing court records, Reuters notes that Kulldorff served as an expert witness in lawsuits against Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) over its Gardasil vaccine, which is used to prevent cancers caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
The plaintiff accused the pharmaceutical company of not properly disclosing the vaccine&#8217;s risks.
Gardasil was approved in the U.S. in 2006 after going through clinical trials to prove its safety and efficacy.
During a deposition in October, Kulldorff acknowledged that he had been paid $400 an hour for his work on the case and had billed approximately $33,000 through September.
He also received a $4,000 retainer in connection with the North Carolina lawsuit, which was part of a broader legal effort encompassing about 200 related cases. In March, a federal judge ruled in favor of Merck in that particular case.
Kulldorff&#8217;s paid role as a litigation consultant could conflict with ACIP&#8217;s established rules. According to the committee&#8217;s guidelines, members are prohibited from serving as paid expert witnesses or litigation consultants in cases involving vaccine manufacturers while actively serving on the panel.
Gardasil/Gardasil 9 sales declined 41% to $1.33 billion in the first quarter of 2025, primarily due to lower demand in China, partially offset by higher demand in most international regions, particularly in Japan, and higher pricing and demand in the U.S. Excluding China, sales grew 14%, or 16%, excluding the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/04/44983460/mercks-q1-earnings-beat-wall-street-adjusts-2025-profit-outlook-as-tariffs-may-result-in-incremental-cost-of-200-million" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact of foreign exchange</a>.
Price Action: MRK stock was up 1.87% at $81.82 at the last check on Thursday.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/06/45876082/nih-revolts-scientists-decry-budget-cuts-rfk-jr-political-interference-warn-of-long-term-public-heal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIH Revolts: Scientists Decry Budget Cuts, RFK Jr. Political Interference, Warn Of Long-Term Public Health Damage</a></li>
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Photo: Shutterstock

RFK Jr. Appointee To CDC Advisory Committee Was A Paid Expert In Merck's Gardasil Lawsuit

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders often look for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges away from its normal worth. Abnormal amounts of trading activity could push option prices to hyperbolic or underperforming levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$320.00</td>
<td>$46.9K</td>
<td>13.5K</td>
<td>12.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BSX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/18/26</td>
<td>$100.00</td>
<td>$1.3 million</td>
<td>580</td>
<td>1.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$52.00</td>
<td>$54.2K</td>
<td>3.1K</td>
<td>998</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VERA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$22.50</td>
<td>$108.7K</td>
<td>5.4K</td>
<td>781</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>REPL</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$12.50</td>
<td>$28.3K</td>
<td>23</td>
<td>437</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$38.8K</td>
<td>3.5K</td>
<td>300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TEM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$60.00</td>
<td>$114.0K</td>
<td>314</td>
<td>214</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/20/26</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$94.2K</td>
<td>2.3K</td>
<td>153</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$72.50</td>
<td>$33.4K</td>
<td>855</td>
<td>143</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DOCS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$67.50</td>
<td>$27.8K</td>
<td>155</td>
<td>110</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding UNH (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 8 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 102 contract(s) at a $320.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 6 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $46.9K, with a price of $460.0 per contract. There were 13587 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 12314 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For BSX (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BSX#NYSE">BSX</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 371 day(s) on June 18, 2026. This event was a transfer of 1500 contract(s) at a $100.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $1.3 million, with a price of $920.0 per contract. There were 580 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1500 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding HIMS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HIMS#NYSE">HIMS</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 8 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 525 contract(s) at a $52.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 54 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $54.2K, with a price of $104.0 per contract. There were 3124 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 998 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For VERA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VERA#NASDAQ">VERA</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 36 day(s) on July 18, 2025. This event was a transfer of 750 contract(s) at a $22.50 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $108.7K, with a price of $145.0 per contract. There were 5422 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 781 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For REPL (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REPL#NASDAQ">REPL</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 36 day(s) on July 18, 2025. This event was a transfer of 334 contract(s) at a $12.50 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 19 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $28.3K, with a price of $85.0 per contract. There were 23 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 437 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding NVO (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>), we observe a call option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 582 day(s) on January 15, 2027. Parties traded 20 contract(s) at a $80.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $38.8K, with a price of $1940.0 per contract. There were 3586 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 300 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For TEM (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEM#NASDAQ">TEM</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 64 day(s) on August 15, 2025. This event was a transfer of 200 contract(s) at a $60.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 18 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $114.0K, with a price of $570.0 per contract. There were 314 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 214 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For MRK (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 281 day(s) on March 20, 2026. This event was a transfer of 152 contract(s) at a $75.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $94.2K, with a price of $620.0 per contract. There were 2354 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 153 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For AZN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 99 day(s) on September 19, 2025. This event was a transfer of 130 contract(s) at a $72.50 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $33.4K, with a price of $257.0 per contract. There were 855 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 143 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding DOCS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DOCS#NYSE">DOCS</a>), we observe a call option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 64 day(s) on August 15, 2025. Parties traded 100 contract(s) at a $67.50 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $27.8K, with a price of $278.0 per contract. There were 155 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 110 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Options

