9 Best Long-Term Stocks to Buy According to D. E. Shaw

7. Merck & Co. Inc. (NYSE:MRK)

Share Price Return Between July 1 and November 11: 11.17%

D.E. Shaw’s Q2 Stake Value: $820.7 million

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 92

Merck & Co. Inc. (NYSE:MRK) ranks among the best long-term stocks to buy according to D. E. Shaw. On October 30, Merck & Co. Inc. (NYSE:MRK) announced its Q3 2025 earnings, showing better-than-expected financial results despite uneven product portfolio performance. The company’s revenue of $17.3 billion crossed analyst estimates of $16.98 billion, while its EPS of $2.58 considerably surpassed analyst projections of $2.35.

Merck’s oncology division remains the main driver of growth, led by KEYTRUDA’s $8.1 billion in sales for the quarter. Other oncology medications also showed solid results, with WELIREG sales jumping 41% to $196 million, Lynparza sales rising 12% to $379 million, and Lenvima sales growing 2% to $258 million.

The FDA’s approval of subcutaneous pembrolizumab (KEYTRUDA QLEX) for all solid tumor indications that had previously been approved for intravenous KEYTRUDA was a major regulatory milestone during the quarter. This formulation may enhance the patient experience, given that it can be administered in as little as one minute.

That said, Merck & Co. Inc. (NYSE:MRK) saw substantial challenges in its vaccines division, as GARDASIL sales fell 25% to $1.7 billion, primarily as a result of a decline in Chinese sales.

Merck & Co. Inc. (NYSE:MRK) is a healthcare company that offers human health pharmaceuticals, veterinary pharmaceuticals, vaccines & health management solutions and services.