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Bayer AG
Annual Report 2016

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FY2016 Annual Report · Bayer AG
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Annual Report

2016

Augmented Version

 
 
 
Fiscal 2016: 

Another record year for 
Bayer – good progress 
with the acquisition of 
Monsanto 

Group sales €46.8 billion (Fx & portfolio adj. + 3.5%) 

Substantial sales and earnings increases at Pharmaceuticals 

Consumer Health grows with competition 

Crop Science successful in a difficult market environment 

EBITDA before special items €11.3 billion (+ 10.2%) 

Net income €4.5 billion (+ 10.2%) 

Core earnings per share €7.32 (+ 7.3%) 

Operating cash flow €8.3 billion (+ 20.8%) 

Forecast for 2017: further growth in sales and earnings 

Cover picture: The digitization of farming aims to support the efficient and sustainable use of resources.  
Our cover shows Charles Godoy on his farm near the town of Catalão in Brazil. He monitors his fields on a  
daily basis so that he can react quickly to problems. 

You can read more in the Magazine section of this Annual Report beginning on page 9.

Key Data 
Key Data

€ million 

Bayer Group 

Sales 

EBITDA  

1 

EBITDA before special items 

1 

EBITDA margin before special items 

1 

EBIT 

1 

EBIT before special items 

1 

Income before income taxes 

Net income (from continuing and discontinued operations)  

Earnings per share (from continuing and discontinued operations) (€) 

1 

Core earnings per share (from continuing operations) (€)  

1 

Net cash provided by operating activities (from continuing and discontinued operations)  

Net financial debt 

Capital expenditures 

Bayer AG 

Total dividend payment 

Dividend per share (€) 

Innovation 

Research and development expenses 

Ratio of R&D expenses to sales – Pharmaceuticals (%) 

Ratio of R&D expenses to sales – Crop Science (%) 

Employees in research and development 

Employees 

Number of employees 

2 (Dec. 31) 

Personnel expenses (including pension expenses) (€ million) 

Proportion of women in senior management (%) 

Proportion of employees with health insurance (%) 

Fluctuation (voluntary / total) (%) 

Hours of vocational and ongoing training per employee 

Safety & Environmental Protection 

Recordable Incident Rate (RIR) for Bayer employees 

Loss of Primary Containment Incident Rate (LoPC-IR)  

3 

Total energy consumption (terajoules) 

Energy efficiency (MWh/t) 

4 

Total greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 equivalents in million t) 

5 

Specific greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 equivalents in t / manufactured sales volume in t),  
according to the market-based method 

6 

Hazardous waste generated (thousand t) 

Water use (million m³) 

2015

2016

Change 
from 2015 
(%)

46,085

9,573

10,256

22.3%

6,241

7,060

5,236

4,110

4.97

6.82

6,890

17,449

2,511

46,769

10,785

11,302

24.2%

7,042

8,130

5,887

4,531

5.44

7.32

9,089

11,778

2,578

2,067

2.50

2,233

2.70

4,274

16.0

10.7

4,666

17.0

11.7

+ 1.5

+ 12.7

+ 10.2

+ 12.8

+ 15.2

+ 12.4

+ 10.2

+ 9.5

+ 7.3

+ 31.9

–  32.5

+ 2.7

+ 8.0

+ 8.0

+ 9.2

14,753

15,229

+ 3.8

116,600

11,176

115,200

11,357

28

96

29

98

5.0 / 13.9

20.0

4.6 / 12.3
22.1

0.42

0.22

0.39

0.32

83,182

84,494

6.34

9.71

1.69

541

346

6.77

9.87

1.54

547

330

– 1.2

+1.6

+10.5

– 7.1

+ 45.5

+ 1.6

+ 6.8

+ 1.6

–  8.9

+ 1.1

–  4.6

2015 figures restated; figures for 2012-2014 as last reported 
1 For definitions of the indicators see Chapter 2.4 
2 Employees calculated as full-time equivalents (FTEs) 
3 Number of incidents per 200,000 working hours in which chemicals leak from their primary container, such as pipelines, pumps, tanks or drums 
4 Quotient of total energy consumption and manufactured sales volume; Life Sciences only 
5 Direct emissions from power plants, waste incinerators and production plants and indirect emissions from external supplies of electricity, steam and 

refrigeration (according to the market-based method); portfolio-adjusted in accordance with the GHG Protocol 

6 Life Sciences without Currenta 

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
At a Glance

Sales1

EBITDA Before Special Items1

Net Income1

+

3.5 %

2

+

10.2%

2015

2016

Core Earnings per Share1

Supplier Management3

+

7.3 %

+

%

Investment in  
Research and Development

€4.7 billion

+ 9.2% compared with 2015

98 %

of all strategically important suppliers
evaluated since 2012

2015

2016

Specific Greenhouse Gas Emissions 4

Work-Related Accidents

Proportion of Women 
in Senior Management

–

18 %

since 2012

7.1%

–

29 %

1 Change from 2015; 2015 figures restated 2 Currency- and portfolio-adjusted 3 Life Sciences 4 Life Sciences without Currenta

Chairman’s Letter

Innovation is our  
core competence

I am pleased to present to you Bayer’s annual report for fiscal 2016.  
It has been a very exciting and intensive year – for me personally as well 
because I became Chairman of the Board of Management in May.

I would like to thank the entire Board of Management, which started 
working in its new constellation at the start of last year, for its commit-
ment to the company. Creating an integrated organizational structure 
and appointing the heads of the divisions to the Board of Management 
have proven to have been the right steps at the right time. We have a 
very good management team that works extremely well together.

I would also like to thank the members of the Supervisory Board for our 
trust-based cooperation and all our employees, who displayed great 
commitment and personal dedication in making 2016 another successful 
year for Bayer.

In 2016, we again substantially raised both sales and earnings and thus 
posted a new record for our operating performance. Group sales 
increased by a currency- and portfolio-adjusted 3.5 percent to €46.8 bil-
lion and clean EBITDA rose by 10.2 percent to €11.3 billion. Core earn-
ings per share advanced by 7.3 percent to €7.32. 

At Pharmaceuticals, sales rose by an encouraging 8.7 percent on a  
currency- and portfolio-adjusted basis, with our five key growth  
products again making a significant contribution to growth. Xarelto™, 
Eylea™, Xofigo™, Stivarga™ and Adempas™ posted combined sales  
of €5.4 billion, compared with €4.2 billion in 2015. We raised our  
assessment of the combined peak annual sales potential of these five  
products from our previous estimate of at least €7.5 billion to more than 
€10 billion.

Adjusted for currency and portfolio effects, sales at Consumer Health 
advanced by 3.5 percent. This division posted substantial gains in Latin 
America and Asia / Pacific in particular. 

Despite a weak market environment, Crop Science sales matched the 
prior-year level. Seeds expanded business significantly and Environmen-
tal Science also posted gratifying sales gains. Animal Health grew sales 
by a currency- and portfolio-adjusted 4.8 percent.

Covestro remains fully consolidated on account of our continued  
majority interest of around 64 percent at present. This business posted  
currency- and portfolio-adjusted sales on a level with the prior year.  
We are very pleased with the way Covestro has developed since its 
stock market listing in October 2015. It confirms that separating the two 
enterprises was the right move for both of them. Thanks to its very  
good  business performance, Covestro has successfully established a 
good position on the capital market in its first year of independence; 
Bayer has excellent growth perspectives resulting from its focus on the 

2

Bayer CEO Werner Baumann

Life Sciences. It remains our intention to divest our entire interest in 
Covestro in the medium term.

A particular highlight of 2016 was the agreed acquisition of Monsanto, 
which is intended to further strengthen Bayer as a Life Science company 
and create substantial additional value in the long term for you, our 

3

stockholders, through more innovation, stronger growth and greater 
 efficiency. The two businesses are highly complementary, both in terms 
of their geographical fit and their product portfolios.

It is a good step for Bayer as a whole since the two companies’ com-
bined expertise will improve our ability to help address one of the most 
urgent issues of our time: how to feed the some ten billion people who 
are expected to be living on our planet by 2050.

Together with Monsanto, we would be better able to provide farmers 
worldwide with a product offering that is tailored to their needs and 
offers them genuine added value: from the right choice of seeds through 
seed treatment to controlling weeds, pests and plant diseases. With 
regard to the increasing digitization of farming, Monsanto will give us 
valuable expertise.

We are confident that we will be granted all the necessary antitrust 
clearances enabling us to close the transaction before the end of 2017. 
The acquisition is to be financed through a mix of debt and equity. In 
November 2016, we successfully placed mandatory convertible notes as 
a first equity measure in this connection. 

Despite the large investment being made to acquire Monsanto, we  
will continue to pursue organic growth in Pharmaceuticals, Consumer 
Health and Animal Health. The necessary funding will also be available 
for investments at our sites as well as for smaller acquisitions and  
in-licensing.

It goes without saying that this applies to research and development as 
well. In 2016, we again increased R&D spending in the Life Science 
areas to €4.4 billion. And we are planning a further increase in the cur-
rent fiscal year because innovation is our core competence. In the Life 
Science areas in particular, there is great demand for new products  

4

and solutions. For example, better treatments are needed for conditions 
such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. Likewise, solutions are 
required to achieve the necessary increase in agricultural productivity 
and feed the growing world population. In addition, investments in self-
care are designed to keep our aging population healthy and contribute 
to the sustainability of public health care systems around the world.

Our investments in research together with targeted in-licensing are the 
basis for our long-term growth – as shown by the projects which have 
made it into our development pipelines. At Pharmaceuticals, for example, 
we estimate the combined peak annual sales potential of six promising 
product candidates in the mid- to late-stage pipeline to be at least €6 bil-
lion. And the combined peak sales potential of Bayer’s crop protection and 
seed technology pipelines should total more than €5 billion from products 
that have been or will be brought to market between 2015 and 2020.

Today, any company wishing to remain at the cutting edge of scientific 
and technological development needs excellent partners. For this rea-
son, we maintain a network of collaborations and strategic alliances with 
leading universities, public research institutes, partner companies and 
start-ups. Last year, for example, we concluded a cooperation agree-
ment with Danish company FaunaPhotonics. Together we are seeking to 
develop novel sensor solutions which will improve farmers’ ability to 
monitor the development of pest populations and thus control pests 
more effectively.

Another example is the joint venture named BlueRock Therapeutics  
we established with Versant Ventures with combined funding of 
US$225 million to develop stem cell therapies for curing a range of 
 diseases. BlueRock Therapeutics is the second large investment made 
by the Bayer Lifescience Center, which has the mission to rapidly 
uncover, encourage and unlock fundamental scientific breakthroughs in 
medicine and agriculture. 

5

We are aware that our employees are the basis for everything we do.  
It is their creativity, knowledge and commitment which shape Bayer’s 
performance ability. We therefore invest a great deal of effort in recruit-
ing and retaining the best employees for Bayer. To this end, we provide 
an attractive working environment and have built a creative corporate 
culture that is characterized by diversity and internationality, customer 
focus, experimentation, collaboration and trust.

Another reason our people enjoy working for Bayer is because they 
know that sustainability and social responsibility are firmly anchored in 
our corporate culture. We have committed to upholding the basic tenets 
of sustainable development and the Ten Principles of the United Nations 
Global Compact. Each year, we contribute to society through our 
wide-ranging humanitarian commitment and social sponsorship activi-
ties. One example of this is our range of initiatives aimed at supporting 
refugees living in Germany. At our sites in Leverkusen and Berlin, we 
have established projects to prepare young refugees for subsequent 
vocational training. 

Our commitment to social responsibility is also shown through our daily 
collaboration with smallholder farmers across the world. We support 
them through numerous initiatives, especially in Africa and Asia. Our 
expertise helps them to grow more food and market their produce more 
effectively – thus generating a higher income.

As you can see, Bayer is making good progress in every respect. How-
ever, we need a reliable regulatory environment if we are to remain suc-
cessful in the long term. To this end, legislators will have to make clever 
decisions focused on growth and prosperity. We need a Europe that is 
flourishing and fit for the future so we will have to inject new strength  

6

into the European ideal. The debate on how to achieve this has only just 
begun. We view it as a matter of course that we as a company should 
actively, openly and transparently contribute to the discourse on impor-
tant social and political issues.

On behalf of the entire Board of Management, I would like to thank you – 
our valued stockholders – for the continuing confidence you have placed 
in Bayer.

Sincerely,

Werner Baumann
Chairman of the Board of Management of Bayer AG

7

M agazi ne

10

Magazine

Augmented Version

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Innovation is a cornerstone of Bayer’s 
success and critical to achieving our 
 mission of “Science For A Better Life.” 
Through our innovations, we are helping 
to solve the major challenges of our   
time. With a view to further strengthening 
 Bayer’s culture of innovation, we have 
identified four Focus Behaviors: customer 
focus, collaboration and experimen tation 
– all underpinned by trust. 

 
Experimentation

Customer Focus

Focus on
Innovation

Trust

Collaboration

Passion to innovate: research scientist  
Lara Kuhnke from Bayer’s Pharmaceuticals  
Division in a Berlin laboratory.

Patient Prasanna Oommen  
trusts her physician and  
Bayer’s innovative medicines.

Düsseldorf pharmacist Petra Jeremias  
advises a customer.

Working toward a common goal:  
Jose-Miguel Robles-Turiel from Bayer’s Crop Science Division 
and colleague Mira Begic in a meeting.

12

Magazine

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Research issues have become 
so complex that no one scientist 
alone is able to resolve them. 

Dr. Ruth Wellenreuther, alliance manager at the DKFZ

Oncology research at Bayer is committed to improving the lives of  
cancer patients. Bayer’s researchers are working together with external 
partners to develop new therapeutic approaches to this disease. 

 
Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Magazine

13

You will find a video of the two Heidelberg-based  
cancer researchers in our Online Annual Report at 
www.bayer.com/ar-cancer

We develop therapies that enable the patient’s 
body to detect cancer cells and then defeat 
them itself.

Dr. Rafael Carretero, cancer researcher at Bayer

In the Heidelberg 
laboratory run 
jointly by Bayer 
and the German 
Cancer Research 
Center (DKFZ):  
Alliance manager 
Dr. Ruth Wellen-
reuther (left)  
and Dr. Rafael  
Carretero (right). 

 
 
 
14

Magazine

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Areas of oncology research at Bayer

 Antibody-drug conjugates 
Certain proteins occur more frequently on 
the surface of cancer cells than in healthy 
cells. Bayer researchers are developing 
molecules called antibody-drug con-
jugates which recognize these proteins. 
Like a Trojan horse, they dock onto the 
cancer cells and destroy them with a cell 
toxin. Antibody-thorium conjugates work 
in a similar way and transport radioactive 
 thorium-227 to the cancer cells. The re-
sulting energy-rich alpha particles destroy 
the cancer cells. By using different anti-
bodies, conjugates can be developed for 
various tumor types. 

Blocking oncogenic signaling pathways 
in specific tumor types 
The multiplication of cancer cells is to be 
halted by intervening in their key molecular 
processes. One approach aims to block the 
signaling pathways which prevent cancer 
cell death and often result in mutations, 
while another approach seeks to exploit the 
differences in the metabolic activity of tumor 
cells. A third approach is investigating can-
cer stem cells that may result in the develop-
ment of resistance mechanisms and the fail-
ure of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. 
And a further approach is focused on the 
epigenetic changes which play a role in ma-
lignant cancers. Bayer scientists are working 
to understand these processes better so 
they can reverse harmful modifications in 
diseased cells. 

Immuno-oncology  
Every day, cancer cells are formed in the 
human body because of a genetic predis-
position or as a result of exposure to ciga-
rette smoke, UV radiation or other envi-
ronmental influences. They are usually 
eliminated by the immune system’s cells. 
In certain cases, however, they can evade 
the immune response and become a 
harmful tumor. Bayer researchers are 
working mainly in collaboration with scien-
tists from the DKFZ on approaches lead-
ing to a reactivation of the immune system 
to eliminate the tumor cells without affect-
ing healthy nontumoral cells. The immune 
system’s memory function may result in 
long-term therapeutic success.

T

he moment my best friend was told his 
mother had died is one I’ll never forget. 
We were at school together at the time,” 
remembers Dr. Rafael Carretero. Rafael 
and Francisco were like brothers. They 

lived close to each other in the same neighbor-
hood in Granada, Spain, played soccer in the 
street and spent the summers together with their 
parents, either hiking in the Sierra Nevada or 

We are working to develop innovative treat-
ments for patients with serious diseases such 
as cancer in order to extend their lives and  
improve their quality of life.

Professor Andreas Busch, head of Drug Discovery at Bayer

on the beach at La Herradura. But then Rafael 
experienced how his best friend’s warm-hearted 
and cheerful mother suffered the side effects of 
chemotherapy and radiation therapy before dy-
ing – much too young – of breast cancer. “That 
hit me really hard and was one of the reasons 
why I decided to devote my life to fighting cancer 
– so that other people would be spared this 
fate,” says the Bayer researcher.

Carretero is now 33, a molecular biologist and sci-
entific manager of a laboratory run jointly by Bayer 
and the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ). 
Its 12 employees on the sixth floor of the DKFZ’s 
state-of-the-art building in Heidelberg, Germany, 
are conducting research to determine how the 
body’s own immune system can be reactivated to 
combat tumor cells. This approach was also the 
subject of Carretero’s PhD at the Hospital Univer-
sitario Virgen de las Nieves in Granada. The battle 
against cancer has been the common thread 
through his life. “We want to develop therapies 
that enable the patient’s body to detect cancer 
cells and then fight them itself without harming 
healthy cells at the same time,” he explains. 

What’s special about the laboratory in Heidelberg 
is that scientists from both Bayer and the DKFZ 
work side by side. “This allows us to pick up on 
novel research findings as early as possible so 
that they can be channeled into drug develop-
ment,” explains Dr. Ruth Wellenreuther, alliance 
manager at the DKFZ. “Research issues have 
 become so complex that no one scientist alone is 
able to resolve them. Our scientists identify po-
tential new drug targets, and Bayer has extensive 
libraries of substances and antibodies. The two 

 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Magazine

15

parties’ respective expertises complement  
each other ideally, which enables us to reach our 
objective more quickly.”

The joint laboratory is one aspect of a partner-
ship that has been in existence since 2009. 
 Wellenreuther was involved in developing the 
framework for the collaboration. “This is an alli-
ance between equals. We clarified all the struc-
tural and legal issues right at the beginning, so 
when we identify a new target we can move 
straight on to searching for suitable active ingre-
dients.” The partnership has already been suc-
cessful: The first active ingredient to treat brain 
tumors and leukemia has been undergoing clini-
cal testing in patients for several months now. 
The substance recognizes proteins that are 
found only in cancer cells in a subset of patients, 
an approach that could enable the development 
of effective, patient-specific therapies. 

“We are working to develop innovative treat-
ments for patients with serious diseases such as 
cancer in order to extend their lives and improve 
their quality of life,” says Professor Andreas 

 Busch, member of the Executive Committee  
of Bayer’s Pharmaceuticals Division and head  
of Drug Discovery. “Our particular strength at 
 Bayer is that we have strong expertise in identi-
fying active ingredients and taking them through 
all phases of clinical development up to and 
 including drug approval, for the benefit of the 
patients.”

In the battle against cancer, Bayer is pursuing 
three main approaches (see page 14): blocking 
signaling pathways that lead to uncontrolled cell 
division; selectively docking molecules onto 
 cancer cells to trigger their targeted destruction; 
and reactivating the immune system to eliminate 
cancer cells itself. This latter approach is the 
 focus of the research by Carretero and his col-
leagues. “Our understanding of cancer is con-
stantly improving, but there are still plenty of 
unanswered questions,” says Carretero, before 
turning his attention to the next test findings 
from the laboratory. “Our goal is to make cancer 
curable or be able to transform it into a chronic 
disease by providing therapeutics that keep 
 tumor cells in check.” 

mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmiiiiiiiiillllllllllllliiiion 

people died of cancer in 2012,  
according to the World Health Organiza-
tion (WHO). In the same year, 14.1 million 
people were newly diagnosed with cancer.

In 2012, according to WHO, 32.6 million 
people worldwide had been living with 
cancer for five years. 
Source: International Agency for Research 
on Cancer, World Health Organization

Dr. Rafael Carretero (left) from Bayer in conversation with Dr. Ruth Wellenreuther 
and Dr. Stefan Pusch from the German Cancer Research Center in Heidelberg, 
Germany.

 
16

Magazine

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Magazine

17

Between 10 and 20 percent of people worldwide 
(with regional variations) have upper respiratory 
 allergies, the symptoms of which often impact their 
daily lives. Bayer markets well-known and easy-  
to-use products to effectively relieve these allergy 
symptoms. 

L

ulu knows she shouldn’t be on the sofa. “Get down from there!” 
commands Jennifer T. Lulu understands straight away. The black 
bulldog mix with the trusting eyes knows she has done something 
wrong and shoots a guilty glance at her owner before exiting the 
room. All that remains on the sofa are black dog-hairs, and until a 
few years ago this would have been a major problem. Jennifer is allergic to 
dogs and cats.

It took her a while to realize this. When she was a student at New York 
 University, she caught a cold – or at least, she thought that was what she 
had. The symptoms suggested as much, but they refused to go away even 
after several weeks. An internist in Manhattan correctly diagnosed the  
then 22-year-old’s condition: Her immune system overreacts to normally 
harmless substances. Like many other sufferers, she is allergic to pollen 
and animal hair. “Finally I knew what was going on. But it was also a 
shock. I grew up spending tons of time outdoors with my German Shep-
herd, a Yorkshire Terrier and a Labrador. Now I could no longer even visit 
friends who had pets.” 

Jennifer quite simply doesn’t have time for allergies. The single mother 
lives with her daughters Molly (9) and Lindsey (6) about an hour by car 
from New York City. The 42-year-old’s days are tightly scheduled. The 
alarm clock rings shortly before 7. Mom makes breakfast, gets her daugh-
ters ready for school and then goes jogging or heads over to her gym or 
her yoga school, both of which are only a few minutes away. “I don’t have 
time for long drives.” Then she starts work in her office adjacent to her 
kitchen. Jennifer is vice president of an association that helps students 
 repay their loans. Her clients attend colleges on the East Coast of the 
 United States, from Maine to Maryland. Once a month, she travels to the 
association’s headquarters in the Midwest.

Allergies and their treatment  
with antihistamines

Allergen

1 

2 

Mast cell

Antihistamine

4

3

Histamine

Histamine  
receptor

Tissue cell

An allergy is a hypersensitive reaction  
of the body’s immune system to ordinarily 
harmless substances known as allergens. 
The immune system responds to these  
substances as if they were dangerous.  
They trigger a defense reaction by the body 
to, for example, pollen protein. Following  
initial contact with the  allergen, the body 
develops corresponding antibodies. 

1 –  If an allergen comes into contact  

with the body again, it is recognized by 
the mast cells of the body’s defense 
system, which are found especially in 
the mucous membranes.

2 –  Already sensitized by the initial contact, 
the mast cells have formed large num-
bers of special receptors for the aller-
gen. Mast cells release histamine, which 
serves as a messenger for the sur-
rounding tissue.

3 –  Histamine then docks onto the recep-
tors in the tissue cells, which then 
 trigger the immune response. The body 
reacts with allergy symptoms.
4 –  Antihistamines like loratadine, the  

active substance in Claritin™, block 
 histamine from docking onto its recep-
tors, thereby hindering the cascade 
 triggered by allergens. 

 
18

Magazine

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Regular relaxation:  
as often as possible 
Jennifer T. attends a 
yoga class with  
instructor Fiona.

Despite her very busy professional life, Jennifer is also a class mom at her daughters’ school 
and a Girl Scout Daisy Troop leader. She lives an active life despite her allergies – and now 
she has Lulu, a two-year-old crossbreed she got from an animal sanctuary. “I want my 
daughters to grow up with a pet. Dogs provide unconditional love and teach us how to take 
responsibility. That’s important to me.” 

For Jennifer, spring is a particularly difficult time. “I used to have to sneeze all the time, my 
nose would run.” She tried out lots of things to control her allergy symptoms. “Then I started 
using Claritin™. It’s exactly right for me. I can be there for my children and I can do my job 
and live my life without my allergies holding me back.”

“We know the symptoms that affect allergy sufferers: itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, a runny  
or itchy nose. They can have an enormous impact on their daily routine and quality of life,” 
says Jay Kolpon, Global Category Business Unit Leader, Allergy. “We want to relieve sufferers 
from these symptoms. Our purpose is to enable them to embrace life with all their senses. 
Jennifer’s story is a wonderful example of how our products help people live a better life.”

 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Magazine

19

Family time in the 
 garden: Jennifer with 
daughters  Molly (right) 
and Lindsey (left) on 
their climbing tree – 
Lulu the dog often 
joins in (photo at left). 

Round the clock

Bayer’s Claritin™ family of products is available in more 
than 100 countries worldwide. Claritin™ is the market 
leader in the world’s largest OTC market, the United 
States. Indications and trademarks vary from country to 
country. In the United States, Claritin™ provides 24-hour 
nondrowsy relief from runny nose, sneezing, itchy,  
watery eyes, and itchy nose or throat, helping sufferers 
to actively enjoy their daily lives both indoors and out-
doors. Claritin-D™ 12- and 24-hour products relieves 
the same symptoms as Claritin™, plus nasal congestion 
and  sinus congestion and pressure.

Allergies are  
on the rise

Up to 30 percent of all 
adults suffer from allergic 
rhinitis according to the 
World Allergy Organiza-
tion and these figures are 
set to rise. 

Best-selling 
product

Claritin™ is the Consumer  
Health Division’s best-selling 
brand globally.

Our video shows how Bayer’s nonprescription 
medicines help patients lead an active life: 
www.bayer.com/allergy

Consumer Health can look back on a long  
tradition in the self-care market. It began  
in 1899 with the launch of Aspirin™,  
Bayer’s world-renowned iconic brand.

 
 
20

Magazine

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Smart fields

The world’s population is growing, but the amount of 
farmland available per head is shrinking. Agricultural 
productivity will have to increase if we want to safe-
guard our food supply in the long term. Digitalization 
in farming can help us deploy our resources efficiently 
and sustainably, enabling farmers to get the best out  
of their fields with minimal environmental impact. 

Self-propelled  
sprayer

Cell telephony

Agriculture is in the grip of a revolution. Modern farmers  
are using digital information to optimize harvest yields.  
All of this information is stored in a cloud so it can be  
accessed by farmers on the move. The photo shows farm 
manager Ediney Afonso Dias in a soybean field in Brazil. 

Sensors

Drone

Tractor

 
Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Magazine

21

Satellite

Silos

Cloud

Harvester

H

umming quietly, the drone hovers over the 
field, the lens of its camera surveying the 
ground below it. Not 200 meters away, a 
twin-engined Piper stands in its hangar. The 
propeller plane is much faster, but the drone 

is better for this job. The remote-controlled aircraft’s 
camera delivers high-resolution images from every cor-
ner of the soy fields, much better than the Piper could. 
If a problem comes up, Ediney Afonso Dias can react 
immediately. The Brazilian agronomist can then take 
targeted action to control weeds, fungal diseases and 
pests without having to treat the entire field. “Cutting- 
edge, sustainable agriculture needs lots of accurate  
information,” says Dias. “Now we don’t have to use 
crop protection agents on large areas when only cer-
tain sections are affected. That’s good for us farmers 
and for the environment.”

Dias, a graduate of the Universidade Estadual de  
Goiás in Brazil, has been working on Francisco and 
Charles Godoy’s farm near the town of Catalão in the 
South American country for four years. A look at his 
 office  reveals the 24-year-old’s structured approach to 
farm management. On the walls are whiteboards for 
each of the ten farms belonging to the Agricola Godoy 
company, which have a total area of 12,500 hectares. 
Each farm is divided into plots. For each plot, Dias has 
noted in detail how the soil was prepared for sowing, 
which soybean variety was planted, and what fertilizers 
and crop protection products have been deployed. The 
 information on the walls is the roadmap for a success-
ful harvest in 2017.

Dias’ desk overlooks the barn used to store the har-
vest, which is currently still empty as the big harvesters 
wait for their turn to get to work. Everything is well 
 prepared for achieving ambitious objectives. Dias plans 
to increase this harvest’s yield by around five percent, 
without having to use any additional farmland. “Our 

 
22

Magazine

Bayer Annual Report 2016

The soybean plants look healthy to 
Joao Miguel (right) and Daniel Tablas, 
Bayer’s representative in Catalão, 
 Brazil. The farm plans to increase 
yields using modern technologies. 

New technologies and the internet will make 
it possible to increase agricultural  
productivity by up to 70 percent through 
2050 (Beecham Research).

In 2024, 27 billion interconnected devices will be in use 
worldwide in the most varied of applications.  
225 million will be used in agriculture (Machina Research).

 
Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Magazine

23

Farm manager Ediney Afonso Dias (photo 
left) in his office. Data are transmitted to 
the on-board systems of tractors con-
trolled by GPS technology (below). The 
photo at right shows Francisco Godoy 
(2nd from left), his son Charles (right) and 
his grandsons Charles Francisco and José 
Victor next to his twin-engined Piper.

A video demonstrating the use of new technologies 
on Charles Godoy’s farm in Brazil can be found at 
www.bayer.com/farming

 objective is to increase productivity from 66 to 68 or  
70 bags per hectare,” he explains. An important goal, 
given that the amount of agricultural land available  
per head worldwide is falling while the global popula-
tion is growing.

New digital technologies can enhance efficiency.  
“We monitor our fields every day so that we can quickly 
intervene if there is a need for action,” says Charles 
Godoy, who is in charge of the farm’s operational busi-
ness and 40 employees. The 43-year-old has been pas-
sionate about farming ever since he was 12. “In the old 
days, we would simply drive through the fields in the 
tractor and pull out any weeds. Now we can use data 
from satellites and drones to boost our productivity.”

Infrared images, for example, provide information about 
the status of the plants. Healthy plants have a higher 
chlorophyll content and appear red in the images. In 
addition to the satellites and drones, sensors on the 
state-of-the-art tractors and harvesters provide vital 
data on soil condition and plant health. These data flow 
into the digital applications that Bayer is developing to 
help farmers around the world pursue efficient, sustain-
able agriculture.

“We provide information which enables farmers to 
 rapidly take decisions tailored to each individual field,” 
explains Tobias Menne, head of Digital Farming at 
 Bayer. “It ranges from helping them to select the right 
crop variety to determining the ideal time for crop pro-
tection measures and recognizing plant stress factors 
at an early stage.” All of this information is compiled by 
the farm manager and transmitted to the tractors and 
machinery in the fields which already today are con-
trolled using GPS technology. The driver in the cab 
knows at all times exactly where an active ingredient 
has to be applied. This is precision agriculture, with no 
waste of resources. “Digital farming offers enormous 
opportunities,” says Menne. “We can compare the cur-
rent data with the values from previous growing peri-
ods, allowing farmers to react earlier to changes, initi-
ate counter-measures in good time and thus prevent 
harvest losses. And it can be used by both small-scale 
and large operations.”

Charles Godoy has just one goal: “I want to leave my 
two sons Charles Francisco and José Victor a farm that 
is operating to the highest technical standards.” And 
then he will just use his plane for fun.

 
24

Contents

Augmented Version

Contents

To our Stockholders

Chairman’s Letter  
Magazine  
About this Report  
Board of Management  
Report of the Supervisory Board  
Investor Information  

A Combined Management Report

1.  Fundamental Information About the Group  

 Corporate Profile and Structure  

1.1 
1.1.1  Corporate Profile  
1.1.2  Corporate Structure  
1.1.3  Value Creation  

Strategy and Management  

1.2 
1.2.1  Group Strategy and Targets  
1.2.2  Management Systems  
1.2.3  Sustainability Management  
Focus on Innovation  
1.3  
Sustainable Conduct  
1.4 
 Commitment to Employees and Society 
1.4.1 
1.4.2  Responsibility in Value Creation  
1.4.2.1  Procurement and Supplier Management  

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Bayer Annual Report 2016

1.4.2.2  Production and Logistics  
1.4.2.3  Marketing and Distribution  
1.4.3  Safety for People and the Environment  
1.4.3.1  Product Stewardship  
1.4.3.2  Safety  
1.4.3.3  Environmental Protection  

Overview of Business Performance  

 Economic Position of the Bayer Group  

2. Report on Economic Position 
2.1 
2.1.1  Target Attainment 2016  
2.1.2 
2.1.3  Key Events  
2.1.4 
2.2 

 Economic Environment  
 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position  
of the Bayer Group  

2.2.1  Earnings Performance of the Bayer Group  
2.2.2  Business Development by Segment  
2.2.3   Value-Based Performance  
2.2.4   Asset and Financial Position  

2.3 

of the Bayer Group  
 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position  
of Bayer AG  

2.3.1  Earnings Performance of Bayer AG  
2.3.2  Asset and Financial Position of Bayer AG  
Alternative Performance Measures Used  
2.4 
by the Bayer Group  

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Bayer Annual Report 2016

Contents

25

Augmented Version

3.  Report on Future Perspectives and  

on Opportunities and Risks  
Future Perspectives  

3.1 
3.1.1  Economic Outlook  
3.1.2  Corporate Outlook  
Opportunity and Risk Report  
3.2 
3.2.1  Group-wide Opportunity and  

Risk Management System  

3.2.2  Opportunity and Risk Status  
3.2.3  Planned Acquisition of Monsanto  
3.2.4  Overall Assessment of Opportunities and  
Risks by the Board of Management  

4. Corporate Governance Report  
4.1 

 Declaration by Corporate Management  
pursuant to Section 289a and  
Section 315, Paragraph 5, of the German  
Commercial Code  
Compliance  

4.2 
4.3   Compensation Report  
4.3.1  Compensation of the  

4.3.2 

Board of Management  
 Disclosures Pursuant to the  
Recommendations of the German  
Corporate Governance Code  

4.3.3  Compensation of the Supervisory Board  
4.3.4  Further Information  
4.4 

Takeover-Relevant Information  

 165
 165
 165
 166
 167

 167
 170
 177

 179

 180

 180
 184
 187

 187

 195
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 200
 200

 B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Group Consolidated Income Statements  
Bayer Group Consolidated Statements  
of Comprehensive Income  
Bayer Group Consolidated Statements  
of Financial Position  
Bayer Group Consolidated Statements  
of Changes in Equity  
Bayer Group Consolidated Statements  
of Cash Flows  

 203

 204

 205

 206

 207

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements  
of the Bayer Group  

1. 
2. 
3. 
4. 

5. 
6. 

6.1 
6.2 

6.3 

 208
 Key data by segment and region  
 208
 General information  
 211
 Effects of new financial reporting standards    211
 Basic principles, methods and critical  
accounting estimates  
Segment reporting  
Scope of consolidation;  
subsidiaries and affiliates  
Changes in the scope of consolidation  
Business combinations and  
other acquisitions  
 Divestitures, material sale transactions  
and discontinued operations  

 215
 229

 232
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 234

 237

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
26

Contents

Augmented Version

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Notes to the Income Statements  

7. 
8. 
9. 
10. 
11. 
12. 

13. 
13.1 

Net sales  
Selling expenses  
Research and development expenses  
Other operating income  
Other operating expenses  
Personnel expenses and  
employee numbers  
Financial result  
 Income (loss) from investments  
in affiliated companies  

13.2  Net interest expense  
13.3 
14. 
15. 

 Other financial income and expenses  
Taxes  
 Income / losses attributable to  
noncontrolling interest  
Earnings per share  

16. 

 239
 239
 239
 239
 240
 240

 241
 242

 242
 243
 243
 244

 246
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Notes to the Statements of Financial Position  
17. 
18. 
19. 

 Goodwill and other intangible assets  
Property, plant and equipment  
 Investments accounted for using  
the equity method  
Other financial assets  
Inventories  
 Trade accounts receivable  
Other receivables  
Equity  
 Provisions for pensions and other  
post-employment benefits  
Other provisions  
Financial liabilities  
 Trade accounts payable  

20. 
21. 
22. 
23. 
24. 
25. 

26. 
27. 
28. 

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Bayer Annual Report 2016

Contents

27

Augmented Version

Other liabilities  
Financial instruments  
Financial instruments by category  

29. 
30. 
30.1 
30.2  Maturity analysis  
30.3 
31. 

Information on derivatives  
 Contingent liabilities and other  
financial commitments  
Legal risks  

32. 

Notes to the Statements of Cash Flows  
33. 

Net cash provided by (used in)  
operating activities  
 Net cash provided by (used in)  
investing activities  
Net cash provided by (used in)  
financing activities  

34. 

35. 

Other Information  
 Audit fees  
36. 
 Related parties  
37. 
 Total compensation of the Board of  
38. 
Management and the Supervisory Board,  
advances and loans  
Events After the End of the  
Reporting Period  

39. 

C Further Information

Governance Bodies  
Organization Chart  
G4 Content Index of the Global Reporting  
Initiative (GRI) with the 10 Principles of the  
U.N. Global Compact  
Glossary  
Five-Year Summary  

 315
 318

 320
 334
 336

Financial Calendar and Masthead

 280
 280
 280
 286
 287

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 300

 301

Responsibility Statement  
Independent Auditor’s Report  
Independent Practitioner’s Limited Assurance  
Report on the Sustainability Information  

 302
 303 

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28 

About this Report 

 Augmented Version 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

About this Report 

This integrated Annual Report combines our financial and 
our sustainability reporting. Our aim is to elucidate the 
interactions between financial, ecological and societal 
factors and underline their influence on our company’s 
long-term development, thus providing our stakeholders 
with comprehensive and transparent information. The 
consolidated financial statements of the Bayer Group as of 
December 31, 2016, comply with the International Finan-
cial Reporting Standards (IFRS) valid at the closing date 
and with the provisions of the German Commercial Code 
in conjunction with German financial reporting standards. 
With due regard to these provisions, the combined man-
agement report provides an overview of the financial posi-
tion and results of operations of the Bayer Group. The 
Compensation Report for the Board of Management and 
the Supervisory Board complies with the recommenda-
tions of the German Corporate Governance Code. The 
consolidated financial statements and the combined man-
agement report are published in line with statutory disclo-
sure requirements. The Bayer Group’s sustainability 

reporting complies with the “comprehensive” option of the 
G4 Guidelines of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and 
is aligned to the ten principles of the U.N. Global Compact 
(UNGC). The detailed GRI content index with the corre-
sponding UNGC principles can be found in the “Further 
Information” section in the augmented version of the An-
nual Report. Online we also publish a separate PDF file 
with a summary of the U.N. Global Compact Progress 
Report based on the criteria of the Blueprint for Corporate 
Sustainability Leadership.  

Our reporting is also aligned to international guidelines 
and recommendations, including those on the definition 
and selection of nonfinancial indicators and on reporting 
such as those of the OECD and the ISO 26000 standards. 
In selecting and measuring our key data we also take into 
account the recommendations of the European Federation 
of Financial Analysts Societies (EFFAS) in the case of  
nonfinancial indicators, and those of the Greenhouse Gas 
Protocol regarding greenhouse gas emissions. We also 
consider the recommendations of the World Business 
Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) and the 
European Chemical Industry Council (Conseil Européen de 
l’Industrie Chimique – CEFIC). For 2016 we will again 
submit a declaration of conformity with the German Sus-
tainability Code. 

Data collection and reporting thresholds
We collected the data of all relevant organizational units 
and companies worldwide that fell within the scope of the 
Bayer Group’s consolidated financial statements between 
January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2016. Covestro has 
established its own corporate organization that functions 
according to a similar system and comparable processes 
to those at Bayer. Facts and figures pertaining to Covestro 
are included in all chapters unless otherwise stated.  

We mainly use SAP systems to collect financial data 
worldwide. We use the global SAP HR information system 
and the associated reporting application – the Sustaina-
bility Management Annual Reporting Tool (SMART) – to 
collect HR indicators and social data. All HSE (health, 
safety and environmental protection) performance indica-
tors for the Group are collated in our Group-wide site 

information system (BaySIS). The HSE data cover all fully 
consolidated companies in which Bayer owns at least 
50% of the shares.  

GRI 
G4-17, 
G4-22 

Data on occupational injuries, transport accidents and 
environmental incidents are collected at all sites world-
wide. Environmentally relevant indicators are measured at 
all production sites and at relevant research and develop-
ment sites. In accordance with IFRS 5 (Non-current Assets 
Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations), financial indi-
cators are given for continuing operations unless other-
wise explicitly stated. The same applies to HR indicators 
and our social data. In the case of HSE indicators, the 
value shown is the total for the Bayer Group unless other-
wise reported. In 2016, the Bayer Group amended its 
regions. Europe is reported together with the Middle East 

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 About this report 

Bayer Annual Report 2016 

 About this Report

29

Augmented Version

GRI 
G4-22 

and Africa. Latin America is a separate region. This re-
flects the regional responsibilities of the individual mem-
bers of the Board of Management of Bayer AG. The prior-
year figures are restated accordingly. As the indicators in 

this report are stated in accordance with commercial 
rounding principles, totals and percentages may not al-
ways be exact.

External verification
PricewaterhouseCoopers AG Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesell-
schaft has audited the consolidated financial statements 
(including the notes thereto) of Bayer AG, Leverkusen, 
and the combined management report for the fiscal year 
from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2016, and has 
issued an unqualified opinion. All the online annexes that 

supplement the management report in the augmented 
online version of the Bayer Annual Report 2016 (“Annual 
Report 2016 – Augmented Version”) for the fiscal year 
from January 1 to December 31, 2016, have been  
reviewed by PricewaterhouseCoopers AG Wirtschafts-
prüfungsgesellschaft on a limited assurance basis.  

Additional information
The integrated Bayer Annual Report 2016 is available in a 
print version (“Annual Report 2016”) and in an augmented 
online version (“Annual Report 2016 – Augmented Ver-
sion”). The online version contains the notes to the con-
solidated financial statements of the Bayer Group, along 
with additional information. The print version contains 
numbered online annexes which refer the reader to addi-
tional information in the Augmented Version. You can enter 

these numbers in a search mask on any page of the online 
Annual Report to directly access the annexes. Both ver-
sions of the Annual Report are available in PDF format for 
download from the Bayer website. For further guidance, 
the Annual Report contains references to other chapters, 
to (Bayer) websites and, in the Augmented Version, to  
GRI G4 Materiality Disclosures. 

Online annexes 

  Cross-references within the  

  References to websites 

  Group target 

Annual Report 

The “Annual Report 2016 – Augmented Version” can 
be found at www.bayer.com/AR16 

The app of the “Annual Report 2016 – Augmented Version” is available on the 
iTunes and Google Play stores. Please search for “Bayer Integrated Reports.”

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                          
             
 
 
 
 
 
30

To our Stockholders

Augmented Version

Board of Management

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Board of Management

Erica Mann
Consumer Health

Johannes Dietsch
Finance

Werner Baumann 
Chairman

Erica Mann holds a degree in 
 analytical chemistry and a market-
ing diploma from her studies in 
Johannesburg, South Africa. She 
began her career with Eli Lilly & 
Company and held positions at 
Johnson & Johnson, Lederle Labo-
ratories and Wyeth before moving 
into senior management at Pfizer  
in the United States. She became 
head of Consumer Care at Bayer 
HealthCare in 2011. She was 
appointed to the Bayer Board of 
Management in January 2016.

Johannes Dietsch completed  
his training with Bayer as a com-
mercial assistant and business 
administrator in 1984. He subse-
quently held various managerial 
positions within the company, 
including one in Japan. In 2002, 
Dietsch took over as head of the 
Finance Department in the Corpo-
rate  Center. He became Senior 
Bayer Representative and CFO of 
Bayer in China in 2011. He was 
appointed to the Bayer Board of 
Management in September 2014.

Werner Baumann studied econom-
ics in Aachen and Cologne, joining 
Bayer AG in 1988. After holding 
positions of increasing responsibil-
ity in Spain and the United States, 
he became a member of the Board 
of Management of Bayer Health-
Care. He was appointed to the 
Bayer Board of Management in 
2010, first as Chief Financial Officer 
and then as Chief Strategy and 
Portfolio Officer. Baumann has 
been Chairman of the Bayer Board 
of Management since May 2016.

Bayer Annual Report 2016

To our Stockholders

31

Board of Management

Augmented Version

Dieter Weinand
Pharmaceuticals 

Dieter Weinand studied pharma-
cology, toxicology and biology in  
New York. After holding positions at 
various companies in the pharma-
ceutical industry including Pfizer 
and Bristol-Myers Squibb, he was 
President Global Commercialization 
& Portfolio Management at Otsuka 
Pharmaceutical Development & 
Commercialization Inc. in Princeton. 
In 2014, Weinand became head  
of the Pharmaceuticals Division at 
Bayer. He was appointed to the 
Bayer Board of Management in 
January 2016.

Dr. Hartmut Klusik *
Human Resources · Technology ·  
Sustainability

Hartmut Klusik studied chemistry in 
 Marburg. After gaining a Ph.D., he began 
his professional career at Wolff Walsrode 
in 1984. He transferred to crop protection 
production at Bayer in Brazil in 1990. 
 Following assignments in the United 
States and Australia and after holding 
positions of in creasing responsibility at 
Bayer CropScience, he was appointed to 
the Board of Management of Bayer 
HealthCare with responsibility for Product 
Supply. He was appointed to the Bayer 
Board of Management in January 2016.

* Labor Director

Kemal Malik
Innovation 

Liam Condon 
Crop Science 

Kemal Malik studied medicine 
and worked in a London hos-
pital. After holding different 
positions of increasing 
responsibility at Bristol-Myers 
Squibb, he joined Bayer in 
1995. In 2007, Malik became a 
member of the Executive 
Committee, head of Global 
Development and Chief Medi-
cal Officer of Bayer Health-
Care. He was appointed to the 
Bayer Board of Management 
in February 2014. 

Liam Condon studied interna-
tional marketing in Dublin and 
Berlin. He held various positions 
of increasing responsibility with 
the former Schering AG, Berlin, 
Germany, and with Bayer Health-
Care in Europe and Asia, includ-
ing Managing Director of Bayer 
HealthCare China and head of 
Bayer HealthCare in Germany. 
Condon became Chief Executive 
Officer of Bayer CropScience in 
2012. He was appointed to the 
Bayer Board of Management in 
January 2016.

32 

To our Stockholders 

Augmented Version 

Report of the Supervisory Board 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Report of the Supervisory Board 

During 2016, the Supervisory Board monitored the conduct of the company’s business by the 
Board of Management on a regular basis with the aid of detailed written and oral reports received 
from the Board of Management, and also acted in an advisory capacity. In addition, the Chairman 
of the Supervisory Board maintained a constant exchange of information with the respective 
Chairman of the Board of Management and with the other Management Board members. In this 
way the Supervisory Board was kept continuously informed about the company’s intended busi-
ness strategy, corporate planning (including financial, investment and human resources planning), 
earnings performance, the state of the business and the situation in the company and the Group 
as a whole.  

Where Board of Management decisions or actions required the approval of the Supervisory Board, 
whether by law or under the Articles of Incorporation or the rules of procedure, the draft resolu-
tions were inspected by the members at the meetings of the full Supervisory Board, sometimes 
after preparatory work by the committees, or approved on the basis of documents circulated to 
the members. The Supervisory Board was involved in decisions of material importance to the 
company. We discussed at length the business trends described in the reports from the Board of 
Management and the prospects for the development of the Bayer Group as a whole, the individual 
organizational units and the principal affiliated companies in Germany and abroad. 

Changes on the Supervisory Board and the Board of Management 
The Supervisory Board memberships of Prof. Dr. Ernst-Ludwig Winnacker and Dr. Helmut Panke 
ended as of midnight on April 29, 2016, the date of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting. The Annual 
Stockholders’ Meeting elected Johanna (Hanneke) Faber and Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Plischke to suc-
ceed them.  

The terms of office of the heads of the divisions newly appointed to the Board of Management in 
connection with the reorganization of the Bayer Group – Dieter Weinand (Pharmaceuticals), Erica 
Mann (Consumer Health) and Liam Condon (Crop Science) – began with effect from January 1, 
2016. Dr. Hartmut Klusik (Human Resources, Technology & Sustainability) also joined the Board of 
Management effective January 1, 2016. The previous Chairman of the Board of Management, 
Dr. Marijn Dekkers, resigned his office effective April 30, 2016. The Supervisory Board appointed 
Werner Baumann as his successor.  

Work of the Supervisory Board 
The full Supervisory Board met five times during 2016 and resolved in writing on a special election 
to the Audit Committee. No member of the Supervisory Board attended only half or fewer than 
half of its meetings or those of the committees on which he/she served. The average attendance 
rate by Supervisory Board members at the meetings of the full Supervisory Board and of its com-
mittees held in 2016 was approximately 97 percent. A detailed overview of the attendance of the 
individual members of the Supervisory Board at the meetings of the Supervisory Board and its 
committees is shown in the “Further Information” section under “Governance Bodies.” 

The members of the Board of Management regularly attended the meetings of the Supervisory Board.  

The deliberations of the Supervisory Board focused on questions relating to Bayer’s strategy,  
portfolio and business activities. The discussions at the respective meetings in 2016 centered on 
various topics. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

To our Stockholders

33

Report of the Supervisory Board

Augmented Version

Werner Wenning, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Bayer AG 

At its February meeting, the Supervisory Board dealt with the departure of Dr. Marijn Dekkers as 
Chairman of the Board of Management effective April 30, 2016, and the appointment of Werner 
Baumann as new Chairman of the Board of Management for a duration of five years. The Super-
visory Board also discussed the Annual Report 2015, the agenda for the Annual Stockholders’ 
Meeting 2016, the Bayer Group’s risk management system and the status of the Pharmaceuticals 
pipeline. At its April meeting, the Supervisory Board examined the business performance to date 
in 2016 and the imminent Annual Stockholders’ Meeting.  

At an extraordinary meeting in May, the Supervisory Board dealt in detail with the planned acquisi-
tion of Monsanto, including the associated financing. Following up on deliberations at earlier Su-
pervisory Board meetings, the strategic aspects of the possible acquisition and the question of 
Monsanto’s valuation were discussed at length. At its September meeting, the Supervisory Board 
once again dealt in detail with the acquisition of Monsanto and resolved on the final offer condi-
tions for the acquisition. At this meeting, the Supervisory Board also extended the term of office  
of Kemal Malik on the Board of Management by an additional five years. In the intervals between 
its meetings, the Supervisory Board was regularly informed in writing about the respective status 
of the planned acquisition of Monsanto. In addition to the customary reports, the Chairman of the 
Supervisory Board was also kept constantly informed in detail about all major developments.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
34 

To our Stockholders 

Augmented Version 

Report of the Supervisory Board 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

At its meeting in December 2016, the Supervisory Board undertook the routine review of the fixed 
compensation of the members of the Board of Management and the pension amounts of the for-
mer members of the Board of Management. Also at this meeting, the Board of Management pre-
sented its planning for the business operations in the years 2017 through 2019. The Supervisory 
Board approved the proposed financing framework for 2017 and also dealt with the strategy of 
the Bayer Group and possible courses of action with regard to the remaining interest in Covestro. 
In addition, the Supervisory Board resolved to issue an unqualified declaration of compliance with 
the German Corporate Governance Code. 

Committees of the Supervisory Board  
The Supervisory Board has a Presidial Committee, an Audit Committee, a Human Resources 
Committee, a Nominations Committee and an Innovation Committee. The current membership of 
the committees is shown in the “Further Information” section under “Governance Bodies.”  

The meetings and decisions of the committees, and especially the meetings of the Audit Commit-
tee, were prepared on the basis of reports and other information provided by the Board of Man-
agement. Reports on the committee meetings were presented at the meetings of the full Super-
visory Board.  

Presidial Committee: This comprises the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Supervisory  
Board along with a further stockholder representative and a further employee representative. The 
Presidial Committee serves primarily as the mediation committee pursuant to the German Co-
determination Act. It has the task of submitting proposals to the Supervisory Board on the ap-
pointment of members of the Board of Management if the necessary two-thirds majority is not 
achieved in the first vote at a plenary meeting. Certain decision-making powers in connection with 
capital measures, including the power to amend the Articles of Incorporation accordingly, have 
also been delegated to this committee. On a case-by-case basis, furthermore, the Supervisory 
Board can delegate certain responsibilities to the Presidial Committee. Finally, the Presidial Com-
mittee may also undertake preparatory work for full meetings of the Supervisory Board.  

In 2016, the Presidial Committee was not required to convene in its capacity as the mediation 
committee. At a meeting in November 2016, it approved the issue of a mandatory convertible 
bond in connection with the financing of the planned acquisition of Monsanto based on a corre-
sponding authorization by the full Supervisory Board.  

Audit Committee: The Audit Committee comprises three stockholder representatives and three 
employee representatives. The Chairman of the Audit Committee in 2016, Dr. Klaus Sturany, satis-
fies the statutory requirements concerning the expertise in the field of accounting or auditing that 
a member of the Supervisory Board and the Audit Committee is required to possess. The Audit 
Committee meets regularly four times a year.  

Its tasks include in particular oversight of the financial reporting process, the effectiveness and 
ongoing development of the internal control system, the risk management system, the internal 
audit system, the compliance system and the audit of the financial statements. The Audit Commit-
tee prepares the resolutions of the Supervisory Board concerning the financial statements and 
management report of Bayer AG and the proposal for the use of the distributable profit, the con-
solidated financial statements and management report of the Bayer Group and the agreements 
with the auditor (particularly the awarding of the audit contract, the determination of the main 
areas of focus for the audit and the audit fee agreement). The committee submits a proposal to 
the full Supervisory Board concerning the auditor’s appointment, and takes appropriate measures 
to determine and monitor the auditor’s independence. The audit focuses particularly on whether 
the financial statements have been prepared in compliance with the statutory requirements and 
whether the financial reporting provides a true and fair view of the financial position and results of 
operations of the company and the Group. 

The Audit Committee discusses developments in the area of corporate compliance at each of its 
meetings where necessary.  

 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

To our Stockholders

35

Report of the Supervisory Board

Augmented Version

The Chairman of the Board of Management and the Chief Financial Officer regularly attended the 
meetings of the Audit Committee. Representatives of the auditor were also present at all the meet-
ings and reported in detail on the audit work and the audit reviews of the interim financial reports.  

The meetings focused on a number of topics. At the February meeting, the Audit Committee  
discussed the financial statements of Bayer AG and the consolidated financial statements of the 
Bayer Group. It also carefully considered the risk report, which covered the risk management 
system, operational risks, planning and financial market risks, legal risks, corporate compliance, 
process and organizational risks, and the internal control system. At this meeting, the Audit Com-
mittee also made a recommendation to the full Supervisory Board concerning the resolution to be 
submitted to the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting on the appointment of the auditor of the financial 
statements.  

The April meeting mainly dealt with the yearly reports of the Group Compliance Officer and the 
Internal Audit department and with determining the main areas of focus for the audit of the 2016 
financial statements. At its July meeting, the Audit Committee addressed the audit budget for 
2017 and the scope of non-audit-related services by the external auditor. As at each meeting, it 
also discussed the interim financial report and legal and compliance issues. At its meeting in Oc-
tober, the Audit Committee dealt with the regular agenda items and with the tax strategy of the 
Bayer Group, value management, the audit conducted pursuant to Section 20 of the German 
Securities Trading Act (WpHG) (EMIR), the new requirements for the Independent Auditor’s Report 
pursuant to ISA 700 / 701, and the upcoming change of external auditor.  

Human Resources Committee: On this committee, too, there is parity of representation between 
stockholders and employees. It consists of the Chairman of the Supervisory Board and three other 
Supervisory Board members. The Human Resources Committee prepares the personnel decisions 
of the full Supervisory Board, which resolves on appointments or dismissals of members of the 
Board of Management. The Human Resources Committee resolves on behalf of the Supervisory 
Board on the service contracts of the members of the Board of Management. However, it is the 
task of the full Supervisory Board to resolve on the total compensation of the individual members 
of the Board of Management and the respective compensation components, as well as to regular-
ly review the compensation system on the basis of recommendations submitted by the Human 
Resources Committee. The Human Resources Committee also discusses the long-term succes-
sion planning for the Board of Management.  

The Human Resources Committee convened on three occasions in 2016. The matters discussed 
at these meetings concerned the compensation and contracts of the members of the Board of 
Management, as well as the preparation of the departure of Dr. Marijn Dekkers as Chairman of the 
Board of Management and the appointment of Werner Baumann as his successor.  

Nominations Committee: This committee carries out preparatory work when an election of stock-
holder representatives to the Supervisory Board is to be held. It suggests suitable candidates for 
the Supervisory Board to propose to the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting for election. The Nomina-
tions Committee comprises the Chairman of the Supervisory Board and the other stockholder 
representative on the Presidial Committee.  

During four conference calls in 2016, the members of the Nominations Committee discussed 
candidates for the special elections to the Supervisory Board that took place at the 2016 Annual 
Stockholders’ Meeting and for the elections to the Supervisory Board at the 2017 Annual Stock-
holders’ Meeting.  

Innovation Committee: The Innovation Committee is primarily concerned with the innovation  
strategy and innovation management, the strategy for the protection of intellectual property, and 
major research and development programs at Bayer. Within its area of responsibility, the commit-
tee advises and oversees the management and prepares any Supervisory Board decisions. The 
Committee comprises the Chairman of the Supervisory Board and five other members of the Su-
pervisory Board, with parity of representation between stockholder and employee representatives. 

 
 
36 

To our Stockholders 

Augmented Version 

Report of the Supervisory Board 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

The Chairman of the Board of Management and the member of the Board of Management re-
sponsible for Innovation regularly attend the meetings of the Innovation Committee. 

The Innovation Committee convened twice in 2016. At its February meeting, it dealt with innova-
tion management at Bayer and the development of the Bayer Lifescience Center. At its September 
meeting, it dealt once again with the development of the Bayer Lifescience Center, as well as with 
digital innovations at Bayer. 

Corporate governance  
The Supervisory Board dealt with the principles of corporate governance at Bayer. Among the 
topics discussed were the scope of dialogue between the Chairman of the Supervisory Board and 
investors. In December, the Board of Management and the Supervisory Board issued a new  
declaration concerning the German Corporate Governance Code.  

Financial statements and audits 
The financial statements of Bayer AG were prepared according to the requirements of the  
German Commercial Code and Stock Corporation Act. The consolidated financial statements of 
the Bayer Group were prepared according to the German Commercial Code and the International 
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The combined management report was prepared according 
to the German Commercial Code. The auditor, PricewaterhouseCoopers Aktiengesellschaft, 
Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft, Essen, has audited the financial statements of Bayer AG, the 
consolidated financial statements of the Bayer Group and the combined management report. The 
conduct of the audit is explained in the auditor’s reports. The auditor finds that Bayer has com-
plied, as appropriate, with the German Commercial Code, the German Stock Corporation Act 
and/or the International Financial Reporting Standards endorsed by the European Union, and 
issues an unqualified opinion on the financial statements of Bayer AG and the consolidated finan-
cial statements of the Bayer Group. The financial statements of Bayer AG, the consolidated  
financial statements of the Bayer Group, the combined management report and the audit reports 
were submitted to all members of the Supervisory Board. They were discussed in detail by the 
Audit Committee and at a meeting of the full Supervisory Board. The auditor submitted a report on 
both occasions and was present during the discussions.  

We examined the financial statements of Bayer AG, the proposal for the use of the distributable 
profit, the consolidated financial statements of the Bayer Group and the combined management 
report. We have no objections, thus we concur with the result of the audit.  

We have approved the financial statements of Bayer AG and the consolidated financial statements 
of the Bayer Group prepared by the Board of Management. The financial statements of Bayer AG 
are thus confirmed. We are in agreement with the combined management report and, in particular, 
with the assessment of the future development of the enterprise. We also concur with the dividend 
policy and the decisions concerning earnings retention by the company. We assent to the proposal 
for the use of the distributable profit, which provides for payment of a dividend of €2.70 per share.  

The Supervisory Board would like to thank the Board of Management and all employees for their 
dedication and hard work in 2016.  

