The analysis performed in April 2007 to identify Merck shareholders accounted for a total of 45.8 million shares, equivalent to around 70% of the shares in free float. This provided information on both the regional distribution of Merck shareholders as well as the classification of the respective types of investor. Accounting for 44%, investors based in the United States continued to dominate, followed by investors in the United Kingdom and Germany. A standard classification of investors by investment strategy shows that “Growth” and “Growth at reasonable price” characterize the majority of Merck investors.
Identified investors by region |
Identified investors by type |
Investor relations activities intensified
The Investor Relations program introduced in 2006 was resolutely implemented in 2007. Contact to investors was intensified and the company’s presence in the capital markets increased significantly. To increase transparency and help shareholders and potential investors understand the company better, a fact book was prepared and posted on the Web as a download. It provides a general overview of the company and its individual divisions and will be updated regularly. The main share performance drivers were summarized in an equity story, which is also available online. The company succeeded in attracting additional investors who support Merck’s corporate strategy and long-term growth orientation. As of December 31, 2007, the following shareholders reported their holdings in Merck shares in accordance with the German Securities Trading Act as follows:
- Barclays PLC London (United Kingdom): 5–10%
- Capital Research & Management Company, Los Angeles, CA (USA): 5–10%
- Fidelity International Ltd.: 3–5%
- Sun Life Financial Inc., Toronto (Canada): 5–10%
