Bayer's Baumann Says on Track With Monsanto Filings

The transcript covers Bayer's strong performance, particularly in pharma, and the success of Covestro. It discusses the progress of the Monsanto deal, including regulatory filings and discussions with US and European regulators. The financing strategy, including equity and debt considerations, is outlined. Plans for managing the Covestro stake are detailed, with a focus on optimizing value. The transcript concludes with a discussion on market opportunities and strategic execution.

What was a key factor in Bayer's strong performance in the first quarter?

• Increased marketing efforts

• Growth in the pharmaceutical sector

• Reduction in operational costs

• Expansion into new markets

What is the expected timeline for closing the Monsanto deal?

• In the first quarter of 2018

• In the second quarter of 2017

• By the end of 2017

• By the end of 2018

What was the significance of the European antitrust clearance for Dow and DuPont?

• It delayed the Monsanto deal

• It required additional regulatory filings

• It was unrelated to the Monsanto deal

• It supported the timeline for the Monsanto deal

What was the first step in the financing strategy for the Monsanto deal?

• Issuing new shares

• Mandatory convertible bond

• Selling assets

• Securing a bank loan

What is Bayer's plan for its stake in Covestro?

• Reduce the stake to zero over the midterm

• Maintain the current stake

• Increase the stake

• Sell the stake immediately

What is emphasized as crucial for the success of the Monsanto transaction?

• Exploring new market opportunities

• Executing plans flawlessly

• Increasing marketing efforts

• Reducing operational costs

What is the main focus during the pre and post-merger planning for the Monsanto transaction?

• Expanding into new markets

• Reducing the workforce

• Ensuring flawless execution

• Exploring parallel opportunities