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Report: Bayer could launch hostile bid for Monsanto

A German publication reports Bayer may launch a hostile takeover bid of Monsanto if its latest friendly offer falls through.

Citing sources close to Bayer, German business daily Handelsblatt says Bayer is prepared to turn directly to shareholders to secure a deal if Monsanto management insists on a price the Germans see as too risky.

Bayer’s last offer valued Monsanto at around 64 billion dollars. Handelsblatt says some observers expect Monsanto management to reject any offer of less than 67 billion dollars. A spokesman for Bayer shareholder Union Investment told the publication that a bid at that level would pose too big of a risk for Bayer.