DOCS

Hims & Hers Health, Inc. Class A Common Stock

HIMS

REPL

VERA

10 Health Care Stocks With Whale Alerts In Today's Session

<ul>
<li>Kulldorff served as expert witness against Merck's Gardasil</li>
<li>Kennedy fired previous vaccine advisers citing drug industry conflicts</li>
<li>CDC rules say advisers can't be expert witness in vaccine cases</li>
</ul>
June 12 (Reuters) - One of the new vaccine advisers picked by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has earned thousands of dollars as an expert witness in litigation against Merck's <a href="https://workspace.refinitiv.com/web/apps/quotewebapi?RIC=MRK.N">MRK.N</a> Gardasil vaccine, court records show.
Martin Kulldorff, a biostatistician and epidemiologist who publicly criticized COVID-era lockdowns, is one of eight new members <a href="reuters://REALTIME/verb=NewsStory/ric=nS0N3RM047">named by Kennedy on Wednesday</a> to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, a highly influential panel that recommends which shots should be administered to the American public.
Kennedy fired the entire previous 17-member committee of expert vaccine advisers this week, claiming they were "plagued with persistent <a href="reuters://REALTIME/verb=NewsStory/ric=nL6N3SE0S2">conflicts of interest</a>" from financial ties to drugmakers.
Kulldorff recently served as an expert witness for plaintiffs who accused Merck of concealing the risks of Gardasil, which is intended to prevent cancers caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). In March, a federal judge in North Carolina ruled in favor of Merck in one of those cases that included about 200 lawsuits.
At a deposition in October, Kulldorff testified that the plaintiffs paid him $400 an hour and he had already billed for about $33,000 in legal work on the case through late September. He said he also received a $4,000 retainer in the North Carolina case, according to court documents.
Kulldorff is also listed as an expert witness in a similar case pending against Merck in <a href="reuters://REALTIME/verb=NewsStory/ric=nL2N3P90RI">Los Angeles</a> state court, records show.
Under ACIP's rules, committee members cannot serve as a "paid litigation consultant or expert witness in litigation involving a vaccine manufacturer" during their tenure on the panel.
Prior work as an expert witness against drugmakers may require a waiver from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and recusal from votes involving Merck and HPV vaccines. The agency has said in its rules it "will generally consider issuance of waivers in specific situations."
Kulldorff did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Merck declined to comment.
A spokesman for Kennedy's Health and Human Services Department said on Wednesday that "all newly appointed ACIP members were thoroughly vetted." HHS did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Kulldorff.
&nbsp;

'A New U.S. Vaccine Adviser Named By Health Secretary Kennedy Was Expert Witness In Litigation Against Merck Vaccine' - Reuters Exclusive

<ul>
<li>MOBILIZE-1 is the first Phase 3 study being initiated for V181 as part of a planned robust clinical development program</li>
<li>Study will evaluate a single dose of V181 for the prevention of dengue disease caused by any of the four serotypes of the dengue virus regardless of previous exposure</li>
</ul>

Merck Has Initiated MOBILIZE-1 Phase 3 Trial For Single Dose Of V181, An Investigational Quadrivalent Vaccine, For The Prevention Of Dengue Disease Caused By Any Of The Four Dengue Virus Serotypes. Recruitment For The Trial Has Begun, And The First Participants Are Now Enrolling In Singapore

Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bullish approach towards Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in MRK usually suggests something big is about to happen.
We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 11 extraordinary options activities for Merck &amp; Co. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.
The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 54% leaning bullish and 36% bearish. Among these notable options, 3 are puts, totaling $105,845, and 8 are calls, amounting to $546,517.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $65.0 to $100.0 for Merck &amp; Co over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.
This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Merck &amp; Co's options for a given strike price.
Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Merck &amp; Co's whale activity within a strike price range from $65.0 to $100.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Merck &amp; Co Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1749654131_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$3.85</td>
<td>$3.7</td>
<td>$3.7</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$213.5K</td>
<td>10.1K</td>
<td align="right">358</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$3.7</td>
<td>$3.65</td>
<td>$3.7</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$82.5K</td>
<td>10.1K</td>
<td align="right">290</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$18.75</td>
<td>$18.5</td>
<td>$18.5</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$55.5K</td>
<td>78</td>
<td align="right">30</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/17/27</td>
<td>$11.4</td>
<td>$10.95</td>
<td>$10.97</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$52.6K</td>
<td>692</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$10.65</td>
<td>$10.15</td>
<td>$10.57</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
<td>$50.7K</td>
<td>579</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Merck &amp; Co</h3>
Merck makes pharmaceutical products to treat several conditions in a number of therapeutic areas, including cardiometabolic disease, cancer, and infections. Within cancer, the firm's immuno-oncology platform is growing as a major contributor to overall sales. The company also has a substantial vaccine business, with treatments to prevent pediatric diseases as well as human papillomavirus, or HPV. Additionally, Merck sells animal health-related drugs. From a geographical perspective, just under half of the company's sales are generated in the United States.
Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Merck &amp; Co, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.
<h3>Where Is Merck &amp; Co Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 2,955,515, with MRK's price down by -0.46%, positioned at $80.97.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be may be overbought.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 48 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Merck &amp; Co</h3>
1 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $84.0.
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&#x2A; In a cautious move, an analyst from Citigroup downgraded its rating to Neutral, setting a price target of $84. 
Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for Merck &amp; Co with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

