Merck & Co said on Monday it is pursuing strategic options for its animal health and consumer businesses and expects to complete any action it takes this year. The company could "determine the most value-creating option for each and could reach different decisions about the two businesses," Merck said in a statement ahead of a presentation at an investor conference later in the day.In November, Merck said it was looking at options for separating these businesses. Last week, Reuters and other outlets reported that bankers said Novartis AG was discussing swapping its animal health and human vaccines businesses for Merck's over-the-counter products unit.Merck shares were trading at $49.96 before the bell, up from $49.86 at Friday's close.
Merck & Co., Inc. (Merck) is a global health care company that delivers health solutions through its prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies, animal health, and consumer care products, which it markets directly and through its joint ventures. Shares of MRK traded higher by 6.38% or $3.18/share to $53.06. In the past year, the shares have traded as low as $40.83 and as high as $50.42. On average, 12150300 shares of MRK exchange hands on a given day and today's volume is recorded at 19266340.
Novartis AG provides healthcare solutions. The Company is a multinational group of companies specializing in the research, development, manufacturing and marketing of a range of healthcare products led by pharmaceuticals. Shares of NVS fell by 0.22% or $-0.1797/share to $81.16. In the past year, the shares have traded as low as $64.52 and as high as $81.37. On average, 1291760 shares of NVS exchange hands on a given day and today's volume is recorded at 401543.
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