NEW YORK, February 6 (FinanceEnquiry.com) - Analysts at Deutsche Bank Securities maintain their Buy rating on the shares of Merck & Co. (NYSE: MRK). The 12-month target price is set to $43.
 
In a research note published on February 6, the analysts mention that Merck posted 2012 EPS guidance range of $3.75-$3.85, compared to the Street and estimate of $3.83 and $3.86, respectively. Moreover, Merck posted flat EPS to modestly higher y/y, despite Singulair LOE and Remicade decline. The operationally flat revenues in 2012 were consistent with the estimate and Street expectations as well as previous company guidance, the analysts add. Likewise, flat R&D spend and 23-25% tax rate guidance were also in line. The analysts indicate that long-term EPS growth is persistently supported by steady execution for new commercial moves, iterative restructuring efforts  and maturing pipeline, and could support multiple expansion over time.