Leverkusen, February 21, 2017  
For the Supervisory Board:  

Werner Wenning  
Chairman 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

To our Stockholders

37

Investor Information

Augmented Version

Investor Information

>  Long-term return on Bayer stock still ahead of the market despite a 

decline in the share price in 2016 

>  €4 billion in mandatory convertible notes issued as a financing component 

for the agreed acquisition of Monsanto 

>  Dividend increase to €2.70 per share proposed 

Performance of Bayer Stock in 2016

Indexed; 100 = Xetra closing price on December 31, 2015; source: Bloomberg

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

1

120

110

100

90

80

70

Bayer –12.3%

DAX +6.9%

DJ EURO STOXX 50 +3.7%

The Stock Market in 2016 
Stock markets post moderate gains after a turbulent year 
Fiscal 2016 was characterized by significant price fluctuations. At the beginning of the year, the 
financial markets were unsettled by growth concerns in China. The decline in oil prices, the Brexit 
vote in the United Kingdom, the U.S. presidential election and the monetary policy of the central 
banks caused significant fluctuations on the capital markets over the course of the year. The  
European Central Bank maintained its zero-interest policy and initially decided to expand its bond 
purchasing program. With a further interest rate hike, the U.S. Federal Reserve maintained its 
effort to implement a controlled departure from the phase of extremely low interest rates. 

The German stock index DAX saw a decline of more than 15 percent in the first two months of 
2016, falling below the 9,000-point mark in February. A phase of recovery then set in, followed  
by a volatile lateral movement that lasted through the beginning of December. After a strong finish 
in December, the DAX closed the year at 11,481 points – its fifth consecutive profitable year of 
growth. This equates to growth of about 6.9 percent for 2016. 

Following a similar path, the European equities index EURO STOXX 50 (performance index) 
rose 3.7 percent, ending the year at 6,458 points. Share price performance in the United States 
and Japan varied. The S&P 500 index climbed by 9.5 percent, while the Nikkei 225 was largely 
unchanged. 

 
 
 
 
 
38 

To our Stockholders 

Augmented Version 

Investor Information 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Bayer share price declines 
Including the dividend of €2.50 per share paid at the beginning of May, Bayer stock earned a 
negative return of minus 12.3 percent in 2016 after several years of what in some cases were 
substantial gains. Bayer stock ended the year at €99.13, thus underperforming the reference 
indices. The EURO STOXX Chemicals Index (performance index) climbed by 7.8 percent in 2016, 
while the EURO STOXX Health Care Index (performance index) rose by 2.4 percent. 

Bayer Stock Data 

Earnings per share 

Core earnings per share from continuing operations 

1 

Equity per share 

Dividend per share 

Year-end price ² 

High for the year ² 

Low for the year ² 

Total dividend payment 

Number of shares entitled to the dividend (Dec. 31) 

Market capitalization (Dec. 31) 

Average daily share turnover on German stock exchanges 

Price / EPS ² 

Price / core EPS ² 

Price / cash flow ² 

Dividend yield 

 €

 €

 €

 €

 €

 €

 €

€ million

million shares

€ billion

million shares

%

2015

4.97

6.82

30.77

2.50

115.80

146.20

108.00

2,067

826.95

95.8

2.3

23.3

17.0

14.0

2.2

2

2016

5.44

7.32

38.57

2.70

99.13

111.25

84.42

2,233

826.95

82.0

2.7

18.2

13.5

9.9

2.7

2015 figures restated 
1 For details on the calculation of core earnings per share see Combined Management Report, Chapter A 2.4 
2 Xetra closing prices (source: Bloomberg). The calculation is based on the indicator “Net cash provided by (used in) operating 

activities, continuing operations.” 

Positive financing environment for Bayer in receptive markets 
2016 began very weakly for issuers of corporate bonds. Investor behavior was characterized  
by uncertainty and reticence until the market environment improved at the end of the first quarter. 
Thereafter, the bond purchasing program of the European Central Bank also served to further 
improve financing conditions and costs. The interest levels for many maturities dipped into the 
negative zone and did not rise again substantially until the fourth quarter, although the absolute 
level remained at a historic low. Volatility remained very high at times before easing considerably  
in the second half of the year. 

Bayer redeemed all bonds maturing in 2016 without refinancing. In November, €4 billion in three-
year mandatory convertible notes were issued. This was the largest transaction of this kind to 
date for a European nonfinancial company. Through this issue, Bayer implemented a major com-
ponent of the planned equity financing for the agreed acquisition of Monsanto. Further details of 
outstanding bonds are given in Note [27] to the consolidated financial statements. 

Long-term return on Bayer stock still ahead of the market   
A long-term investor who purchased Bayer shares for €10,000 five years ago and reinvested all 
dividends would have seen the value of the position grow to €22,546 as of December 31, 2016, 
giving an average annual return of 17.7 percent. That was above the return on the DAX (plus 
14.2 percent) and the EURO STOXX 50 (plus 10.5 percent, performance index) in the same period. 

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

To our Stockholders

39

Investor Information

Augmented Version

Dividend increase to €2.70 per share 
The Board of Management and the Supervisory Board will propose to the Annual Stockholders’ 
Meeting that the dividend be increased by €0.20 to €2.70 per share. Thus we once again intend 
that our stockholders should participate in last year’s positive business performance. The result-
ing payout ratio of 37 percent calculated on core earnings per share is within our target corridor 
of 30 percent to 40 percent. 

See Chapter 2.2.1 of the 
Combined Management 
Report for core EPS 

The dividend yield calculated on the share price of €99.13 at year end 2016 amounts to 2.7 per-
cent and the total dividend payment to €2,233 million. 

Dividends Per Share and Total Dividend Payments

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

3

3.0

2.5

2.0

1.5

1.35 €

1.40 €

1.40 €

1.50 €

1.65 €

2.25 €

2.10 €

1.90 €

2.70 €

2.50 €

1.0

0.5

0.0

€1,032 million  €1,070 million €1.158 million €1,240 million €1,364 million €1,571 million €1,737 million €1,861 million €2,067 milllion €2,233 million

Dividend per share (€)

Total dividend payment (€ million)

Investor relations focused on the acquisition of Monsanto 
Last year our investor relations (IR) activities focused on the announcement made and the agree-
ment reached regarding the acquisition of Monsanto. In this connection, there were many ques-
tions from capital market participants pertaining to strategic alignment, financing and value crea-
tion. 

GRI G4-26, G4-27 

Bayer’s management and the Investor Relations team last year communicated directly with inves-
tors and analysts during roadshows and investor conferences. Our Meet Management conference 
in September gave investors and analysts an opportunity to engage in direct dialogue with Bayer’s 
top management. As in previous years, private investors also had an opportunity to find out about 
our company at various stockholder forums at which the Investor Relations team was present. 

A sustainable investment 
We continued our intensive dialogue with sustainability-oriented investors, analysts and rating 
agencies in 2016. Our discussions focused on business ethics, product stewardship and safety. 

In 2016, Bayer again qualified for inclusion in major sustainability indices, including the Dow Jones 
Sustainability World, the FTSE4Good (Europe, Global and Environmental Leaders Europe 40) and 
the STOXX® Global ESG Leaders. In addition, Bayer was once again evaluated by the CDP as one 
of the leading international pharmaceutical companies in the areas of climate protection and sus-
tainable water management. 

www.bayer.com/awards

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
40 

To our Stockholders 

Augmented Version 

Investor Information 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

A growing number of stockholders 
Our ownership structure continues to show the international distribution of our capital stock. The 
highest proportion of our outstanding shares, almost 29 percent, is held by investors in the United 
States and Canada, followed by Germany with about 22 percent. Bayer has a 100-percent free 
float as defined by Deutsche Börse, the operator of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. The number of 
Bayer stockholders rose substantially in 2016. At the end of 2016, approximately 360,000 stock-
holders were listed in our share register – an increase of more than 20 percent compared with the 
previous year. 

Shareholder Composition – Regional Allocation

4.2% Denmark, Finland,

Norway, Sweden

2.5% Benelux

4.4%  Austria, Switzerland,
Liechtenstein

4.5%  Other countries

9.6% France, Spain, Italy, 

Portugal

17.7% U.K. & Ireland

Source: IPREO

4

6.1% Not covered by survey

28.6% U.S.A. & Canada

22.4% Germany

 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

A Combined Management Report 

41

1.1 Corporate Profile and Structure

Augmented Version

Combined 
Management Report 

of the Bayer Group and Bayer AG as of December 31, 2016 

1. Fundamental Information  

About the Group 

1.1 Corporate Profile and Structure 

>  Health care and nutrition: Bayer helping to solve global challenges 
> 
Innovations drive the success of the Life Science businesses 
>  New structure supports implementation of corporate strategy  

1.1.1 Corporate Profile  
Bayer is a Life Science company with a more than 150-year history and core competencies in the 
areas of health care and agriculture. With our innovative products, we are contributing to finding 
solutions to some of the major challenges of our time. A growing and aging world population re-
quires an adequate supply of food and improved medical care. Our research and development 
activities are therefore focused on improving people’s quality of life by preventing, alleviating and 
treating diseases. At the same time, we are making an important contribution to providing a relia-
ble supply of high-quality food, feed and plant-based raw materials. Our understanding of the 
biochemical processes in living organisms helps us address these demanding challenges.  

Our goal is to achieve and maintain leadership positions in our markets. In this way we create 
value for our customers, stockholders and employees, at the same time strengthening the com-
pany’s earning power. We are committed to operating sustainably and addressing our social and 
ethical responsibilities. We also respect the interests of all our stakeholders. Employees with a 
passion for innovation enjoy excellent development opportunities at Bayer. All this goes to make 
up our mission – Bayer: Science for a Better Life. 

In fulfilling our mission, we are guided by our corporate values. Represented by the acronym LIFE 
(Leadership, Integrity, Flexibility and Efficiency), these values apply to everyone at Bayer and are 
firmly integrated into our global performance management system for managerial employees. Our 
value culture ensures a common identity throughout the enterprise across national boundaries, 
management hierarchies and cultural differences.  

 
 
 
 
 
42 

A Combined Management Report 

 Augmented Version 

1.1 Corporate Profile and Structure 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Bayer Worldwide 2016

North America
Sales
Employees
R&D2

€12,806 (12,621)1 million
15,800 (16,000) 1
€1,081 (1,051)1 million

Latin America
Sales
Employees
R&D2

€5,108 (5,494)1 million
12,500 (13,000)1
€71 (65)1 million

Germany

Headquarters
Bayer Group
Leverkusen

Pharmaceuticals
Berlin

Crop Science
Monheim am Rhein

Animal Health
Monheim am Rhein

Covestro
Leverkusen

Pharmaceuticals

Crop Science

Cologne
Berlin
Wuppertal
Bergkamen
Leverkusen
Weimar

Consumer Health
Darmstadt
Bitterfeld-Wolfen
Grenzach

Monheim am Rhein
Frankfurt am Main
Dormagen
Knapsack

Animal Health

Monheim am Rhein
Kiel

Covestro

Leverkusen
Brunsbüttel
Dormagen
Uerdingen

France

Consumer Health

Gaillard

Crop Science

Lyon
Sophia Antipolis

U.S.A.

Pharmaceuticals

San Francisco
Whippany
Berkeley
Indianola

Consumer Health

Memphis
Morristown
Cleveland
Myerstown

Crop Science

Lubbock
Morrisville
Raleigh
Sacramento
Kansas City

Animal Health

Shawnee

Covestro

Pittsburgh
Baytown

Mexico

Consumer Health

Lerma

Brazil

Animal Health

São Paulo

Argentina

Consumer Health
Pilar

2015 figures in parentheses
1 2015 figures restated
2 Research and development

Significant research and development location
Significant production location

 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

A Combined Management Report

43

1.1 Corporate Profile and Structure

Augmented Version

Europe / Middle East / Africa
€17,823 (17,707)1 million
Sales
Employees 59,500 (58,800)1
R&D2

€3,285 (2,944)1 million

Asia / Pacific
Sales
Employees
R&D2

€11,032 (10,263)1 million
27,400 (28,800)1
€229 (214)1 million

A 1.1.1/1

Finland

Netherlands

Pharmaceuticals

Turku

Crop Science

Nunhem

Norway

Belgium

Switzerland

Pharmaceuticals

Oslo

Crop Science
Ghent

Covestro

Antwerp

Headquarters
Consumer Health
Basel

Italy

Pharmaceuticals

Garbagnate

China

Pharmaceuticals

Beijing

Consumer Health

Chengdu

Covestro

Shanghai

Japan

Pharmaceuticals

Tokyo
Osaka
Shiga

Thailand

Covestro

Map Ta Phut

Indonesia

Consumer Health
Cimanggis

India

New Zealand

Crop Science 

Vapi

Animal Health

Auckland

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
44 

A Combined Management Report 

 Augmented Version 

1.1 Corporate Profile and Structure 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

1.1.2 Corporate Structure 
Following the stock market flotation of Covestro, we reorganized the Bayer Group effective Janu-
ary 1, 2016, and are now focusing on our Life Science activities. These businesses hold leading 
positions in innovation-driven, rapidly growing markets. Together, the Life Science businesses 
make up a strong, attractive and balanced portfolio that is resistant to fluctuations in demand and 
to potential risks. Our operations are managed in three divisions – Pharmaceuticals, Consumer 
Health and Crop Science – and the Animal Health business unit, which are also reporting seg-
ments. Bayer still holds about 64% of Covestro AG. Covestro therefore also remains a fully con-
solidated reporting segment. The operational business is supported by the corporate functions – 
including Technology Services, which was integrated into Bayer AG effective July 1, 2016 – Busi-
ness Services and the service company Currenta. 

The following changes were made to the corporate structure in the past fiscal year:  

> 

> 

In April 2016, Bayer AG deposited shares it held in Covestro AG in Bayer Pension Trust e.V.  
The number of shares deposited amounted to 10 million, or 4.9%, of the shares outstanding. 
In May 2016, Crop Science signed an agreement to divest the Consumer business of 
Environmental Science, which has since been reported retrospectively for 2015 and 2016 under 
discontinued operations. Environmental Science therefore now comprises only the business for 
professional users. The divestment was closed at the start of October 2016. 

A 1.1.2/1

Bayer Group Structure in 2016

Board of Management

Pharmaceuticals

Consumer Health

Crop Science

Corporate Functions & Business Services

Animal Health

Currenta (60%)

Covestro (around 64%)

In 2016, the Bayer Group comprised 301 consolidated companies in 78 countries throughout the 
world. 

Reporting of the regions in the Annual Report has been adjusted to reflect the distribution of re-
sponsibilities on the Board of Management. Africa / Middle East is now no longer reported together 
with Latin America but with Europe.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

A Combined Management Report 

45

1.1 Corporate Profile and Structure

Augmented Version

The Pharmaceuticals segment focuses on prescription products, especially for cardiology and 
women’s healthcare, and on specialty therapeutics in the areas of oncology, hematology and oph-
thalmology. The division also comprises the radiology business, which markets diagnostic imaging 
equipment together with the necessary contrast agents.  

The Consumer Health segment markets mainly nonprescription (OTC = over-the-counter) prod-
ucts in the dermatology, nutritional supplement, analgesic, gastrointestinal, cold, allergy, sinus and 
flu, foot care and sun protection categories. 

The Crop Science segment is a world-leading agriculture enterprise with businesses in seeds, 
crop protection and nonagricultural pest control. The Crop Protection / Seeds operating unit mar-
kets a broad portfolio of high-value seeds and innovative pest management solutions, while at the 
same time providing extensive customer service for sustainable agriculture. The Environmental 
Science operating unit provides products and services for professional nonagricultural applica-
tions, such as vector and pest control and forestry.  

Vector control: 
see Glossary 

The Animal Health segment ranks among the leading international innovators in its field. It devel-
ops and markets products and solutions for the prevention and treatment of diseases in compan-
ion and farm animals.  

The corporate functions and Business Services operate as Group-wide competence centers in 
which business support services are bundled. Currenta is the service company responsible for 
managing and operating the Chempark sites in Leverkusen, Dormagen and Krefeld-Uerdingen.  

Covestro is one of the world’s leading suppliers of high-tech polymer materials and develops inno-
vative product solutions for a wide variety of everyday uses. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
46 

A Combined Management Report 

 Augmented Version 

1.1 Corporate Profile and Structure 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Online Annex: A 1.1.2-1  

Product and Activities of the Segments  

Indication/Application/Business  Core activities and markets  

Main products and brands1  

A 1.1.2-1/1

Pharmaceuticals 

Cardiology 

Oncology 

Ophthalmology 

Hematology 

Women’s health 

Hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, heart attack 
and stroke, thrombosis 

Liver cancer, renal cell carcinoma, prostate cancer, 
colorectal cancer, gastrointestinal stromal tumors 
(GIST) 

Xarelto™, Adalat™, Aspirin™ Cardio, Adempas™

Nexavar™, Xofigo™, Stivarga™ 

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic 
macular edema (DME) 

Eylea™ 

Hemophilia A 

Kogenate™ / Kovaltry™ 

Contraception, gynecological therapy 

Mirena™ product family, YAZ™ / Yasmin™ / 
Yasminelle™ 

Avalox™ / Avelox™, Cipro™, Ciprobay™ 

Infectious diseases 

Bacterial infections 

Radiology 

Other indications 

Consumer Health 

Dermatology 

Nutrition 

Analgesics 

Gastrointestinals 

Allergy 

Cough and cold 

Footcare 

Suncare 

Crop Science 

Fungicides 

Insecticides 

Herbicides 

SeedGrowth 

Seeds 

Environmental Science 

Animal Health 

Companion animals business 

Farm animals business 

Covestro 

Polyurethanes 

Contrast agents; diagnostic imaging equipment for 
use with contrast agents 

Gadovist™, Ultravist™, Medrad Spectris 
Solaris™, Medrad Stellant™  

Multiple sclerosis 

Betaferon™ / Betaseron™ 

Wound care, skin care, skin and intimate health 

Bepanthen™, Canesten™ 

Multivitamin products, dietary supplements 

One A Day™,  Elevit™, Berocca™, Supradyn™, 
Redoxon™ 

General pain relief 

Gastric complaints 

Allergies 

Cough and cold 

Footcare 

Sun protection 

Aspirin™, Aleve™ 

MiraLax™, Rennie™, Iberogast™ 

Claritin™ 

Aspirin™, Alka-Seltzer™, Afrin™ 

Dr. Scholl’s™ 

Coppertone™ 

Biological and chemical products to protect crop 
plants from fungal diseases 

Flint™, Fox™, Luna™, Nativo™, Prosaro™, 
Serenade™, Xpro™ 

Biological and chemical products to protect crop 
plants from harmful insects 

Belt™, BioAct™, Confidor™, Movento™, 
Sivanto™ 

Chemical crop protection products to control weeds Adengo™, Alion™, Basta™, Corvus™, Liberty™ 

Biological and chemical seed treatments to protect 
against fungal infection and pests 

CropStar™, Gaucho™, Poncho™ 

Seeds and traits for cotton, canola, rice, soybeans, 
wheat and vegetables 

Arize™, Credenz™, FiberMax™, InVigor™, 
Nunhems™, Stoneville™ 

Products for professional pest control, vector 
control, forestry, golf courses and parks, railway 
tracks 

Esplanade™, Fludora™, Interface™, K-Othrine™, 
Maxforce™, Pistol™, Signature™ 

Veterinary medicines and solutions to protect and 
maintain the health of companion animals, focusing 
on antiparisitics and anti-infectives 

Veterinary medicines and solutions to treat and 
prevent parasitic diseases, anti-infectives, 
immunostimulants, pharmacological treatments and 
farm hygiene products 

Advantage™ product family, Seresto™, 
Drontal™, Baytril™ 

Baytril™ 

Raw materials for flexible and rigid foams and for 
thermoplastics 

Diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI), toluene 
diisocyanate (TDI) and polyether polyol product 
groups 

Polycarbonates 

Granules, sheets and films 

Polycarbonate product group 

Coatings, Adhesives, Specialties 

Raw materials for surface coatings and adhesives 
and specialties 

Hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) product group 

1 The order of the products listed is no indication of their significance. 

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
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1.1.3 Value Creation 
By delivering innovative products and solutions in its core businesses, Bayer creates value for its 
stakeholders at all stages of the value chain. We operate production sites worldwide, invest in 
research and development, work with international and local suppliers and contribute to the eco-
nomic development of our target markets. As an employer, we provide jobs in industrialized, 
emerging and developing economies and create purchasing power through the salaries we pay. 
We contribute to public finances and thus support public infrastructure through the payment of 
taxes and other levies.  

Value Chain Stages

Research,
development
and innovation

Procurement
and
supply chain

Production

Logistics

Distribution 
and 
marketing

Use

A 1.1.3/1

See also A 1.4.2 

The value added statement shows the direct financial value our business activities create for  
our stakeholders. We define value added as the company’s total operating performance in the 
previous fiscal year less the costs of procured and consumed goods and services, depreciation, 
amortization, impairment losses and impairment loss reversals. 

Bayer Group Value Added 2016

€3.7 billion Depreciation, amortization, impairment losses

and impairment loss reversals

€25.9 billion Material costs / 
other expenses

€47.8 billion
Total operating
performance2

€18.2 billion
Value added

A 1.1.3/2

€11.4 billion   Employees (62%) 

€2.2 billion   Stockholders1 (12%)

€0.7 billion   Lenders (4%)

€1.6 billion Tax authorities (9%)

€2.3 billion Reserves / other3 (13%)

1 Bayer AG dividend proposal for 2016
2 Total operating performance = sales + other operating income + financial income / equity-method income (loss)
3 Includes dividend for minority shareholders of Covestro AG 

1.2 Strategy and Management 

>  Corporate strategy targets long-term profitable growth  
>  Group targets include financial and nonfinancial data 
>  Sustainability management integrated in all processes 

1.2.1 Group Strategy and Targets  
Our mission “Bayer: Science For A Better Life” guides our endeavors to address some of today’s 
most pressing global challenges in health and nutrition through better medicines and a sufficient 
quantity of high-quality food for a steadily growing and aging population. Together with our part-
ners, we are developing innovative solutions to tackle these challenges and thus improve people’s 
quality of life. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
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We want to safeguard our company’s long-term success in balance with ecological responsibility 
and societal acceptance. Sustainability is embedded in all our business practices as a fundamen-
tal condition for achieving this.  

www.bayer.com/strategy 

Our diversified portfolio of Life Science businesses delivers profitable growth. We continuously 
strive to develop our businesses such that they assume leading positions in the respective indus-
tries and segments. This development is sustained by our core competencies of innovation, cus-
tomer focus, quality, process excellence and portfolio management, and by our people. 

To advance the consistent implementation of our strategy, we have set ambitious group targets for 
our company in the areas of growth and profitability, innovation, sustainability and employees. 
These targets are explained in more detail on the following pages. 

Strategies of the Segments 
Pharmaceuticals 
At Pharmaceuticals, our largest segment in terms of sales, we focus on researching, developing 
and marketing specialty-focused innovative medicines that provide significant clinical benefit and 
value, primarily in the therapeutic areas of cardiology, oncology, gynecology, hematology and 
ophthalmology. In this way, we are addressing the growing requirements of patients, physicians, 
health care payers and regulatory agencies. 

We will continue to drive growth with our successfully launched products Xarelto™, Eylea™, 
Stivarga™, Xofigo™ and Adempas™. We are continuing to expand the use of these medicines 
through comprehensive clinical development programs – some of them in collaboration with other 
pharmaceutical companies – and to make them available to further patient groups. 

To drive sustainable growth, we are continually increasing our investment in research and devel-
opment, focusing on the areas with the greatest potential for innovation such as cardiology, on-
cology and gynecology. We aim to continue supplementing our own innovation strength through 
targeted external collaborations. In addition, we are expanding and supplementing our develop-
ment portfolio through licensing agreements and acquisitions. 

Moreover, we are seeking to further increase our efficiency as a means of ensuring the availability 
of resources for investment in innovation. 

To improve access to our products in developing and emerging countries (Access to Medicine), 
we are implementing economically feasible concepts and further developing our compounds for 
the treatment of neglected tropical diseases alongside our philanthropic activities. 

 
 
 
 
 
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 Online Annex: A 1.2.1-1 
Target: improving people’s quality of life 
As an innovation company, we are addressing current challenges by improving people’s quality 
of life through disease prevention and therapy. Within the scope of our entrepreneurial possibili-
ties, we seek to make a responsible contribution to the benefit of society. Our Access to Medi-
cine (ATM) activities are aligned to our company’s expertise and our specific product portfolio.  

Here we distinguish between not-for-profit and economically feasible activities. The former in-
clude our efforts in respect of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Having signed the London 
Declaration, Bayer is collaborating with other pharmaceutical companies and stakeholders to 
help control or if possible eliminate 10 of these tropical diseases by 2020. Each of the compa-
nies involved contributes its respective expertise. In this connection, we have been providing 
the WHO (World Health Organization) free of charge with two of our active ingredients to treat 
African sleeping sickness and Chagas disease for more than 10 years. In 2016, we supplied 
one million tablets of Lampit (active ingredient: nifurtimox) for the treatment of Chagas disease 
and additionally contributed €300,000 for logistics and distribution. Given the gratifying and 
continuous decline in the number of patients suffering from African sleeping sickness, the 
10,000 Germanin ampoules we supplied in 2015 will be sufficient for treatment through 2018. 
Since 2013, we have also been supporting WHO mobile intervention teams in the Democratic 
Republic of Congo, the country with the highest incidence of African sleeping sickness. 

Additionally, we are working with DNDi (Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative) to develop a 
new treatment for river blindness. As part of the TB Drug Accelerator program, Bayer is open-
ing parts of its substance library to support the search for new compounds to combat tubercu-
losis. In 2016, we formed a collaboration with the University of Dundee, Scotland, and the Uni-
versity of Cape Town, South Africa, to study an approach resulting from that program. We are 
optimizing a special formulation of our active ingredient nifurtimox that will allow more accurate, 
weight-based dosing in the treatment of Chagas disease, especially for children. The related 
Phase III study was launched in 2016 in Argentina, Colombia and Bolivia. 

Improved access to medicines 
Our family planning programs are economically feasible and facilitate improved access to hor-
monal contraceptives for women in developing countries. These programs make our products 
available to international development partners at preferential prices. 

In some countries, where sections of the population have no access to innovative medicines via 
health care systems, we have established patient assistance programs for selected products. 
These aim particularly to provide access to oncology and cardiovascular products and prod-
ucts to treat chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis and hemophilia. Such programs exist 
in the United States and China, for example, as well as in a number of countries in South and 
Southeast Asia and Southeastern Europe. 

Every two years, the Access to Medicine (ATM) Index analyzes the top 20 research-based 
pharmaceutical companies in terms of their efforts to improve access to medicines and health 
care in developing countries. The rating mainly focuses on infectious diseases such as HIV, ma-
laria and neglected tropical diseases, indications for which Bayer’s portfolio has a limited offer-
ing. In 2016, Bayer placed 12th (10th in the 2014 ranking) with its access programs for hormo-
nal contraceptives, its collaboration with the WHO and other development projects. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
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Consumer Health  
The growing and aging world population represents an increasing challenge to public health care 
systems. For this reason, the issue of self-care is gaining importance for millions of people, as well 
as for governments, health care systems and health care payers.  

See also A 1.1.2 

Our Consumer Health segment is responding to this change with its mainly nonprescription (OTC) 
brand products to treat and prevent diseases and to improve well-being, providing consumers 
with the corresponding self-care solutions. Our strategy is aimed at further building on our strong 
position in the market for over-the-counter medicines, nutritional supplements and other self-care 
products in selected categories.  

Increasing competition for consumer attention combined with ongoing industry and distribution 
channel consolidation require a stronger focus on brand building, key markets and consumer-
centric innovation. In order to drive the organic growth of our core brands, such as Claritin™, 
Aspirin™, Aleve™, Bepanthen™, Canesten™, Alka-Seltzer™, Dr. Scholl’s™, One a Day™, 
Coppertone™, Elevit™ and Berocca™, we are investing in product innovation and geographical 
expansion. We additionally intend to further strengthen our positions in key markets such as the 
United States, Brazil, Russia and China through product developments, marketing innovations 
and new digital offerings.  

We also plan to continue selectively pursuing external growth opportunities that arise from the 
progressive consolidation of the OTC industry in order to expand our presence in strategic focus 
categories and markets by way of acquisitions. 

Crop Science 
Our Crop Science segment is aligned to the long-term trends of the agricultural markets. Our aim 
is to help shape the future of the agricultural industry with innovative offerings that enable the 
production of sufficient high-quality food, animal feed and renewable raw materials for a growing 
world population despite the limited amount of available arable land. We want to contribute to 
global food security through an environmentally friendly and sustainable increase in agricultural 
productivity. Our innovation strength is intended to benefit both our customers and society as a 
whole and be the source of our long-term growth. Crop Science’s strategy is built on three cor-
nerstones: leading the way in innovation, increasing customer centricity and promoting and further 
developing sustainable farming practices.  

To lead the way in innovation and develop holistic solutions, we aim to build on our expertise in 
the integration of seed technology with chemical and biological crop protection. In so doing, we 
support our customers with improved and innovative solutions tailored to specific local require-
ments. Innovative technologies are increasingly being applied in research and development in 
order to enhance our product portfolio. Examples here include new breeding technologies to im-
prove yields or computational life sciences for the collection, processing and analysis of extensive 
research and development data as the basis for faster and more customer-focused development. 

See also A 1.3 

 
 
 
 
 
 
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Another major part of our strategy is customer centricity along the entire value chain, which is 
coupled with the continuous optimization of distribution. We aim to offer our customers integrated 
solutions for the most important crops. In response to the increasing digitization of agriculture, we 
plan to develop a proprietary digital platform and specific data models in the area of digital farm-
ing so that we can give farmers more customized and sustainable agronomic recommendations 
for improving their yields. We are also seeking to support smallholder farmers in developing and 
emerging economies with specially tailored and sustainable solutions that help them optimize their 
agricultural production methods and improve their standard of living. 

In line with our commitment to sustainable agriculture, we promote and improve corresponding 
farming practices. Moreover, we are steadily expanding our successful food chain partnerships. In 
these projects, Crop Science works with all participants in the food chain to sustainably safeguard 
and increase yields, and to satisfy the quality criteria in the food chain. With the Bayer Forward 
Farming initiative, we cooperate with farmers to develop and promote innovative solutions for the 
respective crops and facilitate sustainable agriculture. We plan to establish model operations 
known as “ForwardFarms” in all major agricultural markets by 2018. 

www.bayer.com/ 
foodchain 

Cooperation is crucial to the implementation of these strategic priorities. To find innovative and 
sustainable solutions to the challenges facing the agricultural industry, we maintain numerous 
collaborations and partnerships with leading research institutes and partners from the public and 
private sectors. 

See also A 1.3 

On September 14, 2016, as the logical next step in our evolution as a Life Science company, we 
signed a binding agreement to acquire Monsanto Company. Monsanto’s shareholders approved 
the merger at an extraordinary shareholders’ meeting held on December 13, 2016. Subject to 
receipt of the required regulatory approvals, successful closing of the transaction is anticipated by 
the end of 2017. Together we would be able to offer a broader portfolio of innovative products 
customized to serve farmers’ many needs and individual requirements. In the medium to long 
term, the combined enterprise would be able to bring innovations to the market faster and provide 
its customers with better solutions and an optimized product offering on the basis of agricultural 
analysis and supporting digital farming applications. 

Animal Health 
Driven by an increasing world population and higher incomes, the animal health market remains 
very attractive. In the companion animals segment, we are benefiting from growing pet ownership 
rates. In the farm animals segment, moreover, the aspiration to adopt Western lifestyle habits is 
leading to higher meat consumption. 

In the companion animals business, Animal Health has a strong position in the field of parasiti-
cides. To safeguard and further expand this position, we are focusing on maintaining the strong 
performance of the Seresto™ collar, opening up new distribution channels and leveraging the 
brand equity of the Advantage™ product family.  

 
 
 
 
 
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See also A 1.3 

In the farm animals business, we are focusing on parasiticides and anti-infectives for the treatment 
of infectious diseases. We are striving to develop new options for the prevention and treatment 
of diseases in livestock. In this connection, we recently launched the innovative, nonantibiotic 
immunostimulant Zelnate™. Additionally, we strengthened our antiparasitics business in the United 
States with the acquisition in January 2017 of the Cydectin™ endectocide portfolio. 

Covestro 
As a global supplier of high-tech polymer materials and associated application solutions for many 
areas of modern life, Covestro supplies key industry sectors such as the automotive, construction 
and electronics industries. Driven by macro trends such as climate change, the diminishing availa-
bility of fossil resources, the expanding global population, urbanization and increasing mobility, the 
company is seeking to achieve profitable growth in the long term. Through its products – along-
side polycarbonates especially raw materials for polyurethanes, coatings, adhesives and sealants 
as well as speciality products – Covestro aims to help master these challenges in line with its 
vision “To make the world a brighter place.” It operates efficient, safe and environmentally friendly 
production facilities and processes that are capable of serving the anticipated growth in demand. 
Covestro intends to further optimize cost structures and efficiency throughout the company. 

Targets and key performance indicators 
Our strategy is aimed at achieving economic growth balanced with our responsibility for the envi-
ronment and society. We measure our progress in this on the basis of ambitious Group targets 
along the value chain. These targets are in the areas of growth and profitability, innovation, sus-
tainability and employees. 

In this way, we aim to make clear the challenges we have identified in our core business in the 
context of sustainable development, and at the same time to highlight the continuous improve-
ments we are committed to making throughout the Group. The current status of our progress in 
these areas is documented in the following table and the respective chapters. 

 
 
 
 
 
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Bayer Group Targets1 

Target 

Target attainment (as of 2016) 

New or adjusted target 

A 1.2.1/1

 Growth and Profitability 

Increase in Group sales (Fx & portfolio adj.); forecast issued in 
February 2016: low-single-digit percentage increase to more than 
€47 billion 

3.5% increase to €46.8 billion 

Low- to mid-single-digit percentage 
increase (Fx & portfolio adj.) to more 
than €49 billion 

Increase in EBITDA before special items; forecast issued in 
February 2016: mid-single-digit percentage increase 

Increase in core earnings per share; forecast issued in February 
2016: mid-single-digit percentage increase 

10.2% increase 

Mid-single-digit percentage increase 

7.3% increase 

Mid-single-digit percentage increase 

 Innovation 

Group: increase in R&D investment to €4.5 billion (2016) 

€4.7 billion 

Increase in R&D investment to  
€4.8 billion (2017) 

Pharmaceuticals: transition of 10 new molecular entities (NMEs) 
into development (2016) 

12 new molecular entities (NMEs) 
transferred 

Transition of 10 new molecular entities 
(NMEs) into development (2017) 

Consumer Health: transition of 20 consumer-validated concepts 
into early development (2016) 

30 new concepts transferred 

Transition of 25 consumer-validated 
concepts into early development (2017)

Crop Science: transfer of 3 new molecular entities (NMEs), plant 
traits or biologics into confirmatory technical proof-of-concept field 
studies (2016) 

Start of field studies on  
4 new molecular entities (NMEs) 
and 1 new plant trait  

Transfer of 3 new molecular entities 
(NMEs), plant traits or biologics  
into confirmatory technical proof-of-
concept field studies 

See A 1.3 for more information 

Sustainability 

Supplier management 

Evaluation of all strategically important suppliers (2017) 

Evaluation of all potentially high-risk suppliers with significant Bayer 
spend (2020) 

98% 

83% 

Target unchanged 

Target unchanged 

Development and establishment of a new sustainability standard 
for our supply base (2020) 

In implementation 

Target unchanged 

See A 1.4.2.1 for more information 

1 All targets other than “Growth and Profitability” and R&D investment targets do not include Covestro. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 A 1.2.1/1 continued

Bayer Group Targets1 

Target 

Target attainment (as of 2016) 

New or adjusted target 

Resource efficiency 

Improvement of 10% in energy efficiency (2020);  
reference value 2012: 8.86 MWh/t 

6.77 MWh/t (24% improvement) 

Reduction of 15% in specific greenhouse gas 
emissions (2020); reference value 2012: 1.88 t CO2/t 

1.54 t CO2/t (–18%) 

Establishment of water management at all sites in water-scarce 
areas (2017) 

95% 

See A 1.4.3.3 for more information 

Safety 

Improvement of 10% in energy  
efficiency (2020); reference value 2015: 
143 kWh/€1,000 external sales 

Reduction of 20% in specific  
greenhouse gas emissions (2020);  
new reference value (2015): 
54.5 kg CO2/€1,000 external sales 

Target unchanged 

Reduction of 35% in occupational safety incident rate (Recordable 
Incident Rate – RIR) (2020); reference value 2012: 0.50 

RIR 0.40 (–20%) 

Target unchanged  

Reduction of 30% in process and plant safety incidents  
(Loss of Primary Containment Incident Rate – LoPC-IR) (2020); 
reference value 2012: 0.21 

LoPC-IR 0.17 (–19%) 

Target unchanged 

See A 1.4.3.2 for more information 

Product stewardship 

Conclusion of assessment of hazard potential of all substances 
(>99%) used in quantities exceeding one metric ton per annum 
(2020) 

66% 

Target unchanged 

See A 1.4.3.1 for more information 

Compliance 

Annual compliance training for virtually 100% of Bayer managers 

97% 

Target unchanged 

See A 4.2 for more information 

Employees 

Continuous improvement in employee engagement; reference 
value 2012: 85% 

Increase in the proportion of women in senior management  
to 35% (2020); reference value 2010: 21% 

Increase in the proportion of senior managers from outside the 
European Union, the United States or Canada to 25% (2020); 
reference value 2013: 18% 

87% 

31% 

21% 

See A 1.4.1 for more information 

1 All targets other than “Growth and Profitability” and R&D investment targets do not include Covestro. 

Target unchanged 

Target unchanged 

Target unchanged 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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1.2.2 Management Systems  
One of the prime objectives of the Bayer Group is to achieve profitable growth in order to steadily 
increase the enterprise value and sustain the company as a going concern. Economic planning 
and management for the company takes place within a framework for the divisions determined by 
the Board of Management in the course of the strategic management process and translated into 
specific targets during operational planning. Continuous monitoring of business developments 
complements the planning and management process, and key management and performance 
indicators are regularly updated. This process also involves tracking the implementation of the 
strategic objectives and adopting countermeasures in the event of deviations from the budget. 
Moreover, the Board of Management uses targets and performance indicators to steer the com-
pany’s sustainable alignment.  

We use the following indicators to plan, manage and monitor the development of our business. 

Operational management indicators 
The main parameters in economic management within the Bayer Group at the operational level are 
figures for sales, earnings and tied-up capital, which therefore also significantly affect short-term 
variable compensation.  

See also A 2.4  

Growth is measured primarily in terms of the change in sales after adjusting for currency and port-
folio effects (Fx & p. adj.) in order to reflect the operational business development of the Group 
and the divisions. A key measure of profitability at the Group and division levels is EBITDA before 
special items. The EBITDA margin before special items, which is the ratio of EBITDA before spe-
cial items to sales, serves as a relative indicator for the internal and external comparison of opera-
tional earning power. Another important profitability indicator for the Bayer Group is core earnings 
per share, which is the core net income divided by the weighted average number of shares. 

New value-based indicator: return on capital employed 
At the strategic level, Bayer introduced the return on capital employed (ROCE) for fiscal 2016. This 
indicator of value-based performance replaces the cash value added (CVA) and cash flow return 
on investment (CFROI). The periodic capital return is measured by comparing ROCE with the 
weighted average cost of capital. This supports the management in evaluating long-term business 
development.  

See also A 2.2.3 

Management of the Covestro segment 
The principal indicators used for internal management in the Covestro segment are core volume 
growth, return on capital employed (ROCE) and free operating cash flow. These indicators also 
serve as the basis for short-term incentive awards to all Covestro employees. For management 
at Group level, however, the indicators used by Covestro are converted into those defined for 
Bayer above. 

1.2.3 Sustainability Management 
To us, sustainability means safeguarding our future viability and, as part of corporate strategy, is 
integrated into everyday procedures. We underline our mission as a company that acts sustaina-
bly through our commitment to the U.N. Global Compact and the Responsible Care™ initiative, 
and through our active global involvement in leading initiatives such as the World Business Council 
for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). Bayer is committed to the U.N. Sustainable Development 
Goals (SDGs) and released a position outlining the company’s stance on these in 2016. Our inno-
vations, products and services make a contribution to overcoming some of the biggest global 
challenges, including the SDGs of zero hunger and good global health care in particular.  

www.bayer.com/unsdg 

U.N. Global Compact: 
see Glossary 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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GRI G4-18 

www.bayer.com/policies 

Clear responsibilities and structures defined 
As part of Bayer’s corporate strategy, sustainability is firmly established at Board level. Responsi-
bility for the Group’s sustainable orientation lies with the Board of Management member responsi-
ble for Human Resources, Technology and Sustainability in his role as Chief Sustainability Officer, 
and with the Corporate Health, Safety & Sustainability function introduced in 2016. Operational 
implementation is effected with the help of nonfinancial targets and performance indicators 
throughout the value chain, based on a clear definition of responsibilities in the corporate structure 
and the identification of key areas of activity using a materiality analysis. Corporate policies ensure 
our sustainability principles are firmly established in business operations and are implemented 
through management systems, committees and processes. The ongoing review and revision of 
directives and regular internal audits ensure that our management systems are continuously im-
proved and aligned to the specific respective requirements.  

Covestro has established its own sustainability organization that functions according to a similar 
system and comparable processes to those at Bayer. The following information in this chapter 
does not include Covestro, unless otherwise indicated. 

A 1.2.3/1

Structure of Sustainability Management

Sustainability management

Organization

Major areas of activity

Member of the Board of
Management responsible for Human 
Resources, Technology and
Sustainability

Corporate Health, Safety & 
Sustainability function

Group committees focusing on 
sustainability and HSEQ issues

Product and process innovation

Access to Medicine

Sustainable food supply

Employee relations & development

Business ethics

Product stewardship

Safety

Environmental protection / resource 
efficiency

Supplier management

Stakeholder engagement /
partnering

Societal engagement

Steering, measurement
and documentation

Group policies on, for example,
– human rights
– compliance
– sustainable development
– responsible marketing

Targets / indicators

HSEQ management systems
and audits

Opportunity and risk management

Integrated Annual Report with
independent auditing

Commitment to standards and organizations such as WBCSD, GRI, U.N. Global Compact, Responsible Care

GRI G4-18, G4-23,  
G4-26, G4-27 

www.bayer.com/ 
materiality 

www.bayer.com/ 
areas-of-activity 

Materiality analysis and areas of activity updated 
We regularly analyze what the major stakeholders expect and require and match this against our 
own assessment. This enables us to identify at an early stage the latest developments along with 
sustainability-related opportunities and risks, which we can then incorporate into our strategy. 
After Covestro became independent and Bayer realigned itself as a Life Science company, we 
examined our areas of activity in 2016. This involved reviewing the issues in our last materiality 
analysis and assessing their relevance in view of the reorganization. Selected internal and external 
stakeholders evaluated the relevance to Bayer of the issues identified in respect of sales, costs, 
risk and reputation. The results were entered into a materiality matrix in line with the internal and 
external perspectives. The next step was to condense the issues relevant to Bayer, leading to 11 
areas of activity. The Board of Management approved the entire process. The following graphic 
shows our areas of activity and their assignment to the stages of the value chain. 

 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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A 1.2.3/2

Distribution
and 
marketing

Use

Areas of Activity Across the Different Stages of the Value Chain

Research, 
development,
innovation

Leistungskennzahlen

Procurement 
and supply
chain

Production

Logistics

Value chain stages

Areas of activity

Product and 
process innovation

Access to Medicine

Sustainable food supply

Employee relations & 
development

Business ethics

Product stewardship

Safety

Environmental protection / 
resource efficiency

Supplier management

Stakeholder engagement / 
partnering

Societal engagement

The content index of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) with the corresponding U.N. Global 
Compact principles and the key GRI aspects assigned to our areas of activity can be found in the 
augmented version of the Annual Report. There we indicate whether we are able to exert influ-
ence within or outside the company. An overview of our areas of activity, their definitions, the 
corresponding Group targets and the assigned GRI aspects is available on our sustainability 
website. 

Stakeholder dialogue promotes acceptance and business success 
As a company, Bayer is a part of society and of public life. Ongoing and systematic dialogue with 
our stakeholders is therefore particularly important to us. Their expectations and viewpoints affect 
public acceptance of Bayer and thus our commercial success. They enable us to recognize trends 
and developments in society and our markets at an early stage and provide input for the continu-
ing development of our business activities, risk management and reporting. We take the wide-
ranging requirements of our stakeholders seriously and consider them in our business operations. 
The open dialogue with them also enables us to build trust in our products and the social value of 
our services. We distinguish four main stakeholder groups with which we interact. 

GRI: see Glossary   

www.bayer.com/ 
gri 

GRI G4-26, G4-27 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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A 1.2.3/3

GRI G4-24 

Stakeholder Dialogue: Our Most Important Interest Groups

Partners

Customers
Suppliers
Employees
Associations
Universities / schools

Financial market
participants

Investors
Banks
Rating agencies

Bayer

Social interest groups

Regulators

General public
NGOs
Local communities
Competitors

Lawmakers
Politicians
Authorities

GRI G4-25 

 Online Annex: A 1.2.3-1 
Diverse stakeholders in focus 
We involve our interest groups, among other means, on the basis of our Stakeholder  
Engagement Process. This describes how their expectations, regarding a particular project for 
example, can be charted and dialogue with them steered. The engagement process is regularly 
reviewed based on social trends. 

Stakeholder Engagement Process

A 1.2.3-1/1

Preparation

Controlling

Identifi-
cation

Interaction

Charac-
terization

Strategy
development

Prioritization

Clustering

GRI G4-26 

Early and open dialogue for new projects 
To ensure the long-term acceptance and appreciation of our business, we seek to link the in-
terests of our stakeholders to our corporate strategy. Bayer approaches key social and political 
players right from the start of a new project to canvass their support. The open dialogue makes 
it possible to identify opportunities and risks early on. We use a manual to guide our stakehold-
er engagement in strategic decision-making processes such as investment projects and 
launching new products. The associated internal platform, the Virtual Resource Center, pro-
vides corresponding online tools. The concept is currently being applied to various projects at 
Bayer and undergoing continuous further development based on the practical experience ob-
tained. In addition, senior managers are receiving systematic training to improve interaction 
with critical stakeholders. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Augmented Version

Collaboration formats aimed at specific target groups  
Bayer’s regular stakeholder activities range from dialogue at local, national and international 
level and active involvement in committees and specialist workshops all the way through to 
comprehensive information programs, issue-related multi-stakeholder events and participation 
in international initiatives and collaborations. Our stakeholder dialogue also involves systematic 
monitoring. 

GRI G4-26 

Below and in the relevant chapters, we use examples to provide an insight into our engage-
ment in 2016 with respect to our four most important stakeholder groups. 

GRI G4-24 

Our partners  
Customers and suppliers 
More on this topic can be found in Chapter A 1.4.2.1 and A 1.4.2.3. 

Employees 
More information about internal communications can be found in Chapter A 1.4.1.  

Universities and scientific institutions 
Bayer’s research and development activities are supported by international collaborations with 
leading universities, public-sector research institutes and partner companies. More about this 
can be found in Chapter A 1.3.1. 

Schools and universities  
You can find more information on Bayer’s comprehensive activities in dialogue with school and 
university students in Online Annex A 1.4.1-15 of this Annual Report. 

Associations 
Bayer is an active member of, or holds leadership positions in, numerous associations and their 
committees. Examples include the German Chemical Industry Association (VCI; Vice-
Presidency), the German Equities Institute (DAI; Presidency) and the European Chemical Indus-
try Council (CEFIC; Executive Director Sustainability). Bayer also currently provides the Chair-
man of the Executive Board of econsense, the Forum for Sustainable Development of German 
Business.  

Our segments are active members of their respective industry associations and committees. 
For example, Pharmaceuticals is on the boards of both the European (EFPIA) and the American 
(PhRMA) pharmaceutical trade associations. Consumer Health has leadership functions in rele-
vant industrial and trade associations. The member of the Bayer Board of Management respon-
sible for Consumer Health is on the Board of Directors of the WSMI (World Self-Medication In-
dustry) federation. Representatives of the segment are on the boards of regional self-
medication associations in the United States, Latin America and Europe, where Bayer currently 
holds the vice-presidency. 

Crop Science is represented on the boards of the international crop protection association 
CropLife International, its regional associations CropLife America, Asia, Latin America and Afri-
ca & Middle East, the European Crop Protection Association (ECPA) and the presidium of the 
German agricultural association Industrieverband Agrar.  

Animal Health is represented on the Board of Directors of the international association Health 
for Animals and the International Federation of Animal Health (IFAH-Europe) among other or-
ganizations.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
60 

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 Augmented Version 

1.2 Strategy and Management 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

GRI G4-26 

www.bayer.com/ 
pol-involvement 

www.bayer.de/us-
lobbying-disclosure 

Covestro holds the Presidency of PlasticsEurope, the association of European plastics manu-
facturers, and is represented on the Executive Committee of the World Plastics Council. It is 
also represented on the Executive Committee of CEFIC and the Board of VCI. 

Financial market players 
Investors, banks and rating agencies 
More information on our dialogue with the capital market – stockholders, capital investment 
companies, institutional investors, banks and rating agencies – can be found in the “Investor In-
formation” chapter of this Annual Report. 

Regulators 
Legislators, authorities and politicians 
The framework for the company’s operations is essentially determined by authorities, legislators 
and politicians. The dialogue with authorities and ministries worldwide includes discussions 
with political decision-makers and active involvement in specialist committees and cooperation 
projects. Our active participation in political decision-making processes is explicitly sought by 
the key players involved. 

Lobbying 
In its Corporate Policy “Code of Conduct for Responsible Lobbying,” Bayer sets out binding 
rules for its involvement in political matters, aiming to ensure transparency in any collaboration 
with the representatives of political institutions. The Group’s Public and Governmental Affairs 
Committee established the principles for the alignment of Bayer’s political work. This especially 
includes developing the company’s political positions as well as determining the position of the 
Board of Management on important political issues. In 2016, Bayer’s political lobbying focused 
among other things on social debate regarding good framework conditions for developing inno-
vative Life Science technologies and products, evidence-based regulation and the necessary 
reforms for the regulatory approval of crop protection products and in the area of seeds. A fur-
ther focal point was submitting proposals for creating sustainable health care systems and 
strengthening self-care as a key factor in this process. Bayer also promotes the prevention of 
additional burdens for innovation and is involved in various policy areas: from energy, chemicals 
and trade policy to climate protection and sustainability. In addition, the company actively sup-
ports the protection of intellectual property – a key prerequisite for continuing to invest signifi-
cantly in the development of innovative products. More information on our political principles 
and positions can be found on the internet. 

Our liaison offices in Berlin, Brussels, Washington, Moscow, Brasília and Beijing are key touch-
points between the company and political stakeholders. Bayer actively participates in existing 
transparency initiatives. It publishes details of costs, employee numbers and any of the other 
statistics required in each country, e.g. in the transparency registers of the European institu-
tions and the U.S. Congress. Bayer goes far beyond the statutory requirements in doing so. For 
instance, the Group also publishes data for countries such as Germany where there is no legal 
requirement to publish such information. In 2016, the costs incurred at the liaison offices for 
human resources, material and projects totaled approximately: €1.4 million in Berlin, Germany; 
€1.9 million in Brussels, Belgium; €7.3 million in Washington, United States; €0.2 million in 
Moscow, Russia; €1.3 million in Brasília, Brazil; and €1.1 million in Beijing, China. 

According to our corporate policy, we have committed not to make any direct donations to 
political parties, politicians or candidates for political office. However, some associations to 
which the Group belongs make donations on their own initiative, in compliance with statutory 
regulations. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

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61

1.2 Strategy and Management

Augmented Version

In the United States, a number of our employees use the Bayer Corporation Political Action 
Committee (BayPac) to make private donations supporting candidates for parliamentary office. 
Political action committees in the United States are state-regulated, legally independent em-
ployee groups. In the United States, companies are legally prohibited from donating to political 
candidates in Federal elections directly. In many cases, such direct donations by companies are 
legally prohibited for elections at state and local level too, but irrespective of the legislation 
Bayer’s internal regulations do not permit them anyway. Donations through BayPac are there-
fore not corporate donations. The BayPac contributions are regularly reported to the U.S. Fed-
eral Election Commission and can be viewed on its website.  

www.fec.gov 

Social interest groups 
Nongovernmental organizations, the public, the local community and competitors 
Bayer is involved in a variety of projects, thematic initiatives and specialist conferences at a na-
tional and international level in order to play an active role in the common task of shaping sus-
tainable development. Alongside exchange and cooperation with nongovernmental organiza-
tions (NGOs) and supranational organizations, this primarily involves dialogue with the public. 

GRI G4-26 

Among other involvement, Bayer is actively engaged in the U.N. Global Compact and its initia-
tives, the CEO Water Mandate and Caring for Climate, as well as the Global Compact LEAD 
network and local networks. We have also acted as an organizational stakeholder in the Global 
Reporting Initiative since 2004. 

As a co-initiator of the “Zukunft der Industrie” (Future of Industry) group, Bayer was involved in 
several events in Germany during the Week of Industry initiative that took place for the first time 
in 2016. This demonstrated the impressive performance and innovative spirit of industry as well 
as its vital contribution to the prosperity of German society. 

Segments develop specific dialogue formats 
Pharmaceuticals is an active participant in the social dialogue addressing sustainability issues 
and creates forums to encourage exchange and develop viable problem-solving approaches 
together with partners. Pharmaceuticals supports the International Dialogue on Population and 
Sustainable Development conference in close collaboration with various governmental and 
nongovernmental organizations. Here, approaches for tackling internationally relevant issues in 
reproductive health are worked on and experiences of implementing the U.N. Millennium Devel-
opment Goals are shared.  

GRI G4-26 

As part of their partnership, Consumer Health and the U.S. NGO, the White Ribbon Alliance 
(WRA), make a joint contribution to the U.N.’s “Every Woman Every Child” campaign. Its goal is 
to work at local level to reduce the mortality rate of mothers, infants and children. Consumer 
Health also supports the United Nations Population Fund’s (UNFPA) “Safe Birth” campaign.  

Crop Science has initiated various dialogue formats to improve knowledge transfer in agricul-
ture, highlight the improvements in sustainable agriculture and increase communication with 
stakeholders such as farmers, public-sector decision-makers and society as a whole. For in-
stance, Bayer has joined forces with industry business partners to organize numerous visits to 
Hof ten Bosch, a farm near Brussels, Belgium, with the goal of providing E.U. representatives, 
journalists and other stakeholders with a practical example of how digital farming works and 
can be further expanded. Crop Science sees great potential in digitizing agriculture and is 
therefore working with partners, for example, to develop digital farming applications for farmers 
that support them in decision-making processes and help them to optimize their work routines.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
62 

A Combined Management Report 

 Augmented Version 

1.3 Focus on Innovation 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

www.bayer.com/ag-edu 

Crop Science pursues an intensive societal dialogue about the benefits of science and innova-
tion in agriculture today. The Agricultural Education program is primarily aimed at encouraging 
young people to take a greater interest in agriculture and food production. In addition to practi-
cal exercises in student laboratories, the program also includes scholarships for agricultural 
science students and the sharing of ideas about the future of agriculture at international youth 
conferences such as the Youth Ag-Summit. And AgLearn, a new online offering, offers a practi-
cal approach to learning with online experiments relating to plant growth. 

GRI G4-26 

Dialogue with the local community builds trust 
An important part of our stakeholder dialogue takes place in the direct vicinity of our sites. We 
are working on being recognized everywhere as a reliable partner and attractive employer that 
is aware of its social responsibility. The involvement of the local community plays a decisive 
role, for example, in the success of any investment project. 

Dialogue with neighbors in the communities surrounding our production sites is anchored in a 
corporate policy on site management. Community dialogue is jointly maintained by the sites 
and the relevant country organization. In Germany, dialogue with the local community is han-
dled via the Chempark neighborhood offices among other means. 

For Pharmaceuticals and Consumer Health, exchange with neighbors at the production sites is 
a particularly high priority as it helps make the operation of the facilities in question transparent. 
It involves organizing guided tours and dialogue events and providing informational material for 
various stakeholder and age groups. Regular exchange is also maintained in networks with rep-
resentatives of local governments and other resident companies. Crop Science regularly uses 
forums, print media and personal discussions with citizens’ initiatives, representatives of church 
communities and the regional press to keep its neighbors continually informed, for instance at 
the Dormagen, Frankfurt-Hoechst and Knapsack sites in Germany. Close dialogue with stake-
holders is also taking place in the communities around sites in other countries, such as in the 
United States. 

Covestro initiates dialogue with neighbors, the public and nongovernmental organizations 
(NGOs) on a case-by-case basis. In the United States, for example, dialogue takes place 
through the Community Advisory Panels (CAPs). These organize regular meetings, for example 
with local government or the community, in order to provide information on current issues. 
Covestro enters into direct dialogue with social interest groups in particular when commission-
ing new facilities. 

1.3 Focus on Innovation 

>  Excellence in research and development 
>  Groundbreaking technologies in the Life Sciences 
>  Global open innovation network  

Innovation is a cornerstone of our mission “Science For A Better Life” and a core element of our 
strategy. We define innovations as new solutions that generate added value for our customers and 
society. Our activities focus on innovative products based on our strong research and develop-
ment competencies. They are accompanied by process, service and business model innovation. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

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63

1.3 Focus on Innovation

Augmented Version

With our innovative solutions, we are responding to the global challenges in medical care and the 
need to safeguard an adequate food supply. Here we focus on three key elements: excellence in 
research and development, the application of groundbreaking technologies, and open innovation. 

Excellence in research and development 
The success of our company is based on excellence in research and development (R&D). The 
know-how and skills of our employees are our most valuable resource in this endeavor. We devel-
op new molecules and technologies in the research-intensive fields of medicine and modern agri-
culture and invest continuously in research and development projects. 

We maintain a global network of research and development locations, where more than 15,000 
scientists are employed. The focus of the research projects is determined by the R&D strategies of 
our segments. In 2016, we increased our research and development investment by 9.8% (Fx adj.) 
to €4,666 million. We plan to invest around €4.8 billion in research and development in 2017.  

Group target 2016:  
increase in R&D invest-
ment to €4.5 billion;     
see also A 1.2.1 

Research and Development Expenses in 2016  

A 1.3/1

R&D expenses
€ million

2015

2,450

250

2016

2,787

259

R&D expenses 
before 
special items
€ million

2015

2,402

232

2016

2,736

234

1,082

1,164

1,082

1,156

134

96

140

55

134

96

140

55

4,012

4,405

3,946

4,321

262

261

261

261

4,274

4,666

4,207

4,582

Share of 
R&D expenses
%

R&D expenses 
before 
special items 
% of sales 

R&D employees
FTE

2015

57.3

5.8

25.3

3.1

2.2

93.7

6.3

100

2016

59.7

5.6

24.9

3.0

1.2

94.4

5.6

100

2015

15.7

3.8

10.7

9.0

8.7

11.6

2.2

9.1

2016 

2015

16.7 

8,003

3.9 

347

2016

7,934

331

11.7 

5,073

5,631

9.2 

5.2 

285

40

308

9

12.4 

13,748

14,213

2.2 

9.8 

1,005

1,016

14,753

15,229

Pharmaceuticals 

Consumer Health 

Crop Science 

Animal Health 

Reconciliation 

Life Sciences 

Covestro 

Group 

2015 figures restated 

Patents protect Bayer’s intellectual property 
Globally reliable protection of intellectual property rights is particularly relevant for an innovation 
company like Bayer. We therefore endeavor to obtain patent protection for our products and tech-
nologies in the major markets depending on the legal framework. At the end of 2016, we owned 
approximately 50,800 valid patent applications and patents relating to some 5,000 protected 
inventions worldwide.  

