Two Ways To Play: Merck Cured of Negative Outlook Terry Woo Aug 25, 2008 4:47 pm |
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Merck said last week that it will start mailing payments on some $4.85 billion in settlements to former users of the painkiller Vioxx. The actions prompted Moody’s to affirm Merck’s existing Aa3 long-term debt and Prime-1 short-term debt ratings as well as lift its outlook for the company from negative to developing. Moody’s said the company’s conservative fiscal policies countered “pressures” facing sales of Vytorin and Zetia cholesterol pills. The ratings agency says about $5.1 billion of debt securities are affected by the ratings.
From the Bull Pen: We mentioned earlier this morning a few plays in the biotech sector. Bulls can also consider Celgene (CELG) with supports near $70 and $65 as points to consider.
From the Bear Cave: The positive statements from Moody’s may provide some relief to Merck bulls, but bears recognize that the long-term trend line is down for the stock. A downside play might exist if and when the stock reaches the $40 mark.
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