Macro
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month values ▾
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| +0.30 | +0.30 | +0.30 | +0.30 | -0.12 | +0.20 | +0.30 | +0.20 | +0.20 | +0.30 | -0.09 | +0.30 |
Steady in the bull-market peak, though the 'patent cliff' narrative loomed and GSK's Avandia safety scare hit in May; Merck's $4.85B Vioxx settlement in November finally removed a huge liability overhang.
How this mood is scored ▾
A new analysis links GlaxoSmithKline's diabetes drug Avandia to a 43% higher risk of heart attack, prompting an FDA safety alert but no immediate regulatory action. The revelation sparked congressional concern, eroded investor confidence—sending GSK shares down 6.6%—and reignited criticism of FDA's drug approval and safety monitoring processes.
Merck & Co. agreed to a $4.85 billion settlement to resolve around 47,000 lawsuits linked to its withdrawn painkiller Vioxx, which was tied to increased heart attack and stroke risks. The deal, excluding class-action admissions, establishes separate funds for qualifying myocardial infarction and stroke claims, with Merck taking a full charge in Q4; the stock rose on investor relief over litigation certainty.