 Online Annex: A 1.3-1 

Patent protection is essential 
Patent terms vary according to the laws of the country granting the patent. In view of the high 
investment required for product research and development, the European Union (E.U.) member 
states, the United States, Japan and some other countries extend patent terms or issue sup-
plementary protection certificates to compensate for the shortening of the effective patent pro-
tection period due to regulatory approval processes for new drugs.  

www.bayer.com/ 
political-position-ip 

The term of a patent is normally 20 years. Since it takes an average of 12 years to develop a 
new medicine, only eight years of patent protection generally remain following the product’s 
approval. In most cases it would be impossible to cover the substantial costs incurred in the 
research and development of innovative medicines or of new indications or dosage forms for 
existing drugs without this protection. We are therefore committed worldwide to protecting 
both the international patent system and our own intellectual property. The following table 
shows the expiration dates for the Bayer Group’s significant patents. 

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
64 

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 Augmented Version 

1.3 Focus on Innovation 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Pharmaceuticals Patent Expiration Dates 

A 1.3-1/1

Market

Germany 

France

U.K.

Italy

Spain

Japan

China

Switzer-
land

Brazil

U.S.A. Canada

Products 

Adempas™ 

Active ingredient 

2028e 

2028

2023a

2028

2028

2027

2023

2028

2023b

2023a

2023

Production process /  
intermediate 

Eylea™ 

2030 

2030

2030

2030

2030

2030

2030

2030

2030b

2030

2030b

Active ingredient 

2020a 

2025

2020a

2025

2025

Formulation 

Kogenate™  

2027 

2027

2027

2027

2027

2021-
2023d

2028-
2029d

2020

2025

2020b

2027b

2027

2027b

Active ingredient 

– 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Formulation 

2017 

2017

2017

2017

2017

2020

2017

2017

2020

2016

Kovaltry™  

Active ingredient 

Formulation 

Production process 

– 

2017 

2018 

–

2017

2018

–

2017

2018

–

2017

2018

–

2017

2018

–

2020

2018a

–

2017

2018

–

2017

2018

–

2020

2023

–

2016

2017

2020

2027

2021

2017

2021

2017

2018

Mirena™ 

Inserter 

Nexavar™ 

2029 

2029

2029

2029

2029

2029

2029

2029

2029b

2029b

2029

Active ingredient 

Salt form 

2021 

2022 

2021

2022

2021

2022

2021

2022

2021

2022

Polymorph 

2025 

2025

2025

2025

2025

Formulation 

2026 

2026

2026

2026

2026

Stivarga™ 

Active ingredient 

Formulation 

Production process 

2028 

2025 

2031 

2028

2025

2031

2024a

2025

2031

2028

2025

2031

2028

2025

2031

Xarelto™ 

Active ingredient 

2023 

2023

2023

2023

2023

Formulation 

2024 

2024

2024

2024

2024

2021-
2025d

-

2025-
2026d

2026-
2027d

2026d

2026d

2031

2022-
2025d

2025-
2028d

2020

-

2021

2022

2025

2020

2020

-

-

-

2025

2025

2025b

2027

2025

2026

2026

2026b

2026f

2026

2024

2025

2031

2028

2025

2031

2024b

2025b

2031b

2031

2031c

2031

2024

2025

2031

2020

2023

2022

2024e

2020

2024

2024

2024b

2024

2024

Xofigo™ 

Use 

Production process 

2024 

2031 

2024

2031

2024

2031

2024

2031

2024

2031

2019a

2031

2019

2031

2024

2031

–

2031b

2020a

2031

2019

2031b

a Current expiration date; patent term extension applied for 
b Patent application pending 
c Patent term revised 
d Application-specific term extension(s) 
e Patent term extension granted 
f  Notice of allowance received 

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

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65

1.3 Focus on Innovation

Augmented Version

Groundbreaking technologies in the Life Sciences 
With our strategic innovation unit, the Bayer Lifescience Center (BLSC), we focus on new ground-
breaking technologies. In May 2016, Bayer and ERS Genomics, Ireland, signed an agreement 
giving Bayer access to ERS’s CRISPR-Cas9 genome-editing patents. The agreement granted 
Bayer rights for defined research applications of this technology in selected strategic areas. In 
August 2016, Casebia Therapeutics, a company established by Bayer and CRISPR Therapeutics 
in March 2016, launched operations in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and San Francisco, California, 
United States. The goal of Casebia Therapeutics is to develop new, trend-setting therapeutics to 
treat blood diseases, blindness and congenital heart disease. In December 2016, Bayer and Ver-
sant Ventures established the company BlueRock Therapeutics, which will be active in the area of 
regenerative medicine. The company plans to develop highly efficient therapies based on induced 
pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to cure various cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders and 
diseases of the central nervous system. 

Global open innovation network 
Partnerships are integral to our innovation strategy. That is why we work within a network of alli-
ances with start-ups, academic institutes, industry, suppliers and other partners. Our open inno-
vation network spans all parts of the company along the value chain. Our open innovation portal 
offers a platform for collaborations in all parts of the company. We also invest in venture capital 
funds that finance life science start-up companies, among other projects. 

See the segment sec-
tions for details 

www.innovate.bayer.com

 Online Annex: A 1.3-2 
Scientists from Bayer are involved in constant dialogue with renowned research institutes  
and support partnership projects in the public and private sectors. In 2016, public funding 
worth more than €12 million was spent on more than 50 projects worldwide. This is equivalent 
to roughly 0.3% of our annual R&D expenses. We also participate in industry associations, as-
sume professorships at universities worldwide and regularly invite scientists, university and 
school students to attend events such as symposiums on health topics or research days for 
school students. We view this as an investment in our own future.  

GRI G4-26 

Pharmaceuticals 
Pharmaceuticals focuses on indications with high medical need in the areas of cardiovascular 
disease, oncology, gynecology, ophthalmology and hematology. We conduct research and devel-
opment activities at several locations, mainly in Germany, the United States, Japan, China, Finland 
and Norway. 

Bayer worldwide; see 
also A 1.1.1/1 

In line with our targets for 2016 we transferred 12 new molecular entities from our research pipe-
line into preclinical development in the reporting year. We define a new molecular entity (NME) as a 
new chemical or biological substance that has not been in development to date. In preclinical 
trials these substances are examined further in various models with respect to their suitability for 
clinical trials and linked “first-in-man” studies. In 2016, we conducted clinical trials with several 
drug candidates from our research and development pipeline. We strengthened products that 
were already on the market through life cycle management activities to further improve their appli-
cation and / or expand their spectrum of indications. 

Group target 2016: 
transition of 10 new 
molecular entities 
(NMEs) into 
development;                  
see also A 1.2.1 

Progress in clinical Phase II projects 
The following table shows our most important drug candidates currently in Phase II of clinical 
testing: 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
66 

A Combined Management Report 

 Augmented Version 

1.3 Focus on Innovation 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

A 1.3/2

Research and Development Projects (Phase II) 

1 

Projects 

Indication 

Anetumab ravtansine (mesothelin ADC) 

Cancer  

Ang2 antibody + aflibercept 

Serious eye diseases 

2 

BAY 1142524 (chymase inhibitor) 

Heart failure 

BAY 2306001 (IONIS-FXIRx) 

Copanlisib (PI3K inhibitor) 

Molidustat (HIF-PH inhibitor) 

Prevention of thrombosis 

3 

Recurrent / resistant non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) 

Renal anemia 

Neladenoson bialanate (BAY 1067197)  

Chronic heart failure 

PDGFR-beta + aflibercept 

Wet age-related macular degeneration 

2 

Radium-223 dichloride 

Radium-223 dichloride 

Regorafenib 

Riociguat 

Riociguat 

Rivaroxaban 

Vilaprisan (S-PRM) 

Vilaprisan (S-PRM) 

Breast cancer with bone metastases 

Cancer, various studies 

Cancer  

Diffuse systemic sclerosis 

Cystic fibrosis 

Secondary prevention of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) 

4 

Symptomatic uterine fibroids5 

Endometriosis  

1 As of January 31, 2017 
2 Sponsored by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 
3 Sponsored by Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 
4 Sponsored by Janssen Research & Development, LLC 
5 Based on positive Phase II study data, the decision was taken to initiate Phase III studies. 
The nature of drug discovery and development is such that not all compounds can be expected to meet the predefined project goals. 
It is possible that any or all of the projects listed above may have to be discontinued due to scientific and / or commercial reasons and 
will not result in commercialized products. It is also possible that the requisite U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), European 
Medicines Agency (EMA) or other regulatory approvals will not be granted for these compounds. Moreover, we regularly review our 
research and development pipeline so that we can give priority to advancing the most promising pharmaceuticals projects. 

Below are the most significant changes that occurred in 2016 compared with the previous year: 

In March 2016, we expanded our existing cooperation with Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 
United States, to jointly develop a combination therapy of the angiopoietin2 (Ang2) antibody 
nesvacumab and aflibercept for the treatment of serious eye diseases. Two ongoing Phase II clini-
cal studies are evaluating the combination therapy as a single intravitreal injection in patients with 
wet age-related macular degeneration or diabetic macular edema. 

Also in March 2016, the study involving BAY 1007626, or progestin IUS (contraception), was 
discontinued. Clinical development of roniciclib (cancer) was discontinued. Bayer does not intend 
to pursue the development of refametinib (cancer) and the project will be returned to Ardea  
BioSciences, Inc., United States. 

In May 2016, we terminated our Phase II study investigating riociguat (tradename: Adempas™)  
in patients with pulmonary hypertension associated with idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (PH-IIP) 
following the recommendation of an independent data monitoring committee (DMC). 

We also will not further pursue the development of BAY 98-7196 + anastrozole (intravaginal ring) 
for the indication endometriosis. 

 
 
 
 
 
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

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67

1.3 Focus on Innovation

Augmented Version

In September 2016, our partner Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., United States, published the 
first data from a clinical Phase II study investigating the treatment of wet age-related macular 
degeneration with rinucumab, a PDGFR-(cid:533) antibody, in combination with aflibercept (tradename: 
Eylea™). Although the study failed to meet its primary endpoint, a statistically significant improve-
ment in visual acuity after 12 weeks, Regeneron will, however, continue the study as planned. 
Further data will be analyzed after 28 weeks and following the conclusion of the trial (after 52 
weeks). Bayer will then examine the available data and decide on the next steps. 

Progress in clinical Phase III projects 
The following table shows our most important drug candidates currently in Phase III of clinical 
testing: 

A 1.3/3

Research and Development Projects (Phase III)1 

Projects 

Indication 

Amikacin Inhale  

Pulmonary infection 

BAY 1841788  
(ODM-201, AR antagonist) 

BAY 1841788  
(ODM-201, AR antagonist) 

Nonmetastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer 

Metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer 

Ciprofloxacin DPI 

Non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis 

Copanlisib (PI3K inhibitor) 

Various forms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) 

Damoctocog alfa pegol  
(BAY 94-9027, long-acting rFVIII) 

Hemophilia A 

Finerenone (MR antagonist) 

Diabetic kidney disease 

Radium-223 dichloride 

Combination treatment of castration-resistant prostate cancer 

Regorafenib 

Rivaroxaban 

Rivaroxaban 

Rivaroxaban 

Rivaroxaban 

Rivaroxaban 

Rivaroxaban 

Tedizolid 

Vericiguat  
(BAY 1021189, sGC stimulator) 

Colon cancer, adjuvant therapy 

Prevention of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) 

Anticoagulation in patients with chronic heart failure 

2 

Long-term prevention of venous thromboembolism 

Prevention of venous thromboembolism in high-risk patients after discharge  
from hospital 

2 

Embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS)  

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) 

Pulmonary infection 

Chronic heart failure3 

1 As of January 31, 2017 
2 Sponsored by Janssen Research & Development, LLC 
3 Sponsored by Merck & Co., Inc., United States 
The nature of drug discovery and development is such that not all compounds can be expected to meet the predefined project goals. 
It is possible that any or all of the projects listed above may have to be discontinued due to scientific and / or commercial reasons and 
will not result in commercialized products. It is also possible that the requisite U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), European 
Medicines Agency (EMA) or other regulatory approvals will not be granted for these compounds. Moreover, we regularly review our 
research and development pipeline so that we can give priority to advancing the most promising pharmaceuticals projects. 

Below are the most significant changes that occurred in 2016 compared with the previous year: 

In the first quarter of 2016, we decided to focus our development activities for finerenone on the 
indication of diabetic kidney disease. A study in the indication of chronic heart failure will therefore 
not be carried out. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
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In May 2016, a clinical Phase III study investigating regorafenib (tradename: Stivarga™) in unre-
sectable liver cancer reached its primary endpoint, a statistically significant improvement of overall 
survival. The study investigated regorafenib in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma whose dis-
ease had further progressed during prior treatment with sorafenib (tradename: Nexavar™). Based 
on these data, we submitted regorafenib for marketing authorization for the treatment of unresec-
table liver cancer in Europe, Japan and the United States in the third quarter of 2016. 

In June 2016, we agreed with Orion Corporation, Espoo, Finland, to expand the global clinical 
development program for the novel androgen receptor (AR) antagonist BAY-1841788 (ODM-201).  

A new clinical Phase III study is evaluating BAY-1841788 in men with newly diagnosed metastatic 
hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) who are starting first-line hormone therapy.  

In June 2016, we formed a new research partnership with the U.S. National Surgical Adjuvant 
Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP), a leading clinical trials cooperative group. A clinical Phase III 
study will investigate regorafenib as a single agent for adjuvant treatment following completion of 
standard adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with advanced but not yet metastatic colon cancer. 

In September 2016, a new clinical Phase III trial was initiated to evaluate vericiguat, a soluble 
guanylate cyclase (sGC) stimulator, in patients suffering from chronic heart failure with reduced 
ejection fraction. The development and commercialization of vericiguat are part of the worldwide 
strategic collaboration between Bayer and Merck & Co., Inc., United States (through a subsidiary), 
in the field of sGC modulation. 

In February 2017, the Phase III COMPASS study with Bayer’s rivaroxaban in patients with coro-
nary or peripheral artery disease showed overwhelming efficacy and met its primary endpoint 
early.  

Clinical trials are an essential tool for determining the efficacy and safety / tolerability of new devel-
opmental products before they can be used to diagnose or treat diseases. The benefits and risks 
of new medicinal products must always be scientifically proven and well documented. All clinical 
trials at Bayer satisfy strict international guidelines and quality standards, as well as the respective 
applicable national laws and standards. 

 Online Annex: A 1.3-3 
Transparency through publication of clinical trials 
Bayer publishes information about clinical trials in line with the respective applicable national 
laws and according to the principles of the European (EFPIA) and U.S. (PhRMA) pharmaceutical 
associations, these principles being defined in a joint position paper. 

 
 
 
 
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1.3 Focus on Innovation

Augmented Version

Pharmaceuticals publishes information on its own clinical trials both in the publicly accessible 
register www.ClinicalTrials.gov and in its own “Trial Finder” database. In the case of approved 
products, summarized results of Phase II, III and IV clinical trials are accessible online through 
the “Trial Finder.” Upon request, scientists can receive access to anonymized data at the pa-
tient level via the portal www.clinicalstudydatarequest.com. 

Further information on our globally uniform standards, the monitoring of studies and the role of 
the ethics committees can be found on the internet. 

www.bayer.com/ethics-
in-rnd 

Filings and approvals  
We regularly evaluate our research and development pipeline in order to prioritize the most prom-
ising pharmaceutical projects. Following the completion of the required studies with a number of 
these drug candidates, we submitted applications to one or more regulatory agencies for approv-
als or approval expansions. The most important drug candidates in the approval process are: 

Main Products Submitted for Approval 

1 

Projects 

Regorafenib 

Rivaroxaban 

2 

Indication 

Europe, Japan, U.S.A.: second-line treatment for unresectable liver cancer 

U.S.A.; secondary prophylaxis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) 

1 As of January 31, 2017 
2 Submitted by Janssen Research & Development, LLC 

A 1.3/4

In February 2016, Bayer received approval from the European Commission for Kovaltry™  
(Bay 81-89-73) for the treatment of hemophilia A in patients of all age groups. Kovaltry™ is an 
unmodified recombinant factor VIII product that in clinical trials has demonstrated efficacy and 
tolerability as an on-demand therapy and for prophylactic use two or three times per week by 
hemophilia A patients. In March 2016, Kovaltry™ was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Ad-
ministration (FDA) and the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW).  

In March 2016, the Japanese MHLW granted marketing authorization for Xofigo™ (radium-223 
dichloride) for the treatment of adult patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer and bone 
metastases. 

In May 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Gadavist™ / Gadovist™ 
(active ingredient: gadobutrol) as the first contrast agent for use with magnetic resonance angi-
ography (MRA) to evaluate known or suspected supra-aortic or renal artery disease in patients of 
all ages.  

In September 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved our new low-dose 
levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system with the brand name Kyleena™. The new system 
releases the lowest daily hormone dose in an intrauterine system for up to five years of effective 
protection against pregnancy. It uses the smallest T-shaped body available today for implantation 
in the uterus for the purpose of contraception with active ingredient-releasing systems. In October 
2016, furthermore, we successfully completed the corresponding decentralized registration pro-
cedure for the European Union. On this basis, it is expected that the health authorities of the E.U. 
member states will grant national marketing authorizations in the coming months. 

 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
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In November 2016, an expansion of indications was filed for Stivarga™ (active ingredient:  
regorafenib) in the United States, Japan and Europe. The filings pertain to the second-line treat-
ment of patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. Stivarga™, an oral multikinase in-
hibitor, is already approved under this brand name in numerous countries for the treatment of 
metastatic colorectal cancer and unresectable or metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumors. The 
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted priority review status to regorafenib in the regis-
tration process for the expansion of indications (supplemental New Drug Application, sNDA). The 
Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) granted priority review status for the 
registration filing in January 2017.   

See also A 1.3  
“Global open innovation 
network”  

Cooperations 
We augment our own research capacities through collaborations and strategic alliances with  
external industrial and academic research partners. In this way we gain access to complementary 
technologies and external innovation potential. The following table shows examples of the main 
collaborations: 

A 1.3/5

Main Cooperations in 2016 

Partner 

Broad Institute 

Cooperation objective 

Strategic partnership in the field of genome and drug research in cardiology 
aimed at using findings from human genetics to develop new cardiovascular 
therapies and in the field of oncology to identify and develop active ingredients 
that target tumor-specific gene alterations 

German Cancer Research Center 
(DKFZ) 

Strategic partnership for the development of new therapeutic options in 
oncology, especially in immunotherapy 

Evotec AG 

ImmunoGen Inc. 

Janssen Research & 
Development,  
LLC of Johnson & Johnson 

Merck & Co., Inc. 

MorphoSys AG 

Collaboration to identify development candidates for the treatment of 
endometriosis and kidney diseases 

Cooperation in the field of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) for novel tumor 
therapies 

Development of Xarelto™ (rivaroxaban) 

Development and marketing collaboration in the field of soluble guanylate 
cyclase (sGC) modulation 

Development of antibody-drug conjugates using MorphoSys’s HuCAL 
technology 

Orion Corporation 

Development of ODM-201 for the treatment of patients with prostate cancer 

Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc.  Development of Eylea™ (aflibercept) to treat various eye diseases 

Development of a combination therapy of rinucumab, a PDGFR-beta  
(beta-type platelet derived growth factor receptor) antibody, and aflibercept for 
the treatment of wet age-related macular degeneration 

Development of a combination therapy of the angiopoietin2 (Ang2) antibody 
nesvacumab and aflibercept for the treatment of serious eye diseases 

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
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 Online Annex: A 1.3-4 

A 1.3-4/1

Other Cooperations in 2016 

Partner 

Cooperation objective 

BioInvent International AB 

Access to antibody library with in-licensing of antibodies 

Compugen Ltd. 

Collaboration for the research and development of new immunotherapy 
approaches in oncology 

Dimension Therapeutics, Inc. 

Development of a novel gene therapy for hemophilia A 

Inception 4, Inc. 

Research into new approaches for the treatment of various eye 
diseases 

Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 

Development of an antisense molecule for the prevention of thrombosis 

Leica Biosystems Ltd. 

Development of diagnostic tests in personalized oncology treatment 

Ludwig Boltzmann Institute 

Research into lung vascular disease, especially pulmonary hypertension 

Merck & Co., Inc. 

Nektar Therapeutics  

Novartis AG 

Codevelopment of tedizolid to treat various infections 

Codevelopment of a targeted antibiotic inhalation therapy for lung 
infections (amikacin inhale) 

Development of a targeted antibiotic inhalation therapy for lung 
infections (ciprofloxacin DPI) 

OncoMed Pharmaceuticals Inc. 

Discovery and development of novel anticancer stem cell therapeutics 

Onyx Pharmaceuticals Inc.  
of Amgen Inc. 

Peking University 

Seattle Genetics Inc. 

Tsinghua University 

University of Oxford 

Codevelopment of Nexavar™ (sorafenib) for various types of cancer 

Research cooperation and establishment of a research center for joint 
projects 

Access to technologies for antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) for novel 
tumor therapies 

Research cooperation and establishment of a research center for joint 
projects 

Strategic research alliance for the development of novel gynecological 
therapies 

Ventana Medical Systems, Inc. 

Development of diagnostic tests in personalized oncology treatment 

Wilmer Eye Institute of Johns Hopkins 
University 

Research and development of innovative drug products to treat serious 
back-of-the-eye diseases 

Science and cooperation centers 
In addition to these cooperations, we operate our own science and innovation centers. We co-
ordinate primarily our research partnerships in Asia through our innovation centers in Beijing, 
China; Singapore; and Osaka, Japan. In Berlin, Germany, and San Francisco, California, United 
States, we operate the CoLaborator™, an incubator model for young life science companies. 
The objective of the global CoLaborator™ concept is to offer these companies suitable labora-
tory and office infrastructure in the direct vicinity of Bayer’s own research facilities and the op-
portunity to exchange experiences with Bayer experts. 

In the area of crowdsourcing, we established another global initiative named 
Grants4Indications™ in February 2016. This program promotes the exploration of new thera-
peutic indications for Bayer’s active ingredients. We are also continuing the Grants4Apps™, 
Grants4Targets™ and PartnerYourAntibodies™ programs. In 2016, we launched the AACR-
Bayer Innovation and Discovery Grants together with the American Association for Cancer Re-
search (AACR). The objective is to develop new treatment options for cancers with high medi-
cal need. In addition, the East Coast Innovation Center was established in 2016 in Cam-
bridge/Boston, Massachusetts, United States. 

In the area of venture capital, we are active with the “High-Tech Gründerfonds” and Versant 
Ventures. 

Further information on  
this can be found at: 
www.innovate.bayer.com/
what-we-offer 

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
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Bayer worldwide; see 
also A 1.1.1/1 

See also A 1.1.2 

Group target 2016: 
transition of  
20 consumer-validated 
concepts into early 
development  

Bayer worldwide; see 
also A 1.1.1/1 

Consumer Health 
Our development activities for nonprescription (OTC) products focus primarily on the areas of 
dermatology, dietary supplements, pain relief, gastrointestinal complaints, allergy relief and cold 
symptoms, as well as foot and sun care products. Developments aligned to the desires and 
needs of consumers range from new formulations, delivery forms and solutions for specific cus-
tomer requirements to new packaging designs, technical applications (apps, Custom Fit Kiosk for 
Dr. Scholl’s™ products) and medical devices. Consumer Health maintains a global network of 
research and development facilities, with sites in the United States, France, Germany and China. 

Transitioning of current prescription medicines to OTC status (Rx-to-OTC switches) forms an inte-
gral part of our innovation strategy designed to offer new self-care solutions to consumers. In 
2016, we were able to realize 30 new consumer-validated concepts and thus exceeded the target 
we had set. 

In 2016, we introduced a number of new product line extensions for existing brands in various 
markets, including as follows:  

The April 2016 expansion of our Claritin™ portfolio in the United States included ClariSpray™, a 
24-hour nasal spray for treatment of allergy symptoms. 

We began marketing Aleve™ Direct Therapy in the United States in June 2016, thereby expanding 
our range of analgesic products. This medical device for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimula-
tion is used to help relieve lower back pain and tension. 

We expanded our Alka-Seltzer™ product family in the United States in July 2016 to include an-
other cold medicine in the Alka-Seltzer Plus™ line. 

We launched the new 2-phase system for Elevit™ (Elevit™1 and Elevit™2) in Germany in October 
2016. These two complementary products for the healthy development of babies are specially 
tailored to the increased nutrient requirements of women in the conception and pregnancy phases. 

Crop Science 
Crop Science maintains a global network of research and development facilities. While research is 
carried out centrally at a few dedicated sites, development of crop protection products as well as 
plant breeding and trait development activities take place both at these sites and at numerous 
field testing and breeding stations in all regions. Our scientists working across the areas of seed 
traits, seed technology, seed breeding, agricultural chemistry and biologics closely collaborate as 
part of our integrated research approach. This optimally combines complementary technical ex-
pertise from chemical and biological research and development.  

To develop better agronomic recommendations for farmers, we develop, for example, digital prod-
ucts and services that help them with analyses and the evaluation of conditions in the field and 
provide them with extensive geographical information that enables better decision-making for 
mastering a variety of challenges.  

At Crop Protection, we pursue the goal of identifying and developing innovative, safe and sustain-
able active ingredients for use as insecticides, fungicides, herbicides and crop efficiency products 
by foliar and soil application as well as seed treatment. Here, we use research methods such as 
high-throughput screening and computational life sciences for the identification and optimization 
of new chemical and microbial leads. In addition, we expand the area of applications for our active 
ingredients and their performance through new mixtures and through the development of innova-
tive formulations. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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In Seeds we are conducting research to optimize plant traits and are developing new varieties in 
cotton, oilseed rape / canola, soybeans, rice, wheat and vegetables. Our researchers are working 
both on increasing the yield potential of crops and on enhancing the quality of the crop. Examples 
include altering the profile of rapeseed / canola oil or enhancing the properties of cotton fibers. We 
are also targeting the development of plants that deliver higher yields under occasionally adverse 
climatic conditions. Further areas of focus include developing new herbicide tolerance and insect 
resistance traits based on novel modes of action, and improving disease tolerance. 

Environmental Science further develops substances either from our own agricultural portfolio  
or from external partners for professional uses in non-agricultural areas. This includes solutions 
for controlling pests such as cockroaches or rodents in public areas and the food industry, or to  
control weeds on roads or railways. In the area of vector control, we develop solutions with re-
sistance-breaking properties for controlling mosquitoes that can transmit malaria, dengue fever 
or Zika.  

Research and development pipeline  
Our product pipeline contains numerous new crop protection products, seed varieties and en-
hanced products (life cycle management). We estimate the combined peak sales potential of 
products with launch dates between 2015 and 2020 to be more than €5 billion. In 2016, we 
launched confirmatory technical proof-of-concept field studies for four active ingredients and one 
new crop trait, thus exceeding our Group target. A new plant trait is a specific characteristic that 
has not yet been available or offered at Bayer for the crop plant in question. The following table 
shows selected new products that are expected to be launched by 2020.  

Product Innovation Pipeline 

1 

Market launch 

Product group 

Indication / crop 

Product / plant trait 

A 1.3/6

2017 

2017 

2017 

2017 

2017 

2018 

2018 

2019 

2019 

2019 

2019 

2019 

2019 

2020 

Biological crop protection 

Insecticide 

BioAct™ Liquid 

Seeds 

Seeds 

Seeds 

Seeds 

Seeds 

Seeds 

Cotton 

Rice 

Rice 

Soybeans 

Glytol TwinLink Plus™  
(dual herbicide tolerance and insect 
resistance) 

Pest resistance and disease tolerance 
(native traits) 

Flood tolerance (native trait) 

Balance™ GT  
(dual herbicide tolerance) 

Oilseed rape / canola 

Dual herbicide tolerance 

Rice 

Salt tolerance (native trait) 

Chemical crop protection 

Insecticide 

Chemical crop protection 

Fungicide 

Tetraniliprole 

Tiviant™ 

Seeds 

Seeds 

Seeds 

Seeds 

Seeds 

Oilseed rape / canola 

Herbicide tolerance 

Oilseed rape / canola 

New oil profile (native trait) 

Rice 

Soybeans 

Dual disease tolerance (native trait) 

Triple herbicide tolerance 

Oilseed rape / canola 

Dual herbicide tolerance 

1 Planned market launch of selected new products 
As of January 30, 2017 

Group target 2016: 
transfer of 3 new molec-
ular entities (NMEs), 
plant traits or biologics 
into confirmatory tech-
nical proof-of-concept 
field studies; 
see also A 1.2.1 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
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New products and registrations 
In 2016, Crop Science received marketing authorization in certain countries for new mixtures and 
formulations, as well as for expanded indications for existing products. For example, we were 
granted authorization to market the herbicide indaziflam and its core brand AlionTM in Brazil and 
the new herbicide mixture DiFlexxTM Duo in corn in the United States. The herbicide active ingredi-
ent triafamone and its CouncilTM formulations were approved in Japan. We also received further 
marketing authorizations and the approval of expanded indications for the biological fungicide 
SerenadeTM ASO in various countries and for the nematicide VelumTM prime in southern Europe 
and Africa. 

In July 2016, furthermore, the European Commission approved the dual herbicide tolerance trait 
Balance™ GT in soybeans for food and feed uses. Balance™ GT is owned by MS Technologies 
and is being codeveloped through a joint development agreement between that company and 
Bayer. The launch of soybeans with this new trait is planned for 2017, pending approval by the 
regulatory authorities. 

Major success can be achieved with vegetables and many broad-acre crops using conventional 
and molecular plant breeding methods. As vegetables are intended especially to be marketed and 
eaten fresh, merchants and consumers have particularly strict requirements and expectations 
regarding their taste, appearance, nutrient content and shelf life. We continuously launch new 
vegetable seed varieties with these quality traits. In addition, we launch numerous new broad-acre 
crop varieties every year. 

Environmental Science expanded its product range for forestry in Indonesia, Argentina and Brazil 
by launching the herbicide Esplanade™ F. Furthermore, the two new products DerigoTM and  
PistolTM Flexx supplemented our portfolio for vegetation control in noncrop areas. We are continu-
ously expanding our range of products for the maintenance of golf courses by developing and 
introducing various innovative solutions such as the nematicide IndemifyTM and the fungicide  
ExterisTM in the United States. We are also supporting professional pest control around the world 
by expanding the MaxforceTM range of insecticides. 

Cooperations 
Crop Science is part of a global network of partners from diverse segments of the agricultural 
industry and academic research.  

Crop Science: Important Cooperations 

A 1.3/7

Partner 

CSIRO 

Elemental Enzymes 

GRDC 

IVCC 

Targenomix 

Embrapa 

Cooperation objective 

Increase in wheat yields by means of native plant traits – discovery, 
validation and integration 

Use of microbes to improve soil health and thereby increase crop 
productivity 

Herbicide Innovation Partnership for the discovery and development of 
innovative weed management solutions 

Joint development of new substances to control mosquitoes that transmit 
diseases such as malaria and dengue fever 

Development and application of systems biology approaches to achieve a 
better understanding of metabolic processes in plants 

Cooperation on several R&D objectives in various areas of relevance for 
agriculture in Brazil, e.g. Asian soybean rust 

Jülich Research Center 

Planetary Resources International 

Research collaboration focused on phenotyping for plant breeding, research 
into plant traits and the development of biologicals 

Decision-making aids for farmers that enable more targeted deployment of 
crop protection products in fields using satellite technology 

See also A 1.3  
“Global open innovation 
network” 

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
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 Online Annex: A 1.3-5 
We formed new partnerships in 2016: in April 2016, Crop Science announced a five-year re-
search partnership with the Institute of Geography and the Department of Informatics of the 
University of Hamburg that is aimed at jointly developing new digital solutions for agriculture 
based on geoinformatics methods and models. These enable the IT-based visualization of the 
consequences of agricultural processes using relevant geobasic data such as soil, climate, land 
relief and usage parameters. In September 2016, Crop Science announced a five-year research 
partnership with the Jülich Research Center in Germany that is focused on phenotyping for 
plant breeding, research into plant traits and the development of biologicals. In October 2016, 
Bayer and the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences announced a research collaboration 
aimed at better understanding the genetic factors that impact wheat yields so that these can 
be increased. 

In our open innovation initiatives Grants4Targets and Grants4Traits, we invite partners from ac-
ademic research institutes, start-ups and other companies to join us and together drive innova-
tion in the areas of crop protection and trait development. By investing in venture capital funds, 
furthermore, we support up-and-coming companies in agricultural technologies. We have de-
veloped various venture capital funds with partners such as Flagship Ventures, Trendlines and 
Finistere Ventures LLC. 

Animal Health 
At Animal Health we focus our research and development activities on antiparasitics, antibiotics, 
medicines to treat noninfectious disorders and nonantibiotic alternatives for infectious diseases. 
We endeavor to improve the health and well-being of companion and farm animals through inno-
vations that also include digital solutions. Here Animal Health also pursues the “one health” con-
cept: we offer animal health products that reduce the risk of transmission of disease pathogens to 
humans, such as endoparasiticides for cats and dogs or ectoparasiticides to protect especially 
against fleas and ticks. Through our initiative focusing on companion vector-borne diseases 
(CVBD) and with the leading global scientists who participate in this initiative, we are setting 
trends in the establishment of scientific principles and the fight against vector-borne diseases. 

Our central research activities are conducted through the Life Sciences platform in conjunction 
with the research and development department at Pharmaceuticals and in close collaboration with 
Crop Science.  

New products and registrations 
In January 2017, the European regulatory authorities approved a new product to protect honey 
bees against the Varroa mite. Before the product can be marketed, this decision must be imple-
mented in national law. 

Cooperations 
Animal Health reinforces its business by continually identifying further product development candi-
dates through new and existing collaborations.  

In May 2016, we entered into an agreement with BioNTech AG, Germany, to develop novel mRNA 
vaccines and therapeutics specifically for veterinary medicine applications. 

Also in May 2016, we signed a global license agreement with TransferTech Sherbrooke, Quebec, 
Canada, to advance a novel vaccine candidate developed at Université de Sherbrooke. The new 
vaccine is intended to help protect dairy cattle from mastitis caused by the bacterium Staphylo-
coccus aureus. 

www.cvbd.org 

 
 
 
 
 
 
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Bayer Annual Report 2016

Covestro 
Innovation is a core element of Covestro’s strategy. The company is accounting for current and 
future needs and trends through systematic innovation management, a strong global presence 
with major innovation centers and pronounced customer centricity.  

With the objective of maintaining and building on its own competitive position, Covestro continu-
ously works to achieve innovations and improvements in products and in production and pro-
cessing techniques, as well as with respect to business models and processes. The main goals 
here are to improve the performance of products and processes, increase their cost efficiency and 
open up new areas of application. 

The focus in the Polyurethanes Business Unit (BU) is partly on increasing the flame retardance and 
insulation properties of the materials it supplies. The business unit is also researching alternatives 
to petrochemical raw materials. The Polycarbonates BU focuses mainly on reducing the weight of 
the relevant materials, increasing their energy efficiency and safety, and expanding design options. 
The Coatings, Adhesives, Specialties BU concentrates on further developing its own technology 
platforms and the related products in order, for example, to increase their efficiency and sustaina-
bility.  

Cooperation is integral to the innovation management concept of Covestro. The company closely 
cooperates with customers, scientific institutions, start-up companies and academic spin-offs.  

1.4 Sustainable Conduct 

1.4.1 Commitment to Employees and Society 

>  Attracting, developing and retaining the best managers and employees 
>  Corporate culture: dialogue, diversity, innovation 
>  Creating attractive working conditions 
>  Wide-ranging societal engagement 

Our business success is based to a large extent on the knowledge, skills, commitment and satis-
faction of our employees. As a modern international employer, we offer our employees attractive 
conditions and wide-ranging individual development opportunities. The key to this is our highly 
effective system of vocational and ongoing training, which we are continuously extending. Along-
side professional training, we focus on conveying our corporate values (LIFE) and establishing a 
dialogue-oriented corporate culture based on trust, respect for diversity and equality of oppor-
tunity. That plays a part in employee satisfaction – along with our responsible approach to struc-
turing working conditions, which includes fair and respectful treatment at work, a transparent, 
competitive and equitable compensation system, company pension plans, the ability to combine 
working with family commitments, flexible worktime arrangements and a working environment 
that fosters health.  

 
 
 
 
 
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Our global human resources strategy is designed to help us meet business needs in the future as 
well. It is adopted by the primary decision-making body of Bayer’s HR function, the HR Leader-
ship Team, which also sets binding policies and defines priorities for all regions and organizational 
units. The HR Leadership Team is led by the Head of Human Resources & Organization. Our 
Group-wide Employee Survey, which is normally conducted about every two years, and our insti-
tutionalized feedback discussions and analyses aim to achieve a steady rise in satisfaction with 
Bayer as an employer. They enable us to monitor the effectiveness of our activities and make any 
necessary improvements. Focal areas include strengthening our innovation culture, which provides 
a trustful basis that encourages creativity, experimentation, collaboration and customer focus in all 
areas. In the most recent Employee Survey we received an employee satisfaction rating of 87%, 
thereby achieving our Group target. 

GRI G4-26 

Group target:  
continuous improvement 
in employee satisfaction; 
see also A 1.2.1 

As well as promoting our competitiveness, our forward-looking human resources strategy reflects 
our social responsibility to provide secure employment and stable incomes, and to foster social 
integration. We are also committed to supporting the general well-being of our employees with a 
wide range of projects and initiatives in the central areas of health, education and meeting basic 
social needs.  

Employee data 
Slight reduction in Group headcount 
On December 31, 2016, Bayer employed approximately 115,200 people worldwide (2015: 
116,600), a slight decrease from the prior year. In Germany we had some 37,000 employees 
(2015: approximately 36,600), which was 32.1% of the total Group workforce (2015: 31.4%). 

There was a reduction in the number of employees in the Asia / Pacific, Latin America and North 
America regions, but a slight increase in the Europe / MiddleEast / Africa region. While the head-
count in the Consumer Health, Crop Science, Covestro and Pharmaceuticals segments de-
creased, there was an increase in the number of employees included in the Reconciliation and at 
Animal Health. The breakdown by function shows fewer employees working in sales and more in 
R&D. The proportion of women in the workforce was unchanged from the previous year at 37%. 
Similarly, in 2016 there was no significant change in the age structure compared with the previous 
year. 

On the reporting date, our employees had worked for the Bayer Group for an average of eleven 
years. The level of voluntary fluctuation (employee-driven terminations) was 4.6% in 2016 (2015: 
5.0%), slightly below the previous year’s figure. The overall fluctuation rate was 12.3%, a decrease 
of 1.6 percentage points compared with the previous year. This figure includes all employer- and 
employee-driven terminations, retirements and deaths. This shows that we were again successful 
in retaining staff in the company for long periods. Our workforce only includes a small number of 
employees on temporary contracts and hardly any temporary employees from staffing agencies.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Employee Data 

Total 

2015

2016

116,600

115,200

by Region

10.9%  Latin America

23.8%  Asia / Pacific

13.7%  North America

by Segment

51.6%   Europe /   

Middle East / Africa

2016

Europe / 
Middle East /Africa

North America 

Asia / Pacific 

Latin America 

2015

2016

58,800

16,000

28,800

13,000

59,500

15,800

27,400

12,500

13.5%  Covestro

34.8%  Pharmaceuticals

2016

2016

17.6%  Reconciliation

3.5%  Animal Health

19.5%  Crop Science

by Function

8.3%  General administration

13.2% R&D

34.9% Marketing and

distribution

by Gender

37.4%  Women

2016

Pharmaceuticals 

Consumer Health

Crop Science 

Animal Health 

Reconciliation 

Life Sciences 

11.1%  Consumer 

Covestro 

Health

Production 

Marketing and 
distribution 

43.6%  Production

R&D 

General 
administration 

2015

40,500

13,500

23,300

3,800

19,700

100,800

15,800

2016

40,100

12,800

22,400

4,000

20,300

99,600

15,600

2015

2016

50,600

50,200

41,700

14,700

40,200

15,200

9,600

9,600

Women

2015

2016

2015

62.6 %  Men

Europe / 
Middle East /Africa

22,100

22,300

36,700

37,200

North America 

6,200

6,200

9,700

9,600

Asia / Pacific 

Latin America 

Total 

10,400

10,000

18,500

17,400

4,900

4,600

8,100

7,900

43,600

43,100

73,000

72,100

A 1.4.1/1

Change
in %

– 1.2

Change
in %

+ 1.2

– 1.3

– 4.9

– 3.8

Change 
in %

– 1.0

–  5.2

–  3.9

+ 5.3

+ 3.0

–  1.2

–  1.3

Change
in %

– 0.8

– 3.6

+ 3.4

0.0

Men

2016

by Age Group in %

Fluctuation in %

30

30

28

27

23

24

30

25

20

15

10

5

15

14

0.1 0.1

4

5

In % 

Women 

Men 

Total 

Voluntary

2015

2016

5.8

4.5

5.0

5.2

4.3

4.6

Total

2016

12.9

12.0

12.3

2015

13.9

13.9

13.9

< 20

20 – 29

30 – 39 40 – 49 50 – 59

> 60

2015

2016

2015 figures restated; values rounded to the nearest hundred; number of employees in full-time equivalents (FTE) 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

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1.4 Sustainable Conduct

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 Online Annex: A 1.4.1-1 

A 1.4.1-1/1

Employees 

1 by Employment Status, Region and Gender 2016 

Europe / Middle East / Africa  

North America 

Asia / Pacific 

Latin America 

Total 

Permanent employees

Temporary employees

Women

21,200

6,100

9,700

4,400

Men

35,800

9,500

16,900

7,000

Total

Women

57,000

15,600

26,600

11,400

1,100

100

300

200

Men

1,400

100

500

900

41,400

69,200

110,600

1,700

2,900

Total 

2,500 

200 

800 

1,100 

4,600 

1 The number of employees on either permanent or temporary contracts is stated in full-time equivalents (FTE) and rounded to the 

nearest hundred. Part-time employees are included on a prorated basis in line with their contractual working hours. 

The next table contains further information on the breakdown of employee fluctuation by region, 
gender and age. 

A 1.4.1-1/2

Employee Fluctuation 

1 by Region, Gender and Age Group 

% 

Women 

< 30 

2 

30 – 49 

>= 50 

3 

Men 

< 30 

2 

30 – 49 

>= 50 

3 

Total 

Europe / Middle 
East / Africa 

North America

Asia / Pacific 

Latin America

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

8.3

20.4

7.0

5.5

8.0

9.4

17.8

9.2

6.2

7.3

28.7

17.9

6.1

5.2

8.1

6.2

5.8

8.1

15.7

36.1

14.1

13.2

13.2

35.8

10.0

12.8

14.2

15.5

22.8

13.7

16.5

14.3

25.6

11.1

15.8

14.8

22.2

24.9

20.4

29.1

23.6

31.3

21.7

17.2

23.1

17.6

21.0

16.1

18.9

18.6

27.6

16.5

13.8

18.3

19.2

29.1

17.4

12.9

19.2

31.4

16.0

19.4

19.2

15.9

22.7

14.5

14.3

17.4

28.3

13.8

20.5

16.8

13.9

24.5

12.6

9.1

13.9

30.7

12.3

8.7

13.9

Total

2016

12.9

20.0

12.2

9.8

12.0

23.8

10.7

9.3

12.3

1 The data include all employer- and employee-driven terminations, retirements and deaths. 
2 The comparatively high proportion of employees in the < 30 age group is due to the inclusion of employees on temporary 

contracts (working for 2 – 6 months of the year) and other short-term employees. It does not include apprentices. 

3 The fluctuation rates for the >= 50 age group are mainly due to retirements. 

At our significant locations of operation, we use temporary personnel from staffing agencies on 
a small scale, primarily in response to short-term personnel requirements, fluctuations in order 
levels, temporary projects or long-term illness. In Germany, temporary staff make up 2.4% of 
the total workforce. At our significant locations of operation, the average is 3.5 %. 

Significant locations of 
operation: see Glossary 

Attracting, developing and retaining the best managers and employees  
Employer branding targets both current and prospective employees 
Innovations, changing customer requirements and a strong competitive environment are just some 
of the reasons why we welcome open-minded employees who question the status quo. A profes-
sional approach to attracting suitable talents is key to this. In 2016, we established our uniform 
employer brand “Passion to Innovate | Power to Change” around the world. This expresses what 
we expect of our employees and, at the same time, what we as a company offer them. We use 
our employer branding internally to enhance employee identification and externally to position the 
company on the employment market. In total, the Bayer Group hired 12,012 new employees in 
2016.  

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
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Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Online Annex: A 1.4.1-2 

New Hires 

1 by Region and Gender 

North America

Asia / Pacific 

Latin America 

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

Europe / Middle 
East / Africa

2015

2,513

1,179

1,221

114

3,480

1,815

1,452

212

2016

2,318

1,147

1,058

113

3,057

1,634

1,246

177

2015

1,024

308

515

201

754

220

366

168

1,406

1,008

503

597

307

316

478

214

1,569

1,265

937

611

21

2,762

1,709

1,009

45

697

543

24

2,026

1,114

888

23

666

375

286

5

1,082

611

452

19

599

318

278

3

986

523

437

26

A 1.4.1-2/1

Total

2016

4,936

2,383

2,245

308

7,076

3,587

3,049

440

2015

5,772

2,798

2,634

341

8,729

4,638

3,509

583

Women 

< 30 

30 – 49 

>= 50 

Men 

< 30 

30 – 49 

>= 50 

Total 

5,994

5,375

2,430

1,762

4,330

3,291

1,748

1,584

14,502

12,012

2015 figures restated 
The figures also include the discontinued operations. 
1 Converted into full-time equivalents (FTE) 

Our excellent reputation as an employer is shown by numerous external surveys, awards and 
accolades. 

www.bayer.com/career 

www.bayer.com/training 

High level of vocational and ongoing training 
Vocational training plays a key role at Bayer in order to meet the need for skilled employees. We 
provide sound training in more than 20 different occupations and offer more vocational training 
places than required to meet our needs. In Germany alone, around 1,145 young people embarked 
on a vocational training course at Bayer in 2016. In addition, Bayer offers trainee programs in 
Germany in areas such as financial management, human resources and engineering. Furthermore 
we give young people an opportunity to gain an early insight into a practical work environment. 
Overall, we provided some 2,800 professional internships for students around the world in 2016.(cid:3) 

Significant locations of 
operation: see Glossary   

A key aim of our personnel development strategy is to create an environment where all employees 
have the opportunity to develop their full potential. In the spirit of “lifelong learning”, we help em-
ployees in all fields broaden their knowledge and skills and keep up with the latest changes 
throughout their working lives. Support ranges from knowledge sharing and peer learning to pro-
grams that take up new trends and perspectives. On average, employees at our significant loca-
tions of operation received 22.1 hours of vocational and ongoing training in 2016. 

 Online Annex: A 1.4.1-3 
At the heart of our ongoing training concept is the Group-wide Bayer Academy, which bundles 
our extensive continuing education offerings for employees and which was once again honored 
with the renowned Brandon Hall Group Excellence Award in bronze in 2016. Alongside system-
atic development of managerial employees, it offers continuous professional training through 
various functional academies. In 2016, the average cost of training per employee was approxi-
mately €409. The next table contains a further breakdown of vocational and ongoing training. 

 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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1.4 Sustainable Conduct

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Training Activities in Hours in 2016 by Employee Group and Gender 

1 

Employee group 

Senior management 

Junior management 

Specialists 

Overall average 

A 1.4.1-3/1

Women

Men

Total

24.3

30.9

20.2

23.7

16.7

28.5

15.8

19.6

18.6

29.5

17.5

21.2

The figures also include the discontinued operations. 
1 Selected training activities in the countries covered by the global training system, in which we generated approximately 72% of 

our sales in 2016; the gender-specific averages assume 50% women and 50% men for the United States and Japan as statutory 
regulations preclude differentiation by gender in these countries. 

Development Dialogue and feedback on performance 
The aim of the Development Dialogue is to define possible perspectives for further career devel-
opment as a basis for a development plan that fosters employees’ personal strengths and ad-
dresses areas in which they would like to develop further. Some 31,000 Development Dialogues 
were held and documented in 2016.   

Specific and differentiated feedback forms the basis for positive personal development. Bayer 
encourages a culture of candid feedback to help employees achieve their individual goals within 
the framework of corporate targets. This is supported by our Group-wide performance manage-
ment system, which includes obligatory feedback discussions where employees receive meaning-
ful feedback from their supervisors on fulfillment of their professional and behavioral objectives. 
This assessment also determines the level of their variable compensation. In 2016, this system 
covered about 63% of our total workforce. Of the participants 45% were female and 55% male. 

Development Dialogues 
were held in 2016. 

of all Bayer employees 
take part in performance 
feedback. 

Wide-ranging career opportunities 
Thanks to our wide-ranging business activities, we offer employees throughout the Group good 
opportunities for development. Vacancies throughout the Bayer Group, from nonmanagerial right 
up to senior management level, are advertised via a globally accessible platform. In 2016, around 
11,700 vacancies in 63 countries were posted here. International assignments are also an im-
portant element in employee development. Around 1,000 employees around the world participat-
ed in international assignments in 2016.  

Bayer employees  
on international 
assignments 

Corporate culture: dialogue, diversity, innovation 
Ethical standards established 
Fairness and respect are central elements of our corporate culture. That includes observing Group-
wide standards of conduct and protecting employees from discrimination, harassment and retalia-
tion. These standards are set forth in the corporate policy on Fairness and Respect at Work. 

Communication at all levels 
We involve our employees in business processes through active dialogue and further develop 
employee communication formats. The previously separate intranet sites for different countries 
and companies have been combined in a single platform covering all employee needs. Informing 
staff promptly and extensively about upcoming changes, in compliance with the applicable nation-
al and international regulations, is very important to us. We engage in open and trustful dialogue 
with employee representatives.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
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GRI G4-26 

 Online Annex: A 1.4.1-4 
The main dialogue formats are regular employee assemblies, information events for managers 
and the European Forum, where employee representatives from all European sites engage in 
discussion with the Board of Management on issues of central relevance to the company. 

Our employees actively use opportunities to discuss company-specific issues and scope for 
optimization via various communication channels. For example, Bayer fosters a culture of inno-
vation at the workplace through two platforms for employee suggestions: the Bayer Ideas Pool 
and the Ideas Forum. The suggestions made by employees on improving processes, occu-
pational safety and health protection are rewarded and utilized. In total, 3,408 ideas were sub-
mitted in 2016. Around 45% of the suggestions for improvement evaluated in 2016 were im-
plemented. In the first year of implementation alone, those improvements that led to 
quantifiable benefits generated savings of more than €13 million. In 2016, Bayer distributed bo-
nuses of around €1.7 million for the implemented proposals. Another example of employee par-
ticipation is the Board of Management's appeal to all employees to submit suggestions on im-
proving the Group-wide performance management system via the “WeSolve” platform. 

Diversity and internationality are hallmarks of Bayer 
A diverse employee structure is vital for our company’s competitiveness. By embracing diversity 
we improve our understanding of changing markets and consumer groups, gain access to a 
broader pool of talented people and benefit from the enhanced innovative and problem-solving 
abilities that are demonstrably associated with high cultural diversity. Mutual understanding and a 
gender and cultural balance, especially at management level, are important success factors. We 
have an inclusive approach: diversity is integrated into all relevant human resources processes 
and driven forward by the management.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.1-5 
Bayer has officially adopted the United Nations’ Women’s Empowerment Principles, a set of 
seven principles that sum up how women can be strengthened in the workplace, on the em-
ployment market and in the community. The company is also a founding member of the Ger-
man “Chefsache” network sponsored by the German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Its members 
are committed to working together to develop practically oriented strategies to drive diversity 
and gender balance in their organizations. 

Overall, the Bayer Group employs people from around 150 different nations. Around 21% of our 
senior managers come from outside Western Europe, the United States and Canada. We aim to 
increase this to 25% by 2020 in accordance with our Group target. At our significant locations of 
operation we hired 390 employees for senior management, 70% of whom are employed in their 
country of origin. 

Group-wide, Bayer had raised the proportion of women at senior management level to around 
29% by the end of 2016 (2015: 28%). Without Covestro the proportion was 31%. Our aim is to 
raise this to 35% by 2020.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.1-6 
Of the members of our Group Leadership Circle – the senior management level below the 
Board of Management – in which 31 nationalities are currently represented, around 67% come 
from the country in which they are employed. The proportion of women also increased in the 
Group Leadership Circle. By year-end 2016, it was made up of 84% men (2010: 93%) and 16% 
women (2010: 7%). 

Diversity: see Glossary  

Group target 2020: 
increase in the propor-
tion of senior managers 
from outside the Euro-
pean Union, the United 
States or Canada to 
25%; see also A 1.2.1  

Group target 2020: 
increase the proportion 
of women in senior 
management to 35%; 
see also A 1.2.1 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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1.4 Sustainable Conduct

Augmented Version

The next table shows the proportion of men and women in various employee categories. 

A 1.4.1-6/1

A 1.4.1-6/2

Bayer Group Workforce Structure 

1 

Senior management 

Junior management 

Skilled employees 

Total 

Apprentices 

2015

3,100

11,300

29,200

43,600

800

Women

2016

3,300

11,400

28,400

43,100

800

2015

8,000

16,600

48,400

73,000

1,800

Men

2016

8,100

16,600

47,400

72,100

1,800

2015

11,100

27,900

77,600

Total

2016

11,400

28,000

75,800

116,600

115,200

2,600

2,600

2015 figures restated 
1 Number of employees converted into full-time equivalents (FTE) and rounded to the nearest hundred 

Proportion of Women in the
Workforce 2016
%

63

37

71

29

Total
(115,200 FTEs) 

Senior
management
(11,400 FTEs)

Women

Men

Creating attractive working conditions 
Competitive compensation and variable pay  
Our compensation system combines a basic salary reflecting performance and responsibility with 
elements based on the company’s success, plus extensive additional benefits. Adjustments based 
on continuous benchmarking make our compensation internationally competitive. 

We attach great importance to equal pay for men and women, providing fair and competitive 
compensation and informing our employees transparently about the overall structure of their com-
pensation.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.1-7 

Binding and transparent compensation structures 
At Bayer, individual salaries are based on each employee’s personal and professional abilities 
and the level of responsibility assigned to them. At managerial level, this is based on uniform 
evaluation of all positions throughout the Group using the internationally recognized Hay meth-
od. In areas of the Group and jobs that fall within the scope of a binding collective bargaining 
agreement, there are no differences in pay based on gender either. This also applies for the 
compensation of apprentices. In the Emerging Markets and developing countries, too, com-
pensation levels are aligned to local market conditions. In the majority of cases, full- and part-
time employees at our significant locations of operation receive the same rates of pay. The situ-
ation differs with regard to employees on temporary contracts as they are not entitled to long-
term compensation components such as pension plans in some countries. 

Our compensation concept also includes variable one-time payments. More than €1,400 million is 
earmarked for bonus awards to employees for 2016 under the Group-wide short-term incentive 
(STI) program. In many countries, employee stock programs enable our staff to purchase Bayer 
shares at a discount. We also offer senior managers throughout the Group “Aspire,” a uniform 
long-term compensation program based on the development of the share price.  

Our personnel expenses for continuing operations amounted to €11,357 million in 2016 (2015: 
€11,176 million). The change was mainly due to salary adjustments and higher employee bonus-
es, which together outweighed currency effects. 

Significant locations of 
operation: see Glossary 

Short-term incentive 
program: see Glossary   

See also Note 12 to  
B Consolidated Financial 
Statements 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
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Bayer Annual Report 2016

See also Note 25 to   
B Consolidated Financial 
Statements 

Alongside attractive compensation for their work, Bayer contributes to the financial security of its 
present and former employees after their retirement. The present value of total pension obligations 
at the end of 2016 was €28,995 million. Personnel expenses in 2016 included pension expenses of 
€1,064 million. Payments of €1,131 million were made in 2016 to current retirees. 

Personnel Expenses and Pension Obligations 

€ million 

Personnel expenses 

of which pension expenses 

Pension obligations  

1 

Pension benefits paid 

2012

9,194

681

2013

9,430

897

2014

9,693

834

22,588

20,682

27,771

887

925

942

2015

11,176

1,060

26,809

997

2015 figures restated; figures for 2012–2014 as last reported 
1 Present value of defined benefit obligations for pensions and other post-employment benefits 

A 1.4.1/2

2016

11,357

1,064

28,995

1,131

Work-life balance  
Present and future employees attach great importance to achieving a balance between employ-
ment and their personal and family lives. In many countries our commitment in this area goes well 
beyond the statutory requirements. We offer our employees flexible working hours and support in 
child care and caring for close relatives.  

In 2015, Bayer introduced uniform conditions for short-term mobile working in Germany through a 
new General Works Agreement with the Works Council. In addition, employees in Germany can 
convert part of their salary into free time through the “BayZeit” long-term account. There are simi-
lar programs in other countries as well.  

In 2016, the Bayer Group had some 10,700 part-time employees, in particular in Europe. This 
figure represents 9% of the total headcount.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.1-8 

Percentage of Part-Time Employees by Region and Gender 

% 

Europe / Middle East / Africa  

North America 

Asia / Pacific 

Latin America 

Total 

2015 figures restated 

Women

2016

23.8

1.3

2.6

0.1

13.5

2015

23.0

1.2

2.1

0.1

12.7

2015

11.6

0.2

0.1

0.0

6.0

Men

2016

12.2

0.1

0.2

0.0

6.5

A 1.4.1-8/1

Total

2016

16.7

0.6

1.1

0.1

9.1

2015

16.0

0.6

0.8

0.0

8.5

Bayer enables both men and women to take parental leave. Since national parental leave regula-
tions vary widely from country to country, we only compile data for our significant locations of 
operation. These represent a selection of countries in which we generate around 81% of our 
sales. 1,621 women and 687 men at these locations took parental leave in 2016. By the end of 
the year, around 1,583 employees on parental leave had returned to work.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
  
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1.4 Sustainable Conduct

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 Online Annex: A 1.4.1-9 
The next table shows the number of employees who have returned after the standard statutory 
parental leave program of up to three years per child and Bayer’s more far-reaching “Family & 
Career” model (up to six years), using Germany as an example. By the end of 2016, 70.4% had 
returned to work. 50.6% of women and 94.2% of men who took parental leave in 2014 re-
turned to work. 

Employees Returning from Parental Leave using Germany as an Example    

A 1.4.1-9/1

Employees who have taken parental leave
since 2014 

  Still on parental leave /  
  with a dormant employment contract 

Returned by 2016 

Terminated 

1 

Women

Men

Total

% Absolute

% Absolute

% Absolute

54.5

1,101

45.5

918

100.0

2,019

43.5

50.6

5.9

479

557

65

4.8

94.2

1.0

44

865

9

25.9

70.4

3.7

523

1,422

74

1 Includes employees who have left the company due to employer- and employee-driven terminations, severance agreements and 

expiration of contracts 

The General Works Agreement on caring for close relatives helps Bayer employees in Germany to 
combine working with their role as carers.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.1-10 
Our employees can take up to 10 days’ paid leave to provide emergency care for family mem-
bers. For longer periods, they are entitled to work part-time. During this time, their salary is 
topped up by drawing funds from their long-term account. Alternatively, employees who need 
to care for close relatives full-time can take unpaid leave for up to six months (up to one year in 
exceptional cases). 

Initiatives to promote health and ensure safe working conditions  
Our occupational health management activities include many regular preventive programs, ranging 
from ergonomic workplaces and stress management to incentive systems to promote healthy 
behavior.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.1-11 
The “Healthy at Bayer” initiative helps employees in Germany take action at work to promote 
their health, with offerings ranging from preventive check-ups through programs to encourage 
healthy eating to exercise at sports clubs supported by Bayer. Health management also in-
cludes support for treating illnesses and reintegration measures.  