Unpacking the Latest Options Trading Trends in Merck & Co

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>HIMS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/13/25</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
<td>$82.5K</td>
<td>2.3K</td>
<td>4.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LQDA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$15.00</td>
<td>$27.9K</td>
<td>723</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VKTX</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$27.50</td>
<td>$26.3K</td>
<td>3.6K</td>
<td>897</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$6.00</td>
<td>$185.2K</td>
<td>930</td>
<td>783</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>12/19/25</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
<td>$80.9K</td>
<td>4.1K</td>
<td>712</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$115.00</td>
<td>$45.6K</td>
<td>2.5K</td>
<td>600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRNA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$27.2K</td>
<td>14.5K</td>
<td>195</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>INSM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$70.1K</td>
<td>420</td>
<td>157</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NVO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$29.0K</td>
<td>1.6K</td>
<td>94</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LLY</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$770.00</td>
<td>$32.4K</td>
<td>222</td>
<td>87</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These itemized elaborations have been created using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding HIMS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HIMS#NYSE">HIMS</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 3 day(s) on June 13, 2025. Parties traded 500 contract(s) at a $55.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 67 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $82.5K, with a price of $165.0 per contract. There were 2313 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 4580 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding LQDA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LQDA#NASDAQ">LQDA</a>), we observe a put option trade with neutral sentiment. It expires in 38 day(s) on July 18, 2025. Parties traded 215 contract(s) at a $15.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $27.9K, with a price of $130.0 per contract. There were 723 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1174 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding VKTX (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VKTX#NASDAQ">VKTX</a>), we observe a call option trade with neutral sentiment. It expires in 66 day(s) on August 15, 2025. Parties traded 40 contract(s) at a $27.50 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $26.3K, with a price of $659.0 per contract. There were 3634 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 897 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For ALT (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALT#NASDAQ">ALT</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 38 day(s) on July 18, 2025. This event was a transfer of 1122 contract(s) at a $6.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 62 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $185.2K, with a price of $165.0 per contract. There were 930 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 783 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For UNH (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be neutral, expiring in 192 day(s) on December 19, 2025. This event was a transfer of 40 contract(s) at a $350.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $80.9K, with a price of $2023.0 per contract. There were 4181 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 712 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For MRK (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 220 day(s) on January 16, 2026. This event was a transfer of 600 contract(s) at a $115.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 49 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $45.6K, with a price of $76.0 per contract. There were 2577 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 600 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For MRNA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 101 day(s) on September 19, 2025. This event was a transfer of 50 contract(s) at a $30.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 8 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $27.2K, with a price of $545.0 per contract. There were 14560 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 195 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For INSM (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INSM#NASDAQ">INSM</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 66 day(s) on August 15, 2025. This event was a transfer of 39 contract(s) at a $75.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 8 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $70.1K, with a price of $1806.0 per contract. There were 420 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 157 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding NVO (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>), we observe a call option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 220 day(s) on January 16, 2026. Parties traded 20 contract(s) at a $75.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $29.0K, with a price of $1450.0 per contract. There were 1606 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 94 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For LLY (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 66 day(s) on August 15, 2025. This event was a transfer of 8 contract(s) at a $770.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 6 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $32.4K, with a price of $4055.0 per contract. There were 222 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 87 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

INSM

LQDA

MRNA

VKTX

10 Health Care Stocks Whale Activity In Today's Session

CDC Advisory Committee To Review Merck's ENFLONSIA For Infant RSV Protection; Ordering Expected To Begin In July, With Shipments Delivered Before Start Of 2025-2026 RSV Season

ENFLONSIA is a preventive monoclonal antibody designed to protect infants against a spectrum of RSV disease severity, including worsening disease requiring hospitalization
ENFLONSIA is the first and only RSV preventive option administered to infants using the same dose regardless of weight
Merck (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, today announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved ENFLONSIA&#x2122; (clesrovimab-cfor) for the prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract disease in neonates (newborns) and infants who are born during or entering their first RSV season. ENFLONSIA is a preventive, long-acting monoclonal antibody (mAb) designed to provide direct, rapid and durable protection through 5 months, a typical RSV season, with the same 105 mg dose regardless of weight. A typical RSV season usually spans autumn to spring of the next year.

Merck Says FDA Approves ENFLONSIA For Prevention Of RSV Lower Respiratory Tract Disease In Neonates And Infants Who Are Born During Or Entering First RSV Season

Looking into the current session, Merck &amp; Co Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) shares are trading at $79.28, after a 0.40% spike. Moreover, over the past month, the stock went up by 3.46%, but in the past year, fell by 39.87%. Shareholders might be interested in knowing whether the stock is undervalued, even if the company is performing up to par in the current session. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1749495621_0.png" alt="Past Year Chart" />

<h3>Comparing Merck &amp; Co P/E Against Its Peers</h3>
The P/E ratio measures the current share price to the company's EPS. It is used by long-term investors to analyze the company's current performance against it's past earnings, historical data and aggregate market data for the industry or the indices, such as S&amp;P 500. A higher P/E indicates that investors expect the company to perform better in the future, and the stock is probably overvalued, but not necessarily. It also could indicate that investors are willing to pay a higher share price currently, because they expect the company to perform better in the upcoming quarters. This leads investors to also remain optimistic about rising dividends in the future. 
Merck &amp; Co has a lower P/E than the aggregate P/E of 28.44 of the Pharmaceuticals industry. Ideally, one might believe that the stock might perform worse than its peers, but it's also probable that the stock is undervalued. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1749495621_1.png" alt="Guage" />

In conclusion, the price-to-earnings ratio is a useful metric for analyzing a company's market performance, but it has its limitations. While a lower P/E can indicate that a company is undervalued, it can also suggest that shareholders do not expect future growth. Additionally, the P/E ratio should not be used in isolation, as other factors such as industry trends and business cycles can also impact a company's stock price. Therefore, investors should use the P/E ratio in conjunction with other financial metrics and qualitative analysis to make informed investment decisions.

