Bayer (BAYN) AGM 2026 summary

Opening remarks and agenda

• The meeting was opened virtually, with over 75% shareholder approval for the format, emphasizing accessibility, sustainability, and cost efficiency.

• New interactive features were introduced for shareholders, including real-time reactions and direct communication via the portal.

• The agenda and all supporting documents were published in advance, and the meeting included simultaneous interpretation and accessibility features.

• Attendance reached 59.41% of share capital, with 368 shareholders online and over 1,452 public viewers.

Financial performance review

• Sales reached EUR 45.6 billion, core EPS was 4.91, free cash flow EUR 2.1 billion, and net financial debt reduced to EUR 29.8 billion.

• The company expects net financial debt to rise in 2026 due to litigation expenses, with a negative free cash flow projected.

• Pharma launches offset patent expiries, Crop Science began a five-year improvement plan, and Consumer Health protected margins despite top-line challenges.

Board and executive committee updates

• Judith Hartmann joined the Board in March 2026 and will become CFO in June 2026, succeeding Wolfgang Nickl.

• Contracts for CEO Bill Anderson and Pharma head Stefan Oelrich were extended; Heike Prinz’s contract was also renewed.

• Two new Supervisory Board members, Marcel Smits and Alfred Stern, were elected, while three long-serving members retired.