AZN vs. MRK: Comparing Keytruda, Pipelines and Growth Strategies

AstraZeneca and Merck are compared as investment opportunities in the pharmaceutical sector. AstraZeneca targets $80 billion in revenues by 2030 with 20 planned new medicine launches but faces patent expirations, pricing pressures in China, and recent pipeline setbacks. Merck relies heavily on blockbuster drug Keytruda (peak sales $35 billion by 2028) but faces patent expiration in 2028 and biosimilar competition. Merck receives a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) while AstraZeneca receives Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell), making Merck the preferred choice despite higher valuation multiples.