We have activities and programs to enhance the health and vitality of our employees in many 
countries. One example is “B Well” in the United States, where individual health targets are de-
fined and programs are specially designed to achieve them. The health and personal develop-
ment of employees in Mexico is supported by “Vive con Bien Estar,” a broadly based initiative 
by the Human Resources, Medical Services, Security and Communications units. 

We aim to provide employees in all countries with access to affordable and targeted health offer-
ings such as regular medical check-ups, sports programs, rehabilitation and on-site medical care. 
We also ensure safe working conditions and thus an environment where our employees can work 
without fear and undertake international business travel without risk. Our employee representa-
tives are included in operational health management and are actively involved in its development.  

 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
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 Online Annex: A 1.4.1-12 

Binding agreements at Group level 
The Bayer European Forum – which brings together management and employee representa-
tives – has signed the Luxembourg Declaration on Workplace Health Promotion in the E.U. This 
involves a network of around 200 companies which aims to identify and share best practices 
and encourages joint measures by employers, employees and society to improve health and 
well-being at the workplace.  

Group-wide initiatives in Germany include the General Works Agreements on lifetime working 
and demographic change and on addressing demographic change at nonmanagerial level at 
Bayer. These agreements contain measures to reduce the workload of shift workers who work 
regular night shifts from the age of 55 and of all other nonmanagerial employees in Germany 
from the age of 57. Further, they include measures to ease the return to work of nonmanagerial 
employees after long-term illness, and an extensive health screening program for all employees. 
More than 98% of those who were eligible took part in the program to reduce the workload of 
older employees in 2016. 

%

of Bayer employees have 
a company pension plan. 

Social responsibility for employees worldwide 
More than 70% of Bayer employees worldwide are included in a Bayer pension plan. The benefits 
provided depend on the legal, fiscal and economic conditions in each country, employee compen-
sation and years of service. Nearly all employees worldwide either have statutory health insurance 
or can obtain health insurance through the company.  

Health Insurance and Pension Coverage 

% 

Europe / Middle East / Africa  

North America 

Asia / Pacific 

Latin America 

Total 

2015 figures restated 
1 Government or employer- /  employee-funded 
2 Programs to supplement statutory pension plans  

A 1.4.1/3

Health insurance 

1

Pension plans ²

2015

2016

2015

98

93

95

95

96

98

99

96

99

98

85

99

39

54

72

2016

86

100

39

57

74

Our social responsibility is also reflected in our approach to restructuring, which includes efforts to 
take account of our employees’ interests. In Germany, which remains Bayer’s largest operational 
base with 37,000 employees, business-related dismissals are excluded through the end of 2020 
for a large proportion of employees under an agreement with the employee representatives. 

In 2016, the working conditions for around 61% of our employees worldwide were governed by 
collective or company agreements. At various country companies, the interests of the workforce 
are represented by elected employee representatives who have a right to be consulted on certain 
personnel-related decisions. The contractually agreed working hours of our employees do not 
exceed 48 hours a week in any country.  

 
 
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
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 Online Annex: A 1.4.1-13 

Percentage of Collective Agreements by Region 

1  

% 

Europe / Middle East / Africa  

North America 

Asia / Pacific 

Latin America 

Total 

2015

84

5

44

53

60

2015 figures restated 
1 Percentage of employees covered by collective agreements, especially on compensation and working conditions 

A 1.4.1-13/1

2016

84

5

45

52

61

Our understanding of our role as a socially responsible company includes a commitment to help-
ing disadvantaged people. We employ some 2,600 people with disabilities in 29 countries. That is 
around 2% of our total workforce. 36% are female and 64% male. Most employees with disabili-
ties work for our companies in Germany, where they made up 5.1% of the workforce in 2016. 

Global respect for human rights  
Bayer fully supports human rights and has set out its stance in a binding global policy. We are 
committed to respecting and fostering human rights within our sphere of influence and to report-
ing transparently on the results of our activities in this area. Alongside working conditions in the 
Bayer Group, this centers on our expectation that human rights will be respected at all stages in 
the supply chain, as detailed in our Supplier Code of Conduct. In addition, our LIFE values and 
Corporate Compliance Policy commit all employees around the world to fair and lawful conduct 
toward staff, colleagues, business partners and customers. We are a founding member of the 
U.N. Global Compact and respect the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and a range of glob-
ally recognized declarations applicable for multinational corporations.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.1-14 
These include, in particular, the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, the Tripartite 
Declaration of Principles concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy, and the core 
labor standards of the International Labour Organization (ILO). We also observe the U.N. Guid-
ing Principles on Business and Human Rights.  

In 2016, around 87% of our employees received training in the main aspects of our Human Rights 
Position, in training sessions totaling 220,000 hours. That included training for internal and exter-
nal security staff. The compliance organizations at Group and country level monitor compliance 
with the relevant corporate policies. If there are signs of violation, employees can contact their 
Compliance Officer at any time, anonymously if required. Alternatively, they can contact the 
Group-wide compliance hotline. 

Societal engagement  
Bayer’s societal engagement focuses on people working innovatively in the areas of education & 
science and health & social needs who are committed to achieving a lasting improvement in living 
conditions. This also extends to a further focus area – sports & culture – although our involvement 
in professional soccer does not form part of our social sponsorship activities.  

people with  
disabilities work for 
the Bayer Group. 

See also A 1.4.2.1  

ILO core labor stand-
ards: see Glossary  

See also A 4.2 

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
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See also A 1.2.1-1 

Our Access to Medicine (ATM) activities give patients in developing countries and the Emerging 
Markets access to our products.  

Bayer’s foundation work centers on two globally active foundations that are linked to the company 
– the Bayer Science & Education Foundation for Life Sciences, education and medicine, and the 
Bayer Cares Foundation for social innovations and social commitment. An interdisciplinary com-
mittee chaired by the member of the Bayer Board of Management responsible for Innovation holds 
responsibility for the strategic orientation and coordination of our societal engagement. The 
Group-wide donation allocation and management policies form the basis for our foundation and 
donation activities. A large number of the initiatives are implemented in collaboration with partner 
organizations such as non-governmental organizations. An independent panel made up of internal 
and external judges decides how foundation funding is allocated. Covestro is responsible for its 
own social commitment activities. Donations are allocated on the basis of internal Covestro regu-
lations. 

In 2016, we invested (incl. Covestro) a total of around €48 million (2015: €51 million) in charitable 
activities worldwide. This was aimed at improving the quality of life at the company’s various loca-
tions and contributing to solving social challenges. 

 Online Annex: A 1.4.1-15 

Societal Engagement in 2016

€20 million Sports and culture

€48 million
total

A 1.4.1-15/1

€14 million Health and basic

social needs

€14 million Education and science

For Bayer, pioneering achievements in science and society are fundamental to progress and 
success. For that reason, promoting cutting-edge research and supporting education and so-
cial innovation are key objectives of the Bayer foundations. Selected activities from the three 
key areas of health and basic social needs, education and science, and sports and culture are 
set out below. 

Activities focusing on health and basic social needs 
Encouraging social innovation 
In 2016, the Bayer Cares Foundation gave the former Aspirin Social Award a new strategic ori-
entation. Now called the Aspirin Social Innovation Award, the accolade has an international 
reach for the first time, focusing on social innovation in the areas of health and nutrition. All five 
award-winners received €20,000 of funding to expand their charitable business initiatives. 

Supporting creative voluntary work 
Last year, the Bayer Cares Foundation provided first-time funding for 73 volunteering projects 
of employees in 37 countries within the framework of the Bayer Volunteering Program. In Ger-
many, an additional 26 projects of individuals not working at Bayer were also supported. The 
total funding amounts to around €341,000. All the projects offer innovative approaches to help 
solve social problems in the areas of health, nutrition and education in the catchment areas of 
the company’s sites. 

 
 
 
 
 
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Rapid assistance in the event of natural disasters 
In 2016, Bayer was once again active in supporting people experiencing acute hardship as a 
result of natural disasters. For example, we provided medicines worth €250,000 free of charge 
to assist in the medical care of the victims of a severe earthquake in Ecuador. 

Activities focusing on education and science 
Award-winning pioneering achievements 
The Bayer Science & Education Foundation’s Otto Bayer Award 2016 worth €75,000 went to 
Dr. Dirk Trauner from the University of Munich (LMU Munich). Working in the field of photo-
pharmacology and chemical optogenetics, he is developing novel switches that use light to 
precisely control all kinds of processes in cells. This may open up new chemotherapeutic 
treatment opportunities, for example to cure blindness and cancer. 

In 2016, the Bayer Early Excellence in Science Award worth €10,000 to each recipient went to 
three young researchers from Germany and Switzerland for their successful work in the fields of 
medicine, biology and chemistry. 

Getting young people excited about science 
The Bayer Science & Education Foundation helped talented young individuals in 2016 by 
awarding 245 scholarships worth a total of more than €1 million to students, postgraduates 
and apprentices in the fields of natural, life and agricultural science and medicine. This funding 
is intended in particular to facilitate research projects abroad. For the first time ever, youngsters 
from India and Africa joined children from German and U.S. schools at the Science Teens camp 
in the United States. Bayer was once again involved in the student support programs geared to 
national requirements in over 20 countries. To this end, our country organizations cooperated 
with universities, museums and other educational institutions. 

In Germany, the focus in 2016 was on promoting innovative teaching projects, with total fund-
ing of some €550,000 for 37 specific measures at schools and other educational institutions in 
18 towns and cities. The three Baylab student laboratories offered school classes a profession-
al infrastructure that was used by over 7,500 schoolchildren and teachers in 2016 as a sup-
plement to normal tuition. 

Education program for refugee children 
In 2016, the Science4Life Academy founded in 2015 by the Bayer Science & Education Foun-
dation along with the Berlin Senate and other educational organizations produced scientific 
teaching materials geared specifically to the needs of refugee children and tested them at pilot 
schools in Berlin.  The next steps are to evaluate the results and pass these on to all Germany’s 
Federal states. In addition, the funding is to be used for a dictionary for refugee children. 

Activities focusing on sports and culture 
We continued our recreational, disabled and competitive sports activities in 2016. The Bayer 
sports clubs again made a key contribution to the broad range of sporting activities around the 
German sites in North Rhine-Westphalia. The 23 clubs have a total of around 45,000 members. 
In 2016, the major clubs also became more intensely involved as professional service providers 
for the company’s occupational health management.   

 
 
 
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Bayer once again expanded its cultural activities in 2016, among other things by extending the 
stART program for talented young artists with the stARTacademy. A total of around 120 music, 
dance, theater and art events took place in 2016, including an art exhibition with selected 
works from the Bayer Collection.  

1.4.2 Responsibility in Value Creation 

>  Sustainability criteria consistently anchored in the supply chain 
>  Strengthening efficiency and flexibility in production and logistics 
>  Ethical action shapes dialogue and partnership with our customers 

We aim to offer our customers innovative products and high-quality solutions. This requires us to 
efficiently and responsibly steer processes at all value creation stages: in procurement, in produc-
tion, in logistics and in distribution. 

Our supply chain is designed at both a global and regional level according to clear, sustainability-
oriented criteria and standards. We not only examine and evaluate our suppliers’ sustainability 
performance, but also offer them support through partnership-based cooperation and training 
measures. In this way, we are able to implement our requirements together with our suppliers in 
the face of serious challenges such as eliminating child labor. 

We continuously work at our production sites to react more rapidly to market developments and 
to achieve our ambitious quality and safety objectives through increased flexibility and the ex-
pansion of capacities. To achieve this, we invest continuously in our global production network. 
We steer our logistics services in equal measure according to quality, safety and environmental 
aspects. 

Our partnership with our customers is shaped by responsibility. We integrate them at an early 
stage into our processes and address their needs with regard to the use of our products. We 
systematically analyze their satisfaction with our performance and safeguard our long-term busi-
ness success by deriving optimization measures from this analysis. 

1.4.2.1 Procurement and Supplier Management 
The procurement organization supplies the company with goods and services around the world. 
We exert influence on society and the environment as a result of our procurement activities and 
supplier relationships. Not just economic, but also ethical, ecological and social principles are 
therefore anchored in our Procurement policy, which is binding for all employees. 

Procurement (excluding Covestro) has been organized since 2016 as a corporate function that 
acts centrally on behalf of all segments. Synergies can be leveraged by pooling know-how and 
procurement volumes. Our procurement activities are directed by the Procurement Leadership 
Team, which acts as the highest decision-making body for procurement issues. The team is led by 
the Head of Procurement, who reports directly to the Chief Financial Officer. Covestro has its own 
procurement organization. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, all information hereafter with the 
exception of the Group targets includes Covestro. 

www.covestro.com/en/ 
company/procurement/ 
overview  

Procurement operates according to uniformly established procurement and supplier management 
processes. Long-term contracts and active supplier management for strategically important goods 
and services are important elements here. Thus we not only minimize procurement-specific risks 
such as supply bottlenecks or significant price fluctuations, but also safeguard the company’s 
competitiveness and ensure smooth production processes.  

 
 
 
 
 
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We procured goods and services in 152 countries during the reporting period. Procurement spend 
from transactions with approximately 110,900 suppliers amounted to some €21.8 billion. In 2016, 
our procurement spend in Germany, the United States and Switzerland accounted for nearly 68% 
of our expenditures in OECD countries, which in turn made up about 54% of the Bayer Group’s 
global procurement spend. Brazil, India and China together accounted for about 66% of expendi-
tures in the non-OECD countries or about 13% of the total spend. The following table contains 
information about Bayer’s procurement volumes and supplier shares based on the regional origin 
of goods and services.  

billion

€ 
Bayer’s procurement  
spend in 2016 

 Online Annex: A 1.4.2.1-1 

Procurement Spend and Number of Suppliers in OECD and Non-OECD Countries in 2016 

A 1.4.2.1-1/1

OECD countries  

Germany  

United States 

Switzerland 

Other  

Total  

Non-OECD countries  

China 

India  

Brazil 

Other 

Total  

Spend

Suppliers

€ billion 

%

Number

 %

5.3

5.3

1.2

5.7

17.5

1.9

0.5

0.5

1.5

4.4

24.2

24.2

5.6

26.0

80.0

8.7

2.3

2.2

6.9

20.1

22,108

11,540

1,789

42,649

78,086

3,432

3,785

2,546

23,052

32,815

19.9

10.4

1.6

38.5

70.4

3.1

3.4

2.3

20.8

29.6

Bayer purchases locally wherever possible in order to adequately react to the requirements of our 
sites and strengthen regional economies. In 2016, this applied to 71% of our procurement spend 
at our main business locations, and also 71% of procurement spend in all countries worldwide. 
The following table shows the main procurement products in 2016.  

Local procurement: 
see Glossary 

 Online Annex: A 1.4.2.1-2 

Main Procurement Products 

A 1.4.2.1-2/1

Pharmaceuticals 

Consumer Health 

Crop Science 

Animal Health 

Covestro 

Zetia (finished product), cell media culture (raw material), Betaferon (interferon-
beta-1b) (bulk product) and Eylea protein (bulk product), packaging materials 

Active ingredients (e.g. naproxen sodium, loratadine, paracetamol), vitamins 
(e.g. vitamin C and B), auxiliaries, finished products (e.g. Canesten, Dr. Scholl’s, 
Berocca), packaging materials 

Active ingredients (e.g. mancozeb), adjuvants and solvents (e.g. rapeseed oil, 
toluene, ammonia), complex intermediates (e.g. pyridine polyfluoride), 
packaging materials  

Active ingredients (e.g. moxidectin, praziquantel and permethrin), finished 
products, packaging materials (e.g. Seresto tins) 

Key basic raw materials are benzene and phenol, propylene oxide, toluene, 
acetone and hexamethylenediamine 

The use of renewable raw materials plays only a subordinated role at Bayer for portfolio reasons. 
We primarily use renewable raw materials when it makes technical, economic and ecological 
sense to do so.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
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 Online Annex: A 1.4.2.1-3 
At Pharmaceuticals, a number of hormones are synthesized through certain sterols and phy-
tosterols that result as byproducts during the production of plant oils from soybeans, oilseed 
rape / canola or sunflowers, as well as during wood processing. We additionally purchase vari-
ous steroids that are manufactured from diosgenin or its intermediate stages. This substance is 
usually obtained from yam grown in countries such as China. We also use raw materials such 
as water, glucose, yeast, soybean starch, castor oil and corn steep water in our fermentation 
processes. 

For some products, Consumer Health uses extracts of plant leaves. We take great care with 
the cultivation and extraction of the raw materials for manufacturing plant-based pharmaceuti-
cals. The controlled, integrated cultivation and extraction of plant-based raw materials take 
place according to local regulations, e.g. the GACP (Good Agricultural and Collection Practice) 
guidelines of the European Medicines Agency. 

Crop Science processes soy, e.g. in the production of crop protection products. To support the 
maintenance of sustainability criteria in soy cultivation, Crop Science is a member of the Round 
Table for Responsible Soy (RTRS) and, starting in 2017, intends to purchase RTRS certificates 
corresponding to the soybean consumption in its production. In addition, we cooperate with 
farmers to support the certification of their soybean production in accordance with international 
standards.  

We use a small amount of palm oil derivatives in some of our Life Science products. As the 
production of palm oil is often associated with social and ecological problems, Bayer takes part 
in the Round Table for Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO). In 2017, we plan to purchase so-called 
RSPO credits, which promote the sustainable production of palm oil, according to the quanti-
ties used by us.  

Covestro is developing processes for the replacement of raw materials derived from crude oil. 
In 2016, for example, it launched the commercial production of a curing agent for polyurethane 
coatings and adhesives based on renewable raw materials. The product is 70% based on raw 
materials derived from biomass that does not compete with food production. 

Bayer sustainability requirements defined in its Supplier Code of Conduct 
Bayer regards adherence to sustainability standards within its supply chain as a crucial factor in 
the value chain and an important lever for minimizing risks. A four-step process is thus established 
throughout the Group to improve sustainability practices in the supply chain comprising the ele-
ments awareness-raising, supplier nomination, sustainability performance evaluation and devel-
opment. It is defined in a special instruction and centrally steered by a sustainability team whose 
management reports to the Procurement Leadership Team. 

Our sustainability requirements are established in Bayer’s Supplier Code of Conduct. Based on 
the principles of the U.N. Global Compact and our Human Rights Position, it establishes the basic 
foundation for this cooperation. For this reason, not just economic standards, but also ethical and 
environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards apply for the selection and evaluation of 
new and existing suppliers. The Code of Conduct is integrated into electronic ordering systems 
and contracts throughout the Bayer Group. Furthermore, our standard supply contracts contain 
clauses that authorize Bayer to verify suppliers’ compliance with our sustainability requirements. 

 
 
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Evaluating the sustainability performance of our suppliers 
Bayer verifies the observance of the Code requirements by our suppliers through online assess-
ments and on-site audits. Suppliers are selected for these evaluations based on a combination of 
country and material risks as well as strategic importance in accordance with our Group targets. 
By 2017, Bayer plans to evaluate all strategically important suppliers according to sustainability-
relevant criteria (target attainment as of 2016: 98%). This group includes suppliers with a major 
influence on business in terms of, for example, procurement spend and long-term collaboration 
prospects (3-5 years). By 2020, we also aim to evaluate all those suppliers with a significant pro-
curement spend (> €1 million p.a.) that are regarded as potentially high-risk suppliers (target at-
tainment as of 2016: 83%).  

Bayer carries out the online assessments together with an established provider of sustainability 
performance evaluations (EcoVadis). The assessment criteria comprise the areas environment, 
labor practices and human rights, ethics and sustainable procurement. On-site audits are carried 
out by independent external auditors. Audits are based on the criteria of the Together for Sustain-
ability (TfS) initiative and the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Initiative (PSCI). In both initiatives, 
Bayer works together with other companies to standardize sustainability assessments and audits 
of suppliers in the same industry and to leverage synergies by sharing information. In line with our 
Group target, we plan to develop and introduce a sustainability standard for our suppliers by 
2020. In addition, Bayer auditors evaluate suppliers with regard to sustainability aspects focusing 
on health, safety and environmental protection. 

Group target 2017: 
evaluation of all strategi-
cally important suppliers

Group target 2020: 
evaluation of all poten-
tially high-risk suppliers 
with significant Bayer 
spend; see also A 1.2.1 

www.tfs-initiative.com 

www.pscinitiative.org 

Group target 2020:  
development and  
establishment of a new 
sustainability standard 
for our supply base; 
see also A 1.2.1 

 Online Annex: A 1.4.2.1-4  

Supplier Assessments and Audits 

Sustainability assessments 

1 via the EcoVadis platform 

Sustainability audits ² by external auditors 

Sustainability / HSE ³ audits by Bayer auditors 

A 1.4.2.1-4/1

2015

2016

521

71

107

795

73

168

1 Initial and re-assessments of suppliers working for Bayer; initiated by Bayer and shared as part of the TfS initiative 
2 Initial and follow-up audits of suppliers working for Bayer; initiated by Bayer and shared as part of the TfS  

and PSCI initiatives 

3 Health, safety, environmental protection  

Within the scope of the TfS initiative, a total of 1,773 supplier assessments using EcoVadis and 
241 audits – performed, for example, in Poland, Mexico and South Korea – were successfully 
completed in 2016. In the same year, 51 shared audits were carried out through PSCI, for ex-
ample in China, India, Israel and Brazil.  

Verifying the requirements with new suppliers 
Our Life Science businesses undertake separate evaluations of suppliers with regard to the 
contract manufacturing of quality-relevant goods and services. These evaluations cover the ar-
eas of health, safety and environmental protection among others and are performed prior to the 
commencement of business operations.  

Furthermore, the Life Science businesses obligate potentially risky, newly selected suppliers 
with a prospective annual procurement spend in excess of €1 million to undergo an EcoVadis 
sustainability assessment or an on-site audit. The relevant suppliers evaluated in this way in 
2016 met our sustainability requirements.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
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The online assessments and on-site audits are analyzed and documented so that – in the event of 
unsatisfactory results – specific improvement measures can be defined with the suppliers. In 
2016, this applied above all to the categories Ethics, Sustainable Procurement and Health and 
Safety. In 2016, 24 suppliers (3% of those evaluated) posted a critical result (assessment level 
low). These suppliers were requested by Bayer to rectify the identified weaknesses on the basis of 
specific action plans. Overall some 400 of our suppliers improved their sustainability performance 
in 2016.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.2.1-5  

Online Supplier Assessments by Category

Environment

Labor practices and
human rights

Fair business 
practices

Sustainable 
procurement

4%

3%

7%

9%

78%

87%

87%

84%

A 1.4.2.1-5/1

18%

10%

6%

7%

Valuation levels:

Low 

Medium 

High

Number of suppliers assessed: 795

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

Improvement measures in the supply chain taking effect 
We monitor the implementation of the improvements demanded by us through re-assessments 
or follow-up audits. Numerous suppliers also voluntary undergo a re-assessment in order to 
improve their results. In 2016, 583 suppliers underwent a re-assessment through the EcoVadis 
platform, of whom approximately 67% improved their sustainability performance. Nine follow-up 
audits verified the rectification of previously identified deficiencies. In 2016, Bayer was not 
prompted to end any supplier relationship due solely to sustainability performance.  

Conflict minerals:  
see Glossary 

Additional verification processes were established for the fulfillment of further international regula-
tions. This applies, for example, to regulations that require companies to disclose the origin of 
certain raw materials such as so-called conflict minerals.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.2.1-6 

Target: elimination of conflict raw materials 
International regulations such as the Dodd-Frank Act in the United States obligate companies 
to disclose the origin of certain raw materials. The purpose of this is to rule out that minerals 
from conflict regions such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo or its neighboring coun-
tries find their way into products through the supply chain. Bayer has questioned about 150 of 
its first-tier suppliers who could potentially be impacted by this issue. Nearly 65% of them con-
firmed to us that they do not procure potential conflict minerals. It was agreed with the remain-
ing suppliers during verification processes that they must ensure compliance with the require-
ments.  

GRI G4-26 

Training measures and dialogue on the issue of sustainability 
We support our procurement employees in the implementation of our procurement processes and 
sustainability requirements with targeted Group-wide training measures. In the reporting period, 
244 procurement employees completed training courses explaining the EcoVadis sustainability 
assessment process. We also offer our suppliers a wide range of development and dialogue op-
portunities in order to familiarize them with Bayer’s sustainability requirements. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 Online Annex: A 1.4.2.1-7  
In 2016, Crop Science used its Supplier Days in India and China as an important dialogue plat-
form for sustainability requirements. Covestro also carried out a Supplier Day in India for its 
strategically important suppliers. In addition, we offered further Supplier Days, training and 
workshops in China and India in cooperation with our industry initiatives PSCI and TfS. The 
Supplier Academy developed by TfS in 2016 and the sustainability webinars developed by 
PSCI itself offer further training components for suppliers. 

Tackling child labor in the seed supply chain 
A key challenge for sustainable supplier management in the Group is to counter child labor in the 
seed supply chain of the Crop Science segment. Our position on this is unequivocal and includes 
a strict ban on child labor. We therefore also obligate our suppliers along our value chain to strictly 
refrain from employing children. For many years, Bayer has taken systematic action to prevent 
child labor in the cotton, rice and vegetable seed supply chain in India, Bangladesh and the Phil-
ippines through its Child Care Program and conducts inspections locally. In 2016, Bayer for the 
first time also inspected external producers of vegetable seed in China and Thailand. No cases of 
child labor were identified. In addition, Bayer continues to raise awareness of the issue among its 
suppliers and their local environment and clearly communicates its requirements.  

www.bayer.com/ 
child-care 

 Online Annex: A 1.4.2.1-8  

Bonuses and sanctions for suppliers 
Crop Science’s comprehensive activities in its Child Care Program include the observation and 
monitoring of the seed produced through wage labor in India. To this end, the corporate auditor 
EY (formerly Ernst & Young), India, carries out unannounced visits to farms in four Indian dis-
tricts, among other measures. Suppliers who can verify that they strictly observe our ban on 
child labor receive a bonus along with training in raising agricultural efficiency. Graduated sanc-
tions are applied for noncompliance. These range from written warnings to termination of the 
contract in the case of repeated noncompliance. 

Supporting school education is a key element 
Bayer regards school attendance not only as essential for children’s development but also as 
an effective tool for preventing child labor. We therefore also visit the parents of children we find 
working in the fields to convince them of the importance of school education. We promote this 
in India with the “Learning for Life” initiative within our Child Care Program, which focuses both 
on fostering scientific knowledge and on general vocational training. This covers everything 
from reintegrating children into the regular school system to vocational training measures. Be-
tween 2005 and the end of 2016, “Learning for Life” reached more than 6,200 children and 
young people. 

Thanks to a stringent monitoring system, which is supported by local educational initiatives,  
there are now only very few instances of child labor among our contractors, which we nonetheless 
closely track and immediately put a stop to.  

The Child Care Program Advisory Council, comprised of international experts and recognized 
professionals, supports Bayer in the protection of children’s rights and the objective of seed pro-
duction without child labor. We measure the success of our comprehensive program using the 
indicator “Child labor incidence as a percentage of total monitorings of laborers.” 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 Online Annex: A 1.4.2.1-9  
The table informs about the development of the indicator that Bayer uses in the evaluation of 
child labor cases. 

Child Labor Incidence in the Production of Cotton and Vegetable Seed
for Bayer in Relation to the Total Number of Monitorings 1

2009/2010

2010/2011

2011/2012

2012/2013

2013/2014

2014/2015

2015/2016

A 1.4.2.1-9/1

0
0
0
,
4
1
1

0
0
0
,
0
5

0
0
0
,
4
0
1

0
0
0
,
5
6

0
0
0
,
9
0
1

0
0
0
,
1
0
1

0
0
0
,
1
9

0
0
0
,
6
8

0
0
0
,
5
8

0
0
0
,
0
8

0
0
0
,
7
6

0
0
0
,
4
6

%
n

i

e
c
n
e
d
c
n

i

i

r
o
b
a

l

d

l
i

h
C

0.30

0.25

0.20

0.15

0.10

0.05

0

0
0
0
,
0
4

Number of monitorings of laborers (cotton)
Number of monitorings of laborers (vegetables) 2

Child labor incidence in relation to number of monitorings (cotton)
Child labor incidence in relation to number of monitorings (vegetables) 2

1  The figures cover several growing cycles per cultivation year. In India the cultivation year runs from the middle of one year to the middle of the next, depending on 

climatic conditions and the various seed types. Cumulated depiction on the basis of control inspections performed (at least 3 per cultivation season for 
vegetables and up to 6 per season for cotton).

2 Vegetable seed included in field monitoring from 2010 / 2011 onward; for vegetables, cultivation areas and number of monitorings refer to a combination of 

various seed types. Each type of seed has its own monitoring intensity.

See also A 1.4.3.2 and 
 A 1.4.3.3 

1.4.2.2 Production and Logistics 
Production according to high quality, safety and environmental standards 
Bayer operates production facilities at more than 140 sites in 39 countries. The safe and respon-
sible operation of our facilities and the comprehensive safety of our employees and the people 
who live near our sites are of utmost importance to Bayer. Bayer also places great importance on 
protecting the environment and using materials and energy efficiently. We use our HSEQ man-
agement systems to steer these processes. Our commitment to environmental protection, health 
and safety extends beyond the scope of legal requirements. For capital expenditure projects ex-
ceeding €10 million, it particularly includes factoring in environmental aspects and performing a 
voluntary ecological assessment. In the case of acquisitions, we examine whether the applicable 
environmental and occupational safety regulations and fundamental employee rights are complied 
with at the production sites in question. Group policies additionally stipulate that new production 
sites must not be set up in areas that are statutorily protected with regard to natural characteris-
tics, biodiversity or other factors.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.2.2-1  

Few sites close to protected areas 
In an updated comparison of the geographical coordinates of our production sites against 
those of internationally recognized protected areas (ASEAN Heritage, Barcelona Convention, 
UNESCO-MAB Biosphere Reserve, Wetlands and World Heritage Convention and Ramsar 
Convention), we identified three sites that are within a radius of three kilometers from such are-
as. These are the Blesbokspruit protected areas in South Africa, Moreton Bay in Australia and 
Reserva Costa Atlantica de Tierra del Fuego (Atlantic Coast of “Land of Fire”) in Argentina. 
None of the sites examined is directly located in any of the named protected areas. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Pharmaceuticals and Consumer Health 
Both segments operate their own production sites around the world at which active ingredients 
are manufactured and at which formulation and packaging services are performed for the product 
portfolio.  

Bayer worldwide:  
see also A 1.1.1/1 

Both Pharmaceuticals and Consumer Health continuously invest in their global production net-
works. Production capacities for the manufacture of hemophilia A products are being established 
at the Wuppertal and Leverkusen sites in Germany through the perennial and currently biggest 
capital expenditure program of Pharmaceuticals with a total volume of €720 million. The Beijing 
site in China is also being considerably expanded with a capital expenditure volume of some 
€100 million. Consumer Health’s biggest investment project, also with a volume of around €100 
million, comprises the modification and expansion of its production sites in China. 

Strategic Investments in Property, Plant and Equipment at Pharmaceuticals and Consumer Health 

A 1.4.2.2/1

million

€
is being invested in 
production capacities for 
hemophilia medicines. 

2016 

Pharmaceuticals 

Production capacities for new rFactor VIII therapies in Wuppertal and Leverkusen, 
Germany 

Expansion of R&D laboratory capacities in Wuppertal, Germany 

Modernization of research facilities in Berlin, Germany 

Modernization of site infrastructure in Wuppertal and Leverkusen, Germany 

Expansion of production capacities in Beijing, China 

Expansion of Quality Control Biologics in Berkeley, California, United States 

Consumer Health 

Reconstruction and expansion of production site in Majinpu, China 

2015 

Pharmaceuticals 

Production capacities for new rFactor VIII therapies in Wuppertal, Germany 

Expansion of R&D laboratory capacities in Wuppertal, Germany 

Modernization of research facilities in Berlin, Germany 

Modernization of site infrastructure in Wuppertal and Leverkusen, Germany 

Expansion of production capacities in Beijing, China 

Expansion of Quality Control Biologics in Berkeley, California, United States 

Consumer Health 

– 

Crop Science 
The products of Crop Science are mainly produced at the segment’s own production sites. Nu-
merous decentralized formulation and filling sites enable the company to quickly react to the 
needs of local markets. At these sites the active ingredients are processed according to local 
requirements and application areas. Packaging of the products also takes place in these facilities. 
Production of seeds takes place at locations close to our customers in Europe, Asia, and North 
and South America at our own farms or under contract.  

Bayer worldwide:  
see also A 1.1.1/1 

We invested some €2.4 billion overall in property, plant and equipment between 2013 and 2016  
to satisfy increased demand for crop protection products and seed. In addition to the expansion 
of production capacities, this included expansion of our research and development facilities. Here 
the focus was on the United States and Germany and on our network of breeding stations for 
various crops in Europe, North and Latin America. 

billion

€ 
was invested by  
Crop Science between 
2013 and 2016 in the 
production of crop 
protection products  
and seed. 

 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Strategic Investments in Property, Plant and Equipment at Crop Science 

2016 

2015 

Capacity expansions for herbicides in the United States and Germany 

Construction of a production facility for insecticides in Dormagen, Germany 

Expansion of production capacities for fungicides in Dormagen, Germany 

Expansion of R&D facilities in Monheim, Germany 

Establishment of breeding stations for various plant species worldwide 

Expansion of R&D facilities in Raleigh, North Carolina, United States 

Capacity expansions for herbicides in the United States and Germany 

Construction of production facilities for insecticides in Vapi, India, and Dormagen, Germany

Expansion of production capacities for fungicides in Dormagen, Germany 

Expansion of R&D facilities in Monheim, Germany 

Establishment of breeding stations for various plant species worldwide 

Expansion of R&D facilities in Raleigh, North Carolina, United States 

Animal Health 
We procure the active ingredients for our Animal Health products both from internal sources within 
Bayer and external suppliers worldwide. Our globally marketed animal health products are mainly 
manufactured at the sites in Kiel, Germany, and Shawnee, Kansas, United States. 

Covestro(cid:3)
Covestro’s network includes eight world-scale production sites. We also operate several produc-
tion facilities in selected countries for the formulation and supply of customized polycarbonate 
granule compounds and the manufacture of semi-finished products (polycarbonate sheets). 
Covestro also operates regional production facilities for derivatives of the Coatings, Adhesives, 
Specialties Business Unit and for functional films made of polycarbonate or thermoplastic polyure-
thane. Covestro continuously invests in its global production network: 

Strategic Investments in Property, Plant and Equipment at Covestro 

A 1.4.2.2/3

2016 

2015 

Capacity expansion of MDI facility in Brunsbüttel, Germany 

Start-up of a production line for CO2-based polyols in Dormagen, Germany 

Continuation and finalization of capital expenditure projects from 2014 
– Doubling of production capacity for polycarbonate in Shanghai, China 
– Doubling of production capacity for the aliphatic isocyanate HDI in Shanghai, China 

Construction of a production line for CO2-based polyols in Dormagen, Germany 

Continuation of capital expenditure projects from 2014 
– Doubling of production capacity for polycarbonate in Shanghai, China 
– Doubling of production capacity for the aliphatic isocyanate HDI in Shanghai, China 

Bayer worldwide: see 
also A 1.1.1/1 

See also A 1.4.3  

Efficient logistics concept implemented 
Logistics at Bayer comprises not just the transport and warehousing of goods, but in fact the 
entire steering and monitoring of all flows of goods and logistics data for the Bayer Group. We 
work continuously to develop logistics concepts that account for safety, environmental and cost 
aspects in equal measure. Areas of focus in the ecological field include the reduction of energy 
consumption and CO2 emissions, for example by minimizing air transport or using logistic con-
cepts that include rail- and waterways. 

 
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
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With an agile corporate structure, we operate according to management systems and directives 
with global validity. We use both internal capacities and external logistics partners for storage and 
transport services. Bayer selects these according to strict safety, environmental and quality crite-
ria. Alongside the Corporate Supply Chain unit, each segment maintains its own logistics activities 
that are aligned toward the unique circumstances of the respective business model and products.  

1.4.2.3 Marketing and Distribution 
Our marketing and distribution activities are primarily geared toward acquiring new clients and 
retaining existing customers over the long term. In this area too, responsible practices are a top 
priority for Bayer.  

Close distribution network and intensive customer dialogue 
To consolidate and further build on our position in the different markets, we continuously work to 
optimize our market- and customer-specific distribution network and customer dialogue. Depend-
ing on market conditions, we supply our customers in the health care sector, in agriculture, in 
industry and in the private sector through wholesalers, specialist retailers or direct sales organiza-
tions. We have established our distribution channels at the international, regional and local levels 
in accordance with demand. 

A high level of customer satisfaction is essential for our long-term success. We therefore system-
atically analyze both the diverse needs and satisfaction of, as well as complaints made by, our 
customers in the respective segments. We foster partnership and dialogue with our customers 
with the help of a variety of distribution tools and marketing formats.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.2.3-1  

Pharmaceuticals and Consumer Health 

Numerous distribution channels in the health care sector  
The products of Pharmaceuticals are primarily distributed through wholesalers, pharmacies and 
hospitals. The products of Consumer Health are generally sold in pharmacies, with supermarket 
chains, online specialists and other large retailers also playing a significant role in certain mar-
kets such as the United States.  

Broad range of customer dialogue 
Our customer environment includes in equal measure patients, consumers, physicians, phar-
macists, caretakers, patient organizations, health policy decision-makers and opinion leaders, 
partners from research and development, and health authorities and health care payers. Our 
activities with all customer groups ultimately focus on the health and well-being of patients and 
consumers. Owing to the heterogeneity of these groups we take specific steps in each case 
when entering into dialogue with our customers.  

Market research provides us with information on our customers’ needs and positions that we 
use as a basis for further activities. Through surveys with respect to various indications, thera-
peutic areas and regions, we regularly assess the satisfaction of our customers.  

Different legal requirements apply for prescription medicines than for nonprescription medicines 
or medical devices with regard to the collection of customer satisfaction data. Taking account 
of these requirements, the Pharmaceuticals and Consumer Health segments conduct primary 
market and data research. Systematic internet analyses additionally give us a better under-
standing of our stakeholders’ opinions, interests and networks.  

 
 
 
 
 
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Pharmaceuticals, for example, engages in dialogue with patient organizations and groups so as 
to improve disease awareness and market access for innovative therapies.  

Consumer Health has now successfully introduced its excellence program to improve customer 
orientation in 22 countries, with more to follow in 2017. With this program we aim to make 
Bayer the leading health care company in the areas of market development strategies, distribu-
tion and trading.  

Crop Science 

User-oriented distribution system at Crop Protection 
We market our crop protection products in more than 120 countries, mainly through wholesal-
ers or directly through retailers. Our seeds are sold to growers, seedling companies, specialist 
retailers and the processing industry. Plant traits developed using modern breeding methods 
are either incorporated into proprietary seed varieties or licensed to other seed companies. We 
market our Environmental Science range of pest and weed control products through wholesal-
ers and specialist retailers to professional users in the green industry, forestry, industrial vegeta-
tion management and pest control, as well as in the area of public health to combat malaria 
and dengue fever, for example. The latter is mainly transacted through tendering by govern-
ment agencies and NGOs. 

Marketing to customers through new technologies 
The customers of Crop Science vary according to product, region and culture. This results in 
different customer wishes and trends such as industrialization 4.0 with new technologies like 
digital farming and also rising demands with respect to food safety and quality.  

We want to focus more strongly on our customers and their special needs and offer them tai-
lored solutions. As a result, we realigned our Marketing organization in 2016. Through our local-
ly aligned marketing activities (“field marketing”) in particular, we want to improve both the 
speed and content of our customer relations. In addition, we want to determine customer satis-
faction through surveys every two years depending on the country organization. In 2016, we 
conducted such surveys in Japan and Hungary.  

www.forward 
farming.com 

Crop Science is intensifying its direct cooperation with farmers through the Bayer Forward 
Farming initiative. Our solutions for sustainable agriculture in practice are demonstrated at 
Bayer ForwardFarms. Since the program was launched, Crop Science has been successively 
expanding this type of cooperation worldwide. 

Animal Health 
Depending on national regulatory frameworks, we market our animal health products through 
veterinarians and other distribution channels such as pharmacies or retail stores. Depending on 
the respective market segment, Animal Health conducts studies on customer satisfaction and 
customer retention. Performance indicators are developed from long-term studies in order to 
measure customer satisfaction. 

Covestro 
Covestro’s products are mainly supplied to the automotive and transportation, construction, 
wood processing and furniture, and electrical / electronics industries. Covestro markets its 
products mostly through regional and local distribution channels. Three globally established 
supply chain centers for Covestro’s most important regions pool all information streams from 
order acceptance to dispatch planning, delivery and complaint acceptance. They serve as the 
central link to the customers and aim to ensure the rapid and smooth processing of orders. 
Covestro systematically analyzes customer satisfaction worldwide through the regular evalua-
tion of complaints and assessments by customers. Corrective and prevention measures are de-
rived from this.  

 
 
 
 
 
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Commitment to ethical conduct 
In the development, sale and marketing of our products, we do not tolerate bribery or any other 
form of improper exertion of influence on our business partners. The corresponding rules of con-
duct are established in our Corporate Policy “Responsible Marketing & Sales.” Furthermore, we 
are committed to ethical advertising and communication for all our products and services. Our 
minimum standards are derived from laws and other statutory regulations, industry codes and 
internal rules. 

As part of our compliance management system, we register and investigate any suspected viola-
tion of our responsible marketing principles. This applies to complaints both from within the com-
pany and as notified to us from outside. 

Compliance: see  
Glossary  

Our corporate policy and the respective training programs are implemented decentrally in the 
segments. 

See also A 3.2.1  
and A 4.2 

 Online Annex: A 1.4.2.3-2  
Pharmaceuticals and Consumer Health 
The marketing and distribution of pharmaceuticals, medical devices and nonprescription (over-
the-counter = OTC) medications are strictly regulated and subject to relevant laws that we are 
committed to observing. Also applicable at Bayer at the global or regional levels are industry 
codes adopted by relevant associations of the pharmaceuticals and medical devices industries. 
In many countries, furthermore, these standards are further concretized by local codes – all of 
which apply to prescription pharmaceuticals and many of which additionally apply to nonpre-
scription medicines. 

All codes of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations (IFP-
MA) serve as a binding minimum global standard for all pharmaceutical products marketed by 
Bayer. In addition, Bayer observes the codes of the European Federation of Pharmaceutical In-
dustries and Associations (EFPIA) for dealings with health care professionals and patient organ-
izations. The WHO’s Ethical Criteria for Medicinal Drug Promotion, together with national ethical 
standards that are usually also enshrined in industry codes at the local level, represent the min-
imum global standard for the advertising of human pharmaceutical products at Bayer.  

All the aforementioned codes contain provisions governing, among other issues, advertising 
material standards, the distribution of samples, cooperation with medical and pharmaceutical 
specialist groups in connection with speaker and consultancy contracts, and scientific studies. 
Adherence to these codes is designed to ensure the independence of both health care profes-
sionals and patient organizations. Based on the new EFPIA transparency code and the corre-
sponding local interpretations, Pharmaceuticals discloses any grants to health care profession-
als and organizations annually for the preceding calendar year. 

Bayer compliance rules supplement codes 
The most important internal Bayer corporate policy is our Anti-Corruption Procedure. The key 
requirements and the minimum global standard for compliant and ethical conduct are summa-
rized in the Anti-Corruption Compliance Manual, which applies worldwide at Pharmaceuticals 
and Consumer Health. Principles for ethically and legally acceptable advertising for pharmaceu-
ticals and medical devices are set out in a further Bayer corporate policy. Should several regu-
lations be relevant, Bayer principally applies the more stringent standards.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Training measures on product-related communication and anti-corruption are fundamental ele-
ments of the system at Bayer. The principles communicated in these training courses provide 
an overview of globally applicable minimum requirements for cooperation with key stakeholders 
in the health care industry, such as physicians, hospitals or patient organizations. The courses 
explain general compliance principles and also give specific instructions in relation to nonrecip-
rocal benefits and the exchange of services with health care professionals.  

Crop Science 
Crop Science follows the guidelines of its Product Stewardship Policy with regard to the distri-
bution and use of its crop protection products. This policy, which also satisfies the require-
ments of the Corporate Policy “Responsible Marketing & Sales,” is based on the International 
Code of Conduct issued by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). 
We carry out training courses on this topic worldwide and make available corresponding mate-
rials to the employees online.  

Responsible business practices in marketing and sales are addressed at Crop Science in com-
pliance training courses and are also an integral element of marketing and sales excellence 
training measures. 

Animal Health 
In the marketing and use of its products, Animal Health not only observes statutory regulations, 
but also further-reaching Group-wide policies and voluntary industry-wide commitments. Where 
several regulations are applicable, Animal Health principally observes the more stringent re-
quirements. Most of our companion and farm animal products are subject to the provisions of 
drug advertising law.  

Covestro 
In the marketing of its products, Covestro consistently observes its Responsible Marketing & 
Sales Policy. The importance of observing antitrust law and preventing corruption is regularly 
emphasized in training programs, internal communications and discussions with management. 

1.4.3 Safety for People and the Environment 

>  High level of product stewardship and risk prevention determines our activities 
>  Occupational health and transportation safety further improved 
>  More efficient use of energy and water 
(cid:3)

We are fully aware of our stakeholders’ high expectations regarding our products and processes. 
The quality and safety of our products, the safe and responsible operation of our facilities and the 
comprehensive protection of our employees and the people who live near our sites are of the 
utmost importance to us. Bayer also considers environmental protection and the responsible use 
of natural resources to be extremely important.  

Responsibility for health, safety, environmental protection and quality (HSEQ) lies with the Group 
Board of Management. Group-wide HSEQ management systems are in place and incorporated 
into the business processes. Responsibility for steering and control lies with the two new corpo-
rate functions, “Health, Safety & Sustainability” and “Quality,” which stipulate responsibilities and 
framework conditions, among other things, through corporate policies, targets and key perfor-
mance indicators (KPIs).  

Operational responsibility lies with the corresponding line organizations of the segments, which 
steer HSEQ independently with management systems, committees and working groups. All rele-
vant HSEQ performance indicators from our production sites are compiled in a Group-wide Bayer 
site information system (BaySIS). The continuous review and revision of policies by the corporate 

 
 
 
 
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functions, regular mandatory internal audits and external certification processes ensure that the 
systems at all production sites effectively meet the specific requirements in each case.  

The excellent performance of our HSEQ management systems for the areas of health, safety, 
environmental protection and quality also reduces running costs by avoiding damage and disrup-
tions to work and production. 

Standards and certifications 
Bayer’s HSEQ management systems are based on recognized international standards. Regular 
upkeep of the management systems and appropriate training and certification also underpin our 
commitment to the chemical industry’s Responsible Care™ initiative and in particular the guide-
lines of the Responsible Care Global Charter. 

With regard to HSE management system coverage based on energy consumption, around 95%  
of all our production sites had an HSE management system audited by Bayer in 2016. Some 97% 
of our business activities were certified externally to at least one internationally recognized stand-
ard. A Group-wide certification plan aims to achieve virtually complete coverage in accordance 
with external standards in both environmental and occupational safety management by 2017. One 
hundred percent coverage is not feasible owing to the frequent changes in our site portfolio. 

A 1.4.3/1 

Standards and Certifications  

in % of business activities based on energy consumption 

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

Certification to external standards 

ISO 14001 certification / EMAS validation 

OHSAS 180011 certification 

ISO 500012 certification 

Degree of coverage with certification to at least one of the 
above standards 

HSE management systems internally audited by Bayer 

84

30

–

89

99

84

30

–

90

99

91

34

40

95

94

93

80

47

93

96

94

86

49

97

95

1 The rise in 2015 is due to the increased OHSAS 18001 certification of Covestro sites. 
2 Group values determined from 2014 onward 

Quality management 
The Quality function ensures uniform quality standards across all segments and functions along 
with the continuous improvement of all quality-related processes. The quality requirements derived 
from regulatory requirements, permits and authorizations, relevant standards of nongovernmental 
organizations and industry associations and customer expectations are regularly reviewed and 
integrated into an internal quality management system. 

Our segments have quality management systems based on sector-specific international stand-
ards. Group-wide, coverage with this kind of certification is over 98% based on energy consump-
tion.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3-1 

Pharmaceuticals and Consumer Health 
The quality management system of these two segments forms the basis for the highest possi-
ble safety standards in the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and medical devices, which are 
subject to strict quality requirements. It is therefore based on internationally recognized stand-
ards such as ISO (e.g. ISO 9001, 17025 and 13485) and ICH (International Conference on 
Harmonization of Technical Requirements for Registration of Pharmaceuticals for Human Use), 
as well as on rules for good working practice (GxP) in the development and manufacture of 
pharmaceuticals (e.g. Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)), Good Distribution Practices (GDP) 
and Good Clinical Practices (GCP). Compliance with the relevant standards is regularly audited 
by internal experts, regulatory authorities and external consultants. These audits also cover our 
suppliers and institutes sub-contracted by us. 

GxP: see Glossary 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
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Crop Science 
Product manufacture at Crop Science is performed according to ISO 9001. Compliance with 
manufacturing standards and registered product specifications is regularly monitored by exter-
nal auditors. All our products are approved/authorized by the relevant national authorities and 
thus fulfill the respective requirements with regard to quality and user safety.  

Animal Health 
Our veterinary medicine products also comply with stringent GxP quality standards stipulated in 
relevant statutory requirements applying to development, approval, manufacture, marketing and 
safety monitoring. According to this, safety is to be ensured for the animals to be treated, peo-
ple and the environment alike. Within the scope of the statutory approval procedures and, if re-
quired, re-registrations, Animal Health carries out studies in order to verify the quality, efficacy 
and safety of its products. Regular official inspections and internal audits check compliance 
with legal requirements. The audits also cover institutes subcontracted by us, service providers 
and suppliers.  

Covestro 
Covestro’s quality management system is certified to the international standard ISO 9001. Over 
99% of reporting production and nonproduction sites worldwide are certified.  

1.4.3.1 Product Stewardship 
We consider product stewardship to mean that our products satisfy the highest quality standards 
and are safe for people, animals and the environment when properly used. All substances and 
finished products undergo extensive testing and evaluation in the interest of product safety. We 
assess possible health and environmental risks along the entire value chain and implement the 
appropriate measures to mitigate risks based on this.  

We strictly observe the legal requirements, and our voluntary commitment and internal standards 
go beyond these in many areas. This is steered by the Corporate Health, Safety & Sustainability 
function, which is responsible for implementing the related policies and maintaining the HSE man-
agement systems.  

https://echa.europa.eu/ 
regulations/reach 

Implementing statutory requirements 
Extensive legal regulations apply to all Bayer products. Chemical substances are subject to the 
European chemicals regulation REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of 
Chemicals) and the CLP regulation (Regulation on Classification, Labelling and Packaging of Sub-
stances and Mixtures). The classification and labeling of chemicals enables users in the European 
Union to become informed about the risks associated with chemicals.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.1-1  

Requirements of the REACH and CLP regulations met 
The registration obligation under REACH applies irrespective of marketing activities for all sub-
stances that we produce or import in quantities of more than one metric ton. There is also an 
authorization procedure that limits the use of particularly hazardous substances or can lead to 
their replacement or ban. To fulfill the requirements of REACH, we have approved Group-wide 
and segment-specific policies. 

 
 
 
 
 
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Already registered substances are also regularly evaluated by the authorities. For Bayer sub-
stances this can result in additional testing requirements, new risk management measures or 
inclusion in the REACH authorization procedure. To date, one Bayer substance has required 
authorization. The authorities enforce the implementation of REACH through regular inspec-
tions. So far none of the inspections at Bayer has resulted in complaints. We also require our 
suppliers to confirm conformity with REACH for all substances they supply to us. 

In the European Union, the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) for the classification and label-
ing of chemicals is implemented through the CLP regulation. The purpose of the GHS is to 
achieve a globally standardized system for classifying chemicals and labeling them appropriate-
ly on packaging and in safety data sheets. Bayer assesses all its marketed products and im-
plements the GHS worldwide. 

Before any product is introduced to the market, we assess it to determine whether it is safe. 
Furthermore, the end products from our Life Science segments – such as pharmaceuticals, crop 
protection products and biocides – are subject to specific approval / authorization procedures.  

Biocides: see Glossary  

Voluntary commitment by Bayer 
Since 1994, Bayer has supported the voluntary Responsible Care™ initiative of the chemical in-
dustry and the associated Responsible Care™ Global Charter. We cover all main elements of the 
charter at all Group sites with our HSEQ management systems. We are also actively involved in 
the further development of scientific risk assessment through our work in associations and initia-
tives.  

www.icca-chem.org/ 
responsible-care 

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.1-2  

Comprehensive support for association activities 
International associations such as the European and international chemical industry associa-
tions (CEFIC,(cid:3031)ICCA) and the OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development), 
as well as initiatives such as ECETOC (European Centre for Ecotoxicology and Toxicology of 
Chemicals), work to evolve the scientific assessment of chemicals, develop new test methods 
and oversee the implementation of statutory regulations. Bayer actively supports these efforts 
through its activities in the associations. We are also involved, for example, in the ICCA Long-
Range Research Initiative and in the WHO and E.U. action plans for improving health and envi-
ronmental protection. In addition, we support the Global Product Strategy (GPS), a voluntary 
commitment of the chemical industry initiated by the International Council of Chemical Associa-
tions (ICCA). Its objective is to improve knowledge about chemical products, especially in 
Emerging Markets and developing countries, and thus increase safety in the handling of these 
products. 

We continuously evaluate our substances’ properties already at the research and development 
stage. The development of products with undesirable properties is discontinued in application of 
the precautionary principle.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.1-3 
We accept the precautionary principle as explained in Principle 15 of the Rio Declaration of the 
United Nations and communiqué COM (2000) 1 of the European Commission as a possible 
consumer protection and risk management tool. It is applied whenever there is no final scien-
tific certainty in a given area and evidence also exists that people or the environment could suf-
fer significant or irreversible damage. In our view, the focus should not be unilaterally on hazard 
potential, but rather on a balanced benefit-risk evaluation. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
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Group target 2020:  
assessment of the  
hazard potential  
of all substances  
> 1 metric ton p.a.; 
see also A 1.2.1  

In Europe we operate under strict legal requirements. We voluntarily apply comparable standards 
around the world, independent of the respective national legislation. In this way we are ensuring 
that substance assessments comparable to those established under REACH will also be applied 
at all non-European Bayer sites. We support this through our Group target for product steward-
ship: by 2020, we will assess the hazard potential of all substances of our Life Sciences (> 99%) 
used in quantities exceeding one metric ton per annum. By the end of 2016 we had assessed 
66% of these substances. The applicable assessment steps and measures are established in our 
Corporate Policy “Substance Information and Availability.”  

We carry out risk assessments for chemicals according to recognized scientific methods such as 
those described in the Guidance on Information Requirements and Chemical Safety Assessment 
of the ECHA (European Chemicals Agency). Should the analysis reveal that it is not safe to use a 
certain chemical, we take the steps to mitigate risks. 

Product information for safe use 
We pay special attention to our customers in the safe handling and use of our products. Bayer 
compiles safety data sheets for all products regardless of whether or not these are legally re-
quired. We offer suitable packaging information for all end consumer products, an example being 
package inserts for pharmaceuticals.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.1-4 

Continuous examination and communication 
Risk mitigation measures can range from revised application recommendations to the substitu-
tion of a substance. In this case, the use of the substitute must be economically and technically 
feasible. The substitution of chemicals is basically a continuous task for the chemical and 
pharmaceutical industry in order to generate new or substantially improved products and pro-
cesses. This is integral to our commitment to Responsible Care. 

Safety data sheets are the central means of communication for safety-relevant information 
about substances and mixtures in the supply chain. Targeting professional users, they contain 
information on the substance’s properties and on its safe use. In addition, technical information 
is provided for professional use. 

In accordance with the respective product safety and information obligations, all segments com-
pile product information both for raw materials and for intermediates or end products. IT systems 
enable worldwide access to this information, including as regards product labeling.   

Risk assessment of products on the market 
Our stewardship also involves the monitoring of all products that are already available on the mar-
ket. We have established processes throughout the company aimed at addressing inquiries on 
product safety or problems with our products. This feedback is consistently accounted for in our 
risk assessment, which also covers substances that are regarded as potentially high-risk by regu-
latory authorities and independent institutions. 

Responsible use of biotechnology 
We currently use biotechnological methods in pharmaceutical product development and 
production and in the area of crop protection. At Pharmaceuticals, the products involved include 
Betaferon™ / Betaseron™, Eylea™ and Kogenate™, while at Animal Health this concerns 
Zelnate™ – a nonantibiotic immunostimulant product. Further biotechnologically manufactured 
active ingredients are undergoing clinical development. Plant biotechnology can improve and 
secure crop yields and the stress tolerance of plants.  

 
 
 
 
 
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For Bayer, safety is a priority in the use of biotechnology. In addition to legal and regulatory re-
quirements, Bayer has formulated a corporate policy on the responsible use of gene technology. 
We provide our stakeholders with comprehensive information about our products and services in 
accordance with our Corporate Policy “Responsible Marketing & Sales.”  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.1-5  

Activities of the segments 
Pharmaceuticals, Consumer Health and Animal Health have established strict safety measures 
for handling biological agents in the global “Biological Safety” and the “Requirements for the 
safe handling of biological agents” procedural instructions. 

Crop Science has established the necessary requirements for the responsible use of biotech-
nology in both the Product Stewardship Policy and the Seeds Stewardship Directives. Further-
more, Crop Science maintained its focus on the conscientious use of plant biotechnology 
products through its membership of the Excellence Through Stewardship (ETS) organization. 
Audits by ETS-certified auditors are required to maintain ETS membership, and in 2016 Crop 
Science completed eight audits in Europe, the United States and Africa. 

Our commitment to preserving biodiversity  
We take into account influences on biodiversity throughout the entire value chain and have estab-
lished our principles in our own position. There we commit ourselves to the United Nations Con-
vention on Biological Diversity and the associated Nagoya Protocol, which regulates access to 
genetic resources and the balanced and fair sharing of the arising benefits. Crop Science commits 
itself through an internal policy to ensure that Bayer only acquires and uses genetic resources in 
harmony with international and national legislation.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.1-6 
Biodiversity strengthens the resilience of ecosystems and is a key condition for the mainte-
nance of sustainable agriculture. With its products and services, Crop Science contributes to 
this. Our goal is to help our customers to integrate responsible crop protection methods into 
agricultural operations and to preserve soil and water quality and the habitats of insects, polli-
nators and birds. We work together with farmers on solutions for producing more food through 
sustainable agriculture without, for example, increasing the use of crop protection products. 

