Merck KGaA shares rose nearly 1.9% during daily trading. The stock price reached €141.60 following an HSBC rating upgrade. HSBC raised its recommendation on the science and technology firm to Buy from Hold. The company emerged as the second-largest gainer in the DAX index.
Analyst Rajesh Kumar cited the stock's valuation as a primary reason for the upgrade. Merck KGaA shares previously lagged behind the broader life sciences sector rally. HSBC highlighted the company's solid performance during the first half of 2026.
Fundamental long-term growth drivers in the lab supplies business support the upgrade. The share price moved above its 21-day and 50-day moving averages. This technical movement indicates a potential improvement in the stock's price trend.