Merck & Co. Inc. (MRK)
Merck & Max Pain By Strike
MRK trades at $84.7, pinned near the near-term max pain of $84 expiring Sep 12, 2025 (6 days). Price stability likely with balanced options positioning at this level. Max pain is stable across expirations ($75-$90), indicating stable market expectations. Key magnetic zone at 80 where 7 expirations converge.
Merck & Max Pain By Expiry
Max pain for MRK shows stable levels around 81.94, reflecting balanced market expectations. The 18% spread signals divergent expectations across timeframes. Most levels below 84.7 may cap rallies. Strong magnetic level at 80 (7 expirations). Weekly expirations influence price 2-3 days before expiry; monthlies throughout their final week.
Max Pain Table
| Expiration Date | Max Pain | Max Pain vs Current Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sep 12, 2025 | 84 | -0.70 (-0.83%) |
| Sep 19, 2025 | 81 | -3.70 (-4.37%) |
| Sep 26, 2025 | 81 | -3.70 (-4.37%) |
| Oct 3, 2025 | 84 | -0.70 (-0.83%) |
| Oct 10, 2025 | 82 | -2.70 (-3.19%) |
| Oct 17, 2025 | 80 | -4.70 (-5.55%) |
| Oct 24, 2025 | 83 | -1.70 (-2.01%) |
| Nov 21, 2025 | 80 | -4.70 (-5.55%) |
| Dec 19, 2025 | 85 | 0.30 (0.35%) |
| Jan 16, 2026 | 90 | 5.30 (6.25%) |
| Mar 20, 2026 | 80 | -4.70 (-5.55%) |
| Apr 17, 2026 | 75 | -9.70 (-11.46%) |
| Jun 18, 2026 | 80 | -4.70 (-5.55%) |
| Sep 18, 2026 | 80 | -4.70 (-5.55%) |
| Dec 18, 2026 | 85 | 0.30 (0.35%) |
| Jan 15, 2027 | 85 | 0.30 (0.35%) |
| Jun 17, 2027 | 80 | -4.70 (-5.55%) |
| Dec 17, 2027 | 80 | -4.70 (-5.55%) |