Various ecological enhancement measures are undertaken to support resilient ecosystems, 
such as enhancing the biodiversity of pollinators by planting flowering strips and the more ex-
tensive cultivation of slopes to protect against erosion. These can help farmers improve, for ex-
ample, soil fertility and water regulation in their fields, or boost the pollination activities of in-
sects and thus increase their yields and biodiversity. At the Bayer ForwardFarms, the host 
farmers and the company demonstrate to the public how sustainable agriculture and ecological 
enhancement measures work in practice. 

www.forward 
farming.com 

In addition, as a member of the Association of Research-Based Pharmaceutical Companies, 
Bayer supports the association’s position on the U.N. Convention on Biological Diversity. 
Among other things, a corresponding policy, which applies to all sites of Pharmaceuticals and 
Consumer Health, takes into account that both segments concentrate on the chemical synthe-
sis of substances using state-of-the-art technologies in medicinal, combinatorial and computa-
tional chemistry. If natural substances are used during research into new pharmaceuticals, they 
are first checked with respect to compliance with the Convention on Biological Diversity. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
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www.animalstudies. 
bayer.com 

3Rs principle:  
see Glossary 

www.etoxproject.eu/ 
www.imi-marcar.eu/ 
project.html 
www.imi.europa.eu/ 
content/k4dd 

Innovative Medicines 
Initiative (IMI):  
see Glossary 

Commitment to animal welfare  
Animal studies are legally required and essential from a scientific viewpoint to assess the safety 
and efficacy of our products. We aim to minimize the use of study animals and to employ alterna-
tive methods whenever possible. We respect all legal requirements pertaining to animal welfare, 
compliance with which is verified through both regulatory authorities and internal audits. Bayer’s 
principles on animal welfare and animal studies apply in countries without special legislation. 
Bayer’s Global Animal Welfare Committee monitors compliance with these guidelines within the 
Bayer Group and in external studies. Our principles also apply to both the research institutes we 
commission and our suppliers, whose compliance with our animal welfare requirements we regu-
larly monitor.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.1-7 

Commitment to reducing animal studies 
Based on the performance indicators of our Animal Welfare Committee, we each year analyze 
the development of animal numbers, the distribution according to species and the burden 
placed on our test animals, as well as evaluate studies and discuss possible steps in accord-
ance with the 3Rs principle (replace, reduce, refine). We are able to demonstrate that since 
2005, the number of study animals used per €1 million research budget (including animals in 
Bayer studies performed by contract research organizations) has declined from 96 animals to 
around 27 animals in 2016. 

Bayer participates in several consortia and projects that aim to reduce the number of animals 
used in studies or improve the studies’ validity. We participate, for example, in the Center for 
Alternatives to Animal Testing (CAAT), and scientists from Pharmaceuticals are involved in the 
leadership of the eTOX project and in the MARCAR and K4DD projects within the scope of the 
Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI). Employees from Crop Science are represented on the 
Board of Administration and the Scientific Committee of the European Centre for Ecotoxicology 
and Toxicology of Chemicals (ECETOC). In Germany, we are active in the Centre for Documen-
tation and Evaluation of Alternative Methods to Animal Experiments. 

Protection against product counterfeiting 
Counterfeit medicines and crop protection products harbor substantial risks for patients and con-
sumers. Product counterfeiting can only be addressed internationally through a joint approach by 
industry, associations, governmental agencies and nongovernmental organizations. Bayer consist-
ently advocates the strengthening and expansion of existing laws and provisions aimed at the 
identification and confiscation of illegal products. We want to additionally protect customers and 
products through extensive measures of our own.  

www.bayer.com/ 
counterfeits 

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.1-8 

Combating counterfeit medications 
Through the “Beware of Counterfeits” campaign, Bayer informs patients on the internet about 
the risks of counterfeit pharmaceuticals and provides patients with tips on how they can pro-
tect themselves. Through the use of various technological means in production, we constantly 
strive to ensure that patients, too, can distinguish between original and counterfeit products. 

We support the establishment of a Europe-wide system for the identification of original phar-
maceuticals that satisfies the requirements of the E.U. Falsified Medicine Directive. In addition, 
Bayer participates in the Pharmaceutical Industry Initiative to Combat Crime of Interpol to coun-
teract pharmaceutical counterfeiting. In 2016, a research project (ALPhA) supported by the 
German Ministry of Education and Research with Bayer’s participation was completed. This es-
tablished the need for a minimum harmonization of criminal conduct definitions and penalties at 
the E.U. level in criminal law relating to medicine. Close cooperation between all stakeholders is 
necessary in the future to achieve practical success in fighting counterfeiting and prevent the 
sale of counterfeit pharmaceuticals on the internet. Bayer is intensively involved in such allianc-
es and has been a partner to the “Innovation Power for Safety in Industry” initiative since 2016. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Combating illegal crop protection products 
To protect against the import of counterfeit and illegal crop protection products into the E.U., 
Crop Science intensively advocates the uniform interpretation and implementation of existing 
E.U. regulations in all E.U. member states. We support regulatory authorities worldwide through 
chemical analysis to identify counterfeit products. In addition, we conduct our own inspections 
in the market in all countries and actively support initiatives by associations. In 2016, we re-
viewed our strategy to protect against illegal crop protection products and rolled the revised 
version out worldwide. 

As part of our product stewardship programs, we provide information material about the risks 
of counterfeit and illegal crop protection products and train customers, dealers, farmers and 
regulatory authorities. We document all indications of suspicious and potentially counterfeit or 
illegal Crop Science products. We work constantly to counterfeit-proof our products through 
the use of security features. In 2016, we identified patent and trademark violations in China, In-
dia and Brazil, and successfully defended our rights. 

Pharmaceuticals and Consumer Health 
Benefit-risk management for pharmaceuticals and medicinal products 
The Pharmaceuticals and Consumer Health segments continuously assess the medical benefit-
risk profile of their pharmaceuticals and medicinal products throughout their entire product life 
cycle. The efficacy, safety and tolerability of pharmaceuticals are studied in Phases I-III of preclini-
cal and clinical development. The documentation submitted to the regulatory authorities contains 
the results of these studies and a comprehensive benefit-risk assessment. It is essential for a new 
pharmaceutical or medicinal product to satisfy regulatory safety requirements if it is to receive 
marketing authorization. According to these regulations, the segments continue to compile safety-
relevant information in a dedicated database following market launch. This information is continu-
ously assessed and the benefit-risk balance regularly evaluated by medical experts of various 
disciplines in the global Pharmacovigilance Department. In this process, Bayer works closely with 
the regulatory and supervisory authorities at international and national levels. Further safety-
relevant information is compiled using Post-Authorization Safety Studies (PASS) conducted after 
approval. The results are entered into the PASS registry in compliance with E.U. pharmacovigi-
lance legislation.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.1-9 

Responsibility of safety management teams 
The Pharmaceuticals and Consumer Health segments have a global pharmaceutical monitoring 
system in which experts from various disciplines work together in safety management teams 
(SMTs). These teams evaluate the benefit and safety data and other relevant product infor-
mation so as to identify potential safety concerns at an early stage or detect possible changes 
in the benefit-risk ratio.  

In addition to internal safety data from clinical trials, post-marketing studies and spontaneous 
adverse event reports, the company uses external databases and information from scientific 
publications to conduct assessments. SMTs produce detailed safety risk management plans 
that are updated as soon as relevant new benefit-risk data become available. Implementation of 
risk mitigation activities is coordinated by local SMTs in the country organizations. All processes 
are documented, regularly updated and integrated into the quality management system. 

Should risks be identified, Bayer immediately undertakes steps to safeguard the health of pa-
tients and consumers in coordination with the authorities. These measures range from updating 
product information for patients, consumers and physicians through patient education bro-
chures and further training measures for medical specialists to direct communication with med-
ical experts (Direct Healthcare Professional Communication, DHPC) and even product with-
drawals if necessary. 

The most important 
regulatory authorities for 
Bayer are:  
– the U.S. Food and 
Drug Administration 
(FDA)  

– the European Medi-
cines Agency (EMA)   
– the Pharmaceuticals 
and Medical Devices 
Agency Japan (PMDA) 
– the China Food and 
Drug Administration 
(CFDA) 

Pharmacovigilance:  
see Glossary 

 
 
 
 
 
 
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Analysis of residues of pharmaceuticals in the environment 
Active pharmaceutical ingredients can enter the environment through human or animal excreta, 
through improper disposal or during production. Surface waters are particularly relevant here. 
Pharmaceuticals and Consumer Health carry out their own ecotoxicological investigations of 
pharmaceutical residues and degradation products to assess the potential environmental impact 
of these products. In connection with the approval process for human and veterinary pharmaceu-
ticals in Europe and the United States, an environmental risk assessment takes place for all new 
active ingredients. Based on currently available information, the existing concentrations of individ-
ual active pharmaceutical ingredients in drinking water do not have any relevant adverse effects on 
human health. This subject is dealt with in particular by a WHO report on pharmaceuticals in 
drinking water published in 2012 that comes to the conclusion that traceable effects on human 
health through the current extent of exposure via drinking water are highly improbable. We are 
following the discussion and actively participating in the stakeholder dialogue.  

Bayer complies worldwide with all statutory requirements regarding wastewater thresholds at its 
production sites. In line with the regulatory requirements, these are reviewed by supervisory au-
thorities and external consultants and also at regular intervals through audits by internal experts.  

To further reduce or completely avoid traces of pharmaceuticals entering the environment, we are 
taking our own measures in production. In addition, as part of the Eco-Pharmaco-Stewardship 
initiative of European pharmaceutical associations, we have adopted their methods for the risk 
assessment of pharmaceutical traces in production wastewater. Bayer has reviewed its production 
sites according to these methods and, where necessary, taken site-specific measures aimed at a 
further reduction. We are also participating actively in various research projects to develop reduc-
tion measures.  

www.medicinesforeurope
.com/key-
topics/#section-5 

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.1-10 

Participation in extensive research projects 
Bayer coordinates the “Intelligence-led Assessment of Pharmaceuticals in the Environment” 
project in Europe, which seeks new ways to improve environmental risk assessment. The goal 
is to develop models and methods for determining possible environmental risks of pharmaceu-
tical substances in early development stages and to prioritize for further environmental assess-
ment existing substances that previously have not been evaluated. 

In Germany, Bayer, as member of the steering committee, participated in the “Risk Manage-
ment of Emerging Compounds and Pathogens in the Water Cycle” initiative sponsored by the 
German Ministry for Education and Research (BMBF). At the conclusion of the initiative in 2016, 
the results were presented and, overall, Germany’s flowing waters were attested to be in good 
condition. Within the scope of the precautionary principle, however, further-reaching purification 
of wastewater is recommended for the future.  

Bayer is also involved in the stakeholder dialogue initiated by the German government in 2016 
on the issue of micropollutant strategy. This dialogue process is aimed at developing a strategy 
to prevent the water-polluting effects of certain chemicals, including active pharmaceutical in-
gredients. The results and recommended measures are expected to be summarized in a posi-
tion paper in the summer of 2017. 

 
 
 
 
 
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Crop Science 
Focusing on product safety 
Product safety and environmental compatibility play a central role in the development of crop 
protection products and technologies so that they are harmless to people and animals and can be 
used without constituting an unjustifiable ecological burden. For this they require official authoriza-
tion, which is regulated by numerous international and national laws and provisions. The require-
ments for marketing authorization, particularly as pertains to the environment, have risen sharply 
in recent years. Crop Science satisfies all the regulatory requirements of the countries in which our 
products are sold.  

In tests required by law, Crop Science already examines the products during the development 
phase with regard to their mode of action, their (eco)toxicological properties and the extent of 
potential remaining trace concentrations in plants and the environment. Each new crop protection 
active ingredient and each new technology must undergo these studies and tests to ensure that 
the active ingredient can be applied effectively as a product and that its use or that of the relevant 
technology is safe for people, animals and the environment. 

Furthermore, Bayer has made a voluntary commitment to market only those crop protection prod-
ucts whose active ingredients are registered in at least one OECD country. In its sale and applica-
tion of crop protection products and technologies, Crop Science observes the International Code 
of Conduct on Pesticide Management of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization 
(FAO). We implement all major aspects of responsible product handling in our Product Steward-
ship Program, which is based on the principles of our Product Stewardship Policy. 

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.1-11 

Model projects for water protection in agriculture  
The targeted use of crop protection products that minimize discharge outside of the treated 
crops is very important to Crop Science. Through best management practices, Crop Science 
supports agriculture in safe and environmentally friendly land cultivation and the disposal of re-
sidual liquids following the application of crop protection products.  

In the area of water pollution mitigation, we give recommendations and advice to our custom-
ers particularly with regard to biological remediation systems such as Phytobac™. These sys-
tems are intended to prevent point source discharges of crop protection active ingredients into 
water bodies that are generated during the filling and cleaning of spraying devices or the dis-
posal of residual liquids. The system is now being tested in numerous E.U. countries and of-
fered commercially by suppliers. In Europe, around 4,100 remediation systems are currently in 
operation. 

www.bayer.com/ 
phytobac 

Erosion and runoff processes on agricultural land can also lead to substance emissions into ad-
jacent water systems. In this context, we are collaborating with external partners on the devel-
opment of a web-based geoinformation system for water protection in agriculture. This enables 
the visualization of site-related risks by means of high-resolution risk maps supplemented with 
proposals for proven procedures. It is planned for this system to be used as an advisory tool for 
water protection in agriculture.  

To more effectively account for increasing demands with regard to environmental protection 
and occupational health and safety, Crop Science and its external partner agrotop GmbH have 
developed a closed, contamination-preventing discharge system for liquid crop protection 
products. It consists of sealed canisters that enable partial and full discharge and completely 
clean themselves. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
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www.beecare.bayer.com 

Bayer Bee Care: strengthening bee health 
As a Life Science company, we know how important healthy bees are as pollinators for sustaina-
ble food production and are aware of the key role they play in ecosystems. Promoting the health 
of pollinators and sustainable agriculture is of tremendous importance for our business. Within our 
Bee Care Program, we combine all activities in the area of pollinator health and safety. We operate 
Bee Care Centers in Germany and the United States for this purpose and have also established a 
global Bee Care network.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.1-12 

Objectives of the Bee Care Program 
Health problems among bees and other pollinators are caused by a number of complex factors. 
These include pests, parasites, disease, extreme environmental and weather conditions, the 
availability of food, and certain agricultural and beekeeping practices. Bayer is involved in nu-
merous projects and partnerships to more closely study these factors and strengthen bee 
health.  

Within the framework of the Bee Care Program, we proactively approach numerous stakeholder 
groups – including industry partners, scientists, farmers, beekeepers, governmental agencies, 
nongovernmental organizations, investors and representatives of the food value chain. Our goal 
is together to seek opportunities for cooperating in the field of bee and general pollinator health 
and to make our activities more transparent. For example, in 2016 we participated in a round of 
discussions in London on bee protection organized by Hermes Investment Management. 

Activities to effectively protect bees 
In North America, Bayer has launched a public appeal to create new foraging habitat for bees 
as part of its “Feed a bee” initiative. In addition, in the United States, through the partnership 
with the bee research society “Apis m.,” important stimulus was gained in 2016 for implement-
ing research projects whose results benefit beekeeping (Healthy Hives 2020 program). 

In Germany, Bayer looks at how insect biodiversity-enhancing measures work and is conduct-
ing a major, multi-year study on this subject in agriculturally oriented regions. In South America, 
we finance projects studying the attractiveness of various crops so as to better understand the 
relationship between pollinators and local crops and to optimize the use of crop protection 
products.  

In connection with research into controlling the Varroa mite, a dangerous parasite for honey 
bees, Bayer has developed a plastic strip treated with an active ingredient that protects bee-
hives from mite infestation. The product is expected to be available to beekeepers by 2017 to 
combat the Varroa mite.  

We do everything possible to minimize risks to bees – through extensive safety testing, risk as-
sessment, product stewardship measures and the development of bee-friendly crop protection 
products and processes. 

Ongoing re-evaluation of neonicotinoids 
We are convinced that neonicotinoids are user-safe insecticides with a positive environmental 
profile, and are not dangerous to bees when used responsibly and according to labeling in-
structions. This was confirmed by risk evaluations performed during marketing authorization re-
views by the responsible authorities of countries outside Europe. In Europe, however, Bayer 
products that contain two of our neonicotinoid compounds have been prohibited since 2013 
from use in crops that are attractive to bees. The European Commission has recently instructed 
the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) to examine all newly available data and reports from 
the past two years. The results are expected for the beginning of 2017. 

Neonicotinoids:  
see Glossary 

 
 
 
 
 
 
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Bayer has brought the restriction on neonicotinoid use in the E.U. before the Court of Justice of 
the European Union in order to clarify the legal basis of the Commission’s decision. This deci-
sion is based on an assessment by the EFSA that in turn is based on neither a validated nor an 
officially recognized risk assessment system. With a view to future investment decisions, the 
company is primarily asking that the court clarify the regulatory framework. 

Involving customers and partners 
The application of crop protection products requires the greatest possible care. We therefore 
support our customers and partners worldwide in the proper and safe handling of our seed and 
crop protection products. Targeted training measures particularly for farmers and dealers are de-
signed to improve safety for users and thus also the environment and consumers. The objective is 
to increase the scope of our training activities worldwide.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.1-13  

Training for farmers and Bayer employees 
We continued our training activities worldwide in 2016. Farmers were taught how to use  
crop protection products effectively and safely, and thus increase the yield and quality of their 
harvested goods. Subsequently, new marketing possibililties can arise that offer smallholder 
farmers in particular the chance to generate higher profits. 

Safe use training offerings are an important aspect here. In 2016, around 950,000 farmers 
worldwide were trained in the safe use of crop protection products. The majority of these train-
ing measures took place as part of customer events since safety training is an integral part of 
our business activity. We also conducted safe use training courses in numerous countries in 
2016 in cooperation with partners such as local, regional and international associations. 

Bayer focuses on training activities in countries where there are no statutory requirements as 
regards certification in the safe handling of crop protection products. We therefore establish 
plans of action with our regional organizations for the respective prioritized countries that are 
then implemented locally. 

Our product stewardship measures also include internal employee training measures. Our  
Product Stewardship Policy provides information on all principles for the responsible handling 
of our products, combined with specific instructions for use for our employees and those who 
work with our products. 

Users of our products can contact Crop Science through a range of communication channels 
should they have complaints or feedback or wish to report any incidents. These include direct 
contact with our sales staff; our standard hotline, which is printed on all our product packaging; 
and, in Germany for example, the “Agrar Telefon” expert hotline. 

Animal Health 
Safety standards for animal health products 
In line with the statutory requirements, strict safety and quality standards also apply to animal 
health products, animal feed and feed additives. Within the scope of the approval / authorization 
procedures, Animal Health carries out detailed studies in order to ensure the safety of its products 
for the treated animals, people and the environment alike. A particular focus lies on monitoring 
veterinary pharmaceutical safety and on activities aimed at responsible product use.  

 
 
 
 
 
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 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.1-14 

Safety and control system for animal health products 
We continuously compile all safety-relevant information such as reports of suspected adverse 
effects of pharmaceuticals in our own global safety database. This information is evaluated and 
reported to the responsible authorities in accordance with national regulations. In this process, 
Animal Health works closely with the responsible regulatory and supervisory authorities at the 
national and supranational levels. This includes especially the European Medicines Agency 
(EMA) and the national agencies in the EEA, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the 
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the responsible authorities in other countries. 

Responsible use of antibacterial active ingredients 
We work together with veterinarians, pharmacists, farmers and private animal-owners world-
wide to promote the correct handling of our products. We participate in the “European Platform 
for the responsible use of medicines in animals” and engage in dialogue with stakeholders from 
academia, politics and society.  

In line with our “Prudent Use Policy,” we support the responsible use of antibiotics, in particular 
of fluoroquinolones. We are convinced that effective antibacterial active ingredients are essen-
tial for the treatment of infectious diseases in animals. Animal Health promotes their proper use, 
for example through strict guidelines. We also work intensively on the development of alterna-
tive strategies to antimicrobial treatment. Since 2015, we have been marketing Zelnate™, a 
nonantibiotic immunostimulant. 

Covestro 
Comprehensive assessment of health, safety and environmental risks 
The safe handling and use of our products are of utmost importance. Besides statutorily required 
safety information, therefore, Covestro provides additional information such as safety summaries 
within the scope of the Global Product Strategy (GPS) of the International Council of Chemical 
Associations (ICCA). Covestro complies with all regulatory requirements for the protection of 
consumer health, including the use of the chemical bisphenol A. The company makes available 
both GPS information and product safety assessments through the “Product Safety First” inter-
net portal.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.1-15  
As a contribution to the safe handling of chemicals, risk assessments are conducted according 
to recognized scientific principles. Here Covestro makes use, for example, of the Guidance on 
Information Requirements and Chemical Safety Assessment of the ECHA (European Chemicals 
Agency). On the basis of a hazard assessment and an exposure assessment, it is determined 
what additional information is required to describe the risk posed by a product. All product 
groups undergo a multi-stage product safety assessment. 

1.4.3.2 Safety 
Safety management and the continuous development of a safety culture are a cornerstone of 
corporate responsibility in the Bayer Group. Preventing accidents and incidents in day-to-day 
work, when operating production facilities, and on work-related travel and transportation routes 
where people or the environment may suffer harm or damage has top priority for us. Responsibility 
for safety is defined through appropriate directives such as our Corporate Policy “Safety at the 
Bayer Group.” Our safety management is based on four pillars: 

www.productsafetyfirst. 
covestro.com 

 
 
 
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Safety Pillars

Act SAFE, Respect LIFE !

A 1.4.3.2/1

Occupational Health
& Safety

Process &
Plant Safety

Transportation Safety

Product Stewardship

Behavioral Safety

Occupational health and safety 
Safeguarding the occupational health and safety of our employees, and of the employees of con-
tractors and suppliers on our company premises and under the supervision of Bayer, is one of our 
core tasks. This entails preventing work-related accidents and occupational illnesses, assessing 
potential hazards, ensuring comprehensive risk management and creating a healthy working envi-
ronment. The rate of occupational injuries has been falling for several years. Intensive training 
once again contributed to this success in 2016. 

The basis of our reporting on occupational injuries is the Recordable Incident Rate (RIR), which 
covers all injuries to employees requiring medical treatment that goes beyond simple first aid. 
This includes injuries both with and without lost workdays. In 2016, the RIR rate dropped to 
0.39 cases per 200,000 hours worked, corresponding to 489 occupational injuries worldwide. 
This means that, in statistical terms, one recordable incident occurred for almost every 
516,000 hours worked. We were also able to improve with respect to our Group target (RIR excl. 
Covestro). The Lost Time Recordable Incident Rate (LTRIR), which exclusively records reportable 
injuries with lost workdays, was higher than in the previous year.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.2-1 
Occupational illnesses are included in both parameters (LTRIR and RIR), regardless of whether 
or not they are listed in national registers of occupational diseases. As lists of occupational dis-
eases are not globally standardized and in many countries do not exist at all, we document all 
occupational illnesses, provided they have been diagnosed and recognized by a physician. 14 
new cases of occupational illnesses were reported throughout the Bayer Group in 2016. Most 
of these were related to the musculoskeletal system and were caused, for example, by com-
puter work or lifting.  

Bayer universally and regularly subjects all workplaces to a risk assessment and a hazard anal-
ysis. These analyses are used to derive risk mitigation measures that, in conjunction with tar-
geted studies, are designed to prevent occupational illnesses from arising. In accordance with 
our occupational health and safety policy, we offer our employees regular medical examinations 
– in some cases on a mandatory basis – in all countries in which this is legally permissible. The 
focus here is on the risks that exist at each workplace. Furthermore, all respective country-
specific provisions for mandatory examinations are complied with. 

Regrettably, four people lost their lives in work-related accidents in 2016. Two Bayer employees 
were killed in traffic accidents and two contractor employees died after falling from heights, in-
cluding from scaffolding. All the fatalities occurred in India. 

See also A 1.4.1 

Group target 2020:  
reduction of 35% in 
occupational safety 
incident rate (RIR);  
see also A 1.2.1 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Recordable Occupational Injuries 

Occupational injuries without lost workdays (RIR 

1) 

Occupational injuries without lost workdays (RIR 

1) Life Sciences 

Occupational injuries with lost workdays (LTRIR 

2) 

Fatal injuries (total) 

of which Bayer employees 

of which contractor employees 

3 

A 1.4.3.2/2

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

0.49

0.50

0.27

2

2

–

0.47

0.49

0.26

2

1

1

0.43

0.44

0.22

4

3

1

0.42

0.43

0.21

2

2

–

0.39

0.40

0.23

4

2

2

1 RIR = Recordable Incident Rate 
2 LTRIR = Lost Time Recordable Incident Rate 
3 Employees working for third parties whose accidents occurred on our company premises and under Bayer supervision 

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.2-2 

Recordable Incident Rate (RIR) by Region 

Europe / Middle East / Africa 

North America 

Asia / Pacific 

Latin America  

Total 

2015 figures restated 

2012

0.58

0.53

0.21

0.42

0.49

2013

0.75

0.49

0.20

0.31

0.47

2014

0.68

0.64

0.14

0.25

0.43

A 1.4.3.2-2/1

2015

0.62

0.58

0.12

0.32

0.42

2016

0.46

0.65

0.14

0.38

0.39

As in previous years, we hardly recorded any accidents involving contact with chemicals in 2016. 
A significant proportion of our accidents and injuries have behavior-linked causes. Our Behavioral 
Safety Program launched by the Group Board of Management is addressing this problem.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.2-3 
Behavioral Safety Program heightens safety awareness  
This initiative focuses on safety-conscious conduct by our employees. To prevent behavior-
related accidents, we introduced an extensive Behavioral Safety Program in 2015. To this end, 
the existing safety culture was recorded and evaluated in all fields of work, primarily, however, 
in the production units. We evaluated 54 sites of the Crop Science, Pharmaceuticals and Con-
sumer Health segments around the world in 2016 and, based on the results of these evalua-
tions, drew up plans of action. Intensive training measures are in place to prevent accidents 
and injuries in the future before they happen. Initial behavioral improvements have been identi-
fied in areas in which the program has already been implemented. Specific training goals are 
designed to help reduce the Recordable Incident Rate. 

Process and plant safety  
We aim to design and operate our processes and facilities in such a way that they do not pose 
any inappropriate risks to employees, the environment or the community. To improve the safety of 
our production facilities and processes worldwide, Bayer is continually working to further develop 
the safety culture, the expertise of employees and the relevant standards for assessing risks. The 
corresponding Corporate Policy “Process and Plant Safety” updated in 2016 specifies globally 
harmonized procedures and standards. This is regularly reviewed to take into account changes in 
legislation, new procedures and additional quality assurance processes. 

 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
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 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.2-4  
In a key move to maintain and improve safety awareness, the globally binding training program 
TOPPS (Top Performance in Process and Plant Safety) has been further extended. Participation 
in this program is compulsory for all Bayer employees who are able to influence process and 
plant safety at production and auxiliary facilities and is documented in the Bayer training sys-
tem. This rule has become an integral part of the Group’s HSEQ management systems. TOPPS 
training documentation for face-to-face training and web-based training is available in several 
languages. 

The central Bayer competence center for process and plant safety in Leverkusen, Germany, the 
regional centers in Asia and the United States, and plant safety experts at all production sites 
work together in a global network.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.2-5  
Our experts work in international working groups such as the European Chemical Industry 
Council (CEFIC) on developing a global reporting standard for key performance indicators in 
plant safety and are also heavily involved in sharing experiences in this area, both nationally and 
internationally, at an industrial level. 

A globally standardized KPI – Loss of Primary Containment (LoPC) – applies as an early indicator 
for plant safety incidents and is integrated into Group-wide safety reporting. LoPC refers to the 
leakage of chemical substances or energy in amounts above defined thresholds from their primary 
containers, such as pipelines, pumps, tanks or drums. The LoPC Incident Rate (LoPC-IR) indi-
cates the number of LoPC incidents per 200,000 hours worked. In 2016, the LoPC-IR was 0.32 
(2015: 0.22). Bayer’s LoPC reporting is based on the standards of the European Chemical Indus-
try Council (CEFIC), which apply throughout Europe.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.2-6  
The causes of every reported LoPC incident are analyzed to further improve safety at existing 
plants. The results of the cause analyses are publicized across the Group. The LoPC-IR param-
eter and the globally established training program for process and plant safety are helping us to 
improve employees’ safety awareness. 

The reporting threshold was set at such a low level that even material and energy leaks that 
have no impact on employees, neighbors or the environment are systematically recorded and 
reported. This approach supports our commitment to maintain the integrity of our facilities. 

Rate of Plant Safety Incidents (LoPC-IR) 

Loss of Primary Containment Incident Rate (LoPC-IR) 

1 

LoPC-IR 

1 Life Sciences 

1 Number of LoPC incidents per 200,000 working hours 

A 1.4.3.2/3 

2012

0.38

0.21

2013

0.35

0.16

2014

0.23

0.13

2015

0.22

0.11

2016

0.32

0.17

Group target 2020: 
reduction of 30% in 
process and plant  
safety incidents;              
see also A 1.2.1 

 
 
 
 
   
 
 
  
  
  
 
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As part of its Group-wide crisis management, Bayer operates a global early warning system – the 
Bayer Emergency Response System.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.2-7  
A corporate policy provides a globally applicable standard procedure for recording and report-
ing unusual incidents such as hazards to the safety of our employees, plants or facilities, and 
regulates the Bayer Group’s crisis management. The handling of such incidents is the respon-
sibility of the local crisis organization/emergency response team. For this purpose, organiza-
tional precautions with defined responsibilities and procedures have been implemented at the 
sites/in the countries. Depending on the situation, these involve business partners and the local 
community around the sites. 

Transportation safety  
Great importance is attached to transportation safety within the Bayer safety culture. This applies 
both to the transportation of our products on public routes, particularly of hazardous goods, and 
to processes such as loading, unloading, classification, labeling, packaging and selecting the right 
logistics partners. These are decided on using a defined procedure, and their fulfillment of safety 
and quality standards is assessed. The implementation of a dedicated corporate policy ensures 
that all materials are handled in line with applicable regulations and the potential hazard they 
pose. As part of our voluntary Responsible Care activities, transportation safety instructions are 
also drawn up for nonhazardous materials and corresponding distribution safety audits performed. 
Our transportation safety management is an integral part of HSE management and is implemented 
by a network of experts and users with practical experience.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.2-8  
Details are specified in the corporate policies “Health, Safety, Environment and Quality (HSEQ) 
Audits” and “Transportation Safety.” A globally aligned transportation safety committee acts as 
a forum for exchanging information and standardizing procedures between the segments. In 
2016, the panel focused on issues such as training in transportation safety, the review of inter-
nal process instructions and the evaluation, selection and auditing of our logistics service pro-
viders. 

In total, well over three million transport movements took place in 2016. Bayer aims to minimize 
the number of incidents through preventive measures. Despite our extensive safety precautions 
and training activities, residual risks can result in transport incidents. These include accidents that 
cause personal injury or significant damage to property and environmental impact resulting from 
the release of substances or leakage of hazardous goods. They are recorded in detail and as-
sessed based on defined criteria. The 12 transport incidents in 2016 were mainly traffic accidents.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.2-9 

Transport Incidents by Means of Transport 

Road 

Rail 

Sea  

Total 

A 1.4.3.2-9/1

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

6

0

0

6

8

0

3

11

11

1

0

12

11

1

0

12

12

0

0

12

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
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The following table provides an overview of the transport incidents in 2016. 

Transport Incidents 2016 

1 

Crop Science, Belford Roxo, Brazil, February 13, 2016 
During transportation, a truck loaded with Bayer product tipped over, causing a product spill.  
This was cleaned up and disposed of in a professional manner. 

Covestro, Verona, Italy, March 18, 2016 
During transportation, the packaging of a pallet was damaged, leading to leakage of a product. 
The product was cleaned up and disposed of in a professional manner. 

Covestro, Erftstadt, Germany, April 12, 2016 
During an evasive maneuver, a tank trailer loaded with a Covestro product tipped over on a 
highway. No product leaked out. 

A 1.4.3.2-9/2

Personal
injury

No

No

Yes

Crop Science, Thane, India, June 13, 2016 
A truck loaded with Bayer product was involved in a traffic accident. A passer-by died as a result 
of the accident. 

          Yes

Covestro, Le Muy, France, June 27, 2016 
A truck loaded with Covestro product collided with other vehicles at the tail end of a traffic jam. A 
driver from a transport company died as a result of the accident. No product leaked out. 

Covestro, São Paulo, Brazil, July 5, 2016 
During transportation, drums containing product were damaged. These and the product that had 
leaked into the catchment space were cleaned up and disposed of in a professional manner. 

Covestro, Springfield, Missouri, United States, July 10, 2016 
A truck trailer overturned during transportation. Around 2,500 kg of granules escaped. The content 
of the container and the released granules were taken up and disposed of in a professional 
manner. The driver suffered minor injuries. 

Covestro, Oldenburg, Germany, August 17, 2016 
During loading at a logistics service provider, a product container was damaged. The material that 
had leaked inside the truck and the residual amount still in the container were taken up and 
disposed of in a professional manner.  

Pharmaceuticals, Leverkusen, Germany, October 27, 2016 
A truck loaded with Bayer product collided with a mobile sign truck. A highway maintenance 
worker died as a result.  

Covestro, Tashkent, Uzbekistan, November 3, 2016 
During transportation, two product containers were damaged. The material that had leaked inside 
the tank and the residual amount still in the containers were taken up and disposed of in a 
professional manner. One of the customer’s employees suffered a slight injury. 

Crop Science, Belford Roxo, Brazil, November 19, 2016  
Following a collision with another vehicle, a truck loaded with Bayer product tipped over, spilling 
the content of one container on the road. This was cleaned up and disposed of in a professional 
manner. 

Crop Science, Villefranche, France, November 22, 2016 
While loading a truck, a container of product was damaged by a forklift truck. The product was 
cleaned up and disposed of in a professional manner. 

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

1 Standard practice at Bayer is to record every fatality reported to us relating to our business activities. A difference between the 
number of fatalities in Table A 1.4.3.2/2 and Table A 1.4.3.2-9/2 may occur because for occupational injuries, by definition, we 
show only fatalities of Bayer and contractor employees who were under immediate Bayer supervision.   

1.4.3.3 Environmental Protection 
We meet our responsibility to protect the environment in many different ways. We are continuously 
working to reduce the environmental impact of our business activities and develop product solu-
tions that benefit the environment. For us, an efficient approach to raw materials and energy 
makes both ecological and economic sense. Our measures help reduce environmental impact and 
at the same time cut the costs associated with materials, energy, emissions and disposal.  

We use many means to make our production processes more resource-friendly and lower the 
emissions they generate. In line with our claim we are also committed to minimizing wastewater 
pollution. Systematic waste management and recycling activities reduce the amount of materials 
to be disposed of. 

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
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Responsibilities and framework conditions are stipulated at Group level, e.g. by corporate policies, 
targets and key performance indicators (KPIs). We use certified HSEQ management systems to 
control operational implementation. Our environmental standards apply worldwide.  

Energy consumption 
Total energy consumption slightly higher than last year 
In 2016, the Group’s total energy consumption rose by 1.6% to 84.5 petajoules. In calculating the 
total energy consumption, we differentiate between primary energy consumption – mainly of fossil 
fuels for our own generation of electricity and steam – and secondary energy consumption, which 
reflects the purchase of electricity, steam and refrigeration energy and the use of process heat. 
Primary energy consumption rose in 2016 by 1.0% and secondary energy consumption by 2.2%. 
This increase in energy requirements is due to increased production activities at the Leverkusen 
and Krefeld-Uerdingen sites in Germany.  

Energy Consumption in the Bayer Group 

1 

TJ 

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

A 1.4.3.3/1

Primary energy consumption for the in-house 
generation of electricity & steam 

Natural gas 

Coal 

Liquid fuels 

Waste 

Other 

2 

Secondary energy consumption  

Electricity 

3 

Steam 

Steam from waste heat (process heat) 

Refrigeration energy 

Total energy consumption 

Total energy consumption Life Sciences 

49,047

30,411

15,954

656

1,005

1,021

34,137

25,849

(121)

9,144

(735)

83,184

28,481

47,582

29,796

15,094

416

1,282

994

33,266

25,560

(801)

9,146

(639)

80,848

27,972

45,572 

31,580 

12,611 

421 

833 

127 

39,745 

27,177 

3,579 

9,639 

(650)

85,317 

26,288 

42,996 

28,813 

12,755 

350 

1,523 

(445)

40,186

25,977

4,694 

9,974 

(459)

83,182 

24,677 

43,424

27,552

13,420

465

1,800

187

41,070

28,070

3,576

10,010

(586)

84,494

26,243

1  Energy consumption is netted which may result in negative values. 
2 E.g. hydrogen 
3 The proportion of primary energy sources used in generating the electricity consumed depends on the respective national 

electricity mix. 

Energy efficiency target of Life Science areas achieved and newly formulated 
We measure energy efficiency based on the relationship between energy consumption in mega-
watt hours (MWh) and manufactured sales volume (in metric tons). With a reduction of 0.5%, the 
manufactured sales volume of the Life Sciences was about the same level as the previous year, 
while energy consumption rose by around 6.3%, mainly at our service company Currenta, which 
serves among other functions as the energy provider for Bayer and third parties. As a result, our 
energy efficiency deteriorated by around 6.8% compared with the previous year. 

Energy Efficiency 

in MWh/t 

Energy efficiency of Life Sciences 

A 1.4.3.3/2

2012

8.86

2013

8.54

2014

7.62

2015

6.34

2016

6.77

Group target 2020: 
improvement of 10%  
in energy efficiency; 
see also A 1.2.1 

In line with our Group target, we are endeavoring to improve energy efficiency by 10% by 2020 
compared to 2012. With an increase in energy efficiency of almost 24% compared with the base 
year 2012, we had achieved this target by the end of 2016.  

On account of Covestro becoming legally independent, the magnitude of our manufactured sales 
volume and also our energy requirement has significantly fallen. For that reason, when calculating 

 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
 
 
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our energy efficiency in the future we want to use a more appropriate reference value for our 
product portfolio. With effect from reporting year 2017, we shall indicate energy efficiency for our 
Life Science areas Pharmaceuticals, Consumer Health, Crop Science and Animal Health as the 
relationship between the energy we use and our external sales, instead of the manufactured sales 
volume. For that reason, we have adjusted our previous target so that it is now to improve our 
energy efficiency by 10% by 2020 compared with the base year of 2015.  

Combined heat and power processes account for high proportion of in-house energy generation  
Around 90% of our own energy generation comes from highly efficient combined heat and power 
processes. In addition, we purchase electricity on the market – through energy exchanges, for 
example. The electricity and heat generated and purchased are used in our own production facili-
ties and third-party facilities (especially of Lanxess Deutschland GmbH as the other shareholder of 
our service company Currenta). The proportion of renewable energies is determined by the energy 
mix of our energy suppliers. We comment in detail on these issues in our CDP Report.  

CDP: see Glossary  

www.bayer.com/ 
CDP-Climate 

Air emissions  
At Bayer, air emissions are caused mainly by the generation and consumption of electricity, steam 
and process heat. Thanks to the various measures in our Bayer Climate Program – such as intro-
ducing energy management systems and production / process innovations – we have achieved a 
significant reduction in emissions over the past 10 years, which goes hand in hand with an im-
provement in energy efficiency. We have documented our successful reduction of greenhouse gas 
(GHG) emissions in the CDP reports and in 2016 received an excellent rating, the leadership sta-
tus with the highest score of A.  

As a Life Science company too, we want to continue helping to protect the climate on several 
levels. This includes reducing our production-related emissions with ambitious targets relating to 
energy efficiency and cutting specific greenhouse gas emissions. In the future, we will be focusing 
more on lowering emissions in nonproduction areas. These include our vehicle fleet (Sustainable 
Fleet initiative), looking into increased use of electric vehicles (electric mobility programs), further 
developing our information and communication technologies (Green IT) in terms of environmental 
aspects and investigating potential ways to lower greenhouse gas emissions along the value 
chain.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.3-1 
We are also working further to reduce our CO2 emissions in connection with our global fleet of 
over 25,000 vehicles. At an average level of 145 g/km for the just over 5,000 vehicles newly 
registered in 2016, these remained at approximately the same level as in 2015 (141 g/km). Our 
goal is to reduce average CO2 emissions to 110 g/km for new vehicles registered in 2020. To 
achieve this, we shall implement further measures in 2017 such as pilot projects on e-mobility. 

Transparency on greenhouse gas emissions  
Bayer reports all Group greenhouse gas emissions in line with the requirements of the Greenhouse 
Gas Protocol (GHG Protocol). Direct emissions from our own power plants, waste incineration 
plants and production facilities (Scope 1) and indirect emissions from the procurement of electrici-
ty, steam and refrigeration energy (Scope 2) are determined at all production locations and rele-
vant research and administrative sites.  

GHG Protocol:  
see Glossary  

Since 2015, we have reported in line with the updated GHG Protocol guideline for Scope 2, which 
states that indirect emissions must be reported according to both the location-based and the 
market-based methods. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Group Greenhouse Gas Emissions 

1 

Million metric tons of CO2 equivalents 

Total direct emissions 

2 

of which from Life Sciences 

3 

Total indirect emissions 
to the location-based method 

4 according  

of which from Life Sciences 

3 

Total indirect emissions 
to the market-based method 

4 according  

of which from Life Sciences 

3 

Total greenhouse gas emissions according  
to the market-based method 

5 

of which from Life Sciences 

3 

Specific greenhouse gas emissions from Life Sciences 
(t CO2e / t) according to the market-based method 

5,6 

3  

2012

4.24

0.75

4.71

0.88

4.72

0.93

8.96

1.68

2013

4.09

0.73

4.85

0.89

4.91

0.93

9.00

1.66

2014

4.02

0.69

5.03

0.90

5.53

0.96

9.55

1.65

A 1.4.3.3/3

2016

4.30

0.73

5.00

0.88

5.57

0.93

9.87

1.66

2015

4.41

0.91

4.94

0.88

5.30

0.92

9.71

1.83

1.88

1.83

1.72

1.69

1.54

1 Portfolio-adjusted in accordance with the GHG Protocol 
2 In 2016, 84.21% of emissions were CO2 emissions, 15.38% N2O emissions, just under 0.37% partially fluorinated hydrocarbons  

and 0.04% methane. 

3 Excluding Currenta 
4 Typically, CO2 in incineration processes accounts for over 99% of all greenhouse gas emissions. When determining indirect 

emissions, our calculations are therefore limited to CO2 and indicate direct emissions in CO2 equivalents. 

5 The market-based method of the new Scope 2 GHG Protocol most reliably reflects the indirect emissions and the success of 

emissions reduction measures, so we used emissions volumes calculated using this method when calculating the total and specific 
greenhouse gas emissions. 

6 Specific Group emissions are calculated from the total volume of direct emissions, indirect emissions calculated using the market-

based method of the new Scope 2 GHG Protocol and emissions from the vehicle fleet, divided by the manufactured sales volume of 
the segments in metric tons. Quantities attributable to the supply of energy to external companies are deducted from the direct and 
indirect emissions. 

In line with the GHG Protocol, in our energy balance we include all greenhouse gas (GHG) emis-
sions from the conversion of primary energy sources into electricity, steam or refrigeration energy, 
even though a significant proportion of our direct emissions comes from the generation of energy 
that is delivered to other companies. Consequently, our absolute figures for greenhouse gas emis-
sions are higher than the actual emissions resulting from Bayer’s business activities alone.  

In 2016, we recorded a slight increase of 1.7% in total GHG emissions in the Group, although 
those of the Life Sciences without Currenta fell by 9.5%. Direct emissions diminished across the 
Group by 2.4%, mainly due to the sale of the chemical park infrastructure at the site in Institute, 
West Virginia, United States. Indirect emissions (market-based method) rose by 5.1%. This was 
essentially due to enhanced energy requirements as a result of increased production activities at 
the Chempark Leverkusen, Dormagen and Krefeld-Uerdingen sites in Germany. We were again 
able to reduce the specific greenhouse gas emissions (total emissions divided by the manufac-
tured sales volume) of our Life Sciences (here excluding Currenta). With a reduction of 18% com-
pared with 2012 levels, we have already achieved our previous Group target of reducing specific 
greenhouse gas emissions by 15% by the year 2020. 

As with the calculation method for our energy efficiency, we are also intending to change our re-
porting of specific greenhouse gas emissions from 2017 onward. We are planning to indicate 
these as the relationship between the greenhouse gas emissions of our Life Sciences and our 
external sales instead of the manufactured sales volume. We have thus adjusted our Group target 
accordingly and are looking to achieve a 20% reduction in specific greenhouse gas emissions by 
2020 compared with 2015. This new target more adequately reflects our contribution to climate 
protection and takes into account our new corporate orientation as a Life Science company. 

Group target 2020: 
reduction of 15% in 
specific greenhouse  
gas emissions;                 
see also A 1.2.1 

 
 
 
  
  
  
 
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The reporting of all relevant indirect emissions from the value chain is bindingly regulated by the 
GHG Protocol Corporate Value Chain (Scope 3) Accounting & Reporting Standard. Following a 
thorough examination, Bayer has identified nine essential Scope 3 categories, which we report on 
in detail in the CDP Report.  

www.bayer.com/ 
CDP-Climate  

In 2016, the Bayer Group was involved in European emissions trading with 18 plants in total. The 
greenhouse gas emissions of these plants amounted to approximately 2.32 million metric tons of 
CO2 equivalents. 

Other direct emissions into the air reduced 
Emissions of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) fell by 23.0% in 2016. Emissions of volatile or-
ganic compounds (VOCs) excluding methane decreased by 30.5%.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.3-2  
The main source of both types of emissions is the Crop Science site in Vapi, India, which  
accounts for 96.0% of ODS emissions and 48.0% of VOC emissions at Bayer. The project ini-
tiated at this site four years ago to reduce these emissions continues to have an impact. 
Group-wide VOC emissions fell by 30.5% compared with the previous year, and ODS emis-
sions by 23.0%. Another subproject was implemented at Vapi in 2016: a central waste air 
treatment facility brings together the many different sources of emissions at the site, which in 
the future will lead to a further significant reduction in these emissions. 

Through the optimized operation of the power plants at the German sites in Leverkusen and 
Krefeld-Uerdingen, total emissions of sulfur dioxides fell by 15.3%. Particulate emissions also 
declined, in this case by 29.1%, caused by the reduction at the Covestro site in Baytown, Tex-
as, United States. Nitrogen oxide emissions were 2.2% lower. Carbon monoxide emissions in-
creased by 7.4%, on the other hand. This is the result of an improved analysis method at the 
German sites in Dormagen and Krefeld-Uerdingen. 

Other Direct Air Emissions 

1,000 metric tons 

ODS 

1 

VOC 

2 

CO 

NOX 

SOX 

Particulates 

1 Ozone-depleting substances (ODS) in CFC-11 equivalents 
2 Volatile organic compounds (VOC) excluding methane 

A 1.4.3.3-2/1

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

0.0163

0.0157

0.0148

0.0117

0.0090

2.60

1.00

3.07

1.85

0.18

2.27

0.94

2.51

1.32

0.16

2.12

0.91

2.36

1.22

0.25

1.61

0.93

2.42

1.17

0.23

1.12

1.00

2.36

0.99

0.16

Higher number of environmental incidents  
The number of environmental incidents – i.e. incidents that result in the release of substances into 
the environment – increased from two to three in 2016. Factors that determine whether there is a 
reporting obligation include, in particular, the nature and quantity of the substance, the amount of 
damage caused and any consequences for nearby residents. In accordance with our internal 
voluntary commitment, we report any leakage of substances with a high hazard potential from a 
quantity of 100 kg upward.  

A 1.4.3.3/4

Number of Environmental 
Incidents

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

5

10

4

2

3

0

6

12

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
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 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.3-3 

Environmental Incidents 2016 

Pharmaceuticals, Wuppertal, Germany, April 18, 2016 
A large volume of wastewater flowed into a nearby river on account of a leak at a sewer shaft.  
The leak could be repaired. 

Pharmaceuticals, Karachi, Pakistan, June 23, 2016 
During transfer from a main container to a day tank, 2,000 l of diesel accidentally leaked  
into a drain. 

Covestro, Antwerp, Belgium, July 28, 2016 
An unintentional leak of solvent occurred upon starting a pump. The contaminated soil was taken up 
and disposed of in a professional manner after consultation with the relevant authorities. 

A 1.4.3.3-3/1

Personal
 injury

No

No

No

The following incident was registered and analyzed but does not count as an environmental 
incident under Bayer criteria. 

Incident Not Considered an Environmental or Transport Incident under Bayer Criteria 

Description 

Comments 

A 1.4.3.3-3/2

Animal Health, Kiel, 
Germany, April 3, 2016 

Spillage of liquid waste in a 
storeroom  

A waste container fell down causing the spillage 
of a flammable liquid product. This was cleaned 
up and disposed of in a professional manner. Due 
to the small quantity involved, the incident was not
recorded as an environmental incident but as a 
plant safety incident (LoPC). 

Use of water and emissions into water 
Effective water management at sites in water-scarce areas  
Clean water in sufficient quantities is essential for supplying our production sites and the sur-
rounding areas. In the future too, industrial water usage must not lead to local problems such as a 
shortage of water for the people living in the area. Our Water Position commits us to compliance 
with international and local legislation to protect water resources and use them efficiently.  

Group target 2017: 
establishment of water 
management at all sites 
in water-scarce areas; 
see also A 1.2.1 

We used the WBCSD Global Water Tool™ to identify all Bayer sites that are located in regions 
affected or threatened by water shortage. In line with our Group target, these sites are to establish 
a water management system that takes the local conditions sufficiently into account by 2017. This 
involves analyzing their water usage, quality and discharge data annually along with site-specific 
initiatives using a method developed at Bayer. During the evaluation in 2015, specific measures 
were agreed to initiate more effective water management at the sites where there is room for im-
provement. The analysis in the reporting year revealed that the proportion of sites examined that 
have effective water management has increased from around 58% (2015) to 95% (2016).  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.3-4 
This has been achieved, for example, by establishing measures to control water consumption 
more closely and make greater use of rainwater. In addition, the efficiency of treatment cycles in 
production processes has been further improved and measures have been taken to recycle wa-
ter. Employee training and awareness campaigns encouraging economical water usage have 
also proved productive. 

 
 
 
  
 
  
 
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Bayer supports the CEO Water Mandate of the U.N. Global Compact with the goal of working  
with key stakeholders to develop sustainable strategies for water usage. In our annual response to 
the CDP Water Disclosure, we report in detail on our water usage, the company-specific water 
footprint and the associated opportunities and risks. This represents a progress report for the 
CEO Water Mandate.  

Water use 
In 2016, total water use in the Group fell by 4.8% to around 330 million cubic meters. Some 79% 
of all water used by Bayer is cooling water that is only heated and does not come into contact 
with products. It can be returned to the water cycle without further treatment in line with the rele-
vant official permits. At our production facilities, we endeavor to use water several times and to 
recycle it. Water is currently recycled at 36 sites, accounting for 42% of the total water use. The 
various forms of recycling include closed cooling cycles, reuse of treated wastewater and recircu-
lation of steam condensates as process water. A total of around 11.8 million cubic meters of wa-
ter was reused in 2016.  

CDP: see Glossary 

www.bayer.com/ 
CDP-Water 

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.3-5 

Water Use in the Bayer Group in 2016 (million m³)

A 1.4.3.3-5/1

Sources of water

Water usage 1

Water discharged 1

Surface water

187 (57%)

Cooling water

260 (79%)

Boreholes /
springs

Drinking water
supplies

124 (37%)

13 (4%)

of which
recycled / reused

12 (4%)

Other sources

6 (2%)

Production ²

70 (21%)

Once-through
cooling water

248 (77%)

Losses due to evaporation 12 (4%)
from cooling water circuits

Process wastewater
with subsequent treatment

47 (15%)

Process wastewater
without subsequent treatment

13 (4%)

1 The differences between volumes of water consumed and water discharged can be explained, for example, by

unquantified losses due to evaporation, leaks, quantities of water used as raw materials in products and volumes of condensate
generated through the use of steam as a source of energy.

2 Sum from production processes, sanitary wastewater and rinsing and cleaning processes in production

The amounts of water from each source have remained at a comparable level since 2012. 

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.3-6 

Net Water Intake by Source  

million m³ 

Water consumption  

of which from surface water 

of which from boreholes / springs 

of which from public drinking water supplies 

of which from other sources, e.g. rainwater 

A 1.4.3.3-6/1

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

384

248

123

7

6

361

226

120

9

6

350

223

112

9

6

346

212

118

10

6

330

187

124

13

6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
126 

A Combined Management Report 

 Augmented Version 

1.4 Sustainable Conduct 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

A 1.4.3.3/5

Process Wastewater
Volume
million m3

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

65

63

66

61

60

0

40

80

Wastewater treatment benefits environment 
All wastewater is subject to strict controls before it is discharged into the various disposal chan-
nels. The total quantity of wastewater, including process and sanitary wastewater, was 60 million 
cubic meters in 2016, which is 3.1% down on 2015. 78.5% of Bayer’s wastewater worldwide was 
purified in wastewater treatment plants (Bayer or third-party facilities). Following careful analysis, 
the remaining volume was categorized as environmentally safe according to official provisions. 
Part of it was used to water gardens and agricultural land. 

The goal is to minimize our emissions into wastewater. For this reason, in 2016, alternative 
means were applied, for example, for the disposal of 0.148 million cubic meters of product-
containing wastewater such as incineration, distillation or chemical treatment. Discharges of 
phosphorus into wastewater fell by 14.2%, due among other reasons to reduced production 
volumes at the Kaohsiung site in Taiwan. All other emissions into water were lower than last year 
or at the same level. 

Emissions into Water 

1,000 metric tons 

Phosphorus 

Nitrogen 

TOC 

1 

Heavy metals 

Inorganic salts 

COD 

2 

2012

0.15

0.70

1.42

2013

0.11

0.69

1.53

2014

0.10

0.76

1.20

2015

0.10

0.56

1.16

A 1.4.3.3/6

2016

0.09

0.57

1.14

0.0098

0.0091

0.0063

0.0064

0.0054

1,048

4.25

946

4.58

845

3.59

927

3.48

931

3.42

1 Total organic carbon 
2 Chemical oxygen demand; calculated value based on TOC figures (TOC x 3 = COD) 

Waste and recycling 
Systematic waste management minimizes material consumption and disposal volumes. Safe 
disposal channels with separation according to the type of waste and economically expedient 
recycling processes serve this purpose. Production fluctuations and building refurbishment / land 
remediation work also influence waste volumes and recycling paths. 

Higher volumes of waste 
In 2016, the total volume of waste generated rose by 1.9% and the volume of nonhazardous 
waste by 3.1%, in particular due to demolition work at the Crop Science site in Institute, West 
Virginia, United States. With regard to hazardous waste generated, the volume from the power 
plant at the Chempark Leverkusen site rose by 1% owing to the recent categorization of fluidized 
bed ash as hazardous waste. 

Waste Generated 

1  

1,000 metric tons 

Total waste generated 

Hazardous waste 

2 

of which hazardous waste from production 

2012

1,014

603

397

2013

2014

2015

2016

899

467

417

896

487

442

940

541

488

958

547

507

A 1.4.3.3/7

1 Waste generated by Bayer only 
2 Definition of hazardous waste in accordance with the local laws in each instance 

 
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

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127

1.4 Sustainable Conduct

Augmented Version

The volume of waste disposed of rose by 2.2% in total. The volume proportions for the three main 
types of disposal (landfill, incineration and recycling) have remained similar over the past five 
years.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.3-7 
Recycling refers to processes that reutilize waste in some way. In 2016, the volume of recycled 
waste was 290,000 metric tons. Expressed as a proportion of the total waste disposed of, this 
represented a level of 30%. The amount of recycled waste depends on site-specific conditions 
such as changes to the product portfolio, other production volumes, variations in the intensity 
of construction measures and recycling projects.  

Waste by Means of Disposal 

1,000 metric tons 

Total volume of waste disposed of 

1  

Volume removed to landfill 

Volume incinerated 

Volume recycled 

Others ² 

Total volume of hazardous waste  
disposed of 

3 

Volume removed to landfill  

Volume incinerated / recycled  

A 1.4.3.3-7/1

2012

1,021

360

341

301

19

603

175

428

2013

2014

2015

2016

915

293

351

249

22

467

53

414

898

248

363

260

27

487

65

422

949

248

371

296

34

541

75

466

969

267

336

290

 76

547

67

480

1 Bayer serves as a certified waste disposal plant operator at various sites. At these locations, Bayer disposes not only of its own 
waste but also of waste from third parties (companies not belonging to the Bayer Group). For that reason, the volume of waste 
disposed of differs slightly from the volume of waste generated by Bayer.  
2 E.g. passed on to third parties (e.g. providers / waste disposal companies) 
3 Waste generated by Bayer only; definition of hazardous waste in accordance with the local laws in each instance 

In 2016, the waste incineration plants operated by Currenta generated approximately 675,000 
metric tons of steam from the incineration of around 230,000 metric tons of hazardous waste 
from the Chempark sites and some external production companies. Compared to using fossil 
energy sources, this reduced CO2 emissions in 2016 by approximately 160,000 metric tons. 

Recycling potential realized 
In addition to satisfying economic and environmental criteria, the recycling and treatment of our 
materials also has to comply with legal requirements. This results in restrictions, in particular in the 
areas of pharmaceuticals and crop protection. Throughout the Group, we make use of opportuni-
ties for recycling within the framework of legal regulations.  

 Online Annex: A 1.4.3.3-8 

Pharmaceuticals, Consumer Health and Animal Health 
Production-related recycling takes place in line with the requirements of the relevant production 
site. When determining the best means of disposal, recycling options are explicitly included, 
and are to be considered preferable to landfilling or incineration. The disposal of pharmaceuti-
cal products is subject to strict safety criteria, so no recycling is possible for the portfolios of 
these segments. Packaging materials are recycled in line with national regulations as part of the 
country-specific infrastructure for waste disposal. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
128 

A Combined Management Report 

 Augmented Version 

1.4 Sustainable Conduct 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Crop Science 
Material-based recycling is important in Crop Science’s active ingredient and intermediate 
product manufacture. Solvents, catalysts and intermediates are repeatedly processed and re-
turned to the production process. Since these are recycling steps that are closely linked with 
the process, there is no global regulation. Material-based recycling is regulated separately at 
each production site. In the global process development of active ingredients and intermedi-
ates, material recycling is considered an important development criterion. In accordance with 
Crop Science’s global Environment Policy, all Crop Science sites are obliged to prevent, recycle 
and reduce waste and dispose of it safely and in line with good environmental practices.  

Crop Science does not take back crop protection products it has sold, except in the case of 
production defects. Packaging materials are disposed of or recycled in line with national legisla-
tion. In many countries with no legal regulation, the industry has set up a returns system in col-
laboration with other providers. 

Returns of obsolete stocks of crop protection products are limited to justifiable individual cas-
es. However, the crop protection product industry has set up voluntary initiatives in various 
countries for the proper disposal of obsolete stocks. As part of its activities in the CropLife as-
sociation, Crop Science is working with the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization 
(FAO) and the World Bank to support the proper collection and disposal of obsolete stocks in 
Africa. 

Covestro 
Covestro supports the reuse and processing of its materials. For example, some waste with a 
high calorific value generated by production processes can undergo thermal recycling to pro-
duce steam for the company’s own production facilities. 

In parallel to this, Covestro is endeavoring to reduce the amount of waste resulting from prod-
uct usage. Examples include its involvement in associations such as PlasticsEurope. Covestro 
continues to support, for example, the “Zero Pellet Loss” initiative, with the goal of preventing 
the loss of plastic pellets on the way from production to the finished article delivered to the cus-
tomer.  

 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

A Combined Management Report 

129

2.1 Overview of Business Performance

Augmented Version

2. Report on Economic Position

2.1 Overview of Business Performance 

2.1.1 Target Attainment 2016 

A 2.1.1/1

Group targets 2016: 
growth and profitability; 
see also A 1.2.1 

 Forecast 2016 1

Adjusted forecast 2016 2

Target attainment

Group sales

Low-single-digit
percentage increase 3

Unchanged

3.5% increase 3

More than €47 billion

€46 – 47 billion

€46.8 billion

EBITDA before
special items

Mid-single-digit
percentage increase

High-single-digit
percentage increase

10.2% increase

Core earnings
per share

Mid-single-digit
percentage increase

High-single-digit
percentage increase

7.3% increase

1 Issued in February 2016   2 Issued in October 2016   3 Currency- and portfolio-adjusted

2.1.2 Economic Position of the Bayer Group 
The Bayer Group had a very successful year in 2016 – both strategically and operationally. We 
achieved a new record in terms of operating performance. Sales improved by 3.5% on a curren-
cy- and portfolio-adjusted basis and EBITDA before special items increased by a substantial 
10.2%. Pharmaceuticals again showed a convincing performance, with pleasing sales and earn-
ings growth. This was chiefly attributable to the continued strong development of our key growth 
products Xarelto™, Eylea™, Xofigo™, Stivarga™ and Adempas™. Consumer Health increased 
sales but earnings declined. Despite a persistently difficult market environment, sales and 
EBITDA before special items of Crop Science were constant. Animal Health posted sales gains 
but earnings were at the prior-year level. Overall, sales and earnings of our Life Science busi-
nesses continued to develop positively. Covestro saw strong earnings growth due to lower raw 
material costs, while sales were level year on year. Core earnings per share of the Bayer Group 
increased by 7.3%. We thus met our full-year forecasts for these key data, some of which were 
raised in October 2016. 