Intraday Update

Price Over Earnings Overview: Merck & Co

Merck &amp; Co., Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) on Monday shared topline results from the first two of three Phase 3 clinical trials evaluating the safety and efficacy of enlicitide decanoate, an investigational, oral proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitor for hyperlipidemia on lipid-lowering therapies, including <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">at least a statin</a>.
Hyperlipidemia&nbsp;refers to having high levels of lipids (fats) in the blood, including cholesterol and triglycerides.&nbsp;It&#8217;s a condition that can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.&nbsp;
The CORALreef HeFH and CORALreef AddOn trials met their primary and all key secondary endpoints, demonstrating statistically significant and clinically meaningful greater reductions in low-density lipoprotein <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/06/b45832810/merck-announces-positive-topline-results-from-the-first-two-phase-3-coralreef-trials-evaluating-en" rel="noreferrer noopener">cholesterol (LDL-C) for</a>:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Enlicitide compared to placebo (CORALreef HeFH) and other oral non-statin therapies (CORALreef AddOn).</li>
<li>There were no clinically meaningful differences in incidences of adverse events (AE) and serious adverse events (SAE) in either trial.</li>
</ul>
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/health-care/25/06/45743008/mercks-dealmaking-intensifies-with-moonlake-bid-as-keytruda-patent-cliff-nears-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Merck&#8217;s Dealmaking Intensifies With MoonLake Bid As Keytruda Patent Cliff Nears: Report</a>
Results from the three Phase 3 trials in the&nbsp;CORALreef clinical development program&nbsp;will be presented at a future scientific congress.
Key takeaways from CORALreef HeFH and CORALreef AddOn studies:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>CORALreef HeFH: Statistically significant and clinically meaningful reductions in LDL-C for enlicitide versus placebo in adults with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) who have a history of or are at risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and are treated with a statin.</li>
<li>CORALreef AddOn: Statistically significant and clinically meaningful reductions in LDL-C for enlicitide versus ezetimibe, versus bempedoic acid and versus ezetimibe and bempedoic acid in adults with hyperlipidemia who have a history of or are at risk for ASCVD and are treated with a statin.</li>
</ul>
The efficacy and safety of enlicitide are being evaluated through the comprehensive&nbsp;CORALreef Phase 3 clinical development program, which <a target="_blank" href="https://www.merck.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/124/2025/06/CORALreef_Clinical_Trial_Explainer.pdf" rel="noreferrer noopener">aims</a> to enroll approximately 17,000 patients across several trials, including two large ongoing trials, CORALreef Lipids and CORALreef Outcomes.
Price Action: MRK stock is trading higher by 0.19% to $79.12 at last check Monday.
Read Next:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/health-care/25/06/45841878/analyst-says-newamsterdam-stock-has-over-100-upside-citing-90-success-probability-for-obicetrapib" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Analyst Says NewAmsterdam Stock Has Over 100% Upside, Citing 90% Success Probability For Obicetrapib</a></li>
</ul>
Photo by tada images via Shutterstock

