This pharma stock has risen over 170% in 17 months

Next week, on Thursday, May 23, Merck will turn ex-dividend for Rs 440 per share, which includes a one-time special dividend of Rs 416 per share on account of gain on business transfer.

Procter & Gamble Health (formerly Merck) shares were trading higher for the sixth straight day, up 4 per cent in early morning trade at Rs 4,389, also its new high on the BSE, after the company reported strong net profit growth in March quarter (Q1CY19).

The pharmaceutical company’s profit after tax rose 79 per cent at Rs 40.7 crore in Q1CY19 driven by high interest income and operational efficiencies.  Total revenue grew 22.2 per cent at Rs 249 crore against Rs 204 crore in previous year quarter. The strong revenue growth driven by a strong performance across brands, growth