Merck KGaA · Darmstadt Germany ·(German: MRK)

Merck is leaving its mark on the global pharmaceutical market. Through a network of nearly 200 companies in over 60 countries, the Merck develops, makes, and sells pharmaceutical and chemical products for global consumption. Name-brand prescription drugs include treatments for cardiovascular disease, cancers, infertility, and neurological disorders; the company also makes over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. Aside from drugs, the firm makes specialty chemicals, including laboratory reagents and cosmetic ingredients, as well as liquid crystals for televisions. Merck was founded in 1668 as a pharmacy and is the oldest pharmaceutical business in the world. The Merck family owns about 70% of the company. To read the full description, subscribe now.