Merck's Cholesterol Lowering Drug Hits Primary Goal In Two Pivotal Trials

During times of turbulence and uncertainty in the markets, many investors turn to dividend-yielding stocks. These are often companies that have high free cash flows and reward shareholders with a<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/yield-investments"> high dividend payout</a>.
Benzinga readers can review the latest analyst takes on their favorite stocks by visiting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">Analyst Stock Ratings</a> page. Traders can sort through Benzinga's extensive database of analyst ratings, including <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/22/09/28888638/exclusive-study-finds-benzinga-analyst-ratings-data-yields-market-beating-strategie">by analyst accuracy</a>.
Below are the ratings of the most accurate analysts for three high-yielding stocks in the health care sector.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>)</h3>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Dividend Yield: 7.37%</li>
<li>UBS analyst Trung Huynh maintained a Neutral rating and raised the price target from $24 to $25 on April 30, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 70%.</li>
<li>Guggenheim analyst Vamil Divan reiterated a Buy rating on March 18, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 74%.</li>
<li>Recent News: Arvinas, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARVN#NASDAQ">ARVN</a>) on Friday announced in a press release the submission of a New Drug Application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with its partner Pfizer.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s real-time newsfeed alerted to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0609">latest PFE news</a>. </li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0609"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="882" height="842" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/09091603/image-114.png" alt="" class="wp-image-943187" style="width:620px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/09091603/image-114.png 882w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/09091603/image-114-300x286.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/09091603/image-114-768x733.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 882px) 100vw, 882px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Merck &amp; Co., Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>)</h3>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Dividend Yield: 4.10%</li>
<li>Citigroup analyst Andrew Baum downgraded the stock from Buy to Neutral and cut the price target from $115 to $84 on May 14, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 69%.</li>
<li>Guggenheim analyst Vamil Divan reiterated a Buy rating with a price target of $115 on April 17, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 74%.</li>
<li>Recent News: On Monday, Merck reported positive topline results from the first two Phase 3 CORALreef trials evaluating enlicitide decanoate for the treatment of adults with hyperlipidemia.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro's real-time newsfeed alerted to latest MRK <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0609">news </a></li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0609"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="857" height="832" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/09091645/image-115.png" alt="" class="wp-image-943188" style="width:582px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/09091645/image-115.png 857w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/09091645/image-115-300x291.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/09091645/image-115-768x746.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 857px) 100vw, 857px" /></a></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">GSK plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GSK#NYSE">GSK</a>)</h3>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Dividend Yield: 3.88%</li>
<li>Oppenheimer analyst Rupesh Parikh maintained an Outperform rating and raised the price target from $87 to $93 on Feb. 13, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 72%.</li>
<li>Canaccord Genuity analyst Susan Anderson maintained a Buy rating and increased the price target from $93 to $100 on Feb. 7, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 67%.</li>
<li>Recent News: GSK and Spero Therapeutics Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPRO#NASDAQ">SPRO</a>), on May 28, announced that the pivotal phase 3 PIVOT-PO trial evaluating tebipenem HBr for complicated urinary tract infections (cUTIs) will stop early for efficacy.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s real-time newsfeed alerted to latest GSK <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0609">news </a></li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0609"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="863" height="838" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/09091720/image-116.png" alt="" class="wp-image-943189" style="width:552px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/09091720/image-116.png 863w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/09091720/image-116-300x291.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/09091720/image-116-768x746.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 863px) 100vw, 863px" /></a></figure>
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Read More: 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/06/45811726/cramer-says-hes-not-going-to-really-want-to-do-a-lot-of-china-right-now">Cramer Says He&#8217;s &#8216;Not Going To Really Want To Do A Lot Of China Right Now&#8217;</a> </li>
</ul>
Photo via Shutterstock

Wall Street's Most Accurate Analysts Spotlight On 3 Health Care Stocks Delivering High-Dividend Yields

<ul>
<li>Enlicitide demonstrated statistically significant and clinically meaningful reductions in LDL-C in both Phase 3 CORALreef HeFH and CORALreef AddOn trials</li>
<li>Enlicitide, a novel macrocyclic peptide, has the potential to be the first approved oral PCSK9 inhibitor</li>
</ul>

Merck Announces Topline Results From The First Two Of Three Phase 3 Trials Evaluating The Safety And Efficacy Of Enlicitide Decanoate For Adults With Hyperlipidemia On Lipid-lowering Therapies,  CORALreef HeFH and CORALreef AddOn Trials Met Their Primary And All Key Secondary Endpoints

