Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK) P/E Ratio History
Historical price-to-earnings valuation from 1990 to 2025
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Valuation Context
How does the current P/E compare to historical and market benchmarks?
P/E Ratio Analysis
As of March 2, 2026, Merck & Co., Inc. (MRK) trades at a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.0x, with a stock price of $123.78 and trailing twelve-month earnings per share of $7.34.
The current P/E is 75% below its 5-year average of 68.8x. Over the past five years, MRK's P/E has ranged from a low of 11.1x to a high of 778.7x, placing the current valuation at the 45th percentile of its historical range.
Compared to the Healthcare sector median P/E of 23.7x, MRK trades at a 28% discount to its sector peers. The sector includes 224 companies with P/E ratios ranging from 0.0x to 184.4x.
The PEG ratio of 0.80 (P/E divided by 8% EPS growth) suggests the stock may be undervalued relative to its earnings growth. Peter Lynch popularized the rule that a PEG below 1.0 indicates an attractive entry point.
Relative to the broader market, MRK trades at a notable discount to the S&P 500 median P/E of 26.2x. Investors should consider the company's growth prospects, competitive position, and earnings quality when evaluating whether the current valuation is justified.
For a comprehensive intrinsic value estimate using discounted cash flow analysis, see our MRK DCF Valuation Calculator →
Note: P/E ratio is just one valuation metric. It does not account for balance sheet strength, cash flow quality, or growth sustainability. Always conduct comprehensive due diligence before making investment decisions.
Peer Comparison
P/E metrics vs. Vaccines and plasma-derived therapies peers
| Company | Market Cap | P/E Ratio | PEG Ratio | EPS Growth (1Y) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
MRKMerck & Co., Inc. | $307B | 17.0 | 0.80Best | +8% |
PFEPfizer Inc. | $157B | 20.3 | - | -4% |
GSKGSK plc | $119B | 16.2Lowest | - | +119% |
SNYSanofi | $118B | 20.3 | - | -7% |
GRFSGrifols, S.A. | $2B | 33.5 | - | +156%Best |
Peers sorted by market capitalization. P/E below peers may indicate undervaluation or lower growth expectations. Consider PEG ratio for growth-adjusted comparison.
Historical P/E Data
Quarterly P/E ratios calculated from closing price and TTM EPS
| Quarter | Date | Price | TTM EPS | P/E Ratio | vs Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FY2025 Q4 | Wed Dec 31 2025 00:00:00 GM | $105.26 | $7.28 | 14.5x | -52% |
| FY2025 Q3 | $83.93 | $7.57 | 11.1x | -63% | |
| FY2025 Q2 | Mon Jun 30 2025 00:00:00 GM | $79.16 | $6.49 | 12.2x | -60% |
| FY2025 Q1 | Mon Mar 31 2025 00:00:00 GM | $89.76 | $6.87 | 13.1x | -57% |
| FY2024 Q4 | $99.48 | $6.73 | 14.8x | -51% | |
| FY2024 Q3 | Mon Sep 30 2024 00:00:00 GM | $113.56 | $4.77 | 23.8x | -21% |
| FY2024 Q2 | Sun Jun 30 2024 00:00:00 GM | $123.80 | $5.39 | 23.0x | -24% |
| FY2024 Q1 | Sun Mar 31 2024 00:00:00 GM | $131.95 | $0.90 | 146.6x | +386% |
| FY2023 Q4 | Sun Dec 31 2023 00:00:00 GM | $109.02 | $0.14 | 778.7x | +2483% |
| FY2023 Q3 | Sat Sep 30 2023 00:00:00 GM | $102.95 | $1.80 | 57.2x | +90% |
| FY2023 Q2 | Fri Jun 30 2023 00:00:00 GM | $115.39 | $1.22 | 94.6x | +214% |
| FY2023 Q1 | Fri Mar 31 2023 00:00:00 GM | $106.39 | $5.12 | 20.8x | -31% |
Average P/E for displayed period: 30.1x
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Start ComparisonFrequently Asked Questions
Is MRK stock overvalued or undervalued?
MRK trades at 17.0x P/E, below its 5-year average of 68.8x. At the 45th percentile of historical range, the stock is priced at a discount to its own history.
How does MRK's valuation compare to peers?
Merck & Co., Inc. P/E of 17.0x compares to sector median of 23.7x. The discount suggests lower growth expectations or higher risk.
What is MRK's PEG ratio?
MRK PEG ratio is 0.80. Below 1.0 indicates valuation is supported by earnings growth rate. Historical P/E data spans 1990-2025.