MSD reaffirms EPS guidance

Merck, Sharp and Dohme (MSD) has confirmed that it expects earnings per share (EPS) to increase in 2007, reaffirming long-term EPS growth from 2005-2010. The company’s full year anticipated EPS for 2006 is in the range of $2.48-$2.52 (1.26-1.28 pounds).

For 2007, the company expects EPS to range from $2.51-$2.59, with the company forecasting compound annual growth in revenue of four to six per cent from 2005-2010.

The company states that it will implement changes to its business models, implement efficiency initiatives and introduce new products to deliver earnings growth in double-figures by 2010. MSD added that it expects Gardasil and Januvia to grow, in addition to other new franchises and launches.

Richard T Clark, chief executive officer and president of MSD, said: “[MSD] continues to focus on results. We will achieve these results by continuing to improve the way we discover, develop, manufacture and market our medicines and vaccines.”

He added that the company was looking forward to future discussion of its progress at its forthcoming briefing for investors due to take place on December 12th.

Last month, MSD announced a first quarter 2007 dividend of $0.38 per share, payable on January 2nd to shareholders with stock from December 8th 2006.