<h3 class="wp-block-heading">New On The Block</h3>
Byron Allen's Allen Media Group has hired Moelis &amp; Company to explore a sale of its TV stations across 21 markets. The company spent over $1 billion acquiring Big Four network affiliates (ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX) over the past six years. 
It is now looking to cash out and reduce debt. Deadline <a href="https://deadline.com/2025/06/allen-media-group-hires-investment-bank-to-sell-tv-stations-1236420381/">reported</a> that the TV stations have received multiple offers. 
Also for sale: 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Jefferies is shopping around PatientPoint, a health marketing and ad agency, according <a href="https://www.axios.com/pro/health-tech-deals/2025/06/04/patientpoint-jefferies-sale">to</a> Axios. L Catterton, Littlejohn &amp; Co. and Transformation Capital are on the sell side. </li>
<li>Just three years ago, private equity firm One Equity Partners <a href="https://www.oneequity.com/news/one-equity-partners-completes-investment-in-infucare-rx-a-leading-home-infusion-therapy-provider/">completed</a> a strategic investment in infusion provider InfuCare. Today? It&#8217;s looking to get rid of it. According to Axios, JPMorgan is <a href="https://www.axios.com/pro/health-tech-deals/2025/06/03/infucare-one-equity-jpmorgan-sale">looking</a> for a buyer. </li>
<li>Swiss biotech MoonLake Immunotherapeutics (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MLTX#NASDAQ">MLTX</a>) received a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/health-care/25/06/45743008/mercks-dealmaking-intensifies-with-moonlake-bid-as-keytruda-patent-cliff-nears-report">bid exceeding $3 billion</a> from Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>). MoonLake turned down the initial offer, but talks are reportedly revived. The potential purchase signals renewed dealmaking activity as investor pressure has mounted on Merck to secure new assets, especially as its blockbuster <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer drug Keytruda</a> faces patent expiration as early as 2028.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Updates From The Block</h3>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Post Holdings (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/POST#NYSE">POST</a>) is forking over $880 million—including assumed debt—to buy 8th Avenue Food &amp; Provisions. That means brands like Ronzoni pasta will go back into Post&#8217;s pantry. <a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/post-holdings-to-buy-ronzoni-pasta-owner-8th-avenue-food-cf8f454c?mod=deals_news_article_pos2">Per</a> The Wall Street Journal, the private-label brands originally got spun off into 8th Avenue in 2018 with help from private equity firm THL. Post plans to wipe out 8th Avenue's net debt and pick up the tab for all equity interests, including $111 million in finance leases. All in, the transaction is expected to cook up $15 million in annual synergies by the end of fiscal 2026. If Post closes by July 1, it expects 2026 to be more profitable (on an adjusted basis) than initially expected.</li>
</ul>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Rosebank Industries (LON: ROSE) is once again in talks to buy Electrical Components International (ECI), a wire harnesses manufacturer, for about $1.9 billion, Reuters reported. Rosebank was in talks to buy ECI in February but dropped the plans in March.</li>
</ul>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Sanofi SA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNY#NASDAQ">SNY</a>) agreed to acquire Blueprint Medicines Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BPMC#NASDAQ">BPMC</a>). The acquisition includes a rare immunology disease medicine, Ayvakit/Ayvakyt (avapritinib), approved in the U.S. and the EU. The acquisition will also include elenestinib, a next-generation medicine for SM, and BLU-808, a highly selective and potent oral wild-type KIT inhibitor with the potential for immunology diseases. Sanofi will pay&nbsp;$129&nbsp;per share in cash, representing an equity value <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/health-care/25/06/45719179/sanofi-expands-rare-immunology-portfolio-with-blueprint-buyout">of roughly&nbsp;$9.1 billion</a>.</li>
</ul>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Suzano S.A. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SUZ#NYSE">SUZ</a>) is acquiring a 51% stake in a new $3.4 billion tissue products joint venture with Kimberly-Clark (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KMB#NASDAQ">KMB</a>), <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/25/06/45797473/tissue-titans-unite-suzano-kimberly-clark-form-3-4-billion-global-jv">paying $1.734 billion in cash</a>. Kimberly-Clark will retain a 49% stake. The Netherlands-based venture will produce and distribute toilet paper and facial tissues in 70 countries, with 22 factories across 14 countries, employing about 9,000 people. The facilities have an annual capacity of 1 million tonnes and generated $3.3 billion in net sales in 2024.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Off The Block</h3>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Robinhood (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HOOD#NASDAQ">HOOD</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45740112/robinhood-completes-200-million-bitstamp-deal-gains-access-to-500k-crypto-users-and-95-million-revenue-stream">completed its $200 million acquisition</a> of Bitstamp, a crypto exchange that had raised around $40 million from firms like Pantera Capital and Ripple.</li>
</ul>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Cactus Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WHD#NYSE">WHD</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/25/06/45724879/cactus-takes-majority-stake-in-baker-hughes-spc-for-global-reach">formed a joint venture</a> with Baker Hughes Co. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BKR#NASDAQ">BKR</a>), taking a 65% stake and operational control of Baker Hughes&#8217; Surface Pressure Control (SPC) business. Baker Hughes will retain a 35% stake. The new venture, separate from Cactus' current pressure control unit, will focus on international wellhead and production tree systems.</li>
</ul>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Guardian Pharmacy Services, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GRDN#NYSE">GRDN</a>) is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/06/b45719054/guardian-pharmacy-services-expands-pacific-northwest-footprint-with-acquisition-of-washington-base" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">entering the Pacific Northwest market</a> via acquisition. Mercury Pharmacy Services, a provider of long-term care pharmacy solutions, agreed to a price, but <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/25/06/45723960/guardian-pharmacy-strengthens-us-footprint-with-new-seattle-area-acquisition">the amount remains undisclosed</a>.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Bankruptcy Block</h3>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>AI startup Builder.ai has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Delaware after creditors seized most of its cash, citing overstated 2024 sales projections—by a staggering 300%. Once valued at $1.5 billion, Builder.ai is now the biggest AI collapse since the ChatGPT-driven investment boom began. According <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-06-05/builder-ai-files-for-bankruptcy-after-creditors-seize-accounts?sref=TBDibEcD">to</a> Bloomberg, the fallout was fueled by revelations that Builder.ai allegedly faked business with Indian social media firm VerSe Innovation to inflate revenues. VerSe co-founder Umang Bedi denies any wrongdoing, calling the claims "baseless and false."</li>
</ul>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Hooters closed some 30 corporate-owned restaurants and explained that it has <a href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250331979797/en/Hooters-of-America-Takes-Strategic-Action-to-Continue-its-Iconic-Legacy-Under-Pure-Franchise-Business-Model" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">no plans </a>to shut down any other locations. The Atlanta, Georgia-based restaurant chain went <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44647084/hooters-files-for-bankruptcy-says-brand-isnt-going-anywhere">bankrupt earlier this year</a>.</li>
</ul>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Alex Jones may see his personal assets — including guns, cars, and homes — sold by the end of the year, according to the Houston Chronicle, <a href="https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/texas/article/alex-jones-personal-assets-sales-bankruptcy-20361565.php">citing</a> a bankruptcy trustee. The potential sale would mark the nearing end of his two-and-a-half-year bankruptcy process. Jones, who created the far-right conspiracy theory website Infowars, filed for bankruptcy in 2022 after being ordered to pay nearly $1.5 billion to families of Sandy Hook shooting victims for defamation.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Notes From The Block</h3>
A studio's IP portfolio and game development pipeline are critical for video game investors. A major acquirer in the sector is GDEV Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GDEV#NASDAQ">GDEV</a>). The Cyprus-based company has made three M&amp;A deals and spent $100 million on studio acquisitions since 2022. 
This week, Andrey Fadeev drafted <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/25/06/45722621/gdevs-founder-ceo-evaluates-m-a-deals-using-these-5-metrics">a listicle of key metrics</a> GDEV uses for M&amp;A evaluation.
<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>LTV/CAC Ratio – Measures how efficiently a studio converts user acquisition spend into revenue. A ratio above 1.0 indicates profitable user growth.</li>
<li>Retention Rates (D1, D7, D30) – Track user engagement over time. High retention signals strong gameplay and monetization potential. Benchmarks vary by genre.</li>
<li>ARPU/ARPPU – Indicate monetization efficiency. ARPU includes all users; ARPPU focuses on paying users. Higher ARPU justifies higher CAC.</li>
<li>DAU/MAU Ratio – Shows user engagement depth. A ratio above 20% is considered strong.</li>
<li>EBITDA – Reflects core operational profitability and financial health. High EBITDA margins show sustainable growth and efficiency.</li>
</ol>
In 2024, video game M&amp;A activity reached $27.3 billion, underscoring the sector's immense growth and investment appeal. C-suite executives would be wise to consider these metrics when searching for their next target. 
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asset-sales/25/05/45702349/deal-dispatch-beauty-brand-behavioral-health-firms-hit-auction-block">For last week&#8217;s edition of Deal Dispatch, click here</a>.
Now Read:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/25/06/45816311/conagra-sells-seafood-brands-for-55m-as-it-sharpens-focus-on-core-business">Conagra Sells Seafood Brands For $55M As It Sharpens Focus On Core Business</a></li>
</ul>
Image created using a photo from Shutterstock.