2.1.3 Key Events 
On September 14, 2016, Bayer signed a definitive merger agreement with Monsanto Company, 
headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, United States, for US$128 per share. This represents a 
transaction value of around US$66 billion. At a special meeting on December 13, 2016, Monsan-
to’s stockholders approved the company’s merger with a wholly owned subsidiary of Bayer AG. 
The agreed acquisition reinforces our leadership position as a Life Science company and is a 
major strategic step forward for our Crop Science business. The transaction is subject to custom-
ary closing conditions, including receipt of required approvals from the relevant antitrust and other 
authorities. We expect closing of the transaction by the end of 2017. 

Record operating  

performance 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
130 

A Combined Management Report 

 Augmented Version 

2.1 Overview of Business Performance 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

2.1.4 Economic Environment 

See also A 2.2.2 

Global economy remains weak 
The global economy grew somewhat more slowly in 2016 than in the previous year. The pace of 
growth in the United States was much slower, especially as a result of restrained investment 
activity. The economy in Europe also clouded somewhat, despite low interest rates. This was due 
particularly to the uncertainty surrounding the schedule and shape of the United Kingdom’s exit 
from the European Union. The Emerging Markets once again registered solid growth that was 
down only slightly against the previous year. 

Economic Environment 

World 

European Union 

of which Germany 

United States 

Emerging Markets ² 

A 2.1.4/1

1

Growth 
2015

1

Growth 
2016

+ 2.8%

+ 2.2%

+ 1.5%

+ 2.6%

+ 4.0%

+ 2.5%

+ 1.9%

+ 1.8%

+ 1.6%

+ 3.8%

2015 figures restated 
1 Real GDP growth, source: IHS Global Insight 
2 Including about 50 countries defined by Global Insight as Emerging Markets in line with the World Bank  

As of February 2017 

Currency development  
Sales and EBITDA before special items of the Bayer Group in 2016 were impacted by negative 
currency effects of approximately €900 million (–1.9%) and about €15 million (–0.1%), respectively. 
Sales and EBITDA before special items of our Life Science businesses included negative currency 
effects of around €750 million (–2.1%) and about €10 million (+0.1%), respectively. 

Currency Development Life Sciences 

€ million 

CAD 

CNY 

GBP 

JPY 

RUB 

USD 

All currencies 

Source: Bloomberg, annual average closing rates 

A 2.1.4/2

Delta Fx
effect on
sales

Delta Fx 
effect on 
clean 
EBITDA

Of which 
delta Fx 
effect from
hedging

(75)

(133)

(123)

228 

(73)

9 

(755) 

(15)

26 

10 

43 

(85)

162 

8 

37

80

54

(36)

(31)

171

329

2015

1.42

6.97

0.73

2016

1.47

7.36

0.82

134.28

120.06

67.23

1.11

73.79

1.11

While hedging transactions had a negative effect on earnings of €308 million in 2015, they made a 
positive contribution of €21 million in 2016. This represents a year-on-year increase of €329 million 
in the effect of hedging transactions on earnings. Sales, on the other hand, were impacted by con-
version to currencies which appeared weaker. The margin for our Life Science businesses gained 
0.6 percentage points from these opposing effects. 

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

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131

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position 

of the Bayer Group 

2.2.1 Earnings Performance of the Bayer Group 

Bayer Group Summary Income Statements  

See also A 2.4 

A 2.2.1/1

Q4 2015

Q4 2016 Change %

2015

2016 Change %

€ million 

Net sales 

Cost of goods sold 

Selling expenses 

Research and development 
expenses 

11,285 

11,820

(5,397)

(3,320)

(5,395)

(3,537)

(1,256)

(1,313)

General administration expenses 

(566)

(685)

Other operating income (+)  
and expenses (–) 

EBIT 

1 

Financial result 

Income before income taxes 

Income taxes 

Income after income taxes (total) 

of which attributable to  
non-controlling interest 

of which attributable to Bayer AG 
stockholders (net income) 

175 

921 

(164)

757 

(166)

583 

(30)

613 

(101)

789

(252)

537

(119)

507

54

+ 4.7

0.0

+ 6.5

+ 4.5

+ 21.0

– 14.3

+ 53.7

– 29.1

– 28.3

– 13.0

46,085

46,769 

(21,040)

(20,295)

(12,272)

(12,474)

(4,274)

(2,092)

(166)

6,241

(1,005)

5,236

(1,223)

4,098

(4,666)

(2,256)

(36)

7,042 

(1,155)

5,887 

(1,329)

4,826 

(12)

295 

+ 1.5

– 3.5

+ 1.6

+ 9.2

+ 7.8

– 78.3

+ 12.8

+ 14.9

+ 12.4

+ 8.7

+ 17.8

453

– 26.1

4,110

4,531 

+10.2

2015 figures restated 
1 For definition see Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 

Group sales up 3.5% (Fx & portfolio adj.) 
Sales of the Bayer Group rose by 3.5% (Fx & portfolio adj.) to €46,769 million (reported: +1.5%) in 
2016, including €4,809 million in Germany. Our Life Science businesses contributed to this per-
formance, growing sales by 4.7% (Fx & portfolio adj.) to €34,943 million.  

Sales of Pharmaceuticals advanced by an encouraging 8.7% (Fx & portfolio adj.) to €16,420 mil-
lion. This development continued to be driven primarily by our key growth products. Consumer 
Health also raised sales by 3.5% (Fx & portfolio adj.) to €6,037 million. Despite a weak market 
environment, Crop Science posted sales of €9,915 million to match the prior-year level (Fx & port-
folio adj.: +0.1%). Sales of Animal Health rose by 4.8% (Fx & portfolio adj.) to €1,523 million. 
Covestro sales were level year on year at €11,826 million (Fx & portfolio adj.: 0.0%). 

Changes in Sales 

% 

Volume 

Price 

Currency 

Portfolio 

Total 

2015 figures restated 

Life Sciences

2015

+ 5.1

+ 0.6

+ 5.0

+ 5.0

+ 15.7

2016

+ 3.9

+ 0.8

– 2.2

 0.0

+ 2.5

2015

+ 4.4

–  1.7

+ 5.8

+ 3.6

+ 12.1

A 2.2.1/2

Group

2016

+ 4.2

–  0.7

–  2.0

 0.0

+ 1.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
 
 
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Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Augmented Version 

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group 

The cost of goods sold fell by 3.5% to €20,295 million in 2016, mainly due to lower raw material 
costs at Covestro. The ratio of the cost of goods sold to total sales therefore declined year on 
year to 43.4% (2015: 45.7%). The selling expenses of €12,474 million (+ 1.6%) amounted to 
26.7% of sales (2015: 26.6%). Research and development (R&D) expenses rose by 9.2% to 
€4,666 million, mainly due to higher R&D investment at Pharmaceuticals. The ratio of R&D ex-
penses to sales was 10.0% (2015: 9.3%). General administration expenses climbed by 7.8% to 
€2,256 million, due especially to the establishment of administrative functions at Covestro. The 
ratio of general administration expenses to total sales therefore increased to 4.8% (2015: 4.5%). 
The substantially lower balance of other operating expenses and other operating income of minus 
€36 million (2015: minus €166 million) resulted mainly from positive effects from derivatives to 
hedge planned sales.  

EBITDA before special items considerably improved 
EBITDA before special items of the Bayer Group moved forward by 10.2% to €11,302 million 
(2015: €10,256 million). Pharmaceuticals improved EBITDA before special items by 13.8% to 
€5,251 million (2015: €4,616 million). This substantial increase in earnings was largely due to the 
good development of business, particularly for our key growth products. Consumer Health saw a 
decline in EBITDA before special items by 3.1% to €1,411 million. Favorable business develop-
ment and cost synergies only partly offset the higher cost of goods sold and negative currency 
effects of about €65 million. EBITDA before special items of Crop Science came in at the prior-
year level, up 0.6% to €2,421 million. A positive currency effect of about €140 million and higher 
selling prices stood against lower volumes, higher research and development expenses and higher 
impairment losses on trade accounts receivable in particular. EBITDA before special items of Ani-
mal Health was also level with the previous year with a change of 0.6%, while Covestro registered 
a substantial 19.6% increase in EBITDA before special items to €1,984 million. 

Depreciation, amortization and special items 
Depreciation, amortization and impairment losses were 12.3% higher in 2016 at €3,743 million 
(2015: €3,332 million), comprising €2,235 million (2015: €1,802 million) in amortization and im-
pairments on intangible assets and €1,508 million (2015: €1,530 million) in depreciation and im-
pairments on property, plant and equipment. A total of €566 million (2015: €136 million) in impair-
ments constituted special items. EBITDA for the reporting year amounted to €10,785 million. In 
2016, the following special effects were taken into account in calculating EBIT and EBITDA before 
special items: 

A 2.2.1/3

+

%
growth in EBITDA  
before special items 

See also A 2.4 

Special Items Reconciliation 

1 

€ million 

Before special items 

Pharmaceuticals 

Consumer Health 

Crop Science 

Animal Health 

Reconciliation 

Restructuring 

Litigations 

Revaluation of other receivables 

EBIT 
Q4 2015

EBIT 
Q4 2016

EBIT 
2015

EBIT 
2016

EBITDA
Q4 2015

EBITDA 
Q4 2016

EBITDA 
2015

EBITDA 
2016

1,037 

(190)

(55)

301 

(19)

(9)

(9)

– 

– 

1,376

7,060

8,130

1,916

(310)

(199)

(39)

(5)

(34)

(34)

–

–

(299)

(237)

222

(64)

(109)

(76)

(32)

(1)

(558)

(292)

(143)

(7)

(88)

(83)

(5)

–

(136)

(52)

295

(8)

(9)

(9)

–

–

2,179 

(152)

(38)

(37)

(4)

(34)

(34)

– 

– 

10,256 

11,302

(241)

(234)

222 

(30)

(109)

(76)

(32)

(1)

(167)

(115)

(141)

(6)

(88)

(83)

(5)

–

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

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133

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Special Items Reconciliation 

1 

€ million 

Total special items Life Sciences 

Covestro 

Total special items 

of which cost of goods sold 

of which selling expenses 

of which research and 
development expenses 

of which general administration 
expenses 

of which other operating income / 
expenses 

After special items 

EBIT 
Q4 2015

EBIT 
Q4 2016

28 

(144)

(116)

(169)

(118)

(51)

(43)

265 

921 

(587)

–

(587)

(193)

(221)

(18)

(69)

(86)

789

A 2.2.1/3 (continued)

EBIT 
2016

EBITDA
Q4 2015

EBITDA 
Q4 2016

EBITDA 
2015

EBITDA 
2016

90 

(128)

(38)

(144)

(107)

(9)

(43)

(265)

– 

(265)

(53)

(39)

(17)

(69)

(392)

(291)

(683)

(363)

(183)

(23)

(517)

–

(517)

(93)

(99)

(50)

(203)

(185)

EBIT 
2015

(487)

(332)

(819)

(440)

(198)

(1,088)

–

(1,088)

(412)

(317)

(67)

(84)

(203)

(185)

89

6,241

(90)

7,042

265 

1,878 

(87)

1,914 

89

(90)

9,573

10,785

2015 figures restated 
1 For definition see Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 

EBIT 
EBIT increased by 12.8% in 2016 to €7,042 million, including special charges of €1,088 million 
(2015: €819 million). These mainly comprised €561 million for impairment losses on intangible 
assets, charges of €242 million in connection with efficiency improvement programs and 
€100 million in costs for the integration of acquired businesses. Further special charges of 
€94 million were related to provisions for litigations, while €86 million were connected with the 
agreed acquisition of Monsanto. EBIT before special items rose by 15.2% to €8,130 million (2015: 
€7,060 million). 

See also A 2.4 

+

growth in EBIT 

%

Net income increased by 10.2% 
Including a financial result of minus €1,155 million (2015: minus €1,005 million), income before 
income taxes was €5,887 million (2015: €5,236 million). The financial result comprised items in-
cluding net interest expense of €548 million (2015: €455 million), interest cost of €294 million 
(2015: €287 million) for pension and other provisions, and currency hedging costs of €193 million 
(2015: €254 million). After tax expense of €1,329 million (2015: €1,223 million), income after in-
come taxes was €4,826 million (2015: €4,098 million). Including income after income taxes from 
discontinued operations and income attributable to noncontrolling interest, net income for 2016 
amounted to €4,531 million (2015: €4,110 million; + 10.2%). 

Core earnings per share increased by 7.3% 
Earnings per share (total) rose by 9.5% to €5.44, while core earnings per share from continuing 
operations increased by 7.3% to €7.32. In November 2016, Bayer placed €4 billion in mandatory 
convertible notes without granting subscription rights to existing stockholders of the company. 
According to IAS 33.23, the weighted average number of shares increases as soon as the notes 
contract is signed, and this increase must be taken into account in calculating undiluted and dilut-
ed earnings per share. The new weighted average number of shares is based on the minimum 
conversion price of €90, which determines the maximum conversion ratio.  

See also A 2.2.4  

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
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 Augmented Version 

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group 

Core Earnings per Share 

1 

€ million 

EBIT (as per income statements) 

Amortization and impairment losses / loss reversals on intangible assets 

Impairment losses / loss reversals on property, plant and equipment  

Special items (other than amortization and impairment losses / loss reversals) 

Core EBIT 

Financial result (as per income statements) 

Special items in the financial result 

Income taxes (as per income statements) 

Special items in income taxes 

Tax effects related to amortization, impairment losses / loss reversals  
and special items  

Income after income taxes attributable to noncontrolling interest  
(as per income statements)   

Above-mentioned adjustments attributable to noncontrolling interest 

Core net income from continuing operations 

Shares 

Q4 2015

Q4 2016

921

529

55

38

789

724

14

265

1,543

1,792

(164)

(120)

(166)

(39)

(149)

30

(39)

896

(252)

(61)

(119)

–

(294)

(54)

(3)

A 2.2.1/4

2016

7,042

2,235

35

517

9,829

(1,155)

(105)

(1,329)

–

2015

6,241 

1,802 

115 

683 

8,841 

(1,005)

(150)

(1,223)

(39)

(755)

(838)

12 

(39)

(295)

(13)

6,094

1,009

5,642 

Weighted average number of shares 

826,947,808

849,167,808

826,947,808  832,502,808

€ 

Core earnings per share from continuing operations 

Core earnings per share from discontinued operations 

Core earnings per share from continuing and discontinued operations 

1.08

–

1.08

1.19

0.10

1.29

6.82 

0.13 

6.95 

7.32

0.41

7.73

2015 figures restated 
1 For definition see Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 

 Online Annex: A 2.2.1-1  

Group targets 2016: 
growth and profitability; 
see also A 1.2.1 

Development in the fourth quarter of 2016 
Group sales in the fourth quarter of 2016 rose by 4.8% (Fx & portfolio adj.) to €11,820 million 
(reported: + 4.7%). Germany accounted for €1,103 million of this figure.  

Sales of Pharmaceuticals improved by 7.1% (Fx & portfolio adj.) to €4,275 million (reported: 
+ 7.3%), due especially to the strong business development of our key growth products. Con-
sumer Health increased sales by 4.4% (Fx & portfolio adj.) to €1,539 million (reported: + 2.2%). 
Sales of Crop Science were down slightly year on year, falling by 1.6% (Fx & portfolio adj.) to 
€2,404 million (reported: + 0.0%). Animal Health posted a 3.1% gain in sales to €329 million. 
Sales of the Life Science businesses amounted to €8,823 million overall (Fx & portfolio adj.: 
+ 3.6%). Business at Covestro expanded by 8.6% (Fx & portfolio adj.) to €2,997 million (report-
ed: + 8.0%). 

EBITDA before special items of the Bayer Group improved by 13.7% to €2,179 million in the 
fourth quarter of 2016 (Q4 2015: €1,916 million). At Pharmaceuticals, EBITDA before special 
items climbed by 12.2% to €1,217 million (Q4 2015: €1,085 million). This increase in earnings 
was due to the very good development of business, particularly for our key growth products. 
EBITDA before special items of Consumer Health receded by 3.4% to €372 million. At Crop 
Science, EBITDA before special items edged ahead by 1.2% to €351 million (Q4 2015: 
€347 million). EBITDA before special items of Covestro moved forward by a substantial 45.1% 
to €373 million (Q4 2015: €257 million). 

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

A Combined Management Report 

135

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

EBIT of the Bayer Group declined by 14.3% to €789 million in the fourth quarter of 2016 
(Q4 2015: €921 million) after special charges of €587 million (Q4 2015: €116 million). These 
mainly comprised €330 million for impairment losses on intangible assets as well as charges of 
€104 million in connection with efficiency improvement programs and charges of €85 million re-
lated to litigations. Also included were costs of €34 million in connection with the agreed acqui-
sition of Monsanto and €30 million for the integration of acquired businesses. EBIT before spe-
cial items advanced by 32.7% to €1,376 million (Q4 2015: €1,037 million). 

Bayer Group Quarterly Sales, EBIT and EBITDA before Special Items 

€ millions 

Sales 

EBIT 

EBITDA before special items 

Q1

2016

11,854

2,320

3,387

2015

11,793

1,925

2,922

2015

12,003

1,823

2,888

Q2

2016

11,833

2,138

3,054

2015

11,004

1,572

2,530

Q3

2016

11,262

1,795

2,682

2015

11,285

921

1,916

Q4

2016

11,820

789

2,179

 2015

46,085

6,241

10,256

A 2.2.1-1/1

Total

2016

46,769

7,042

11,302

After a financial result of minus €252 million (Q4 2015: minus €164 million), income before in-
come taxes was €537 million (Q4 2015: €757 million). The financial result mainly comprised net 
interest expense of €147 million (Q4 2015: €46 million), interest cost of €85 million (Q4 2015: 
€67 million) for pension and other provisions, and currency hedging gains of €39 million 
(Q4 2015: currency hedging losses of €67 million). Net interest expense in the prior year includ-
ed interest income of €109 million in connection with a litigation (DOW). After income tax ex-
pense of €119 million, income from discontinued operations after taxes and noncontrolling in-
terest, net income in the fourth quarter of 2016 came to €453 million (Q4 2015: €613 million). 
Earnings per share decreased to €0.53 (Q4 2015: €0.74). Core earnings per share from contin-
uing operations rose to €1.19 (Q4 2015: €1.08). 

Cash inflows from operating activities (total) climbed by a substantial 45.6% to €2,732 million 
(Q4 2015: €1,877 million) and resulted mainly from the significant increase in EBIT and a tangi-
ble decrease in additional cash tied up in working capital. In the fourth quarter of 2016, we paid 
income taxes amounting to €119 million (Q4 2015: €166 million). Net financial debt fell by 
€4 billion in the fourth quarter of 2016 to €11.8 billion (September 30, 2016: €15.8 billion), 
largely as a result of cash inflows from operating activities and the issuance of mandatory con-
vertible notes. The net defined benefit liability for post-employment benefits decreased by 
€3.4 billion against September 30, 2016, to €11.1 billion, due primarily to a rise in long-term 
capital market interest rates for high-quality corporate bonds. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
136 

A Combined Management Report 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Augmented Version 

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group 

2.2.2 Business Development by Segment 
Pharmaceuticals 
Market growth below the prior-year level 
In 2016, growth in the pharmaceuticals market slowed to 6% (2015: 10%). Growth in demand 
weakened particularly in the United States, but also in Europe and Japan. The pace of growth 
held steady in Asian and Latin American markets.  

Key Data – Pharmaceuticals 

Change %

A 2.2.2/1

Change %

€ million 

Sales 

Change in sales 

Volume 

Price 

Currency 

Portfolio 

Sales by region 

Europe / Middle East / Africa  

North America 

Asia / Pacific 

Latin America  

EBITDA 

1 

Special items 

EBITDA before special items 

1 

EBITDA margin before special items 

1 

EBIT 

Special items 

EBIT before special items 

1 

Net cash provided  
by operating activities 

Q4 2015

Q4 2016

Reported Fx & p adj.

2015

2016

Reported Fx & p adj.

3,986 

4,275

+ 7.3

+ 7.1

15,308

16,420 

+ 7.3

+ 8.7

+ 9.2%

– 0.6%

+ 0.2%

 0.0%

1,618 

972 

1,121 

275 

949 

(136)

1,085 

27.2% 

569 

(190)

759 

+ 7.2%

– 0.1%

+ 0.2%

 0.0%

1,684

1,107

1,203

281

1,065

(152)

1,217

28.5%

606

(310)

916

Reported

Fx adj. 

+ 6.0

+ 12.6

+ 3.6

+ 8.0

+ 4.1

+ 13.9

+ 7.3

+ 2.2

+ 12.2

+ 12.2

+ 6.5

+ 20.7

+ 9.1%

 0.0%

+ 4.6%

– 0.4%

5,981

3,937

4,319

1,071

4,375

(241)

4,616

30.2%

3,028

(299)

3,327

+ 9.0%

– 0.3%

– 1.4%

 0.0%

6,417 

4,194 

4,775 

1,034 

5,084 

(167)

5,251 

32.0% 

3,389 

(558)

3,947 

Reported

Fx adj. 

+ 9.7

+ 6.7

+ 8.6

+ 11.0

+ 7.3

+ 6.5

+ 10.6

– 3.5

+ 16.2

+ 13.8

+ 11.9

+ 18.6

911 

1,326

+ 45.6

3,157

3,368 

+6.7

2015 figures restated; Fx & p adj. = currency- and portfolio-adjusted; Fx adj. = currency-adjusted 
1 For definition see Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 

+

%

growth in sales at 
Pharmaceuticals  
(Fx & portfolio adj.) 

Significant increase in sales 
Sales of Pharmaceuticals rose by an encouraging 8.7% (Fx & portfolio adj.) to €16,420 million in 
2016, driven mainly by our key growth products. Xarelto™, Eylea™, Stivarga™, Xofigo™ and 
Adempas™ posted total combined sales of €5,413 million (2015: €4,231 million). The Pharmaceu-
ticals business expanded noticeably in all regions.  

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

A Combined Management Report 

137

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Best-Selling Pharmaceuticals Products 

Q4 2015

Q4 2016

Reported

Fx adj. 

Change %

A 2.2.2/2

Change %

2016

Reported

Fx adj. 

€ million 

Xarelto™  

of which U.S.A. 

Eylea™ 

of which U.S.A.1 

Kogenate™ / Kovaltry™ 

of which U.S.A. 

Mirena™ product family 

of which U.S.A. 

Nexavar™  

of which U.S.A. 

Betaferon™ / Betaseron™  

of which U.S.A. 

YAZ™ / Yasmin™ / Yasminelle™  

of which U.S.A. 

Adalat™  

of which U.S.A. 

Aspirin™ Cardio 

of which U.S.A. 

Glucobay™ 

of which U.S.A. 

Avalox™ / Avelox™ 

of which U.S.A. 

Gadavist™ / Gadovist™  

of which U.S.A. 

Xofigo™ 

of which U.S.A. 

Ultravist™  

of which U.S.A. 

Stivarga™ 

of which U.S.A. 

650 

122 

354 

0 

286 

92 

226 

141 

231 

84 

190 

84 

168 

25 

152 

1 

131 

0 

142 

1 

85 

(2)

79 

21 

69

47

83

2

77

43

836

161

426

0

288

106

268

178

224

80

185

94

159

21

147

0

135

0

123

1

81

1

88

24

90

59

80

2

77

42

+ 28.6

+ 32.0

+ 20.3

.

+ 0.7

+ 15.2

+ 18.6

+ 26.2

– 3.0

– 4.8

– 2.6

+ 11.9

– 5.4

– 16.0

– 3.3

.

+ 3.1

.

– 13.4

.

– 4.7

.

+ 11.4

+ 14.3

+ 30.4

+ 25.5

– 3.6

.

.

– 2.3

+ 9.7

+ 27.9

+ 32.6

+ 20.9

.

+ 0.4

+ 13.7

+ 17.2

+ 23.4

– 3.7

– 6.6

– 2.9

+ 10.2

– 4.5

– 14.7

0.0

.

+ 5.8

.

– 9.8

.

– 0.2

.

+ 11.0

+ 14.5

+ 29.7

+ 25.7

– 1.9

– 2.5

– 2.2

– 6.9

2015

2,252

393

1,228

0

1,155

370

968

639

892

324

824

394

706

134

633

4

524

0

523

2

379

2

290

86

257

182

318

6

313

181

Total best-selling products 

Proportion of Pharmaceuticals sales 

Total best-selling products in U.S.A. 

2,923

73%

661

3,207

75%

769

 Fx adj. = currency-adjusted 
1 Marketing rights owned by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., U.S.A. 

+ 10.0

11,262

12,342

74%

2,717

75%

2,896

Sales by product 
>  Sales of Xarelto™ increased substantially in 2016, due particularly to expanded volumes in 

+

Europe and Japan. We also posted significant gains for our license revenues – recognized as 
sales – in the United States, where Xarelto™ is marketed by a subsidiary of Johnson & 
Johnson.  

>  We once again recorded strong growth with our eye medicine Eylea™, due especially to the 

successful development of business in Europe, Canada and Japan. 

>  Sales of the blood-clotting medicines Kogenate™ / Kovaltry™ increased slightly, mainly because 

of the successful introduction of Kovaltry™ in the United States.  

>  The considerable increase in sales of the hormone-releasing intrauterine devices of our 

Mirena™ product family (Mirena™, Jaydess™ / Skyla™ and Kyleena™) resulted particularly 
from the positive development in prices in the United States and from the introduction of the 
new low-dose product Kyleena™.  

>  We registered a slight decline in sales of our cancer drug Nexavar™ that was chiefly 

attributable to higher competitive pressure in the United States.  

2,928

489

1,625

0

1,166

394

1,043

701

870

312

734

386

678

128

624

1

538

0

515

3

353

5

346

104

331

225

316

6

275

142

+ 30.0

+ 24.4

+ 32.3

.

+ 1.0

+ 6.5

+ 7.7

+ 9.7

– 2.5

– 3.7

– 10.9

– 2.0

– 4.0

– 4.5

– 1.4

.

+ 2.7

.

– 1.5

.

– 6.9

.

+ 19.3

+ 20.9

+ 28.8

+ 23.6

– 0.6

.

– 12.1

– 21.5

+9.6

+ 30.8

+ 24.5

+ 33.0

.

+ 1.1

+ 6.0

+ 8.8

+ 9.3

– 1.6

– 4.0

– 9.9

– 2.1

+ 0.1

– 4.4

+ 2.7

.

+ 7.4

.

+ 3.3

.

– 2.0

.

+ 19.7

+ 20.5

+ 29.3

+ 23.6

+ 3.5

+ 1.2

– 11.7

– 22.0

+11.3

%

growth in sales of  
our key growth products 
(Fx adj.) 

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
138 

A Combined Management Report 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Augmented Version 

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group 

>  The decline in sales of our multiple sclerosis treatment Betaferon™ / Betaseron™ resulted 

mainly from weaker business performance in Europe and the United States.  

>  Currency-adjusted sales of our YAZ™ / Yasmin™ / Yasminelle™ line of oral contraceptives were 

level with the previous year. Higher demand in China and Russia stood against weaker business 
development in Europe, Brazil and the United States. 

>  Sales of Adalat™, our product to treat hypertension and coronary heart disease, rose slightly 
compared with the previous year; this was due especially to expanded volumes in China.  
>  The increase in sales of Aspirin™ Cardio for the secondary prevention of heart attacks was 

owed mostly to an improved business situation in China and Latin America.  

>  Business with our diabetes treatment Glucobay™ expanded; here we benefited from continuing 

high demand in China.  

>  Sales of our antibiotic Avalox™ / Avelox™ fell slightly. The weak development of business in 

Canada and Europe was only partly offset by higher demand in China.  

>  We once again posted strong growth in sales of our MRI contrast agent Gadavist™ / Gadovist™ 

that was attributable particularly to the significant expansion of volumes in Japan and the 
United States.  

>  Sales of our cancer drug Xofigo™ advanced substantially, due particularly to the positive 

development of business in the United States and Europe.  

>  Our X-ray contrast agent Ultravist™ posted an increase in sales that resulted mainly from 

higher volumes in Latin America and Europe.  

>  Sales of our cancer drug Stivarga™ were well below the prior-year level, due especially to 

stronger competition in the United States.  

>  Sales of Adempas™ to treat hypertension came in at €254 million (2015: €181 million; Fx adj. 

+39.3%) and included the proportionate recognition of the one-time payment resulting from the 
sGC collaboration with Merck & Co., United States, as was previously the case. Business 
developed especially positively in the United States. 

Earnings 
In 2016, we raised EBITDA before special items by 13.8% to €5,251 million. The substantial 
growth in earnings was largely attributable to our very good business development. Significantly 
higher investments in research and development and negative currency effects of around €65 
million had an opposing effect. 

EBIT of Pharmaceuticals increased by 11.9% to €3,389 million, including special charges of 
€558 million (2015: €299 million). These resulted particularly from charges of €401 million associ-
ated with Essure™, mainly for impairment losses on intangible assets. Further charges were asso-
ciated with accounting measures of €88 million in connection with litigations and charges of 
€69 million for efficiency enhancement programs.  

A 2.2.2/3

Special Items 

1 Pharmaceuticals 

€ million 

Restructuring 

Litigations 

Integration costs 

Impairment losses / 
impairment loss reversals 

Divestments 

Revaluation of  
other receivables 

Total special items 

EBIT 
Q4 2015

EBIT
Q4 2016

(132)

(2)

– 

(43)

– 

(13)

(190)

(51)

(89)

–

(170)

–

–

(310)

EBIT 
2015

(174)

(16)

(2)

(43)

3

(67)

(299)

EBIT 
2016

EBITDA 
Q4 2015

EBITDA 
Q4 2016

EBITDA 
2015

EBITDA 
2016

(69)

(88)

–

(401)

–

–

(558)

(120)

(2)

–

(1)

–

(13)

(136)

(51)

(89)

– 

(12)

– 

– 

(152)

(158)

(16)

(2)

(1)

3 

(67)

(241)

(67)

(88)

–

(12)

–

–

(167)

1 For definition see Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

A Combined Management Report 

139

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

 Online Annex: A 2.2.2-1 
The development of Pharmaceuticals in 2016 is shown in the following graphics (A 2.2.2-1/1, A 
2.2.2-1/2 and A 2.2.2-1/3). 

Pharmaceuticals Quarterly Sales

Q1

2015
2016

Q2

2015
2016

Q3

2015
2016

Q4

2015
2016

0

500

1,000

1,500

2,000

2,500

3,000

3,500

4,000

4,500

5,000

2015 figures restated

Pharmaceuticals
Quarterly EBIT

Q1

2015
2016

Q2

2015
2016

Q3

2015
2016

Q4

2015
2016

A 2.2.2-1/2

€ million

Pharmaceuticals 
Quarterly EBITDA before Special Items

747
698

772
988

Q1

2015
2016

Q2

2015
2016

940
1,097

Q3

2015
2016

569
606

Q4

2015
2016

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

1,200

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

1,200

1,400

1,600

2015 figures restated

A 2.2.2-1/1

€ million

3,562
3,889

3,890
4,104

3,870
4,152

3,986
4,275

A 2.2.2-1/3

€ million

1,085
1,261

1,193
1,352

1,253
1,421

1,085
1,217

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
140 

A Combined Management Report 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Augmented Version 

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group 

Consumer Health 
Market growth weaker than in the prior year 
In 2016, global development of the Consumer Health market was below the prior-year level at 4% 
(2015: 5%). Reasons for this included particularly the low rate of transitioning prescription medi-
cines to over-the-counter status (Rx-to-OTC switch), a weaker cold season and reduced demand 
in the Emerging Markets. 

Key Data – Consumer Health 

€ million 

Sales 

Changes in sales 

Volume 

Price 

Currency 

Portfolio 

Sales by region 

Europe / Middle East / Africa  

North America 

Asia / Pacific 

Latin America  

EBITDA 

1 

Special items 

EBITDA before special items 

1 

Change %

A 2.2.2/4

Change %

Q4 2015

Q4 2016

Reported Fx & p adj.

1,506 

1,539

+ 2.2

+ 4.4

2015

6,076

2016

Reported Fx & p adj.

6,037 

– 0.6

+ 3.5

+ 6.8% 

+ 3.0% 

– 1.2% 

+ 0.2% 

+ 1.5%

+ 2.9%

– 2.2%

 0.0%

490 

630 

188 

198 

333 

(52)

385 

499

649

194

197

334

(38)

372

+ 3.0%

+ 3.1%

+ 2.7%

+ 34.3%

1,955

2,635

738

748

1,222

(234)

1,456

24.0%

768

(237)

1,005

+ 0.6% 

+ 2.9% 

– 4.1% 

 0.0% 

1,918 

2,627 

781 

711 

1,296 

(115)

1,411 

23.4% 

695 

(292)

987 

+ 2.7

+ 1.6

+ 3.2

+ 18.7

+ 1.8

+ 3.0

+ 3.2

– 0.5

+ 0.3

– 3.4

– 64.9

+ 7.2

+ 1.5

– 0.1

+ 8.1

+ 17.1

– 1.9

– 0.3

+ 5.8

– 4.9

+ 6.1

– 3.1

– 9.5

– 1.8

EBITDA margin before special items 

1 

25.6% 

24.2%

EBIT 

Special items 

EBIT before special items 

1 

Net cash provided  
by operating activities 

194 

(55)

249 

140 

68

(199)

267

221

+ 57.9

816

874 

+7.1

2015 figures restated; Fx & p adj. = currency- and portfolio-adjusted; Fx adj. = currency-adjusted 
1 For definition see Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 

+

%

growth in sales at 
Consumer Health  
(Fx & portfolio adj.) 

Sales up year on year 
Sales of Consumer Health rose by 3.5% (Fx & portfolio adj.) in 2016 to €6,037 million. We 
achieved significant gains in Latin America and Asia / Pacific on a currency-adjusted basis, and 
Europe / Middle East / Africa contributed to sales growth with a slight increase. Sales in North 
America came in at the prior-year level.  

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

A Combined Management Report 

141

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Best-Selling Consumer Health Products 

€ million 

Claritin™  1 

Aspirin™ 

Aleve™ 

Bepanthen™ / Bepanthol™ 

Canesten™ 

Alka-Seltzer™ product family 

Dr. Scholl’s™ 

1 

One A Day™ 

Coppertone™ 

1 

Elevit™ 

Total  

Proportion of Consumer Health sales 

Q4 2015

Q4 2016

Reported

134

128

105

85

66

81

62

65

8

43

777

52%

– 9.0

– 1.6

+ 9.5

+ 5.9

– 3.0

+ 7.4

– 11.3

+ 3.1

+ 112.5

+ 11.6

+ 1.8

122

126

115

90

64

87

55

67

17

48

791

51%

Change %

Fx adj.

– 12.6

+ 0.5

+ 8.6

+ 6.2

+ 10.0

+ 7.7

– 11.7

+ 1.7

+ 96.0

+ 10.4

+ 2.2

Fx adj. = currency-adjusted 
1 Trademark rights and distribution only in certain countries outside the European Union 

A 2.2.2/5

Change %

2015

2016

Reported

Fx adj.

627

473

413

355

267

251

253

211

217

162

605

463

416

362

269

253

235

222

219

182

3,229

53%

3,226

53%

– 3.5

– 2.1

+ 0.7

+ 2.0

+ 0.7

+ 0.8

– 7.1

+ 5.2

+ 0.9

+ 12.3

– 0.1

– 2.6

+ 2.4

+ 2.1

+ 9.2

+ 13.4

+ 2.2

– 6.9

+ 5.3

+ 1.4

+ 17.2

+ 3.2

Sales by product 
>  Business with our antihistamine Claritin™ receded overall. Sales in Asia / Pacific were down 

against the strong prior year due to intensified competition and to price controls for prescription 
medicines in Japan. The gratifying increase in the United States due to a product line extension 
with ClariSpray™ only partly offset this effect. 

>  Sales of our analgesic Aspirin™ increased moderately. The gains in the United States and Latin 
America more than offset declines in Europe that resulted from a weak cold season. Including 
business with Aspirin™ Cardio, which is reported under Pharmaceuticals, sales climbed by 
5.0% (Fx adj.) to €1,001 million (2015: €997 million).  

>  We registered a slight increase in sales of our analgesic Aleve™ that resulted from very 

favorable development in the United States, where we benefited from the addition of Aleve 
Tens™ to our product portfolio.  

>  Sales of our Bepanthen™ / Bepanthol™ wound healing and skin care products advanced 

strongly, especially in Europe and particularly in France, Germany and Russia.  

>  We achieved significant growth with our skin and intimate health brand Canesten™ thanks to 

expanded volumes in all regions. Business developed especially well in Germany, due primarily 
to Canesten Gyn™.  

>  The Alka-Seltzer™ family of products to treat gastrointestinal complaints and cold symptoms 
registered slight growth that was mainly attributable to a product line extension in the United 
States.  

>  Sales of our Dr. Scholl’s™ foot care products declined due to higher competitive pressure and 

a weak market environment in the United States.  

>  We recorded pleasing sales development in the United States with our One A Day™ vitamin 
product, largely as the result of product line extensions and the expansion of our distribution 
channels. 

>  Sales of our sunscreen product Coppertone™ were up slightly against the previous year. Higher 

demand in Asia / Pacific and Latin America more than offset declines in the United States.  
>  Business with our prenatal vitamin Elevit™ saw particularly strong development. We posted 

double-digit-percentage growth rates in Asia / Pacific and Europe / Middle East / Africa.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
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 Augmented Version 

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group 

Earnings 
In 2016, EBITDA before special items declined by 3.1% to €1,411 million. Earnings were dimin-
ished by a higher cost of goods sold and negative currency effects of approximately €65 million. 
These factors were partly compensated by the positive development of sales and cost synergies. 

EBIT of Consumer Health decreased by 9.5% to €695 million due to special charges of 
€292 million (2015: €237 million). These included €160 million for impairment losses on intangible 
assets (Triderm™ and Citracal™), €100 million for the integration of acquired businesses and 
€32 million for efficiency enhancement measures.  

A 2.2.2/6

Special Items 

1 Consumer Health 

€ million 

Restructuring 

Integration costs 

Impairment losses / impairment 
loss reversals 

Revaluation of  
other receivables 

Total Special Items 

EBIT 
Q4 2015

EBIT
Q4 2016

(4)

(50)

(9)

(30)

– 

(160)

(1)

(55)

–

(199)

EBIT 
2015

(5)

(225)

–

(7)

(237)

EBIT 
2016

(32)

(100)

(160)

–

(292)

EBITDA 
Q4 2015

EBITDA 
Q4 2016

EBITDA 
2015

EBITDA 
2016

(1)

(50)

–

(1)

(52)

(8)

(30)

– 

– 

(2)

(225)

– 

(7)

(15)

(100)

–

–

(38)

(234)

(115)

1 For definition see Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 

 Online Annex: A 2.2.2-2  
The development of Consumer Health in 2016 is shown in the following graphics (A 2.2.2-2/1, 
A 2.2.2-2/2 and A 2.2.2-2/3).  

Quarterly Sales Consumer Health

Q1

2015
2016

Q2

2015
2016

Q3

2015
2016

Q4

2015
2016

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

1,200

1,400

1,600

1,800

2,000

2015 figures restated

A 2.2.2-2/1

€ million

1,556
1,520

1,590
1,553

1,424
1,425

1,506
1,539

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
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2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Consumer Health
Quarterly EBIT

Consumer Health
Quarterly EBITDA before Special Items

A 2.2.2-2/2

A 2.2.2-2/3

€ million

€ million

Q1

2015
2016

Q2

2015
2016

Q3

2015
2016

Q4

2015
2016

174
243

191
190

209
194

194
68

Q1

2015
2016

Q2

2015
2016

Q3

2015
2016

Q4

2015
2016

369
383

362
328

340
328

385
372

0

50

100

150

200

250

0

100

200

300

400

2015 figures restated

Crop Science 
Persistently weak market environment 
Overall, the global seed and crop protection market contracted slightly by around 1% in 2016 
(2015: –2%). Whereas there was a small increase in demand for high-quality seed, sales of crop 
protection products decreased worldwide.  

Positive growth momentum in 2016 came from the North America and Eastern Europe regions. 
Market volumes decreased in Latin America, due especially to macroeconomic developments, 
unfavorable weather conditions and high inventories of crop protection products, particularly in 
Brazil.  

Key Data – Crop Science 

€ million 

Sales 

Change in sales 

Volume 

Price 

Currency 

Portfolio 

Sales by region 

Europe / Middle East / Africa  

North America 

Asia / Pacific 

Latin America 

EBITDA 

1 

Special items 

EBITDA before special items 

1 

Change %

A 2.2.2/7

Change %

Q4 2015

Q4 2016

Reported Fx & p adj.

2015

2016

Reported Fx & p adj.

2,405 

2,404

0.0

– 1.6

10,128 

9,915 

– 2.1

+ 0.1

+ 5.8% 

– 0.4% 

+ 5.1% 

+ 0.7% 

– 0.4%

– 1.2%

+ 1.6%

0.0%

470 

438 

365 

431

527

384

1,132 

1,062

642 

295 

347 

314

(37)

351

+ 1.3% 

+ 0.4% 

+ 6.9% 

+ 0.7% 

– 1.3% 

+ 1.4% 

– 2.3% 

+ 0.1% 

Reported

Fx adj.

Reported

Fx adj.

+ 1.8

+ 3.9

+ 2.7

– 6.9

– 8.3

+ 20.3

+ 5.2

– 6.2

– 51.1

+ 1.2

– 68.8

+ 1.1

.

– 7.0

+ 18.5

+ 2.5

– 8.6

3,368 

2,570 

1,530 

2,660 

2,628 

222 

2,406 

23.8% 

2,094 

222 

1,872 

3,290 

2,616 

1,548 

2,461 

2,280 

(141)

2,421 

24.4%

1,755 

(143)

1,898 

– 2.3

+ 1.8

+ 1.2

– 7.5

– 13.2

+ 0.6

– 16.2

+ 1.4

749 

2,071 

+ 176.5

EBITDA margin before special items 

1 

14.4%

14.6%

EBIT 

Special items 

EBIT before special items 

1 

Net cash provided  
by operating activities 

491 

301 

190 

175 

153

(39)

192

622

2015 figures restated; Fx & p adj. = currency- and portfolio-adjusted; Fx adj. = currency-adjusted 
1 For definition see Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
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 Augmented Version 

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group 

Sales level year on year 
Crop Science posted sales of €9,915 million (Fx & portfolio adj. +0.1%) in 2016. At Crop 
Protection / Seeds, we matched the prior-year level despite a persisting weak market environment, 
particularly in Latin America. Environmental Science posted gratifying sales growth. 

Since the conclusion in May 2016 of an agreement to divest the consumer business of Environ-
mental Science, these activities are reported retrospectively for 2015 and 2016 under discontin-
ued operations. Environmental Science therefore now comprises only the business for profession-
al users. The divestment was closed at the start of October 2016. 

Sales by Business Unit 

€ million 

Crop Protection / Seeds 

Crop Protection 

Herbicides 

Fungicides 

Insecticides 

SeedGrowth 

Seeds 

Environmental Science 

1 

Q4 2015

Q4 2016

Reported Fx & p adj.

Change %

2,230

2,009

2,224

1,965

650

677

430

252

221

175

599

679

386

301

259

180

– 0.3

– 2.2

– 7.8

+ 0.3

– 10.2

+ 19.4

+ 17.2

+ 2.9

– 1.8

– 3.1

– 8.5

– 0.9

– 11.4

+ 18.7

+ 10.4

+ 1.1

A 2.2.2/8

Change %

2015

9,548

8,271

2,830

2,911

1,596

934

1,277

580

2016

Reported Fx & p adj.

9,317

7,961

2,693

2,961

1,357

950

1,356

598

– 2.4

– 3.7

– 4.8

+ 1.7

– 0.2

– 1.5

– 2.2

+ 4.0

– 15.0

– 13.3

+ 1.7

+ 6.2

+ 3.1

+ 4.1

+ 8.3

+ 4.5

2015 figures restated; Fx & p adj. = currency- and portfolio-adjusted 
1 Environmental Science now comprises only the business for professional users. The key data and prior-year figures are restated accordingly. 

Sales by region 
>  Sales in the Europe / Middle East / Africa region improved by 1.8% (Fx adj.) to €3,290 million. 
SeedGrowth registered gains, due particularly to higher demand for products to treat cereal 
seed. We also slightly expanded business at Herbicides, while sales at Insecticides and 
Fungicides came in at the prior-year level. Sales of vegetable seed developed positively, as did 
sales at Environmental Science.  
In the North America region, we posted a 3.9% (Fx adj.) increase in sales to €2,616 million. 
Sales at SeedGrowth developed very positively thanks to increased demand for products to 
treat corn and cereal seed. Sales at Fungicides increased as well. We also achieved strong, 
double-digit-percentage growth with soybean seeds. By contrast, we registered a substantial 
decline in sales of Insecticides resulting from weak demand. Sales at Environmental Science 
increased slightly. 

> 

>  Sales in Asia / Pacific increased by 2.7% (Fx adj.) year on year to €1,548 million. Our Fungicides 
business saw positive development particularly in Australia and India. Sales of vegetable seeds 
increased by a double-digit percentage. Business at Herbicides receded slightly, as did sales of 
Environmental Science. 

>  Sales in Latin America declined by 6.9% (Fx adj.) to €2,461 million. Business was held back by 
the persisting weak market environment in Brazil, particularly at Insecticides, Herbicides and 
SeedGrowth. Lower pest pressure had an additional negative impact on Insecticides. We 
recorded gains in sales at Fungicides and Seeds. Business at Environmental Science expanded 
by a double-digit percentage. 

Earnings 
In 2016, EBITDA before special items of Crop Science was level year on year at €2,421 million 
(2015: €2,406 million; +0.6%). A positive currency effect of around €140 million and higher selling 
prices compensated lower volumes, increased spending on research and development and higher 
impairment losses recognized on inventories and receivables. 

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

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145

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

EBIT decreased by 16.2% to €1,755 million, including special charges of €143 million (2015: 
special gains of €222 million), primarily in connection with the agreed acquisition of Monsanto and 
efficiency improvement measures.  

Special Items 

1 Crop Science 

€ million 

Restructuring 

Litigations 

Acquisition costs 

Divestments 

Revaluation of  
other receivables 

Total 

EBIT 
Q4 2015

EBIT 
Q4 2016

– 

303

– 

– 

(2)

301

(5)

4

(34)

(4)

–

(39)

EBIT
2015

–

285

–

(50)

(13)

222

EBIT
2016

EBITDA
Q4 2015

EBITDA 
Q4 2016

EBITDA
2015

EBITDA 
2016

(51)

(1)

(86)

(5)

–

(143)

– 

303

– 

(6)

(2)

295 

(3)

4 

(34)

(4)

– 

(37)

–

285

–

(50)

(13)

222

(49)

(1)

(86)

(5)

–

(141)

A 2.2.2/9

1  For definition see Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 

 Online Annex: A 2.2.2-3 
The development of Crop Science in 2016 is shown in the following graphics (A 2.2.2-3/1,  
A 2.2.2-3/2 and A 2.2.2-3/3).  

Crop Science Quarterly Sales

Q1

2015
2016

Q2

2015
2016

Q3

2015
2016

Q4

2015
2016

A 2.2.2-3/1

€ million

3,006
2,936

2,636
2,518

2,081
2,057

2,405
2,404

0

500

1,000

1,500

2,000

2,500

3,000

3,500

2015 figures restated

Crop Science
Quarterly EBIT

Q1

2015
2016

Q2

2015
2016

Q3

2015
2016

Q4

2015
2016

A 2.2.2-3/2

A 2.2.2-3/3

Crop Science
Quarterly EBITDA before Special Items

€ million

885
955

561
512

187
135

491
153

Q1

2015
2016

Q2

2015
2016

Q3

2015
2016

Q4

2015
2016

€ million

1,021
1,089

722
663

316
318

347
351

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

2015 figures restated

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
146 

A Combined Management Report 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Augmented Version 

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group 

Animal Health 
Ongoing market growth 
In 2016, the Animal Health market continued to develop positively with growth of 5% (2015: 5%). 
The dynamic performance in the first half of the year was driven especially by the market for com-
panion animal parasiticides in the United States and Europe. In the second half of the year, the 
market environment for the farm animal business clouded slightly.  

Key Data – Animal Health 

€ million 

Sales 

Change in sales 

Volume 

Price 

Currency 

Portfolio 

Sales by region 

Europe / Middle East / Africa  

North America 

Asia / Pacific 

Latin America 

EBITDA 

1 

Special items 

EBITDA before special items 

1 

Change %

A 2.2.2/10

Change %

Q4 2015

Q4 2016

Reported Fx & p adj.

319 

329

+ 3.1

+ 3.1

2015

1,490

2016

Reported Fx & p adj.

1,523 

+ 2.2

+ 4.8

+ 2.7% 

+ 0.3% 

+ 3.0% 

 0.0% 

– 1.0%

+ 4.1%

 0.0%

 0.0%

91 

122 

67 

39 

33 

(8)

41 

84

129

79

37

34

(4)

38

+ 4.0%

+ 0.5%

+ 8.6%

 0.0%

+ 2.6% 

+ 2.2% 

– 2.6% 

 0.0% 

Reported

Fx adj.

Reported

Fx adj.

– 7.7

+ 5.7

+ 17.9

– 5.1

+ 3.0

– 7.3

+ 78.6

– 9.1

+ 97.7

– 3.3

+ 4.1

+ 13.4

– 2.6

447

587

285

171

317

(30)

347

445 

621 

300 

157 

343 

(6)

349 

23.3%

22.9% 

+ 3.8

+ 6.0

+ 5.6

+ 1.8

– 0.4

+ 5.8

+ 5.3

– 8.2

+ 8.2

+ 0.6

+ 23.2

+ 0.6

313 

(7)

320 

254

(64)

318

348

193 

– 44.5

EBITDA margin before special items 

1 

12.9% 

11.6%

EBIT 

Special items 

EBIT before special items 

1 

Net cash provided  
by operating activities 

14 

(19)

33 

43 

25

(5)

30

85

2015 figures restated; Fx & p adj. = currency- and portfolio-adjusted; Fx adj. = currency-adjusted 
1 For definition see Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 

+

%

growth in sales at Animal 
Health (Fx & portfolio adj.) 

Sales growth particularly in the United States 
Sales of Animal Health in 2016 increased by 4.8% (Fx & portfolio adj.) to €1,523 million. The North 
America and Asia / Pacific regions developed especially positively due to higher demand. We also 
registered currency-adjusted sales growth in Europe / Middle East / Africa and Latin America. 

Best-Selling Animal Health Products 

Change %

A 2.2.2/11

Change %

€ million 

Q4 2015

Q4 2016

Reported

Fx adj.

2015

2016

Reported

Fx adj.

Advantage™ product family 

Seresto™  

Drontal™ product family 

Baytril™  

Total  

Proportion of Animal Health sales 

Fx adj. = currency-adjusted 

105

15

30

33

183

57%

102

28

31

34

195

59%

– 2.9

+ 86.7

+ 3.3

+ 3.0

+ 6.6

+ 0.3

+ 75.3

+ 2.6

– 0.9

+ 6.8

547

113

122

120

902

61%

535

174

128

113

950

62%

– 2.2

+ 54.0

+ 4.9

– 5.8

+ 5.3

+ 0.1

+ 55.4

+ 7.2

– 5.0

+ 7.3

 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

A Combined Management Report 

147

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Sales by product 
>  Currency-adjusted sales of our Advantage™ family of flea, tick and worm control products were 

level with the previous year. Positive development in Europe / Middle East / Africa and 
Asia / Pacific stood against slight declines in North America. 

>  We achieved very strong sales growth with our Seresto™ flea and tick collar that resulted 

+

%

growth in sales of 
Seresto™ (Fx adj.) 

chiefly from increased demand in the United States and Europe. 

>  Business with our Drontal™ line of wormers benefited particularly from higher volumes in the 

United States and Asia / Pacific. 

>  Sales of our antibiotic Baytril™ fell in North America because of a difficult market environment 
and generic competition. Gains in Asia / Pacific and Latin America were not sufficient to offset 
this development. 

Earnings 
In 2016, EBITDA before special items was steady year on year, increasing 0.6% to €349 million. 
Positive earnings contributions from volume and price increases stood against higher selling 
expenses and an increased cost of production. A negative currency effect of around €10 million 
additionally diminished earnings. 

EBIT of Animal Health increased by a substantial 23.2% to €313 million, including special charges 
of €7 million (2015: €64 million). 

Special Items 

1 Animal Health 

€ million 

Restructuring 

Total special items 

EBIT 
Q4 2015

EBIT 
Q4 2016

(19)

(19)

(5)

(5)

EBIT 
2015

(64)

(64)

EBIT 
2016

EBITDA
Q4 2015

EBITDA 
Q4 2016

EBITDA 
2015

EBITDA 
 2016

(7)

(7)

(8)

(8)

(4)

(4)

(30)

(30)

(6)

(6)

1 For definition see Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 

A 2.2.2/12

 Online Annex: A 2.2.2-4 
The development of Animal Health in 2016 is shown in the following graphics (A 2.2.2-4/1,  
A 2.2.2-4/2 and A 2.2.2-4/3).  

Animal Health Quarterly Sales

Q1

2015
2016

Q2

2015
2016

Q3

2015
2016

Q4

2015
2016

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

450

500

2015 figures restated

A 2.2.2-4/1

€ million

0.386
0.408

0.428
0.426

0.357
0.360

0.319
0.329

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
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 Augmented Version 

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group 

Animal Health
Quarterly EBIT

Animal Health
Quarterly EBITDA before Special Items

A 2.2.2-4/2

A 2.2.2-4/3

€ million

€ million

Q1

2015
2016

Q2

2015
2016

Q3

2015
2016

Q4

2015
2016

65
114

105
93

70
81

14
25

Q1

2015
2016

Q2

2015
2016

Q3

2015
2016

Q4

2015
2016

102
122

120
100

84
89

41
38

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

2015 figures restated

Covestro 
Positive development in main customer industries 
In 2016, Covestro’s main customer industries (automotive, construction, electrical and electronics, 
and furniture) continued to develop positively. 

Key Data – Covestro 

€ million 

Sales 

Change in sales 

Volume 

Price 

Currency 

Portfolio 

Sales by region 

Europe / Middle East / Africa 

North America 

Asia / Pacific 

Latin America 

EBITDA 

1 

Special items 

EBITDA before special items 

1 

EBITDA margin before special items 

1 

EBIT 

Special items 

EBIT before special items 

1 

Net cash provided  
by operating activities 

Change %

A 2.2.2/13

Change %

Q4 2015

Q4 2016

Reported Fx & p adj.

2015

2016

Reported Fx & p adj.

2,774 

2,997

+ 8.0

+ 8.6

11,982

11,826

– 1.3

0.0

+ 1.8% 

– 12.4% 

+ 4.7% 

0.0% 

+ 4.0%

+ 4.6%

– 0.6%

0.0%

1,132 

672 

798 

172 

129 

(128)

257 

9.3% 

(79)

(144)

65 

603 

1,104

671

1,038

184

373

–

373

12.4%

203

–

203

678

+ 2.6%

– 7.7%

+ 7.9%

0.0%

+ 5.3%

– 5.3%

– 1.3%

0.0%

Reported

Fx adj.

Reported

Fx adj.

– 3.3

– 5.3

+ 9.8

– 1.8

– 2.5

– 0.1

+ 30.1

+ 7.0

+ 189.1

+ 45.1

.

.

– 2.6

– 1.6

+ 32.2

+ 12.2

4,928

2,885

3,377

792

1,368

(291)

1,659

13.8%

635

(332)

967

4,761

2,740

3,619

706

1,984

–

1,984

16.8%

1,304

–

– 3.4

– 5.0

+ 7.2

– 10.9

+ 45.0

+ 19.6

+ 105.4

1,304

+ 34.9

+ 12.4

1,452

1,824

+ 25.6

2015 figures restated; Fx & p adj. = currency- and portfolio-adjusted; Fx adj. = currency-adjusted 
1 For definition see Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 

 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
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149

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Sales level year on year 
Sales of Covestro were level year on year in 2016, at €11,826 million (Fx & portfolio adj. 0.0%). 
Selling prices receded overall, due primarily to lower raw material prices. Volumes were above the 
level of the prior year overall.  

Sales by Business Unit 

€ million 

Polyurethanes 

Polycarbonates  

Coatings, Adhesives, Specialties 

Other Covestro business 

Total 

Fx & p adj. = currency- and portfolio-adjusted 

Change %

Q4 2015

Q4 2016

Reported Fx & p adj.

1,382

1,541

+ 11.5

759

477

156

832

481

143

2,774

2,997

+ 9.6

+ 0.8

– 8.3

+ 8.0

+ 12.2

+ 10.7

+ 0.8

– 9.0

+ 8.6

A 2.2.2/14

Change %

2016

Reported Fx & p adj.

5,926

3,297

2,039

564

– 2.6

+ 4.0

– 2.5

– 11.5

– 1.3

– 1.2

+ 5.8

– 1.8

– 11.5

0.0

2015

6,084

3,169

2,092

637

11,982

11,826

Sales by business unit 
>  At Polyurethanes, lower selling prices overall were not fully offset by higher volumes and led to 

a 1.2% (Fx & portfolio adj.) decline in sales to €5,926 million.  

>  Polycarbonates(cid:3)improved sales by 5.8% (Fx & portfolio adj.) to €3,297 million, with appreciable 

volume growth more than compensating for lower selling prices. 

>  Sales of Coatings, Adhesives, Specialties fell by 1.8% (Fx & portfolio adj.) to €2,039 million, 

primarily because of lower selling prices. 

Earnings 
In 2016, EBITDA before special items increased by a substantial 19.6% to €1,984 million. Positive 
earnings contributions from reductions in raw material prices and higher volumes outweighed 
lower selling prices and a negative currency effect of around €20 million. 

Compared with the previous year, Covestro more than doubled EBIT to €1,304 million (+105.4%). 
No special items were recorded (2015: special charges of  €332 million). 

Special Items 

1 Covestro 

€ million 

Restructuring 

Revaluation of other receivables 

Total special items 

EBIT 
Q4 2015

(143)

(1)

(144)

EBIT 

Q4 2016 EBIT 2015 EBIT 2016

EBITDA
Q4 2015

EBITDA 
Q4 2016

EBITDA 
2015

EBITDA 
2016

–

–

–

(329)

(3)

(332)

–

–

–

(127)

(1)

(128)

–

–

–

(288)

(3)

(291)

–

–

–

1 For definition see Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 

A 2.2.2/15

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
150 

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Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Augmented Version 

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group 

 Online Annex: A 2.2.2-5 
The development of Covestro in 2016 is shown in the following graphics (A 2.2.2-5/1,  
A 2.2.2-5/2 and A 2.2.2-5/3).  

