Pharmaceutical Business review

Merck Posts Steady Revenues At E1902M

Germany-based, Merck has announced a steady group total revenues in the second quarter and in the first half of 2009 at E1902m and E3756m respectively. Company also posts earnings per share of 0.50, compared to 2008’s 0.95, a decrease of 47.4%.

Merck’s second quarter profit after tax posted was to E110m compared to E211m in the year-ago quarter. First-half profit after tax was E170m compared to E454m for the first six months of 2008.

Karl-Ludwig Kley, chairman of Merck, said: “It is clear to see that the world remains in the midst of the economic crisis. Merck is also feeling its effects but to a lesser extent than many companies. In fact, we are able to continue investing in the development of innovative products that will secure our

future. Despite the economic crisis, Merck expects to meet the Group guidance for 2009 that was announced earlier this year.”