Bayer CEO Baumann Sees Monsanto Deal Closure by Year End

The transcript covers Bayer's strong performance, particularly in pharma, and the benefits from Covestro's success. It discusses the progress of the Monsanto deal, including regulatory filings and discussions with US and European regulators. Bayer's financing strategies, including equity and debt management, are outlined. The company plans to reduce its stake in Covestro while optimizing value. The transcript also touches on market opportunities and the importance of strategic execution.

What sector showed particularly strong earnings for Bayer in the first quarter?

• Pharmaceuticals

• Automotive

• Technology

• Agriculture

What is the anticipated timeline for closing the Monsanto deal?

• By the end of 2020

• By the end of 2018

• By the end of 2017

• By the end of 2019

Which other industry transaction is mentioned as having positive news?

• Dow and DuPont

• Syngenta and ChemChina

• Pfizer and Allergan

• GlaxoSmithKline and Novartis

What was the value of the mandatory convertible mentioned in the financial strategies?

• Three billion

• Five billion

• Two billion

• Four billion

What is Bayer's long-term goal regarding its stake in Covestro?

• Increase to 75%

• Maintain at 53%

• Reduce to zero

• Increase to 100%

What is emphasized as crucial for Bayer's execution of plans?

• Cost-cutting

• Innovation

• Flawlessness

• Speed

What is Bayer's main focus to avoid distractions from other opportunities?

• Increasing marketing efforts

• Expanding into new markets

• The Monsanto transaction

• Developing new products