Asset Sales

BPMC

GDEV

GRDN

HOOD

KEYS

POST

ROSE

SNOW

Deal Dispatch: TV Stations For Sale, This Buyer Wants Seconds On Pasta

Live On CNBC, Kevin Simpson Announces Bought Merck & Company; Sold Salesforce

Alvotech (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALVO#NASDAQ">ALVO</a>) on Thursday collaborated with Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RDY#NYSE">RDY</a>) to co-develop, manufacture and commercialize a biosimilar candidate to Keytruda (pembrolizumab) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/06/b45788813/alvotech-and-dr-reddys-enter-into-collaboration-to-co-develop-biosimilar-candidate-to-keytruda-pem" rel="noreferrer noopener">for global markets</a>.
Merck &amp; Co Inc's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) Keytruda (pembrolizumab) is indicated for numerous cancer types.
Keytruda's worldwide sales were $29.5 billion in 2024. The collaboration combines Dr. Reddy's and Alvotech's capabilities in biosimilars, speeding up the development process and extending the global reach for this biosimilar candidate.
Under the terms of the agreement, the parties will be jointly responsible for developing and manufacturing the biosimilar candidate and sharing costs and responsibilities.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44724763/pharma-industry-faces-jitters-as-trump-hints-at-historic-tariffs-bofa-outlines-probable-timeline" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pharma Industry Faces Jitters As Trump Hints At Historic Tariffs, BofA Outlines Probable Timeline</a>
Subject to certain exceptions, each party will have the right to commercialize the product globally.
In May, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved&nbsp;Teva and&nbsp;Alvotech Selarsdi (ustekinumab-aekn) injection as interchangeable with the reference biologic&nbsp;Johnson &amp; Johnson's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/05/45199025/why-is-israel-based-generic-drug-focused-teva-pharmaceutical-stock-trading-higher-on-monday" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stelara (ustekinumab)</a>.
In March, Alvotech&nbsp;announced the acquisition of&nbsp;R&amp;D operations of&nbsp;Xbrane Biopharma AB along with a biosimilar candidate, XB003, which is based on Cimzia (certolizumab pegol)&nbsp;for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/mid-cap/25/03/44412592/alvotech-strengthens-biosimilar-portfolio-with-27-million-xbrane-rd-deal" rel="noreferrer noopener">around SEK275 million</a> (around $27 million).
The transaction includes a cash payment of SEK102.2 million at closing, along with the assumption of SEK172.8 million in debt and accounts payable.
HSBC upgraded Dr Reddy's Laboratories from Hold to Buy and raised the price <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/RDY/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">forecast from $14.44 to $16.9</a>.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Stock Prediction For 2025 For Alvotech</h2>
Equity research analysts on and off Wall Street typically use earnings growth and fundamental research as a form of valuation and forecasting. But many in trading turn to technical analysis as a way to form predictive models for share price trajectory.
Some investors look to trends to help forecast where they believe a stock could trade at a certain point in the future. Looking at Alvotech, an investor could make an assessment about a stock's long term prospects using a moving average and trend line. If they believe a stock will remain above the moving average, which many believe is a bullish signal, they can extrapolate that trend into the future using a trend line. For Alvotech, the 200-day moving average sits at $11.44, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://pro.benzinga.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Pro</a>, which is above the current price of $10.46. For more on charts and trend lines, <a target="_blank" href="https://pro.benzinga.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">see a description here.</a>
Traders believe that when a stock is above its moving average, it is a generally bullish signal, and when it crosses below, it is a more negative signal. Investors could use trend lines to make an educated guess about where a stock could trade at a later date if conditions remain stable.
Price Action: At the last check on Thursday, RDY stock was up 6.07% at $15.65, and ALVO stock was down 2.49% at $10.56.
Read Next:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/biotech/25/06/45799258/gileads-hiv-pipeline-gains-traction-with-upcoming-fda-decision-for-hiv-1-drug" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gilead's HIV Pipeline Gains Traction With Upcoming FDA Decision For HIV-1 Drug</a></li>
</ul>
Photo by T. Schneider via Shutterstock

