Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, particularly in the development of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other bioactive molecules. Its nitrile, bromo, and methoxy functional groups enable versatile chemical transformations, such as cross-coupling reactions (e.g., copper- or palladium-catalyzed), making it valuable in constructing complex organic structures. The methoxy group enhances reactivity and stability, while the bromo serves as a handle for further substitutions. Commonly employed in medicinal chemistry as a building block in drug discovery and for preparing analogs in structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies. Also utilized in the synthesis of certain fungicides and plant growth regulators due to its favorable reactivity profile.