• • • Closing is now expected in the second quarter of 2018
European Commission Conditionally Approves Bayer’s Proposed Monsanto Acquisition. EC approval hinges on divestment of more assets including Monsanto’s nematicide technology NemaStrike and Bayer’s hybrid wheat platform.
In addition, Monsanto’s global business with the nematicide NemaStrike must be divested. The conditions also stipulate the transfer of three Bayer research projects in the area of nonselective herbicides and the granting of a license to Bayer’s digital farming portfolio. BASF is the intended purchaser of these assets.
The transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of required regulatory approvals. Bayer and Monsanto are working closely with the authorities (including the U.S. Department of Justice) with the goal of closing the transaction in the second quarter of 2018, according to the release.