The merger combines Monsanto’s seeds platform with Bayer’s crop protection products. Bayer’s press release states the transaction will be financed with a combination of debt and equity: “The equity component of approximately USD 19 billion is expected to be raised through an issuance of mandatory convertible bonds and through a rights issue with subscription rights. Bridge financing for USD 57 billion is committed by B of A Merrill Lynch, Credit Suisse, Goldman Sachs, HSBC and JP Morgan.”
The acquisition is contingent upon Monsanto shareholder approval and receipt of regulatory approvals. Closing is expected by the end of 2017.
The seeds division and North American headquarters will station in St. Louis, Missouri, and the crop protection and crop science headquarters in Monheim, Germany. Digital farming activities for the combined business will be based in San Francisco, California. 
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Lynn Jaynes
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- Progressive Forage
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