Covestro Quarterly Sales

Q1

2015
2016

Q2

2015
2016

Q3

2015
2016

Q4

2015
2016

A 2.2.2-5/1

€ million

3,014
2,850

3,185
2,975

3,009
3,004

2,774
2,997

0

500

1,000

1,500

2,000

2,500

3,000

3,500

2015 figures restated

Covestro
Quarterly EBIT

Q1

2015
2016

Q2

2015
2016

Q3

2015
2016

Q4

2015
2016

A 2.2.2-5/2

A 2.2.2-5/3

Covestro
Quarterly EBITDA before Special Items

€ million

€ million

219
336

278
367

217
398

(79)
203

Q1

2015
2016

Q2

2015
2016

Q3

2015
2016

Q4

2015
2016

424
504

506
543

472
564

257
373

(100)

0

100

200

300

400

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

2015 figures restated

Business Development by Region 

 Online Annex: A 2.2.2-6 

Business Development by Region 

Europe / Middle East / Africa

Change in %

A.2.2.2-6/1

North America

Change in %

€ million 

Q4 2015

Q4 2016

Reported

Fx adj.

Q4 2015

Q4 2016

Reported

Fx adj.

Pharmaceuticals 

Consumer Health 

Crop Science 

Animal Health 

Life Sciences 
(incl. 
reconciliation) 

Covestro 

Group (incl. 
reconciliation) 

2015 figures restated 

1,618

1,684

490

470

91

499

431

84

2,943

1,132

2,962

1,104

4,075

4,066

+ 4.1

+ 1.8

– 8.3

– 7.7

+ 0.6

– 2.5

– 0.2

+6.0

+2.7

– 7.0

– 3.3

+ 2.3

– 2.6

+ 0.9

972

630

438

122

2,163

672

1,107

649

527

129

2,413

671

+ 13.9

+ 3.0

+ 20.3

+ 5.7

+ 11.6

– 0.1

+ 12.6

+ 1.6

+ 18.5

+ 4.1

+ 10.1

– 1.6

2,835

3,084

+ 8.8

+ 7.3

 
 
 
 
    
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
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151

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Business Development by Region 

Asia / Pacific

Change in %

€ million 

Q4 
2015

Q4 
2016

Re-
ported

Pharmaceuticals 

1,121

1,203

Fx adj.

+ 3.6

+ 3.2

+ 2.5

Q4 
2015

275

198

Q4
2016

281

197

1,132

1,062

+ 7.3

+ 3.2

+ 5.2

+ 17.9

+ 13.4

39

37

188

365

67

194

384

79

  A.2.2.2-6/1 (continued)

Group

Change in %

Q4 
2015

3,986

1,506

2,405

319

Q4 
2016

Re-
ported

Fx adj.

4,275

1,539

2,404

+ 7.3

+ 2.2

–

329

+ 3.1

+ 7.1

+ 4.4

– 1.6

+ 3.1

Latin America

Change in %

Re-
ported

+ 2.2

– 0.5

– 6.2

– 5.1

Fx adj.

+ 8.0

+ 18.7

– 8.6

– 2.6

1,745

798

1,862

1,038

+ 6.7

+ 3.5

1,660

1,586

+ 30.1

+ 32.2

172

184

– 4.5

+ 7.0

– 2.7

+ 12.2

8,511

2,774

8,823

2,997

+ 3.7

+ 8.0

+ 3.6

+ 8.6

2,543

2,900

+ 14.0

+ 12.5

1,832

1,770

– 3.4

– 1.3

11,285

11,820

+ 4.7

+ 4.8

Consumer Health 

Crop Science 

Animal Health 

Life Sciences 
(incl. 
reconciliation) 

Covestro 

Group (incl. 
reconciliation) 

2015 figures restated 

Business Development by Region 

€ million 

Pharmaceuticals 

Consumer Health 

Crop Science 

Animal Health 

Life Sciences 
(incl. 
reconciliation) 

Covestro 

Group (incl. 
reconciliation) 

2015 figures restated 

2015

5,981

1,955

3,368

447

2016

6,417

1,918

3,290

445

12,779

4,928

13,062

4,761

17,707

17,823

Business Development by Region 

Europe / Middle East / Africa

Change in %

Reported

Fx adj.

+ 7.3

– 1.9

– 2.3

– 0.4

+ 2.2

– 3.4

+ 0.7

+ 9.7

+ 1.5

+ 1.8

+ 3.8

+ 5.1

– 3.3

2015

3,937

2,635

2,570

587

9,736

2,885

2016

4,194

2,627

2,616

621

10,066

2,740

+ 2.8

12,621

12,806

Asia / Pacific

Change in %

Latin America

Change in %

A.2.2.2-6/2

North America

Change in %

Reported

Fx adj.

+ 6.5

– 0.3

+ 1.8

+ 5.8

+ 3.4

– 5.0

+ 1.5

+ 6.7

– 0.1

+ 3.9

+ 6.0

+ 4.1

– 5.3

+ 2.0

  A.2.2.2-6/2 (continued)

Group

Change in %

Re-
ported

Fx adj.

€ million 

Pharmaceuticals 

2015

4,319

2016

Re-
ported

Fx adj.

2015

4,775

+ 10.6

+ 8.6

1,071

2016

1,034

Re-
ported

Fx adj.

2015

2016

– 3.5

+ 11.0

15,308

16,420

+ 7.3

+ 8.7

Consumer 
Health 

738

781

Crop Science 

1,530

1,548

Animal Health 

285

300

+ 5.8

+ 1.2

+ 5.3

+ 8.1

+ 2.7

+ 5.6

748

711

2,660

2,461

171

157

– 4.9

– 7.5

– 8.2

+ 17.1

6,076

– 6.9

+ 1.8

10,128

1,490

6,037

9,915

1,523

– 0.6

– 2.1

+ 2.2

+ 3.5

+ 0.2

+ 4.8

Life Sciences 
(incl. 
reconciliation) 

Covestro 

Group (incl. 
reconciliation) 

2015 figures restated 

6,886

3,377

7,413

3,619

+ 7.7

+ 7.2

+ 7.0

+ 9.8

4,702

4,402

– 6.4

+ 1.2

34,103

34,943

792

706

– 10.9

– 1.8

11,982

11,826

+ 2.5

– 1.3

+ 4.7

–

10,263

11,032

+ 7.5

+ 7.9

5,494

5,108

– 7.0

+ 0.8

46,085

46,769

+ 1.5

+ 3.5

 
 
 
 
    
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
152 

A Combined Management Report 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Augmented Version 

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group 

2.2.3 Value-Based Performance 
New value-based indicator: ROCE 
Starting with fiscal 2016, Bayer decided to replace its previous value-based metrics – cash value 
added (CVA) and cash flow return on investment (CFROI) – by the return on capital employed 
(ROCE). The change was made in light of the much lower complexity and greater external popu-
larity of the ROCE. Using this indicator therefore increases transparency and facilitates both com-
munication and external comparability. The ROCE indicates the capital return over a specified 
period, setting economic profit against the capital used to generate it (capital employed). The 
ROCE is compared to the weighted average cost of capital (WACC), which corresponds to the 
return expected by the providers of equity and debt. If the ROCE is in line with the WACC, the 
expected return for the period has been achieved. If it exceeds the WACC, return expectations 
have been exceeded, and therefore value has been created. 

Calculation of ROCE 
ROCE is the ratio of net operating profit after tax (NOPAT) to the average capital employed. 
NOPAT is determined by deducting from EBIT the income taxes thereon, which are based on a 
historical average tax rate of 24%. The capital employed is an indicator of the capital used in the 
company’s operations. Based on carrying amounts, it is calculated by subtracting from operational 
assets the liability items that are largely non-interest-bearing, such as trade accounts payable, or 
would distort the operational capital base. To reflect the change in the capital employed during the 
year, an average figure is determined from the amounts at the end of the previous year and the 
end of the year under report. For the components of the capital employed, see also Chapter 2.4. 

Calculating the cost of capital 
In 2016, the capital cost rate (WACC = weighted average cost of capital) for the Bayer Group was 
applied uniformly for the Life Sciences for the first time. The WACC is based on an after-tax ap-
proach and was calculated at the beginning of the year as the weighted average of the equity and 
debt cost rates. The cost of equity is the return expected by stockholders, computed from capital 
market information. The debt capital cost rate we use to calculate the WACC is based on the 
financing terms for ten-year Eurobonds issued by industrial companies with an “A–” credit rating. 
The WACC for 2016 was 7.5% for the Bayer Group and for the Life Sciences. Covestro, however, 
determined a WACC of 6.9% for its business. In the context of impairment testing, moreover, 
individual capital cost factors are used for the reporting segments which explicitly take account of 
segment-specific parameters (see Note [4]). 

See also A 2.4 

%

Capital cost rate for the 
Bayer Group in 2016 

ROCE in 2016 of 

Value-based business development 
Bayer’s ROCE in 2016 amounted to 11.0%, exceeding the cost of capital by 3.5 percentage 
points. It is thus an indicator for value creation. Also when measured in terms of the previous 
value-based steering parameters, Bayer showed positive value creation with a CFROI of 11.8%, 
which exceeded the cost of capital, and a positive CVA of €2,761 million. 

%

All segments except Consumer Health exceeded the WACC in 2016 despite negative special 
items in all of the Life Science segments (see also Chapter 2.2.2). In Consumer Health, the acqui-
sition of the consumer care business of Merck & Co., Inc., United States, in 2014 led to a signifi-
cant increase in the capital employed. This, together with the integration costs and special charg-
es incurred in 2016, is currently diminishing ROCE as an indicator of periodic capital return. 

 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

A Combined Management Report 

153

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Value-Based Performance by Segment 

Pharmaceuticals 

Consumer
Health

Crop Science

Animal Health

 Life Sciences 1

Covestro

Group

€ million 

EBIT 

Taxes 

2 

NOPAT 

Average capital 
employed 

ROCE 

WACC 

2015

2016

3,028 

3,389 

(727)

(813)

2,301 

2,576 

2015

768 

(184)

584 

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

695

2,094

1,755

(167)

(503)

(421)

528

1,591

1,334

254

(61)

193

313

5,606

5,738 

635 

1,304

6,241

7,042

(75)

(1,346)

(1,377)

238

4,260

4,361 

(152)

483 

(313)

(1,498)

(1,690)

991

4,743

5,352

15,969  15,859  14,761  15,220

9,749 10,316

404

375 40,975 42,306 

6,822 

6,471 47,797 48,777

14.4%  16.2% 

4.0% 

3.5% 16.3% 12.9% 47.8% 63.5% 10.4% 10.3% 

7.1%  15.3% 9.9% 11.0%

7.9% 

7.5% 

7.9% 

7.5% 7.3% 7.5% 7.9% 7.5% 7.6% 7.5% 

6.9% 

6.9% 7.6% 7.5%

A 2.2.3/1

2015 figures restated 
1 including Reconciliation 
2 24% on EBIT; based on historical average of tax rates 

2.2.4 Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group 
Financial management of the Group 
The financial management of the Bayer Group is conducted by Bayer AG. Capital is a global re-
source, generally procured centrally and distributed within the Group. The foremost objectives of 
our financial management are to help bring about a sustained increase in corporate value and to 
ensure the Group’s liquidity and creditworthiness. This involves optimizing the capital structure 
and effectively managing risks. The management of currency, interest-rate, commodity price and 
default risks helps to reduce the volatility of our earnings.  

See also  A 1.2.2 

The contracted rating agencies assess Bayer as follows: 

Rating 

S & P Global Ratings 

Moody’s 

A 2.2.4/1 

Long-term rating

Short-term rating 

A–

A3

A–2 

P–2 

These credit ratings reflect the company’s high solvency and ensure access to a broad investor 
base for financing purposes. As a result of the agreed acquisition of Monsanto, both S&P Global 
Ratings and Moody’s are reviewing the possibility of a downgrade. Bayer continues to aim for an 
investment-grade credit rating after the successful closing of the Monsanto acquisition and is 
aiming for the single “A” rating category in the long term.  

As a matter of principle, we pursue a prudent debt management strategy to ensure flexibility, 
drawing on a balanced financing portfolio. This is fundamentally based on bonds in various cur-
rencies, syndicated credit facilities, bilateral loan agreements and a global commercial paper  
program.  

We use financial derivatives to hedge against risks arising from business operations or financial 
transactions, but do not employ contracts in the absence of an underlying transaction. It is our 
policy to diminish default risks by selecting trading partners with a high credit standing. We closely 
monitor the execution of all transactions, which are conducted in accordance with Group policies. 

See also A 3.2.2 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
154 

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Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Augmented Version 

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group 

Liquidity and Capital Expenditures of the Bayer Group 

Bayer Group Summary Statements of Cash Flows 

€ million 

2015

2016 Change %

A 2.2.4/2

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities,  
continuing operations 

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, discontinued operations 

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities (total) 

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities (total) 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (total) 

Change in cash and cash equivalents due to business activities 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 

Change due to exchange rate movements and to changes  
in scope of consolidation 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period 

2015 figures restated 

6,836 

54 

6,890 

(2,762)

(3,974)

154 

1,853 

(148)

1,859 

8,259 

830 

9,089 

(8,729)

(350)

10 

1,859 

30 

1,899 

+ 20.8

.

+ 31.9

.

+ 91.2

– 93.5

+ 0.3

.

+ 2.2

A 2.2.4/3

Cash Inflows from
Operating Activities (Total)
€ million

9,089

6,890

Net cash provided by operating activities 
The net cash provided by operating activities (total) rose by 31.9% to €9,089 million due to a sig-
nificant improvement in EBIT, a sharp decrease in additional cash tied up in working capital, and 
the cash inflow from the sale of the Diabetes Care business. The net cash provided by operating 
activities in continuing operations increased by 20.8% to €8,259 million. 

31.9%

2015

2016

See also A 1.4.2.2 

Net cash used in investing activities 
The net cash outflow for investing activities in 2016 amounted to €8,729 million. Cash outflows  
for property, plant and equipment and intangible assets were 2.4% higher at €2,578 million (2015: 
€2,517 million) and included €835 million (2015: €777 million) at Pharmaceuticals, €215 million 
(2015: €148 million) at Consumer Health, €757 million (2015: €721 million) at Crop Science, 
€37 million (2015: €41 million) at Animal Health and €415 million (2015: €508 million) at Covestro. 
Cash outflows for noncurrent and current financial assets, especially for the short-term investment 
of the cash inflows from the mandatory convertible notes, amounted to €6,335 million (2015: 
€370 million). Inflows from interest and dividends totaled €89 million (2015: €106 million). 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 
In 2016 there was a net cash outflow of €350 million for financing activities, including net loan 
repayments of €730 million (2015: €2,929 million). Net interest payments were 21.8% higher at 
€794 million (2015: €652 million). The cash outflow for dividends amounted to €2,126 million 
(2015: €1,869 million). The net cash inflow from the issuance of the mandatory convertible notes 
amounted to €3,952 million, reported as a €3,300 million capital contribution and a €652 million 
borrowing. In 2015, the stock market flotation of Covestro resulted in a cash inflow of 
€1,490 million. 

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

A Combined Management Report 

155

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Liquid assets and net financial debt 

Net Financial Debt1 

€ million 

See also A 2.4 

A 2.2.4/4

Dec. 31,
2015

Dec. 31,

2016 Change %

Bonds and notes / promissory notes 

15,547

15,991 

of which hybrid bonds 

2 

Liabilities to banks 

Liabilities under finance leases 

Liabilities from derivatives 

3 

Other financial liabilities 

Receivables from derivatives 

3 

Financial liabilities 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Current financial assets 

4 

Net financial debt 

4,525

2,779

474

753

369

(350)

19,572

(1,859)

(264)

4,529 

1,837 

436 

587 

730 

(313)

19,268 

(1,899)

(5,591)

+ 2.9

+ 0.1

– 33.9

– 8.0

– 22.0

+ 97.8

– 10.6

– 1.6

+ 2.2

.

17,449

11,778 

– 32.5

1 Net financial debt is not defined in the International Financial Reporting Standards and is calculated as shown in this table. 
2 Classified as debt according to IFRS 
3 These include the market values of interest-rate and currency hedges of recorded transactions. 
4 These include short-term loans and receivables with maturities between 3 and 12 months outstanding from banks and other 

companies as well as available-for-sale financial assets that were recorded as current on initial recognition. 

In 2016, net financial debt of the Bayer Group decreased by €5,671 million. Cash inflows from 
operating activities and the issuance of the mandatory convertible notes were set against cash 
outflows for dividends and negative currency effects.  

Net financial debt includes three subordinated hybrid bonds with a total volume of €4,529 million, 
50% of which is treated as equity by Moody’s and S & P Global Ratings. The hybrid bonds thus 
have a more limited effect on the Group’s rating-specific debt indicators than senior debt. 

On November 22, 2016, Bayer issued €4,000 million in mandatory convertible notes. After de-
ducting transaction costs and recognition of deferred taxes, €3,491 million was allocated to capi-
tal reserves and €652 million to other financial liabilities.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
156 

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Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Augmented Version 

2.2 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of the Bayer Group 

Asset and Capital Structure of the Bayer Group 

Bayer Group Summary Statements of Financial Position 

€ million 

Noncurrent assets 

Current assets 

Assets held for sale 

Total current assets 

Total assets 

Equity 

Noncurrent liabilities 

Current liabilities 

Provisions directly related to assets held for sale 

Total current liabilities 

Liabilities 

Total equity and liabilities  

A 2.2.4/5

Dec. 31, 
2015

Dec. 31, 

2016 Change %

50,096

23,624

197

23,821

73,917

25,445

31,492

16,868

112

16,980

48,472

73,917

51,791

30,437

10

30,447

82,238

31,897

31,804

18,537

+ 3.4

+ 28.8

– 94.9

+ 27.8

+ 11.3

+ 25.4

+ 1.0

+ 9.9

–

– 100.0

18,537

50,341

82,238

+ 9.2

+ 3.9

+ 11.3

A 2.2.4/6

Total Assets
€ billion

73.9

82.2

11.3%

2015

2016

Increases in total assets and equity 
Total assets as of December 31, 2016, rose by €8.3 billion to €82.2 billion. The increase of 
€1.7 billion in noncurrent assets to €51.8 billion mainly resulted from an increase in deferred taxes, 
while other intangible assets declined. Total current assets rose by €6.6 billion to €30.4 billion, 
primarily due to cash inflows from the issuance of the mandatory convertible notes. Equity ad-
vanced by €6.5 billion to €31.9 billion. Net income of €4.5 billion (2015: €4.1 billion) and an in-
crease of €3.5 billion in the capital reserves resulting from the issuance of the mandatory converti-
ble notes were set against a negative effect of €0.8 billion (2015: positive effect of €0.8 billion) – 
recognized outside profit or loss – from changes in post-employment benefit obligations, and the 
dividend payment of €2.1 billion (2015: €1.9 billion). The equity ratio (equity coverage of total 
assets) as of December 31, 2016, was 38.8% (2015: 34.4%). Liabilities rose by €1.9 billion com-
pared with December 31, 2015, to €50.3 billion. Trade accounts payable and other liabilities in-
creased, while financial liabilities declined. The net defined benefit liability for pensions and other 
post-employment benefits increased by €0.3 billion to €11.1 billion. Losses of €0.8 billion from the 
reevaluation of the net obligations for defined benefit plans for pensions and other post-
employment benefits stood against the contribution by Bayer AG of 4.9% of the outstanding 
Covestro shares with a value of €0.3 billion to Bayer Pension Trust e.V. and the contribution by 
Covestro of bonds with a value of €0.5 billion. 

 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

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157

2.3 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of Bayer AG

Augmented Version

 Online Annex: A 2.2.4-1 

Ratios 

Cost of sales ratio (%) 

R & D expense ratio (%) 

Return on sales in (%) 

EBIT margin (%) 

EBITDA margin before special items (%) 

Asset intensity (%) 

Reinvestment ratio (%) 

Liability structure (%) 

Gearing 

Free operating cash flow (€ million) 

Inventory turnover 

Receivables turnover 

Payables turnover 

Equity ratio (%) 

Return on equity (%) 

Return on assets (%) 

2015 figures restated 
1 Property, plant and equipment 

Cost of goods sold 

Sales 

Research and development expenses 

Sales 

Income after income taxes 

Sales 

EBIT 

Sales 

EBITDA before special items 

Sales 

Property, plant and equipment 
+ intangible assets 

Total assets 

Capital expenditures1 

Depreciation1 

Current liabilities 

Liabilities 

Net debt + pension provisions 

Equity 

Net operating cash flow less cash outflows 
for property, plant and equipment  
and intangible assets 

Cost of goods sold 

Inventories 

Sales 

Trade accounts receivable 

Cost of goods sold 

Trade accounts payable 

Equity 

Total assets 

Income after income taxes 

Average equity 

Income before income taxes and interest expense 

Average total assets 

A 2.2.4-1/1

2016

43.4

10.0

10.3

15.1

24.2

2015

45.7

9.3

8.9

13.5

22.3

59.1

52.3

153.0

153.5

35.0

1.1

36.8

0.7

4,325

5,681

2.5

4.6

3.5

34.4

17.9

8.2

2.4

4.3

3.2

38.8

16.8

8.5

2.3 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of Bayer AG 

As the parent company of the Bayer Group, Bayer AG – represented by its Board of Management 
– performs the principal management functions for the entire Group. These include strategic plan-
ning, resource allocation, executive management and financial management. With the reorganiza-
tion at the beginning of 2016, the three divisions at Bayer AG also assumed responsibility for 
managing the operational business. The financial statements of Bayer AG are prepared in accord-
ance with the German Commercial Code (HGB) and Stock Corporation Act (AktG). 

Bayer AG performs 
important management 
functions for the Group. 

 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
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Bayer Annual Report 2016

 Augmented Version 

2.3 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of Bayer AG 

2.3.1 Earnings Performance of Bayer AG 

Bayer AG Summary Income Statements according to the German Commercial Code 

€ million 

Net sales 

Cost of goods sold 

Gross profit 

Selling expenses 

Research and development expenses 

General administration expenses 

Other operating income 

Other operating expenses 

Operating income 

Income from investments in affiliated companies – net  

Interest expense /  income – net 

Other financial income – net 

Non-operating income 

Income taxes 

Income after taxes / net income 

Withdrawal from other retained earnings / allocation to other retained earnings 

Distributable profit 

A 2.3.1/1

2016

390

(353)

37

(39)

(46)

(666)

48

(227)

(893)

4,647

54

163

4,864

(371)

3,600

(1,367)

2,233

2015

86 

(88)

(2)

(3)

– 

(324)

13 

(86)

(402)

2,444 

(484)

409 

2,369 

(606)

1,361 

706 

2,067 

Significant improvement in net income 
The former subsidiaries Bayer HealthCare AG and Bayer Technology Services GmbH were merged 
into Bayer AG with effect from January 1, 2016. For this reason the operating result, in particular, 
has only limited comparability with the prior year with respect to both its total amount and the 
individual components. It came in well below the 2015 level, at minus €893 million. Taking into 
account the 2015 operating results of the two merged companies totaling minus €199 million, the 
reference figure for 2015 was minus €601 million. On this basis the operating result therefore 
declined by €292 million in 2016. Of the latter amount, €198 million was attributable to the first-
time recognition by Bayer AG of provisions for impending losses from sales and licensing agree-
ments transferred to Bayer AG effective January 1, 2017, with the businesses leased from Bayer 
Pharma AG and Bayer CropScience AG. The provisions for the same purpose established by the 
two subsidiaries were correspondingly reversed and recognized in profit or loss. Other compo-
nents of the decline in earnings were expenses for various projects, also in connection with the 
planned acquisition of Monsanto Company, which increased by €74 million. 

Income from investments in affiliated companies increased by €2,203 million to €4,647 million. 
Bayer Pharma AG made the largest contribution to the operating result with significantly improved 
income of €3,011 million (2015: €1,793 million). The growth in earnings was due to substantial 
sales increases for the high-margin products Xarelto™ and Adempas™ along with higher income 
from investments in affiliated companies, lower net interest expense and an improvement in the 
currency position. Income of Bayer CropScience AG came in slightly ahead of 2015 at 
€1,017 million (2015: €964 million) despite the absence of the prior year’s one-time gains from a 
patent litigation. Earnings growth was due to an improvement in the gross operating result and a 
substantial net exchange gain. Significant effects of profit-and-loss transfer agreements were the 
transfer of a €50 million (€2015: €118 million) loss from Bayer Business Services GmbH and in-
come of €204 million (2015: €149 million) from Siebte Bayer VV GmbH, which receives regular 
dividend income from a U.S. subsidiary that handles export business in the United States for 
Bayer Health Care LLC. Apart from profit and loss transfers there was also income of €329 million 
in 2016 from investments in affiliated companies, including €91 million from Covestro AG, and 
gains of €130 million from retirements of such investments.  

 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
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2.3 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of Bayer AG

Augmented Version

Bayer AG had net interest income of €54 million in 2016, a significant improvement from the net 
interest expense of €484 million in the previous year. This was almost entirely due to a gain from 
the measurement of pension provisions and other noncurrent provisions for personnel commit-
ments. Interest-related actuarial gains and fund asset growth overcompensated the expenses for 
the unwinding of discount on these provisions by €303 million. The net expenses in 2015 amount-
ed to €276 million. Of the remaining €249 million (2015: €208 million) balance of interest expenses 
and income, €53 million (2015: minus €29 million) was attributable to Group companies and 
€196 million (2015: €179 million) to third parties, with the creditors of the bonds and commercial 
paper programs accounting for €189 million (2015: €228 million).  

Other financial income and expenses yielded a positive balance of €163 million (2015: 
€409 million). The decrease was mainly due to the absence of the one-time gain of €217 million 
incurred in the prior year from the settlement by Covestro Deutschland AG of compensation 
claims with respect to pension entitlements of former employees. Gains from charging on to other 
subsidiaries the pension expenses for retirees who remained with Bayer AG following the hive-
downs of operating businesses in 2002 and 2003 were substantially lower at only €4 million 
(2015: €178 million). The decrease was due to the decline in pension expenses, the interest por-
tion of which was reflected in interest expense while the remainder was reflected in other financial 
income and expenses. Fees for granted credit facilities, which in 2016 pertained mainly to the 
financing of the planned acquisition of Monsanto, amounted to €57 million (2015: €22 million). Set 
against this was the result of the translation of foreign currency receivables and payables and the 
measurement of the relevant derivatives. This amounted to €179 million (2015: €6 million).  

Income before income taxes greatly exceeded the prior-year level at €3,971 million (2015: 
€1,967 million). Tax expense nonetheless declined from €606 million to €371 million due to the 
absence of the previous year’s tax effects resulting from the formation of the Covestro Group and 
a higher proportion of tax-free income from investments in affiliated companies. After deduction of 
taxes, net income was €3,600 million (2015: €1,361 million). An allocation of €1,367 million was 
made to other retained earnings, giving a distributable profit of €2,233 million.  

 Distributable profit of 

€

million

The Board of Management and Supervisory Board will propose to the Annual Stockholders’ Meet-
ing on April 28, 2017, that the distributable profit be used to pay a dividend of €2.70 per share 
(826,947,808 shares) on the capital stock of €2,117 million entitled to the dividend. 

2.3.2 Asset and Financial Position of Bayer AG 

Bayer AG Summary Statements of Financial Position according to the German Commercial Code 

A 2.3.2/1

€ million 

ASSETS 

Noncurrent assets 

Intangible assets, property, plant and equipment 

Financial assets 

Current assets 

Receivables from subsidiaries 

Remaining receivables, inventories, other assets 

Cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities 

Total assets 

Dec. 31,
2015

Dec. 31,
2016

31

43,737

43,768

3,159

380

629

4,168

47,936

58

49,112

49,170

4,055

2,818

803

7,676

56,846

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
  
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 Augmented Version 

2.3 Earnings; Asset and Financial Position of Bayer AG 

Bayer AG Summary Statements of Financial Position according to the German Commercial Code 

A 2.3.2/1 (continued)

€ million 

EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 

Equity 

Provisions 

Other liabilities 

Bonds and notes, liabilities to banks 

Payables to subsidiaries 

Remaining liabilities 

Total equity and liabilities 

Dec. 31,
2015

Dec. 31,
2016

15,032

2,356

7,203

22,752

593

30,548

47,936

16,565

1,905

6,673

31,146

557

38,376

56,846

Significant increase in total assets – higher financial debt 
The asset and liability structure of Bayer AG is dominated by its role in managing the subsidiaries 
and financing corporate activities as the parent company of the Bayer Group. This is primarily 
reflected in the high level of investments in affiliated companies and of the receivables from, and 
payables to, Group companies. 

Total assets of Bayer AG rose by €8.9 billion in 2016 to €56.8 billion. Of the increase, noncurrent 
assets accounted for €5.4 billion and current assets for €3.5 billion. Property, plant and equipment 
and intangible assets increased – mainly due to the mergers effected at the start of the year – by 
€26 million to €58 million, but remained of secondary importance. Financial assets increased by 
€5.4 billion to €49.1 billion, principally as a result of capital increases at subsidiaries. Investments 
in affiliated companies continued to account for by far the largest item in total assets, amounting 
to 84.8% (2015: 89.5%). 

See also  A 2.3.2/1 

A 2.3.2/2

Total Assets
€ billion

47.9

56.8

18.6%

2015

2016

Receivables from subsidiaries amounted to €4.1 billion (2015: €3.2 billion), while payables to sub-
sidiaries totaled €31.2 billion (2015: €22.8 billion). These amounts accounted for 7.2% of total 
assets and 54.9% of total equity and liabilities, respectively. The other receivables reflected in 
current assets (including deferred charges) increased to €2.8 billion (2015: €0.4 billion), mainly 
due to investments of €1.9 billion in commercial paper. Cash and cash equivalents also rose due 
to higher bank deposits, increasing by €174 million to €803 million. 

Bayer AG had equity of €16.6 billion (2015: €15.0 billion). The increase represents the excess of 
the €3,600 million net income for 2016 over the €2,067 million dividend payment for 2015. The 
equity ratio declined to 29.1% (2015: 31.4%) due to the disproportionate growth in total assets. 

Provisions were lower by €0.5 billion at €1.9 billion. The main reason for the decrease was a 
€665 million decline in pension provisions to €897 million. This was largely the result of higher 
fund assets, but was also partly attributable to changes in actuarial assumptions regarding the 
future development of employee compensation and pensions and to a higher discount rate. Provi-
sions for taxes decreased by €123 million to €541 million, while miscellaneous provisions rose by 
€337 million to €467 million. The main factors here were impending losses from the businesses 
taken over from Bayer Pharma AG and Bayer CropScience AG by way of business leases as of 
January 1, 2017, and higher personnel commitments resulting from the mergers with Bayer 
HealthCare AG and Bayer Technology Services GmbH. 

Other liabilities rose by €7.8 billion to €38.4 billion (net of deductible receivables). Financial debt, 
in particular, increased by €6.2 billion, partly due to the financing for the planned acquisition of 
Monsanto Company. Whereas external debt in the form of bonds and commercial paper was re-
duced by €0.6 billion and €0.3 billion, respectively, borrowings from Group companies increased 
by €7.0 billion. Total financial debt at year end 2016 was €36.5 billion (2015: €30.3 billion). After 
deduction of cash and cash equivalents of €0.8 billion (2015: €0.6 billion), net debt rose by €6.0 
billion to €35.7 billion (2015: €29.7 billion).  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
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161

2.4 Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

2.4 Alternative Performance Measures Used 

by the Bayer Group 

The Combined Management Report and the consolidated financial statements of the Bayer Group 
are prepared according to the applicable financial reporting standards. In addition to the disclo-
sures and metrics required by these standards, Bayer publishes alternative performance measures 
(APMs) that are not defined or specified in these standards and for which there are no generally 
accepted reporting formats. Bayer determines APMs to enable the comparison of performance 
indicators over time and against those of other companies in its industry sector. These APMs are 
calculated by making certain adjustments to items in the statement of financial position or the 
income statement prepared according to the applicable financial reporting standards. Such ad-
justments may result from differences in calculation or measurement methods, nonuniform busi-
ness activities or special factors affecting the information value of these items. The APMs deter-
mined in this way apply to all periods and are used both internally for business management 
purposes and externally by analysts, investors and rating agencies to assess the company’s per-
formance. Bayer determines the following APMs: 

See also “About this 
Report” and Note 2  
to B Consolidated  
Financial Statements 

>  Change in sales (reported, currency-adjusted, currency- and portfolio-adjusted) 
>  EBIT 
>  EBITDA  
>  EBIT before special items 
>  EBITDA before special items 
>  EBITDA margin before special items 
>  Core earnings per share  
>  Net financial debt 
>  Return on capital employed (ROCE) 
>  Net operating profit after tax (NOPAT) 
>  Capital employed 
>  Total operating performance 
>  Value creation 
>  Cost of materials / other expenses 
>  Other balance sheet and financial indicators 

 Online Annex A 2.4-1 
In addition to the alternative performance measures listed, it is possible to determine balance 
sheet and financial indicators which help to analyze the Bayer Group’s sales, earnings and fi-
nancial position. Some customary indicators and the associated calculation methods are 
shown in Graphic 2.2.4-1/1. 

See also A 2.2.4 

The (reported) change in sales is a relative indicator. It shows the percentage by which sales var-
ied from the previous year.  

The currency-adjusted or currency- and portfolio-adjusted change in sales shows the percentage 
change in sales excluding the impact of exchange rate effects and disregarding the acquisitions 
and divestments material to each business entity. Exchange rate effects are generally calculated 
on the basis of the functional currency valid in the respective country. Exceptions exist in Brazil 
and Argentina, primarily at Crop Protection, where the respective functional currencies are restat-
ed in U.S. dollars for business reasons.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 Augmented Version 

2.4 Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group 

EBIT (earnings before interest and taxes) serves to present a company’s operating result while 
eliminating the effects of differences among local taxation systems and different financing activi-
ties. EBIT is calculated as follows: 

A 2.4/1

Reconciliation to EBIT 

Income before income taxes  

+ / –  Financial result (net income / loss from investments accounted for using the equity method, 

financial income and expenses)  

=    EBIT  

EBITDA stands for earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. This perfor-
mance indicator neutralizes the effects of the financial result along with distortions of operational 
performance that result from divergent depreciation and amortization methods and the exercise of 
measurement discretion. EBITDA is EBIT plus the amortization of intangible assets and the depre-
ciation of property, plant and equipment, plus impairment losses and minus impairment loss rever-
sals, recognized in profit or loss during the reporting period. 

A 2.4/2

Reconciliation to EBITDA 

  EBIT  

+ / –  Depreciation and amortization / impairment losses / impairment loss reversals on property, plant,  

equipment and intangible assets (as per Statements of Cash Flows)  

=    EBITDA 

EBIT before special items and EBITDA before special items show the development of the opera-
tional business irrespective of the effects of special items, i.e. special effects for the company with 
regard to their nature and magnitude. These may include litigations, restructuring, integration 
costs, impairment losses and impairment loss reversals. EBIT before special items and EBITDA 
before special items are each determined by adding special charges and subtracting special 
gains.  

The EBITDA margin before special items is a relative indicator used by Bayer for internal and ex-
ternal comparisons of operational performance. It is the ratio of EBITDA before special items to 
net sales.  

See also A 2.2.1 

Core earnings per share (core EPS) is an APM based on the earnings per share (EPS) for the 
Group as defined in IAS 33.  Core earnings per share are determined by neutralizing effects of the 
purchase price allocations for acquisitions and other special factors to enable a comparison of 
performance over time. In an intermediate step, further APMs – core EBIT and core net income – 
are calculated. Core earnings per share are then calculated by dividing core net income per share 
by the weighted average number of shares in circulation during the year. 

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
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163

2.4 Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Reconciliation to Core Earnings per Share 

  EBIT (as per Income Statements)  

+ / –  Amortization / impairment losses / impairment loss reversals on intangible assets  

+ / –  Impairment losses / impairment loss reversals on property, plant and equipment   

+ / –  Special items (excluding depreciation and amortization / impairment losses / impairment loss reversals)  

A 2.4/3

=    Core EBIT  

+ / –  Financial result (as per Income Statements)  

+ / –  Special items in the financial result  

+ / –  Income taxes (as per Income Statements)  

+ / –  Special items in income taxes  

+ / –  Tax effects relating to depreciation and amortization / impairment losses / impairment loss reversals  

and special items 

+ / –  Income after income taxes attributable to noncontrolling interest (as per Income Statements)  

+ / –  Portion of the above-mentioned adjustments attributable to noncontrolling interest 

=    Core earnings from continuing operations  

/     Weighted average number of shares  

=    Core earnings per share from continuing operations (core EPS) 

As core earnings per share are calculated for each interim reporting period, core earnings per share 
for the fiscal year or for each interim reporting period up to the respective closing date may deviate 
from the cumulated core earnings per share for the individual interim reporting periods. 

See also A 2.2.3 

Core earnings per share from continuing or discontinued operations are similarly determined. Core 
earnings per share form the basis of the Bayer Group’s dividend policy.  

Net financial debt is an important financial management indicator for the Bayer Group and is used 
both internally and externally in assessing its liquidity, capital structure and financial flexibility. This 
metric is calculated as follows: 

See also A 2.2.4 

A 2.4/4

Reconciliation to Net Financial Debt 

Bonds and notes / promissory notes  

+  Liabilities to banks  

+  Liabilities under finance leases  

+  Liabilities from derivatives 

1  

+  Other financial liabilities  

–  Receivables from derivatives 

1  

=  Financial liabilities  

–  Cash and cash equivalents  

–  Current financial assets 

2  

=  Net financial debt  

1 These include the market values of interest-rate and currency hedges of recorded transactions. 
2 These include short-term loans and receivables with maturities between 3 and 12 months outstanding from banks and other 

companies as well as available-for-sale financial assets that were recorded as current on initial recognition. 

The return on capital employed (ROCE) is the ratio of net operating profit after tax (NOPAT) to the 
average capital employed. NOPAT represents the operating result after taxes and is calculated by 
subtracting income taxes from EBIT. Income taxes are calculated by multiplying EBIT by a uniform 
tax rate of 24%, which is based on a historical average of tax rates. The capital employed by 
Bayer is the total carrying amount of operational noncurrent and current assets, minus liabilities 
that are largely non-interest-bearing in character or would distort the capital base. An average 
value, calculated from the values at the end of the prior year and of the reporting year, is used to 
depict the change in capital employed during the year. The components of the capital employed 
are as follows: 

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
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 Augmented Version 

2.4 Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group 

Components of capital employed 

€ million 

Goodwill 

Other intangible assets 

Property, plant and equipment 

Other financial assets 

1 

Inventories 

Trade accounts receivable 

Other receivables 

1 

Deferred tax assets 

1 

Claims for income tax refunds 

Gross capital employed 

Other provisions 

1 

Trade accounts payable 

Other liabilities 

1 

Financial liabilities 

1 

Deferred tax liabilities 

1 

Income tax liabilities 

Capital employed 

Average capital employed 2016 

A 2.4/5

Dec. 31, 2015 Dec. 31, 2016

16,054 

15,171 

12,369 

67 

8,493 

9,888 

2,042 

1,295 

509 

65,888 

(6,713)

(5,909)

(2,272)

(13)

(804)

(1,320)

48,857 

16,312

13,567

13,114

58

8,408

10,969

1,701

2,596

676

67,401

(7,039)

(6,410)

(2,695)

–

(1,252)

(1,307)

48,698

48,777

2015 figures restated 
1 Selected items of the component: nonoperative or non-interest-bearing items eliminated within capital employed 

The total operating performance is the sum of net sales, other operating income, financial income 
and the net income / loss from investments accounted for using the equity method. It is divided 
between depreciation, amortization, impairment losses and impairment loss reversals, the cost of 
materials / other expenses and value added. Value added is defined as the sum of EBIT plus per-
sonnel expenses and tax expenses not related to income taxes, and the financial result plus 
interest expense. The cost of materials / other expenses includes all expenses except deprecia-
tion, amortization, impairment losses and impairment loss reversals as well as those incorporated 
in the value added. 

 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

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165

3.1 Future Perspectives

Augmented Version

3. Report on Future Perspectives and on 

Opportunities and Risks 

3.1 Future Perspectives 

3.1.1 Economic Outlook 

Economic Outlook 

World 

European Union 

of which Germany 

United States 

Emerging markets ² 

A 3.1.1/1

1

Growth 
2016

Growth(cid:3031)
1
forecast 
2017

+ 2.5%

+ 1.9%

+ 1.8%

+ 1.6%

+ 3.8%

+ 2.8%

+ 1.6%

+ 1.9%

+ 2.3%

+ 4.0%

Growth 2016 restated 
1 Real growth of gross domestic product, source: IHS Global Insight 
2 Including about 50 countries defined by IHS Global Insight as emerging markets in line with the World Bank 
As of February 2017 

Slight increase in the pace of global economic development 
The global economy will probably grow somewhat more quickly overall in 2017 than in the previ-
ous year. In the United States, particularly, we expect better economic development than in 2016. 
Private consumption will likely remain a key growth driver, as employment and disposable income 
will probably continue to increase. Positive stimulus will presumably also come from corporate 
investment. We expect a slight decline in growth in the European Union. Against the background 
of important elections in a number of countries, uncertainty over the future political development 
in Europe in particular is likely to hamper growth. In addition, there are unknowns associated with 
the United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union. On the other hand, we expect the expan-
sionary monetary policy of the European Central Bank to have a continued positive impact. Eco-
nomic output in the Emerging Markets will probably pick up overall compared with the previous 
year. We expect strong growth in China but at a slightly slower pace. Supported by rising raw 
material prices, Brazil and Russia will likely return to the growth zone after severe recession.  

Moderate to declining industry forecasts 

Economic Outlook for the Segments 

Pharmaceuticals market 

Consumer health market 

Seeds and crop protection market  

Animal health market 

A 3.1.1/2

1

Growth 
2016

Growth  
1

forecast 
2017

+ 6%

+ 4%

– 1%

+ 5%

+ 4%

+ 3-4%

+ 1%

+ 5%

1 Bayer’s estimate; except pharmaceuticals. Source for pharmaceuticals market: IMS Health. IMS Market Prognosis.  

Copyright 2016. All rights reserved; currency-adjusted; 2017 data provisional 

As of February 2017 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
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 Augmented Version 

3.1 Future Perspectives 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

We expect growth in the pharmaceuticals market to decline to 4% in 2017. This expectation is 
based on the assumption of continued positive stimulus from the United States. We anticipate 
low-single-digit percentage growth in Europe.  

We also anticipate that growth of the consumer health market in 2017 will be roughly level with 
the previous year, at 3 to 4%. We expect similar market conditions to 2016.  

We predict that the environment for the world seed and crop protection market will remain volatile 
in 2017 after a weak prior year. Growth stimuli are expected to come from Latin America, the  
Asia / Pacific region and Eastern Europe. In North America and Western Europe, on the other 
hand, the pace of growth will presumably lag behind global development. Overall we anticipate a 
slight recovery in the market as a whole. 

Based on the continued positive development of innovative products in the animal health market, 
we expect the growth trend to continue in 2017. In the companion animals business, a positive 
performance is expected particularly in the United States and Europe. In the farm animals busi-
ness, we expect the pace of growth in the Emerging Markets to pick up again slightly. 

For 2017, Covestro expects a continuation of the growth trend in its main customer industries 
construction, electrical engineering & electronics, and furniture. However, growth in the automo-
tive industry will likely be far weaker than in the previous year. 

3.1.2 Corporate Outlook 
The following forecast is based on the current business development, taking into account the 
potential risks and opportunities. It is based on the exchange rates at the closing date on Decem-
ber 31, 2016, including rates of US$1.05 to the euro. A 1% appreciation (depreciation) of the euro 
against all other currencies would decrease (increase) sales on an annual basis by some €300 
million and EBITDA before special items by about €80 million. 

Sales to rise to more 
than €49 billion in 2017 
after €46.8 billion in 
2016 

See also A 2.4 

The Board of Management expects the positive development of the Bayer Group to continue in 
fiscal 2017. Sales of the Bayer Group including Covestro are targeted to increase to more than 
€49 billion. This corresponds to a low- to mid-single-digit percentage increase on a currency- and 
portfolio-adjusted basis. EBITDA before special items is forecast to grow by a mid-single-digit 
percentage. We aim to grow core earnings per share from continuing operations by a mid-single-
digit percentage as well. It should be noted that only 64% of Covestro will be reflected for the full 
year 2017. In addition, it should be noted that the weighted average number of shares has in-
creased following the placement of the mandatory convertible notes in November 2016. 

Sales and earnings forecast by segment 
We plan sales of approximately €37 billion for the Life Science businesses. This corresponds to a 
mid-single-digit percentage increase on a currency- and portfolio-adjusted basis. EBITDA before 
special items is targeted to rise by a mid- to high-single-digit percentage.  

At Pharmaceuticals, we expect sales of more than €17 billion. This corresponds to a mid-single-
digit percentage increase on a currency- and portfolio-adjusted basis. We plan to raise sales of 
our key growth products Xarelto™, Eylea™, Stivarga™, Xofigo™ and Adempas™ to more than 
€6 billion. We expect a high-single-digit percentage increase in EBITDA before special items. We 
aim to improve the EBITDA margin before special items. 

In the Consumer Health segment, we expect sales to come in at more than €6 billion. In line with 
anticipated market development, we plan to grow sales by a low- to mid-single-digit percentage 
on a currency- and portfolio-adjusted basis. We expect EBITDA before special items to increase 
by a low- to mid-single-digit percentage.  

 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

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167

3.2 Opportunity and Risk Report

Augmented Version

Net financial debt is 
targeted to improve to 
around €10 billion. 

For Crop Science we are assuming sales of more than €10 billion. This corresponds to a low-
single-digit percentage increase on a currency- and portfolio-adjusted basis. We expect EBITDA 
before special items to be at the prior-year level. 

In the Animal Health segment, we expect a currency- and portfolio-adjusted increase in sales by a 
low- to mid-single-digit percentage. We plan to raise EBITDA before special items by a high-
single-digit percentage. 

For the Reconciliation, we expect sales of around €1 billion in 2017. We plan EBITDA before spe-
cial items in the region of minus €0.2 billion. 

For 2017, Covestro is budgeting a sales increase. EBITDA after adjustment for special items 
should be on or above the prior-year level.  

Development of further key data  
In 2017, we expect to take special charges in EBITDA in the region of €0.5 billion for the Bayer 
Group as a whole. Most of this amount is accounted for by costs in connection with the agreed 
acquisition of Monsanto and with restructuring and efficiency improvement measures. We aim to 
increase research and development spending to €4.8 billion. Capital expenditures will amount to 
about €2.5 billion for property, plant and equipment and around €0.4 billion for intangible assets. 
Depreciation and amortization are estimated at about €2.9 billion, including €1.4 billion in amorti-
zation of intangible assets. We also predict a financial result of around minus €1.4 billion. The 
effective tax rate is likely to be about 23%. Excluding capital and portfolio measures, net financial 
debt is targeted to be around €10 billion at the end of 2017. 

Outlook for Bayer AG 
On the basis of the business operating leases with Bayer Pharma AG and Bayer CropScience AG 
that came into effect at the start of 2017, the operational business of these two entities has been 
transferred to Bayer AG. As a result, the sales of these two entities now accrue to Bayer AG, for 
which we are predicting sales of more than €14 billion. The budgeted positive earnings of the 
Pharmaceuticals and Crop Science segments in 2017 will also accrue directly to Bayer AG as a 
result of the business operating leases. In addition, the earnings of most major Bayer subsidiaries 
in Germany are transferred directly to Bayer AG under profit and loss transfer agreements. Also, 
specific intra-company dividend measures ensure the availability of sufficient distributable income. 
Business development at Bayer AG is subject in principle to the same risks and opportunities as 
that of the Bayer Group. On account of the interdependencies between Bayer AG and its subsidi-
aries, the outlook for the Bayer Group thus largely also reflects the expectations for Bayer AG. 
Therefore, the forecast for the Bayer Group outlined above applies equally to Bayer AG. In the 
coming year, based on these factors, we expect Bayer AG to report a distributable profit that will 
again enable our stockholders to adequately participate in the Bayer Group’s earnings. 

3.2 Opportunity and Risk Report 

3.2.1 Group-wide Opportunity and Risk Management System 
As a global enterprise with a diversified portfolio, the Bayer Group is constantly exposed to a wide 
range of internal or external developments and events that could significantly impact the achieve-
ment of our financial and nonfinancial objectives. Rooted in our strategy and planning processes, 
opportunity and risk management is an integral part of corporate management at Bayer. We re-
gard opportunities as positive deviations, and risks as negative deviations, from projected or tar-
get values for potential future developments. Opportunity and risk management at Covestro has a 
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Structure of opportunity and risk management 
The opportunities and risks the Bayer Group encounters vary in terms of their nature, the organi-
zational level concerned and the time horizon. Different processes, methods and IT systems are 
therefore employed to identify, evaluate, manage and monitor risks and report on them. The prin-
ciples underlying the various systems are documented in Group policies. While there are still 
named owners and coordinators at the management level, overall responsibility for the effective-
ness and appropriateness of the systems lies with the Chief Financial Officer. 

Corporate Governance

A 3.2.1/1

Corporate Governance

Business processes

Opportunity management

Risk management

Strategy
& planning
processes

Internal control and monitoring systems

Internal
control system

(process risks)

Compliance 
management
system

(compliance risks)

Risk early warning 
system

(Risks that could 
endanger the 
company’s existence)

Identification •  Evaluation  •  Management  • Monitoring  •  Reporting

Process-independent monitoring

From identification to monitoring 
Bayer continuously identifies opportunities and risks by observing macroeconomic, industry-
specific, regional and local developments and analyzing trends. The opportunities and risks identi-
fied are then evaluated. We attempt to avoid or mitigate risks by taking appropriate countermeas-
ures, or to transfer them to third parties (such as insurers) to the extent possible and economically 
acceptable. We consciously accept and bear manageable and controllable risks that stand in a 
reasonable relation to the anticipated opportunities – as an aspect of general entrepreneurial risk.  

We have established and documented specific processes to manage financial opportunities and 
risks. One component is financial planning, which serves as the basis for determining the liquidity 
risk and the future foreign currency and interest-rate risks and includes all Group companies that 
are relevant from a cash flow perspective. Financial planning covers a twelve-month planning 
horizon and is regularly updated.  

Opportunity management 
We identify opportunities as part of the annual strategic planning cycle, during which the seg-
ments analyze internal and external factors that may positively affect the development of our 
business. These may be factors of a social, economic or environmental nature. The core phase 
of our strategic planning process normally takes place in the first half of the year and starts with 
a comprehensive analysis of the markets. The segments build on this by analyzing their respec-
tive market environments to identify their opportunities. They base these analyses on different 
time periods to take into account the fact that trends may affect developments over the short, 
medium or long term.  

 
 
   
 
 
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Risk management 
To enable the Board of Management and the Supervisory Board to monitor material business risks 
as required by law, the Bayer Group has implemented an internal control system, a compliance 
management system and a risk early warning system. Covestro’s risk management also compris-
es these three components. ICS-related matters are regularly reported to the Chief Financial 
Officer of Covestro AG, who also chairs Covestro’s Compliance Committee and Corporate Risk 
Committee. The three systems in place at Bayer are described on the next page. 

Internal control system for (Group) accounting and financial reporting 
(Report pursuant to Sections 289, Paragraph 5 and 315, Paragraph 2, No. 5 of the German 
Commercial Code) 

As part of the comprehensive risk management system, Bayer has an internal control system (ICS) 
in place for the (Group) accounting and financial reporting process. This process comprises de-
fined structures and workflows implemented throughout the organization. The purpose of our ICS 
is to ensure proper and effective accounting and financial reporting in accordance with Section 
289, Paragraph 5 and Section 315, Paragraph 2, No. 5 of the German Commercial Code. The ICS 
is designed to guarantee timely, uniform and accurate accounting for all business processes and 
transactions based on applicable statutory regulations, accounting and financial reporting stand-
ards and the internal Group policies that are binding upon all consolidated companies. Risks are 
identified and evaluated, and steps are taken to counter them. Mandatory ICS standards such as 
system-based and manual reconciliation processes and functional separation have been derived 
from these frameworks and promulgated throughout the Group by the Risk Management function 
on behalf of the Chief Financial Officer of Bayer AG. The management of each Group company 
holds responsibility for implementing the ICS standards at the local level. Using Bayer’s shared 
service centers, the Group companies prepare their financial statements locally and transmit them 
with the aid of a standard Group data model that is based on the Group accounting policy. This 
ensures the regulatory compliance of the consolidated financial statements. The Board of Man-
agement has confirmed the effective functioning of the internal control system for accounting and 
financial reporting and the relevant criteria for the 2016 fiscal year. However, it should be noted 
that an internal control system, irrespective of its design, cannot provide absolute assurance that 
material misstatements in the financial reporting will be avoided or identified.  

Compliance management system  
Our compliance management system is aimed at ensuring lawful, responsible and sustainable 
conduct by our employees. It is designed to identify potential violations in advance and systemati-
cally prevent their occurrence. The compliance management system thus contributes significantly 
to the integration of compliance into our operating units and their processes. Bayer has imple-
mented an integrated compliance management system for material risk areas worldwide to 
strengthen the systematic and preventive identification and evaluation of risks. Risks are identified 
both from the bottom up via the country organizations and from the top down via the global func-
tions, taking global, local and business-specific aspects into account. Additionally, compliance 
risks are identified by performing a trend analysis based on compliance cases reported from 
around the world. The findings are discussed by the local business units, the local compliance 
functions and representatives of the central functions at a round table and are entered into a 
Group-wide compliance risk management database.  

Risk early warning system  
We have established a process known as BayRisk as an early warning system pursuant to Section 
91, Paragraph 2 of the German Stock Corporation Act to identify at an early stage any develop-
ments that are material and / or could endanger the company’s continued existence. The process 
owner is the risk management department, which reports directly to the Chief Financial Officer. 
This establishes a consistent framework and uniform standards for the risk early warning system 
throughout the Group. The segments, service companies and central functions are included in this 
system so that corporate risks are captured as fully as possible. The early identification, evalua-
tion, management and reporting of risks is the responsibility of named risk officers.  

See also A 4.2 

 
 
 
 
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The BayRisk database maps the Group’s risks – together with the respective countermeasures – 
that exceed defined, annually updated financial value thresholds as well as risks that are materially 
relevant for the company but from a financial point of view may not be directly or reliably quantifi-
able, if at all. The risk portfolio is reviewed three times a year. Significant changes are documented 
and reported to the Chief Financial Officer. A report on the risk portfolio is submitted to the Super-
visory Board once a year.  

Process-independent monitoring 
The effectiveness of our management systems is audited and evaluated at regular intervals by 
Internal Audit, which has an independent and objective audit function focused on compliance with 
laws and internal policies. Risks in the areas of occupational health and safety, plant safety, envi-
ronmental protection and product quality are assessed by dedicated HSEQ audits.  

During the audit of the annual financial statements, the external auditor assesses the fundamental 
suitability of the early warning system to identify at an early stage any risks that could endanger 
the company’s continued existence. A report on the internal control and monitoring systems and 
their effectiveness is presented annually to the Supervisory Board. Any weaknesses identified in 
the internal control system must be reported to the Board of Management and the Supervisory 
Board. The audit outcomes are used in the continuous improvement of our management and 
business processes.  

3.2.2 Opportunity and Risk Status 
We classify the risks identified by the risk early warning system as high, medium or low – depend-
ing on the potential loss or damage and the probability of occurrence – according to the following 
matrix. 

Risk Rating Matrix According to Financial Criteria  

Cumulative impact (€ million) 

> 1,250 

500 – 1,250 

< 500 

H = high risk, M = medium risk, L = low risk 

A 3.2.2/1

Likelihood of occurrence

Low 

Medium

High

H

M

L

H

M

L

H

H

L

Here we report the risks classified as “medium” or “high” along with the material opportunities 
identified by our opportunity management. In addition, we report significant risks that from a fi-
nancial point of view may not be directly or reliably quantifiable, if at all. Comparable risks existing 
in different parts of the company are aggregated in some cases. The order in which the risks are 
listed does not imply any order of importance. The opportunities and risks described may apply to 
all segments unless otherwise indicated. The impact on the Bayer Group of risks attaching to 
Covestro is affected by the size of Bayer’s shareholding. Comprehensive information on Covestro’s 
opportunity and risk status is provided in the current opportunity and risk report forming part of 
the management report of Covestro AG. 

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
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Corporate environment 
Ethical conduct is a matter of essential importance for society. The Bayer Group is dedicated to 
sustainable development in all areas of its commercial activity. This voluntary commitment is re-
flected in our responsible corporate governance.  

See also A 1.2 

Opportunities arising from macrotrends 
The increase in quality of life and life expectancy is leading to a heightened focus on the medical 
care needs of elderly patients. Our concentration on certain partly age-related diseases such as 
cancer or chronic cardiovascular disorders harbors opportunities for us. In response to the grow-
ing demand for innovative health care products to treat age-related diseases, Bayer’s Pharmaceu-
ticals segment is concentrating its research and development activities on relevant therapeutic 
areas such as oncology and cardiology.  

The opportunities for our agricultural businesses arise from global population growth and the in-
creasing demand for food. In addition, consumer behavior in some regions is shifting toward high-
er demand for food products of animal origin. Agricultural productivity therefore needs to increase 
in view of declining per-capita acreages, the challenges presented by climate change, and in-
creasing pesticide resistance. We expect the demand for high-value seed and crop protection 
products to rise in light of the need to produce sufficient food and animal feed to meet the grow-
ing demand in spite of limited acreages. In response, Crop Science is developing processes to 
more effectively protect plants against climatic and environmental stress and raise crop yields, for 
example.  

Economic environment 
There is a risk that our growth could be impeded by increasing global cost pressure on health care 
systems. The prices of pharmaceutical products are subject to regulatory monitoring and control 
in many markets, and government reimbursement systems often favor less expensive generic 
medicines over branded products. In addition, in some markets, major health care providers can 
exert substantial pressure on prices. Price controls and pricing pressure reduce earnings from our 
pharmaceutical products and may occasionally make the market launch of a new product unprof-
itable. As a result, it may be necessary to choose indirect marketing options in order to provide 
access to pharmaceuticals. We expect the current extent of regulatory controls and pricing pres-
sure to persist or increase. A further factor is that our Life Science businesses operate in highly 
competitive markets. Corporate mergers, along with business practices such as aggressive pric-
ing strategies – not only in the field of generic competition – may adversely affect our earnings. 

However, the pressure on health care systems also presents us with opportunities in the area of 
nonprescription medicines. Patients are sometimes directed toward non-reimbursable, non-
prescription medicines, some of which are manufactured in Bayer’s Consumer Health segment. 
Moreover, the consumption of health products is increasing due to the aging population.  

Modern agricultural methods, the application of certain classes of crop protection products and 
the use of genetic engineering are repeatedly the subject of intense public debate. This political 
opinion-forming may yield legislative and regulatory decisions that significantly limit the use of our 
products or even result in voluntary or mandated product withdrawals. In addition, decisions by 
the European Union, for example, also affect agricultural imports from other parts of the world and 
therefore our business in those regions. For these reasons we are engaged in a constant dialogue 
with interest groups and regulators to promote a scientifically founded, rational and responsible 
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In the Crop Science segment, risks may arise from seasonal fluctuations in the weather, market 
volatility for agricultural products and our customers’ financial situations, for example. These may 
adversely affect both our crop protection and our seeds businesses. 

The current global consolidation process in the seeds and crop protection industry could greatly 
alter our future competitive environment. We are responding to this trend with acquisitions, col-
laborations and the expansion of in-house research and development capacities. 

Negative economic developments generally have an adverse effect on the sales markets for 
Covestro’s products, usually leading to lower sales volumes and a drop in the company’s 
operational earnings. The extent of these effects on volumes and the operating result also depend 
on capacity utilization in the industry, which in turn varies according to the supply-demand ratio 
for industry-specific products. A decline in demand leads to lower sales volumes and ultimately to 
lower capacity utilization, which adversely impacts margins. 

See also A 3.1 

Further opportunities and risks may arise if the future economic development of our markets var-
ies from our estimates. If macroeconomic development is out of line with forecasts, this may posi-
tively or negatively impact our sales and earnings expectations.  