Contracts

Movers

ALVO

Dr Reddy's And Alvotech Join Hands To Develop Biosimilar For Merck's Blockbuster Cancer Drug

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bullish move on Merck &amp; Co. Our analysis of options history for Merck &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) revealed 30 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 60% of traders were bullish, while 26% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 8 were puts, with a value of $413,444, and 22 were calls, valued at $1,845,337.
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $40.0 to $110.0 for Merck &amp; Co over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
Examining the volume and open interest provides crucial insights into stock research. This information is key in gauging liquidity and interest levels for Merck &amp; Co's options at certain strike prices. Below, we present a snapshot of the trends in volume and open interest for calls and puts across Merck &amp; Co's significant trades, within a strike price range of $40.0 to $110.0, over the past month.
<h3>Merck &amp; Co 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1749060074_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$2.5</td>
<td>$2.47</td>
<td>$2.5</td>
<td>$85.00</td>
<td>$159.2K</td>
<td>4.0K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$2.77</td>
<td>$2.72</td>
<td>$2.77</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$145.4K</td>
<td>3.9K</td>
<td>631</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/18/26</td>
<td>$12.15</td>
<td>$11.9</td>
<td>$12.15</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$143.3K</td>
<td>650</td>
<td>196</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$2.86</td>
<td>$2.83</td>
<td>$2.86</td>
<td>$80.00</td>
<td>$143.0K</td>
<td>3.9K</td>
<td>1.6K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/20/26</td>
<td>$38.75</td>
<td>$38.6</td>
<td>$38.6</td>
<td>$40.00</td>
<td>$115.8K</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>60</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Merck &amp; Co</h3>
Merck makes pharmaceutical products to treat several conditions in a number of therapeutic areas, including cardiometabolic disease, cancer, and infections. Within cancer, the firm's immuno-oncology platform is growing as a major contributor to overall sales. The company also has a substantial vaccine business, with treatments to prevent pediatric diseases as well as human papillomavirus, or HPV. Additionally, Merck sells animal health-related drugs. From a geographical perspective, just under half of the company's sales are generated in the United States.
In light of the recent options history for Merck &amp; Co, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance.
<h3>Current Position of Merck &amp; Co</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 6,348,843, the price of MRK is up 1.92% at $78.62. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 55 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Merck &amp; Co</h3>
A total of 1 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $84.0.
Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?
20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=options-activity&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Citigroup has revised its rating downward to Neutral, adjusting the price target to $84. 
Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Merck &amp; Co options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>.

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Below are some instances of options activity happening in the Health Care sector: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>NTRA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$175.00</td>
<td>$36.9K</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TEVA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$18.00</td>
<td>$25.4K</td>
<td>49.9K</td>
<td>898</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SRDX</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$190.0K</td>
<td>502</td>
<td>500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$310.00</td>
<td>$43.5K</td>
<td>3.0K</td>
<td>494</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AKBA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$2.50</td>
<td>$31.0K</td>
<td>438</td>
<td>350</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$70.00</td>
<td>$88.3K</td>
<td>576</td>
<td>217</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LLY</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/19/25</td>
<td>$710.00</td>
<td>$63.4K</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>13</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MRNA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$115.00</td>
<td>$87.5K</td>
<td>12</td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ABBV</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>09/18/26</td>
<td>$120.00</td>
<td>$35.6K</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These itemized elaborations have been created using the accompanying table. 
• For NTRA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTRA#NASDAQ">NTRA</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 107 day(s) on September 19, 2025. This event was a transfer of 26 contract(s) at a $175.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $36.9K, with a price of $1420.0 per contract. There were 10 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1350 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For TEVA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEVA#NYSE">TEVA</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 16 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 750 contract(s) at a $18.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 8 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $25.4K, with a price of $34.0 per contract. There were 49987 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 898 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding SRDX (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRDX#NASDAQ">SRDX</a>), we observe a call option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 72 day(s) on August 15, 2025. Parties traded 500 contract(s) at a $30.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $190.0K, with a price of $380.0 per contract. There were 502 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 500 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding UNH (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 44 day(s) on July 18, 2025. Parties traded 38 contract(s) at a $310.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $43.5K, with a price of $1145.0 per contract. There were 3038 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 494 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding AKBA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AKBA#NASDAQ">AKBA</a>), we observe a call option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 226 day(s) on January 16, 2026. Parties traded 200 contract(s) at a $2.50 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $31.0K, with a price of $155.0 per contract. There were 438 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 350 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding MRK (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), we observe a call option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 16 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 100 contract(s) at a $70.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $88.3K, with a price of $883.0 per contract. There were 576 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 217 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For LLY (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 198 day(s) on December 19, 2025. This event was a transfer of 5 contract(s) at a $710.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $63.4K, with a price of $12690.0 per contract. There were 25 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 13 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For MRNA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be neutral, expiring in 226 day(s) on January 16, 2026. This event was a transfer of 10 contract(s) at a $115.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 5 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $87.5K, with a price of $8753.0 per contract. There were 12 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 10 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For ABBV (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be neutral, expiring in 471 day(s) on September 18, 2026. This event was a transfer of 5 contract(s) at a $120.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $35.6K, with a price of $7130.0 per contract. There were 0 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 5 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

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