Monsanto reports strong first quarter results

In the first quarter, Monsanto delivered higher earnings per share (EPS) than the prior year thanks to the strength of the company’s South American business. In 2017, the company remains focused on delivering on its operational plan and key business milestones while simultaneously working with Bayer on the necessary steps to finalize the deal to merge the companies, which is targeted for the end of calendar year 2017. Additionally, in its annual research-and-development update today, the company will highlight more than 20 phase advancements across the industry’s broadest pipeline, which is focused on helping farmers address current and future challenges.

“We’ve been very pleased with the strong support - especially from shareowners and growers - for the agreement to combine with Bayer,” said Hugh Grant, chairman and chief executive officer. “We expect the combination with Bayer to amplify the rate of innovation faster than either company could achieve alone, which will be critical in helping to increase grower productivity to meet projected demand in the decades ahead.”

“The last several years have brought record-breaking achievements for our pipeline, and this year is no different,” said Robb Fraley, Ph.D., executive vice president and chief technology officer, regarding this year’s annual pipeline update. “To answer the challenges growers face, our teams have been successful in finding the best scientific disciplines for the job - whether it’s breeding, biotech, crop protection, biologicals or Climate FieldView products. And with Bayer, we truly see the opportunity to accelerate innovation, optimize integrated solutions and expand offerings - translating to significant benefits for farmers.”

Click here to see the full Q1 results.