See also A 1.3 

Continuous analysis of the economic and regulatory environment and of economic forecasts ena-
bles us to pursue the opportunities we identify and address risks. We also closely monitor political 
developments in key markets. 

Innovation 
We believe that our innovation strength holds opportunities both for the continued development of 
our brands and for the expansion of the research pipeline in all of our businesses. In the Pharma-
ceuticals segment, opportunities are inherent in the digitization taking place along the entire value 
chain – from new, time-saving and efficiency-enhancing research and development methods to 
new technologies that give us access to innovative business models. In Consumer Health, digital 
platforms for products and services are opening up new potential for us alongside the conven-
tional business with nonprescription medicines. In the Crop Science segment, the digitization of 
agriculture presents a major opportunity for achieving greater efficiency and sustainability. We also 
rely on networking, both within the company and with external partners, to boost our innovation 
strength. This stimulates the development of new products in the long term. Despite all our efforts, 
we cannot assure that all of the products we are currently developing or will develop in the future 
will achieve planned approval / registration or commercial success. For example, a drug candidate 
may fail to meet trial endpoints. The Bayer Group seeks to counter this risk by way of holistic 
portfolio management in order to estimate the probability of success and prioritize its development 
projects.  

There is steady growth in public and regulatory expectations with regard to the safety and efficacy 
of chemical, biological and pharmaceutical products so we continue to anticipate increasing regu-
latory requirements for clinical or (eco)toxicological studies, for example. This leads to higher 
product development costs and longer timeframes. Projects are set up to coordinate the proper 
implementation of new regulatory requirements.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
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Acquisitions 
Where it appears strategically advantageous, we supplement our organic growth by acquiring 
companies or parts of companies. The integration of new businesses has contributed to our suc-
cess in the past and will result in opportunities in the future as well. However, failure to successful-
ly integrate a newly acquired business or unexpectedly high integration costs, for example, could 
jeopardize the achievement of qualitative or quantitative targets and adversely impact earnings. In 
the course of due diligence and throughout the subsequent integration process, we seek to identi-
fy and classify the potential risks of an acquisition target such as compliance with applicable envi-
ronmental regulations and occupational health and safety standards at production sites. 

See also A 1.2 

In connection with the acquisition of Monsanto, the merger agreement provides for payment by 
Bayer of a US$2 billion reverse break fee including, in particular, in the event that the necessary 
antitrust approvals are not granted by June 14, 2018, and Bayer or Monsanto therefore terminates 
the merger agreement. Further risks that may arise in connection with the agreed acquisition of 
Monsanto are described in Chapter 3.2.3. 

See also A 3.2.3   

Collaborations 
We have collaborations in place along the value chain of our products. Suboptimum performance 
by collaboration partners may affect the development, manufacture or marketing of our products 
and services and adversely impact our business. In some countries, for example, the marketing 
rights for certain pharmaceutical products are held by third parties. Inadequate performance by 
these marketing partners could adversely affect the development of our sales and costs. There-
fore, we have established an Alliance Management unit to monitor the most important collabora-
tions and provide relevant support to the operational functions. 

Patent protection 
Patents protect our intellectual property. The Bayer Group, now as in the past, has a portfolio that 
largely consists of patent-protected products. When our products are successfully commercial-
ized, some of the profits can be used to continue investing in research and development. Due to 
the long period of time between the patent application and the market launch of a product, Bayer 
generally only has a few years in which to earn an adequate return on its investment in research 
and development. This makes effective and reliable patent protection all the more important. Ge-
neric manufacturers, in particular, attempt to contest patents prior to their expiration. Sometimes 
a generic version of a product may even be launched “at risk” prior to the issuance of a final pa-
tent decision. We are currently involved in legal proceedings to enforce patent protection for our 
products. When a patent defense is unsuccessful, or if one of our patents expires, our prices are 
likely to come under pressure because of increased competition from generic products entering 
the market. Legal action by third parties for alleged infringement of patent or proprietary rights by 
Bayer may impede or even halt the development or manufacturing of certain products or require 
us to pay monetary damages or royalties to third parties. Our patents department regularly re-
views the patent situation in collaboration with the respective operating units and monitors for 
potential patent infringements so that legal action can be taken if necessary.  

Products and product stewardship 
Bayer evaluates the potential health and environmental risks of a product along the entire value 
chain. Despite extensive studies prior to approval or registration, it is possible that products could 
be partially or completely withdrawn from the market due to the occurrence of unexpected side 
effects or other factors. Such a withdrawal may be voluntary or result from legal or regulatory 
measures. Furthermore, the presence of traces of unwanted genetically modified organisms in 
agricultural products and / or foodstuffs cannot be entirely excluded. Potential payments of dam-
ages in connection with the above risks may have a substantial negative impact on our earnings. 
Our businesses counter these risks through their organizational and operational structure in the 
areas of pharmaceutical and crop protection product safety and testing. In addition, Crop Science 
has a comprehensive stewardship program in place. Stewardship refers to the responsible and 
ethical management of products over their entire life cycles.  

See also Note 32 to         
B Consolidated Financial 
Statements 

See also A 1.4.3.1 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Another risk we face is that of illegal trading in counterfeit medicines and crop protection products 
by criminal third parties. In most cases, the composition and the quality of counterfeit products do 
not correspond to those of the original products. In addition, the fact that no local regulatory au-
thority is involved in assuring the quality of the manufacturing or distribution process precludes 
any official product recall. Products originating from illegal third-party manufacturing not only en-
danger patients, users, animals and the environment, but also jeopardize the good reputation of 
our company and products and undermine our competitive position. Bayer actively assists au-
thorities’ efforts to combat product counterfeiting by adopting preventive measures and prosecut-
ing offenders.  

Procurement and production  
Our Supplier Code of Conduct includes legal and ethical standards to which Bayer attaches the 
utmost importance. Violations of the Code may also harm our company’s reputation. On the basis 
of supplier assessments and audits, we verify whether our partners along the supply chain actually 
comply with our Code of Conduct. 

We attach great importance not only to product safety but also to protecting our employees and 
the environment. Risks associated with the manufacturing, filling, storage or shipping of products 
are mitigated by means of integrated HSEQ management. The materialization of such risks may 
result in personal injury, property and environmental damage, loss of production, business inter-
ruptions and / or liability for compensation payments.  

Despite all precautions, operations at our sites may be disrupted by natural disasters, fires or 
explosions, sabotage or supply shortages for our principal raw materials or intermediates. This 
also applies to external partners along the value chain. Disruption may also result from possible 
regulatory or legislative changes in the respective countries. If we are unable to meet demand for 
our products, sales may undergo a structural decline. We counter this risk by distributing produc-
tion for certain products among multiple sites or by building up safety stocks. Furthermore, an 
emergency response system based on the respective Corporate Policy has been implemented at 
all our production sites as a mandatory component of our HSEQ management. 

Employees 
Skilled and dedicated employees are essential for the company’s success. There is keen competi-
tion among companies for highly qualified personnel, particularly in countries with full employment 
and in the emerging economies of Asia and Latin America. If we are unable to recruit a sufficient 
number of employees in these countries and retain them within Bayer, this could have significant 
adverse consequences for the company’s future development. Based on our analysis of future 
requirements, we design appropriate employee recruitment and development measures. In addi-
tion, our employee diversity policy enables us to tap the full potential of the employment market. 
In times of considerable strategic and organizational change at Bayer, deliberate and transparent 
change management forms an integral part of our human resources management, enabling us to 
constantly motivate our employees.  

See also A 1.4.2.1,  
A 1.4.2.2 

www.bayer.com/ 
en/supplier-code-of-
conduct.aspx 

See also A 1.4.1 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Information technology 
Business and production processes and the internal and external communications of the Bayer 
Group are increasingly dependent on global IT systems. A significant technical disruption or failure 
of IT systems could severely impair our business and production processes. Technical precautions 
such as data recovery and continuity plans are defined and continuously evolved in close cooper-
ation with our internal IT organization. The confidentiality of internal and external data is of funda-
mental importance to Bayer. A loss of data confidentiality, integrity or authenticity could lead to 
manipulation and / or the uncontrolled outflow of data and know-how. We have measures in place 
to counter this risk, including an authorization system. Furthermore, a committee has been estab-
lished to determine the fundamental strategy, architecture and safety measures for the Bayer 
Group. Through these measures, we aim to provide optimum protection based on state-of-the-art 
technology. 

Law and compliance 
The Bayer Group is exposed to risks from legal disputes or proceedings to which we are currently 
a party or which could arise in the future, particularly in the areas of product liability, competition 
and antitrust law, anticorruption law, patent law, tax law and environmental protection. Investiga-
tions of possible legal or regulatory violations, such as potential infringements of antitrust law or 
certain marketing and / or distribution methods, may result in the imposition of civil or criminal 
penalties – including substantial monetary fines – and / or other adverse financial consequences, 
harm Bayer’s reputation and ultimately hamper our commercial success. Bayer has established a 
global compliance management system to ensure the observance of laws and regulations. 

Tax risks 
Bayer AG and its subsidiaries operate worldwide and are thus subject to many different local tax 
laws and regulations. Bayer Group companies are regularly audited by the tax authorities in vari-
ous countries. Amendments to tax laws and regulations, legal judgments and their interpretation 
by the tax authorities, and the findings of tax audits in these countries may result in higher tax 
expense and payments, thus also influencing the level of tax receivables, tax liabilities and de-
ferred tax assets and liabilities. 

Financial opportunities and risks 
The Bayer Group sees financial opportunities in the market prices it can command, and is ex-
posed to financial risks in the form of liquidity, credit and market price risks, as well as risks result-
ing from pension obligations. 

Liquidity risk 
Liquidity risks result from the possible inability of the Bayer Group to meet current or future pay-
ment obligations due to a lack of cash or cash equivalents. The liquidity risk is determined and 
managed by the Finance department as part of our same-day and medium-term liquidity planning. 
The Bayer Group holds sufficient liquidity to ensure the fulfillment of all planned payment obliga-
tions at maturity. In addition, a reserve is maintained for unbudgeted shortfalls in cash receipts or 
unexpected disbursements. The amount of this liquidity reserve is regularly reviewed and adjusted 
as necessary according to circumstances. Liquidity is mainly ensured through overnight and  
term deposits. Credit facilities also exist with banks. These include, in particular, an undrawn 
€3.5 billion syndicated credit facility. Additionally, credit facilities totaling €1.5 billion are available 
to the Covestro Group. 

See also A 3.2.1, A 4.2 
and Note 32 to                 
B Consolidated Financial 
Statements 

See also A 3.2.3  
and Note 30.2 to  
B Consolidated Financial 
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See also Note 22 to         
B Consolidated Financial 
Statements 

Credit risks 
Credit risks arise from the possibility that the value of receivables or other financial assets of the 
Bayer Group may be impaired because counterparties cannot meet their payment or other per-
formance obligations. The maximum default risk is reduced by existing collateral, especially our 
global credit insurance programs. 

See also Note 30.3 to  
B Consolidated Financial 
Statements 

Positive and negative fair values of derivative financial instruments may be netted when certain 
conditions are fulfilled. To manage credit risks from trade receivables, the respective invoicing 
companies appoint credit managers who regularly analyze customers’ creditworthiness. Some of 
these receivables are collateralized, and the collateral is used according to local conditions. It 
includes credit insurance, advance payments, letters of credit and guarantees. We generally agree 
reservation of title with our customers. Credit limits are set for all customers. All credit limits for 
debtors where total exposure is €10 million or more are evaluated by local credit management and 
submitted to the Group-wide risk committee of the Finance function. Credit risks from financial 
transactions are managed centrally in the Finance department. To minimize risks, financial trans-
actions are only conducted within predefined exposure limits and with banks and other partners 
that preferably have investment-grade ratings. All risk limits are based on methodical models, and 
adherence to them is continuously monitored.  

Opportunities and risks resulting from market price changes 
Opportunities and risks resulting from fluctuating exchange and interest rates in the market are 
managed by the Finance function. Risks are avoided or mitigated through the use of derivative 
financial instruments. The type and level of currency and interest-rate risks are explained using 
sensitivity analyses based on hypothetical changes in risk variables (such as interest curves) to 
determine the potential effects of market price fluctuations on equity and earnings. The assump-
tions used in the sensitivity analyses reflect our view of the changes in currency exchange and 
interest rates that are reasonably possible over a one-year period. These assumptions are regular-
ly reviewed. 

Foreign currencies 
Foreign currency opportunities and risks for the Bayer Group result from changes in exchange 
rates and the related changes in the value of financial instruments (including receivables and 
payables) and of anticipated payment receipts and disbursements in the functional currency. 
Receivables and payables in liquid currencies from operating activities and financial items are 
generally fully exchange-hedged through forward exchange contracts and cross-currency inter-
est-rate swaps. Anticipated exposure from planned payment receipts and disbursements in the 
future is hedged according to the rules agreed between the Board of Management, the Finance 
function and the operating units. Hedging takes place through forward exchange contracts and 
currency options. 

Sensitivities were determined on the basis of a hypothetical adverse scenario in which the euro 
depreciates by 10% against all other currencies compared with the year-end exchange rates. In 
this scenario, the estimated hypothetical loss of cash flows from derivative and nonderivative 
financial instruments would have diminished earnings and equity (other comprehensive income)  
as of December 31, 2016, by €380 million (December 31, 2015: €303 million). Of this amount, 
€174 million is related to the U.S. dollar, €58 million to the Chinese renminbi, €57 million to the 
Japanese yen and €33 million to the Canadian dollar. Currency effects on anticipated exposure 
are not taken into account. Derivatives used to hedge anticipated currency exposure that are 
designated for hedge accounting would have diminished other comprehensive income by 
€365 million. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
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Interest rates 
Interest-rate opportunities and risks result for the Bayer Group through changes in capital market 
interest rates, which in turn could lead to changes in the fair value of fixed-rate financial instru-
ments and changes in interest payments in the case of floating-rate instruments. Interest-rate 
opportunities and risks are managed over a target duration established by management for Bayer 
Group debt. This target duration is subject to regular review. Interest-rate swaps are concluded to 
achieve the target structure for Bayer Group debt. A sensitivity analysis based on our net floating-
rate receivables and payables position at year end 2016, taking into account the interest rates 
relevant for our receivables and payables in all principal currencies, produced the following result: 
a hypothetical increase of one percentage point in these interest rates (assuming constant curren-
cy exchange rates) as of January 1, 2016, would have raised our interest expense for the year 
ended December 31, 2016, by €31 million (December 31, 2015: €29 million). 

Financial risks associated with pension obligations 
The Bayer Group has obligations to current and former employees related to pensions and other 
post-employment benefits. Changes in relevant measurement parameters such as interest rates, 
mortality and salary increase rates may raise the present value of our pension obligations. This 
may lead to increased costs for pension plans or diminish equity due to actuarial losses being 
recognized as other comprehensive income in the statement of comprehensive income. A large 
proportion of our pension and other post-employment benefit obligations is covered by plan as-
sets including fixed-income securities, shares, real estate and other investments. Declining or 
even negative returns on these investments may adversely affect the future fair value of plan as-
sets. Both these effects may negatively impact the development of equity and / or earnings and / or 
may necessitate additional payments by our company. We address the risk of market-related 
fluctuations in the fair value of our plan assets through balanced strategic investment, and we 
constantly monitor investment risks in regard to our global pension obligations. 

3.2.3 Planned Acquisition of Monsanto 
On September 14, 2016, Bayer signed a definitive merger agreement with Monsanto Company, 
St. Louis, Missouri, United States, under which Bayer will acquire all outstanding shares of Mon-
santo Company. On December 13, 2016, the shareholders of Monsanto Company approved the 
transaction by the necessary majority. In order to prepare the future integration of the Monsanto 
business, Bayer has initiated a project which will carefully plan the integration process in all busi-
ness areas so that integration can be achieved after all regulatory approvals have been received. 
This process will include risk management applying our existing methods. The integration process 
will start after the transaction is closed, which we currently expect before the end of 2017. Bayer 
is experienced in successfully integrating acquisitions from a business, geographical and cultural 
perspective, and in so doing remains committed to its strong culture of innovation, sustainability 
and social responsibility. 

Opportunities 
Following the successful integration of the Monsanto business, we see additional opportunities for 
combining our complementary innovative expertise. 

The range and depth of our research and development activities should make it possible to opti-
mize the various technologies so that we can accelerate the time-to-market of enhanced innova-
tions. This optimized product offering to customers in the agriculture sector should contribute to 
improving their yields and productivity and contribute to greater sustainability in farming. 

See also Note 25 to         
B Consolidated Financial 
Statements 

See also A 1.2.1 for 
Crop Science strategy 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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3.2 Opportunity and Risk Report 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Risks  
On account of the magnitude and importance of the acquisition, material risks related to the 
transaction are listed below. These risks have not been selected on the basis of the BayRisk pro-
cess described in Chapter 3.2.1 because Bayer and Monsanto remain separate, independent 
companies. Instead they have been identified and estimated by the central risk management func-
tion based on the information available. The list of risks therefore makes no claim to complete-
ness, nor does the order in which they are listed imply any order of importance. 

Requirements for closing 
At the present time the possibility cannot be excluded that the planned acquisition will be delayed 
or not take place at all. The transaction is still subject to the customary requirements for closing, 
including clearance by the relevant antitrust and other authorities. The necessary approvals may 
be refused or could be tied to certain divestment actions or other commitments required by regu-
lators of Bayer and / or Monsanto. Such measures could adversely affect our current or future 
business, financial position, share price or dividend payments. Furthermore, Bayer may not be 
able to effect commitments in a timely manner, or at all, or on economically viable terms.   

The merger agreement also provides for payment by Bayer of a US$2 billion reverse break fee 
including, in particular, in the event that the necessary antitrust approvals are not granted by June 
14, 2018, and Bayer or Monsanto therefore terminates the merger agreement. 

Strategic or operational objectives may not be met  
Our strategic, synergistic and other operational objectives regarding the acquisition and integra-
tion of the Monsanto business are based on assumptions and estimates we have made that may 
prove inaccurate, including Monsanto’s earning potential and cost structure, the synergy and 
innovation potentials of both companies and future economic developments and market changes. 
In addition, difficulties may arise in connection with the acquisition and integration of the Monsan-
to business that adversely impact our current business or may prevent the expected benefits of 
the acquisition from being fully realized. These include the retention of key employees, important 
customers, suppliers, partners, licensors or contacts to other stakeholders, unexpected challeng-
es in developing and successfully executing a strategy for the combined business, and risks re-
sulting from management being distracted from the operational business by the agreed transac-
tion. Combining businesses, processes and workforces as intended while retaining multiple 
corporate locations could be more complex than expected, partly in view of different corporate 
cultures and divergent internal control and compliance systems. The achievement of expectations 
in terms of the tax and accounting treatment of the transaction will be subject to a future detailed 
review. In light of this, unexpectedly high transaction and integration costs along with further risks 
and / or charges cannot be ruled out. It is also possible that we may be forced to recognize an 
impairment loss on the intangible assets of Monsanto and the goodwill of Crop Science if unfore-
seen difficulties were to arise during the integration, if the Monsanto business were to fail to de-
velop as expected or if other business developments affecting Crop Science were to occur that 
have not been anticipated.   

 
 
 
 
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3.2 Opportunity and Risk Report

Augmented Version

Changes in risk profile  
We believe we may face increased or additional risks as a consequence of acquiring and integrat-
ing the Monsanto business. However, these risks cannot yet be definitively identified at the pre-
sent time. Among the possible consequences of taking over the Monsanto business are potential 
downgrades in sustainability ratings and increased exposure to public criticism.  

Risks from the financing of the planned acquisition  
We are also exposed to certain risks from the financing of the planned acquisition. These mainly 
result from the need to refinance the original acquisition financing, the increase in debt and the 
possible credit rating downgrade by the rating agencies. Risks also arise from the development of 
the USD / EUR exchange rate and the interest rate level, as well as from potential difficulties in 
refinancing the transaction with equity capital to the extent planned. 

3.2.4 Overall Assessment of Opportunities and Risks  

by the Board of Management 

In the opinion of the Board of Management, based on the current evaluations, none of the risks 
described above endanger the company’s continued existence. Nor could we identify any risk 
interdependencies that could combine to endanger the company’s continued existence. We note 
a tendency for risks to shift toward a higher evaluation level. This is partly due to the increased 
sales and earnings expectations for our products. Based on our product portfolio, our know-how 
and our innovation strength, we are convinced that we can take advantage of the opportunities 
resulting from our entrepreneurial activity and successfully master the challenges resulting from 
the risks stated above. 

No risks that could 
endanger the company’s 
existence 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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4.1 Declaration by Corporate Management pursuant to Section 289a and Section 315, Paragraph 5, 
of the German Commercial Code 

The Board of Manage-
ment and the Superviso-
ry Board have compiled 
a complete Corporate 
Governance Report, 
which is available on the 
Bayer AG website at 
www.bayer.com/ 
en/Corporate-
Governance.aspx 

See also C  
Governance Bodies 

The declaration issued in 
December 2016 con-
cerning the German 
Corporate Governance 
Code is published on the 
Bayer website along with 
previous declarations:  
www.bayer.com/ 
corp-gov 

4. Corporate Governance Report 

>  Conformance with the recommendations of the German Corporate 

Governance Code 

>  Comprehensive compliance system ensures ethical behavior 
>  New, simplified compensation structure for the Board of Management  

in effect 

Corporate governance comprises the entire system of managing and supervising an enterprise. 
The Board of Management and the Supervisory Board of Bayer AG are committed to a responsi-
ble and transparent style of management and supervision aimed at increasing the company’s 
value over the long term. The Corporate Governance Report conforms with the recommendations 
of the German Corporate Governance Code and includes all the information and explanations 
required by Section 289, Paragraph 4; Section 289a; and Section 315, Paragraphs 4 and 5, of the 
German Commercial Code. 

4.1 Declaration by Corporate Management pursuant to 
Section 289a and Section 315, Paragraph 5, of the 
German Commercial Code 

The declaration on corporate governance for Bayer AG and the Bayer Group pursuant to Section 
289a of the German Commercial Code forms part of the Combined Management Report. The 
information provided pursuant to Section 289a and Section 315, Paragraph 5, of the German 
Commercial Code is unaudited pursuant to Section 317, Paragraph 2, Sentence 3, of the German 
Commercial Code. 

Declaration concerning the German Corporate Governance Code pursuant to 
Section 161 of the German Stock Corporation Act 
In 2016, the Board of Management and the Supervisory Board of Bayer AG again issued a decla-
ration that they fully complied with the recommendations of the German Corporate Governance 
Code in the past and intend to maintain full compliance in the future.   

Information on corporate governance practices 
Objectives for the composition of the Supervisory Board 
The Supervisory Board should be composed in such a way that its members together possess the 
necessary expertise, skills and professional experience to properly perform their duties. In view 
of Bayer AG’s global operations, the Supervisory Board has set itself the goal of always having 
several members with international business experience or an international background. A further 
objective concerning the composition of the Supervisory Board is that, absent special circum-
stances, a member should not hold office beyond the end of the next Annual Stockholders’ Meet-
ing following his or her 72nd birthday. With a view to avoiding potential conflicts of interest, the 
Supervisory Board has set itself the goal that more than half of the stockholder representatives be 
independent. In addition, the Supervisory Board aims for at least three quarters of its total mem-
bership (stockholder and employee representatives) to be independent. The Supervisory Board 
assesses the independence of its members according to the recommendation contained in Sec-
tion 5.4.2 of the the German Corporate Governance Code. In assessing independence, the Su-
pervisory Board also considers the criteria given in the recommendation of the European Commis-

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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4.1 Declaration by Corporate Management pursuant to Section 289a and Section 315, Paragraph 5,
of the German Commercial Code

181

Augmented Version

sion of February 15, 2005.1 Finally, the Supervisory Board has set a standard limit on the duration 
of any person’s membership of the Supervisory Board in line with the recommendation in Section 
5.4.1, Paragraph 2 of the Code. Absent special circumstances, no person should remain a mem-
ber of the Supervisory Board for more than three full terms of office. For members of the Supervi-
sory Board serving at the time the standard limit was introduced (September 2015) who have 
already exceeded this limit or will exceed it by the end of their current term of office, the limit will 
be applied with effect from the conclusion of their current term of office. 

The stated objectives refer to the Supervisory Board as a whole unless otherwise determined. 
However, since the Supervisory Board can only nominate candidates for election as stockholder 
representatives, it can only take the objectives into account in these nominations. The objective 
for Supervisory Board elections held after January 1, 2016, is that neither women nor men ac-
count for less than 30% of the membership. 

Implementation status of the objectives 
The Supervisory Board has several members with international business experience or an interna-
tional background. The objective that a member should step down from the Supervisory Board at 
the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting following his or her 72nd birthday – absent special circum-
stances – is being met. Two members of the Supervisory Board were previously members of the 
company’s Board of Management: Werner Wenning was Chairman of the Board of Management 
until 2010, and Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Plischke was a member of the Board of Management until 
2014. However, neither Werner Wenning nor Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Plischke has any personal or 
business relationship with the company or a governance body of the company that in the opinion 
of the Supervisory Board gives rise to a material conflict of interest of a more than temporary na-
ture.  

There are no indications of any possible lack of independence in the case of the other Supervisory 
Board members. Thus the Supervisory Board considers all of its members to be independent. The 
proportion of women is currently 25% on the Supervisory Board as a whole and 30% among the 
stockholder representatives. The election of new employee representatives to the Supervisory 
Board with effect from the end of the 2017 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting and the election of 
stockholder representatives by the 2017 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting will result in an increase in 
the proportion of women on the Supervisory Board as a whole to at least 30%. 

Objectives regarding the proportion of women on the Board of Management and  

the first two management levels 
The Supervisory Board aims to ensure that there is at least one woman serving on the company’s 
Board of Management. This corresponded to a share of 12.5% for the eight-member Board that 
existed at the beginning of the year, or about 14.3% for the seven-member Board now serving. 
The Board of Management has set objectives of 20% women on the first management level and 
28% women on the second management level. These objectives are to be attained by June 30, 
2017. 

In the future, there 
should be at least one 
woman on the Board of 
Management.  

Securities transactions by members of governance bodies  
Members of the Board of Management or Supervisory Board and persons with whom they have 
close relationships are legally obligated to report own-account transactions in shares or debt se-
curities of Bayer AG, associated derivatives or other associated financial instruments to Bayer AG 
and the German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) as soon as the total volume of 
their transactions within a calendar year has reached the €5,000 threshold. The transactions re-
ported to Bayer AG in 2016 were duly published and can be viewed on the company’s website.  

https://www.bayer.com/
en/disclosure-of-
securities-
transactions.aspx 

1 Annex 2 to the recommendation of the European Commission of February 15, 2005, on the role of nonexecutive or supervisory 

directors of listed companies and on the committees of the (supervisory) board (2005/162/EC)  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Bayer Annual Report 2016

4.1 Declaration by Corporate Management pursuant to Section 289a and Section 315, Paragraph 5, 
of the German Commercial Code 

The Board of Management and Supervisory Board members’ total holdings in Bayer AG shares or 
associated financial instruments, as reported to the company, on the closing date for the financial 
statements were equivalent to less than 1% of the issued shares. 

Description of the procedures of the Board of Management and Supervisory Board 
and the composition and procedures of their committees 

 Online Annex: A 4.1-1 
Duties and activities of the Board of Management 
The Board of Management runs the Company on its own responsibility with the goal of sustain-
ably increasing the company’s enterprise value and achieving defined corporate objectives. The 
Board of Management performs its tasks according to the law, the Articles of Incorporation and 
the Board’s rules of procedure, and works with the company’s other governance bodies in a 
spirit of trust. 

The Board of Management of Bayer AG defines the long-term goals and the strategies for the 
company and the Group and sets forth the principles and directives for the resulting corporate 
policies. It coordinates and monitors the most important activities, defines the portfolio, devel-
ops and deploys managerial staff, allocates resources and decides on the Group’s financial 
steering and reporting. 

The members of the Board of Management bear joint responsibility for running the business as 
a whole. However, the individual members manage the areas assigned to them on their own re-
sponsibility within the framework of the decisions made by the full Board. The allocation of 
functions among the members of the Board of Management is defined in a written schedule. 

The full Board of Management makes decisions on all matters of fundamental importance and 
in cases where a decision of the full Board is prescribed by law or otherwise mandatory. The 
rules of procedure of the Board of Management contain a list of topics that must be dealt with 
and resolved by the full Board. 

Meetings of the Board of Management are held regularly. They are convened by the Chairman 
of the Board of Management. Any member of the Board of Management may also demand that 
a meeting be convened. The Board of Management makes decisions by a simple majority of 
the votes cast, except where unanimity is required by law. In the event of a tie, the Chairman 
has the casting vote. 

According to the Board of Management’s rules of procedure and the functional responsibilities 
assigned to its members, the Chairman bears particular responsibility for leading and coordi-
nating the Board’s work. He represents the company and the Group in dealings with third par-
ties and the workforce on matters relating to more than one part of the company or the Group. 
He also bears special responsibility for certain functions.  

Effective January 1, 2016, the Board of Management was enlarged by three members as part 
of the Bayer Group’s sole focus on the Life Science business and the associated reorganiza-
tion. In addition to the function of Board Chairman and the three functions newly created as of 
January 1, 2016, each of which has special responsibility for one of the operating divisions, 
there were initially four further functions: Strategy and Portfolio Management; Finance; Human 
Resources, Technology and Sustainability (the incumbent also serving as Labor Director); and 
Innovation. With the appointment of the new Chairman of the Board of Management effective 
May 1, 2016, the Strategy and Portfolio Management function was allocated to the Chairman.  

A Deal Committee was established within the Board of Management to make the final decisions 
on corporate acquisitions, divestments or licensing transactions above a defined medium size. 
There are no other committees within the Board of Management.  

 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

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4.1 Declaration by Corporate Management pursuant to Section 289a and Section 315, Paragraph 5,
of the German Commercial Code

183

Augmented Version

Supervisory Board: oversight and control functions 
The role of the 20-member Supervisory Board is to oversee and advise the Board of Manage-
ment. Under the German Codetermination Act, half the Supervisory Board’s members are 
elected by the stockholders, and half by the company’s employees. The Supervisory Board is 
directly involved in decisions on matters of fundamental importance to the company, regularly 
conferring with the Board of Management on the company’s strategic alignment and the im-
plementation status of the business strategy.  

The Chairman of the Supervisory Board coordinates its work and presides over the meetings. 
Through regular discussions with the Board of Management, the Supervisory Board is kept 
constantly informed of business policy, corporate planning and strategy. The Supervisory Board 
approves the annual budget and financial framework. It also approves the financial statements 
of Bayer AG and the consolidated financial statements of the Bayer Group along with the com-
bined management report, taking into account the reports by the auditor. 

Committees of the Supervisory Board 
The Supervisory Board has the following committees: 

Presidial Committee: This comprises the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Supervisory 
Board along with a further stockholder representative and a further employee representative. 
The Presidial Committee serves primarily as the mediation committee pursuant to the German 
Codetermination Act. It has the task of submitting proposals to the Supervisory Board on the 
appointment of members of the Board of Management if the necessary two-thirds majority is 
not achieved in the first vote at a plenary meeting. Certain decision-making powers in connec-
tion with capital measures, including the power to amend the Articles of Incorporation accord-
ingly, have also been delegated to this committee. In addition, the Supervisory Board may as-
sign specific responsibilities to the Presidial Committee on a case-by-case basis. The Presidial 
Committee may also make preparations for Supervisory Board meetings. 

Audit Committee: The Audit Committee comprises three stockholder representatives and three 
employee representatives. The Chairman of the Audit Committee in 2016, Dr. Klaus Sturany, 
meets the statutory requirements concerning the expertise in the field of accounting or auditing 
that a member of the Supervisory Board and the Audit Committee is required to possess. The 
Audit Committee meets regularly four times a year. Its principal tasks are to oversee the finan-
cial reporting process, the effectiveness and ongoing development of the internal control sys-
tem, the risk management system, the internal audit system, the compliance system and the 
audit of the financial statements. It prepares the decisions of the Supervisory Board pertaining 
to the financial statements, the management report, the proposal for the use of the distributa-
ble profit, the consolidated financial statements, the Group management report and the agree-
ments with the external auditor, including, in particular, the audit contract, the definition of audit 
priorities and the fee agreement. The Audit Committee submits a proposal to the Supervisory 
Board concerning the auditor’s appointment and takes appropriate steps to ascertain and 
oversee the auditor’s independence. In particular, it verifies whether the financial statements 
were prepared in accordance with the statutory requirements and give a true and fair view of 
the net assets, financial position and results of operations of the company and the Group. At 
each of its meetings, the Audit Committee discusses new developments in the area of compli-
ance where necessary. The Chairman of the Board of Management and the Chief Financial Of-
ficer regularly attended the meetings. Representatives of the auditor also attended all of the 
meetings, reporting in detail on the audit work and the audit reviews of the quarterly financial 
reports. 

Human Resources Committee: On this committee, too, there is parity of representation be-
tween stockholders and employees. It consists of the Chairman of the Supervisory Board and 
three other Supervisory Board members. The Human Resources Committee prepares the per-
sonnel decisions of the full Supervisory Board, which resolves on appointments or revocations 
of appointments of members of the Board of Management. The Human Resources Committee 

 
 
 
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4.2 Compliance 

resolves on behalf of the Supervisory Board on the service contracts of the members of the 
Board of Management. However, it is the task of the full Supervisory Board to resolve on the to-
tal compensation of the individual members of the Board of Management and the respective 
compensation components, as well as to regularly review the compensation system on the ba-
sis of recommendations submitted by the Human Resources Committee. The Human Re-
sources Committee also discusses the long-term succession planning for the Board of Man-
agement. 

Nominations Committee: This committee carries out preparatory work when an election of 
stockholder representatives to the Supervisory Board is to be held. It suggests suitable candi-
dates for the Supervisory Board to propose to the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting for election. 
The Nominations Committee comprises the Chairman of the Supervisory Board and the other 
stockholder representative on the Presidial Committee. 

Innovation Committee: The Innovation Committee is primarily concerned with the innovation 
strategy and innovation management, the strategy for protection of intellectual property, and 
Bayer’s major research and development projects. Within its area of responsibility, the commit-
tee advises and oversees the management and prepares any Supervisory Board decisions. The 
committee comprises the Chairman of the Supervisory Board and five other members, with 
parity of representation between stockholder and employee representatives. The Chairman of 
the Board of Management and the member of the Board of Management responsible for inno-
vation regularly attend the meetings of the Innovation Committee. 

The Report of the Supervisory Board in this Annual Report provides details about the work of the 
Supervisory Board and its committees. 

4.2 Compliance 

www.bayer.com/  
compliance  

www.covestro.com/en/ 
company/corporate-
compliance 

Bayer manages its businesses responsibly and in compliance with the statutory and regulatory 
requirements of the countries in which it operates. We define compliance as legally and ethically 
impeccable conduct by all employees in their daily work, because the way they carry out their 
duties affects our company’s reputation. We do not tolerate any violation of laws, codes of con-
duct or internal regulations. Compliance is essential for our long-term economic success. 
Covestro has established its own compliance organization and an internal audit department with 
systems and processes similar to those at Bayer. This chapter does not include compliance infor-
mation for Covestro. 

Global Corporate Compliance Policy 
The Board of Management is unreservedly committed to compliance, and Bayer will forgo any 
business transaction that would violate the compliance principles in force throughout the Bayer 
Group. These principles are enshrined in our Corporate Compliance Policy, which was revised in 
2016. The new version is currently being rolled out to Bayer companies in all countries. 

 Online Annex: A 4.2-1 
In our Corporate Compliance Policy we commit ourselves to the following principles: 

>  Antitrust: fair competition in our markets 
>  Anticorruption: integrity in our business dealings at all times 
>  Corporate responsibility: sustainability, safety and product stewardship  
>  Foreign trade law: observance of relevant trade controls 
> 
>  Accurate books and records: complete and detailed recording of our business activities and 

Insider trading: safeguarding of equal opportunity in securities trading 

financial transactions 

 
 
 
 
 
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4.2 Compliance

Augmented Version

Intellectual property: safeguarding our own intellectual property and respecting that of others 

>  Fairness and respect at work: treating one another with fairness and respect 
> 
>  Avoiding conflicts of interest: separation of business and personal interests 
>  Privacy: precautions to protect and secure personal data 

Every employee is required to observe these rules and to immediately report any violation of the 
Corporate Compliance Policy. This general reporting requirement does not apply in France due to 
peculiarities of national law.  

Bayer’s senior managers serve as role models and therefore have a vital part to play in implement-
ing the Corporate Compliance Policy. They may lose their entitlement to variable compensation 
components and be subject to further disciplinary measures if violations of applicable law or inter-
nal regulations have occurred in their sphere of responsibility. Compliant and lawful conduct also 
factors into the performance evaluations of all managerial employees. 

Adherence to the Corporate Compliance Policy is among the subjects covered in all audits con-
ducted by Bayer’s Internal Audit. The planning of these audits follows a function- and risk-based 
approach that also takes a corruption perceptions index into account. The largest companies, 
which together account for about 80% of Group sales, are generally subjected to on-site audits at 
three-year intervals. A total of 171 compliance audits were completed in 2016, of which 36 were 
preventive or incident-related audits. The head of Internal Audit and the Group Compliance Officer 
regularly attend the meetings of the Audit Committee of the Supervisory Board, presenting a 
summary of conducted audits and their outcomes at least once a year. 

Established compliance organization  
The Bayer Group’s compliance organization is headed by the Group Compliance Officer, who 
regularly reports directly to the Chairman of the Board of Management and to the Audit Commit-
tee of the Supervisory Board. A central compliance department supports the Group Compliance 
Officer in steering and implementing the Group-wide compliance activities. This department is 
staffed with specialized compliance business partners whose responsibilities include establishing 
business- and industry-specific standards in the divisions, Group functions and service compa-
nies. In addition, at least one compliance business partner is available at each site to answer 
questions from all employees regarding lawful and ethical behavior in business-related situations. 

Corruption Perceptions 
Index: see Glossary 

The mission and goals of Bayer’s compliance organization are set forth in a Compliance Charter. 
This relies on early prevention and forms the basis for proactive, risk-based collaboration within 
the company. For compliance to continue developing as a permanent, active part of Bayer’s cor-
porate culture, it needs to remain firmly anchored in all units and in all work processes. The 
Group-wide compliance management system is based on partnerships with the operational busi-
ness and features dialogue, transparency and continuous improvement. It also includes the sys-
tematic punishment of compliance violations.  

See also A 3.2.1 

Compliance violations can be reported – anonymously if desired – via a compliance hotline that 
has been set up worldwide and which is also accessible to the general public. In 2016 the compli-
ance organization received a total of 220 reports in this way (including 159 anonymous reports), 
with 9 reports coming from Germany and 211 from other countries. Alternatively, suspected com-
pliance violations may also be reported to the respective compliance functions in Germany or the 
country organizations, or to Internal Audit. All cases are recorded according to uniform criteria 
throughout the Group and dealt with under the rules set forth in Bayer’s Policy on the Manage-
ment of Compliance Incidents. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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4.2 Compliance 

 Online Annex: A 4.2-2 
Where an investigation confirms that a compliance violation has occurred, the company has a 
graduated set of measures at its disposal. These include a verbal warning or written reprimand, 
transfer to a different unit, cancellation of a planned promotion, a reduction in the short-term 
incentive payment, downgrading to a lower collectively agreed pay rate or managerial contract 
level, and ordinary or extraordinary termination. Bayer also reserves the right to assert further 
claims against the employee for cost reimbursement or damages and/or initiate criminal pro-
ceedings. The action taken in a particular case depends on the gravity of the compliance viola-
tion and on applicable law. 

Group target: annual 
compliance training for 
close to 100% of Bayer 
managers;                    
see also A 1.2.1 

Comprehensive compliance training and communications 
Group-wide training programs tailored to requirements and target groups, along with extensive 
communications activities, help to further raise the employees’ awareness for compliance issues 
and the risks involved. At the same time, this training familiarizes them both with the Corporate 
Compliance Policy and with statutory regulations. We have set a Group target requiring all Bayer’s 
managerial employees worldwide to complete at least one compliance training program each year. 
In 2016, this was achieved by 33,659 employees or around 97% of Bayer managers. 

 Online Annex: A 4.2-3 
The aim of these targeted training programs is to ensure that employees do not overstep 
boundaries out of ignorance or uncertainty. Our compliance training programs reflect the main 
compliance risk areas and are available in various formats to meet the training needs of differ-
ent employee groups. Some take the form of web-based training (WBT) programs, while others 
involve face-to-face training sessions or workshops.  

See also A 1.4.2.3 

In 2016, we implemented a new global web-based training program in 44 countries on the sub-
ject of “Fairness and respect at work.” This program, currently available in 9 languages, has al-
ready been completed by 32,141 employees.  

New hires and employees switching to different areas of responsibility within Bayer regularly 
undergo training according to their functions.  

In view of the particularly strict compliance rules in health care, we offer special training pro-
grams for the employees working with stakeholders in this field.  

In 2016, compliance was again the subject of wide-ranging internal communications activities, 
one area of focus being the presentation and global distribution of the newly updated Corpo-
rate Compliance Policy. Employees were given additional information on various compliance-
related topics, with a focus on “fairness and respect in the workplace.” 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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4.3 Compensation Report

Augmented Version

The compensation of the 
Board of Management is 
linked to the sustained 
growth of corporate 
value. 

4.3 Compensation Report 

The Compensation Report describes the essential features of the compensation packages for the 
members of the Board of Management and the Supervisory Board of Bayer AG and explains the 
compensation the individual members were granted or received for the 2016 fiscal year. The re-
port complies with the requirements of the applicable financial reporting standards for publicly 
traded companies (German Commercial Code [HGB], German Accounting Standards [DRS] and 
the International Financial Reporting Standard [IFRS]) as well as with the recommendations con-
tained in the current version of the German Corporate Governance Code.  

4.3.1 Compensation of the Board of Management 
Adjustment of the compensation system effective January 1, 2016  
The compensation system for the Board of Management of Bayer AG is aligned to the corporate 
strategy and geared toward performance-driven, sustainable corporate governance and an ap-
propriate compensation structure and level. The compensation structure in the Bayer Group is, in 
principle, the same for the Board of Management as for all other managerial employees. The na-
ture and appropriateness of the compensation system for the members of the Board of Manage-
ment are determined by the full Supervisory Board on the proposal of the Human Resources 
Committee of the Supervisory Board, regularly reviewed and adjusted as necessary. All of the 
assessment criteria recommended in Section 4.2.2 of the German Corporate Governance Code 
are taken into account. An independent compensation consultant has confirmed that the com-
pensation is appropriate and on a customary level. 

Upon conducting a comprehensive review of the compensation system at the end of 2015, the 
Supervisory Board identified a need for adjustments, mainly in light of the Group’s new divisional 
structure, which came into effect on January 1, 2016, the enlargement of the Board of Manage-
ment by three new members with operational responsibilities, and the target positioning in relation 
to the other DAX companies. The adjusted compensation system for the members of the Board of 
Management was approved by a large majority at the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting on April 29, 
2016.   

Compensation structure simplified to enhance transparency  
Under the new compensation structure for the Board of Management of Bayer AG, the previous 
ratio of the non-performance-related components (about 30%) to the performance-related  
variable components (about 70%) is basically unchanged. The compensation components under 
the new system are as follows, assuming 100% target attainment by a member of the Board of 
Management:  

Compensation Structure Based on 100% Target Attainment

A 4.3.1/1

Non-performance-related
compensation

~ 30% Fixed annual compensation 1

Performance-related compensation

~ 40%  Long-term stock-based

cash compensation via Aspire 2.0

~ 30%  Short-term annual variable

cash compensation

1 Excluding fringe benefits and pension entitlements

The structure of the non-performance-related components is the same as before. The adjust-
ments mainly concern the performance-related variable components. These now comprise a vari-

 
 
 
 
 
 
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The compensation 
structure provides for 
both non-performance-
related and perfor-
mance-related compo-
nents. 

able annual cash payment (STI = short-term incentive) based on target attainment, which is paid 
out entirely in cash in the following year, and a long-term variable cash payment (LTI = long-term 
incentive). The system for the new LTI program was also adjusted and is based on stockholder 
return. The individual performance-related components are capped upon payment. There is also a 
cap on the total cash compensation. This amounts to 1.8 times the respective target compensa-
tion and is determined annually when the fixed compensation is set.  

The members of the Board of Management also receive pension entitlements for themselves and 
their surviving dependents. 

Non-performance-related components 
Fixed annual compensation 
The level of the non-performance-related, fixed annual compensation takes into account the func-
tions and responsibilities assigned to the members of the Board of Management as well as market 
conditions. The fixed annual compensation is regularly reviewed by the Supervisory Board in light 
of the consumer price indexes and adjusted if necessary. It is paid out in twelve monthly install-
ments.  

Fringe benefits 
This component mainly includes perquisites such as a company car with driver or the use of the 
company carpool, payments toward the cost of security equipment, and the reimbursement of the 
cost of annual health screening examinations. Fringe benefits are reported at cost or the amount 
of the pecuniary advantage gained.  

Performance-related components 
Short-term variable cash compensation 
The short-term variable cash compensation (STI) depends on the company’s business success in 
the respective year. The level of the STI is determined by the target attainment for three subcom-
ponents – the Group component, the divisional component and the individual performance com-
ponent – each of which is given a one-third weighting in the performance evaluation. The perfor-
mance evaluation takes into account both positive and negative developments. As part of the 
adjustment of the compensation system starting in 2016, the individual target parameters for the 
STI were adjusted to the new organizational structure of the Group and the payment of the STI 
was simplified. The entire amount of the STI is now paid out in cash in the second quarter of the 
following year. The previous 50:50 split of the STI into a cash payment and a grant of virtual Bayer 
shares blocked for three years has been abolished. The STI continues to be capped at a total of 
200%. 

The individual target parameters of the three subcomponents of the STI for 2016 are calculated as 
follows: 
>  The Group component continues to be based on the core earnings per share of the Group and 

remains capped at 200%. 

>  The divisional component is incentivized based on the average performance of the divisions 
and remains capped at 300%. For the members of the Board of Management with functional 
responsibility, this component is based on the average performance of the divisions, weighted 
as follows: Pharmaceuticals 50%, Consumer Health 20%, Crop Science (including Animal 
Health) 30%. For the Board members with divisional responsibility, however, this one-third of 
the STI is incentivized entirely on the basis of the respective division’s earnings. Covestro is not 
included in the divisional component as it has become legally and economically independent. 
The assessment of divisional performance comprises a 70% component linked to the 
attainment of financial targets in relation to the EBITDA margin before special items and 
divisional sales growth, and a 30% component based on the attainment of qualitative goals in 
areas such as innovative progress, safety, compliance and sustainability.  

>  The target attainment criteria for the individual performance component have been made more 
precise. Now, 50% of this component relates to the duties and resulting personal targets of the 
respective member of the Board of Management and 50% to his or her individual contribution 

 
 
 
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to the attainment of the Group targets. The individual targets for the members of the Board of 
Management are determined annually by the Supervisory Board, which also assesses their 
attainment.  

A 4.3.1/2

Short-Term Variable Cash Compensation (STI) Components

STI

Group component

Divisional component

Individual  component

1/3 of STI target value

1/3 of STI target value

1/3 of STI target value

Based on Group target
attainment (core earnings per 
share)

Based on the attainment of
financial (70%) and qualitative
(30%) targets by the divisions

Based on individual  performance
(50%) and individual  contribution
to Group targets (50%)

Board members with functional responsibility

Board members with divisional responsibility

Average  performance of the Pharmaceuticals 
(50%), Consumer  Health (20%) and Crop
Science  (30%) divisions

Performance  of the respective division (100%)

Long-term stock-based cash compensation (LTI) 
Members of the Board of Management are eligible to participate in the annual tranches of the 
long-term stock-based compensation program “Aspire” on condition that they purchase a certain 
number of Bayer shares – determined for each individual according to specific guidelines – as a 
personal investment and hold them for as long as they continue in the service of the Bayer Group.  

A new version of Bayer’s “Aspire” program (Aspire 2.0) was introduced in fiscal 2016 as part of the 
adjustment of the compensation system for the Board of Management. The target amounts for the 
new Aspire 2.0 tranche issued in 2016 are based on a contractually agreed target percentage of 
the fixed annual compensation. The starting value is also partly determined by the individual STI 
payment factor for the Board member concerned for the year prior to the issuance of the respec-
tive tranche. The cash payment amounts are determined after four years based on the average 
share price calculated over the last 30 trading days of the fiscal year, the performance of Bayer 
stock relative to the EUROSTOXX 50 and the dividends paid in the meantime (total stockholder 
return approach). The cap for Aspire 2.0 is 250%, compared to 300% under the predecessor 
program. Thus the new compensation system maintains consistency between the Board of Man-
agement and other management levels, except that for the Board of Management an additional 
performance measure has been included in the LTI program in the form of the comparison to the 
EUROSTOXX 50 mentioned above.  

The payments made under the tranches of the Aspire program issued in the years up to 2015 
continue to be based until their expiration on the Aspire Target Opportunity, which is a contractu-
ally agreed percentage of fixed annual compensation. Depending on the performance of Bayer 
stock, both in absolute terms and relative to the EURO STOXX 50 benchmark index, participants 
are granted an award of between 0% and a maximum 300% of their individual Aspire Target Op-
portunity at the end of the respective performance periods.  

The payout / perfor-
mance matrix according 
to the absolute and 
relative development  
of Bayer’s share price  
is explained at 
www.investor.bayer.com
/en/stock/stock-
programs/aspire/ 

 
 
 
 
 
 
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Tranches of the Aspire Program 

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2012 – 2015

2013 – 2016

2014 – 2017

2015 – 2018

2016 – 2019

Performance periods

A 4.3.1/3

Aspire tranches issued
under the former
compensation system

Aspire 2.0 tranche

When a member of the Board of Management retires, current Aspire tranches may be shortened, 
thus reducing their value, depending on the duration of the member’s active service on the Board 
of Management during the first year of the tranche. 

Share Ownership Guidelines 
As a condition for receiving payments under the LTI program, members of the Board of Manage-
ment must meet certain requirements regarding their personal investment in Bayer stock. Starting 
in 2016, they are required to build a position in Bayer shares to the value of 75% of their fixed 
annual compensation within four years and hold these shares until the end of their service on the 
Board of Management. The Board of Management members must provide documentary evidence 
of their compliance with this obligation, first at the end of the four-year position-building period 
and then yearly thereafter. In the event of significant changes in fixed annual compensation, the 
value to which shares must be held is adjusted accordingly.  

Pension entitlements (retirement and surviving dependents’ pensions) 
The annual pension entitlement for members of the Board of Management is based on contribu-
tions. Each year Bayer provides a hypothetical contribution amounting to 42% (33% up to 2015) 
of the respective fixed annual compensation. This percentage is comprised of a basic contribution 
of 6% and a matching contribution of 36% (27% up to 2015), which is four times (three times up 
to 2015) the member’s personal contribution of 9%. The increase in the matching contribution 
effective from 2016 was made to bring the contribution-based company pension plan into line 
with market conditions. The total annual contribution is converted into a pension module accord-
ing to the annuity table for the applicable tariff of the Rheinische Pensionskasse VVaG pension 
fund. The annual pension entitlement upon retirement is the total amount of the accumulated 
pension modules including an investment bonus. The investment bonus is determined annually 
based on the net return on the assets of the Rheinische Pensionskasse VVaG minus the minimum 
return on the contributions that is guaranteed under the tariff and approved by the German Finan-
cial Supervisory Authority (BaFin). Future pension payments are annually reviewed and adjusted to 
take into account the development of consumer prices. 

In addition, special individual arrangements exist for the following members of the Board of Man-
agement: 

>  Werner Baumann – has been granted a vested entitlement to an annual pension of €200 

thousand starting on his 60th birthday. This is subject to a prorated reduction in the event that 
his term of office ends prior to his 60th birthday under certain conditions.  

>  Dr. Marijn Dekkers – is entitled to receive either a lifelong monthly annuity or a capital sum after 

leaving the Bayer Group, though not before the age of 60. He has opted for payment of a 
lifelong monthly annuity. 

>  Kemal Malik – has been granted a vested entitlement to an annual pension of €80 thousand 

starting on his 65th birthday. This is subject to a prorated reduction in the event that his term of 
office ends prior to his 65th birthday under certain conditions.  

 
 
 
 
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>  Erica Mann – has the option to receive either a lifelong monthly annuity or a capital sum when 

her pension benefits fall due. 

Certain assets are administered by Bayer Pension Trust e.V. under a contractual trust arrangement 
(CTA) to cover pension entitlements resulting from direct commitments in Germany. This provides 
substantial additional security – beyond the benefits from the Pension Insurance Association – for 
the respective pension entitlements of the members of the Board of Management in Germany. 

Benefits upon termination of service on the Board of Management 
Post-contractual noncompete agreements  
Post-contractual noncompete agreements exist with the members of the Board of Management, 
providing for compensatory payments to be made by the company for the two-year duration of 
these agreements. The compensatory payment amounts to 100% of the average fixed compensa-
tion for the twelve months preceding their departure.  

Change of control 
Agreements exist with the members of the Board of Management providing for severance indem-
nity in certain circumstances in the event of a change in control. The amount of any possible sev-
erance indemnity in the case of early termination of service on the Board of Management as a 
result of a change in control is limited to the value of three years’ compensation in line with the 
recommendation in Section 4.2.3 of the German Corporate Governance Code. Such payments do 
not exceed the compensation payable for the remaining term of the service contract. 

Unfitness for work 
In the event of temporary unfitness for work, members of the Board of Management continue to 
receive the contractually agreed compensation. Bayer AG may early terminate the service contract 
if the Board member has been continuously unfit for work for at least 18 months and is likely to be 
permanently incapable of fully performing his or her duties (permanent incapacity to work). A disa-
bility pension is paid in the event of contract termination before the age of 60 due to permanent 
incapacity to work. For the members appointed to the Board of Management prior to 2013, the 
disability pension, like the retirement pension, amounts to at least 15% of the final fixed compen-
sation and can increase with continuing service on the Board of Management up to a maximum of 
60%. For members of the Board of Management appointed in 2013 or thereafter, the amount of 
the disability pension under the service contract corresponds to the entitlement accrued on the 
date of contract termination, taking into account a fictitious period of service between that date 
and the member’s 55th birthday, where applicable. 

Compensation of the Board of Management in 2016 
The aggregate compensation for the members of the Board of Management in 2016 totaled  
€28,445 thousand (2015: €17,918 thousand), comprising €7,049 thousand (2015: 
€4,662 thousand) in non-performance-related components and €21,396 thousand (2015: 
€13,256 thousand) in performance-related components. The pension service cost amounted to 
€2,887 thousand (2015: €1,847 thousand).  

Compensation structure 
adapted to new organi-
zational structure 

Changes in the membership of the Board of Management in 2016 were as follows: 

> 

>  Effective January 1, 2016, Dr. Hartmut Klusik succeeded Michael König as the member of the 
Board of Management responsible for Human Resources, Technology and Sustainability.  
In addition to the existing functions, three further functions were created effective January 1, 
2016, which bear special responsibility for the newly defined operating divisions of the Group. 
The following new members were appointed to the Board of Management: 
>  Dieter Weinand, responsible for the Pharmaceuticals Division 
>  Erica Mann, responsible for the Consumer Health Division 
>  Liam Condon, responsible for the Crop Science Division 

>  The Board of Management service contract of Dr. Marijn Dekkers was early terminated by 

mutual agreement effective April 30, 2016.  

 
 
 
 
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>  Werner Baumann was appointed Chairman of the Board of Management of Bayer AG in 

succession to Dr. Dekkers effective May 1, 2016.  

As of December 31, 2016, the Board of Management of Bayer AG consisted of seven members.  

The following table shows the total compensation of the individual members of the Board of Man-
agement who served in 2015 and / or 2016 according to the German Commercial Code:  

A 4.3.1/4

Board of Management Compensation (German Commercial Code) 

Fixed annual 
compensation

Fringe 
benefits

Short-term 
variable cash
compensa-
tion1

Long-term variable
cash compensation
based on virtual
Bayer shares
2
(50% STI) 

Long-term
stock-based 
cash 
compensation 
3

(Aspire) 

€ thousand

No. of
shares

Aggregate 
compensation

Pension 
4

service cost 

€ thousand

2015 

2016 

2015 

2016 

2015 

2016

2015

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015 

2016 

2015

2016

Serving members  
of the Board of 
Management as of 
December 31, 2016 

Werner Baumann 
(Chairman) 

5 

Liam Condon 

Johannes Dietsch 

Dr. Hartmut Klusik 

Kemal Malik 

Erica Mann  

Dieter Weinand 

Former members 

906

1,285

–

725

–

725

–

–

800

750

750

775

750

800

Dr. Marijn Dekkers6 

1,374

475

Michael König  

725

–

47

–

44

–

40

–

–

40

36

47

44

83

140

35

182

34

1,237

2,329 10,377

1,237

–

1,106

–

–

917

978

7,698

917

–

1,053

–

–

917

1,050

7,698

917

–

–

798

1,274

–

–

–

–

99

1,995

475 16,739

1,995

–

917

–

7,698

917

Total 

4,455

6,385

207

664

5,983

9,063 50,210

5,983

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

262

1,983

3,689

5,644

227

–

1,624

–

3,574

–

210

1,522

2,813

3,333

220

–

1,522

–

3,465

–

210

1,573

2,809

3,433

222

–

–

1,522

1,623

–

–

3,252

3,731

–

–

398

210

964

5,802

2,013

–

2,805

–

967

211

764

330

318

316

318

219

240

382

–

1,290 12,333 17,918 28,445

1,847 2,887

1 In line with the change in the compensation system for the members of the Board of Management, the entire amount of the STI is paid out in cash, starting with the 

STI for 2016. The 50:50 split of the STI into a cash payment and a grant of virtual Bayer shares blocked for three years was last made for 2015.  

2 The long-term variable cash compensation based on virtual Bayer shares was discontinued as of 2016. 
3 Fair value at grant date; the figure for 2016 includes the new Aspire 2.0 tranche. For Dr. Marijn Dekkers, 4/12 of the grant amount for Aspire 2.0 is shown. 
4 Including company contribution to Bayer-Pensionskasse VVaG, Rheinische Pensionskasse VVaG and to a pension fund outside Germany 
5 The increased variable compensation for Werner Baumann in 2015 resulted mainly from his temporary duties as head of Bayer HealthCare in addition to his primary 

responsibilities as a member of the Board of Management. 

6 Dr. Marijn Dekkers additionally received a severance payment of €4,341 thousand. This puts him in the same position as if he had held office until December 31, 

2016, and had then retired. 

Fixed annual compensation 
The fixed annual compensation of the members of the Board of Management was adjusted in 
2016. The total fixed annual compensation of all the members was €6,385 thousand (2015: 
€4,455 thousand).  

Short-term variable cash compensation 
The total short-term variable cash compensation for all the members of the Board of Management 
in 2016 totaled €9,063 thousand (2015: €5,983 thousand) after deduction of the solidarity contri-
bution. Provisions of €8,588 thousand (2015: €5,983 thousand) were established for payment of 
this compensation component to the members of the Board of Management serving as of De-
cember 31, 2016. The solidarity contribution is made by all employees of the companies covered 
by the respective agreements with the employee representatives to help safeguard jobs at the 
German sites. For 2016 it amounted to 0.27% (2015: 0.20%) of each person’s STI award.  

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
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See also description of 
the new compensation 
system 

Long-term variable cash compensation based on virtual Bayer shares 
This compensation component was not present in 2016 following the adjustment of the compen-
sation system for the Board of Management effective January 1, 2016. 

The conversion of 50% of the STI into virtual Bayer shares took place for the last time in 2015 and 
was based on an average price of €119.17. The aggregate compensation for 2015 according to 
the German Commercial Code includes long-term variable cash compensation of €5,983 thou-
sand based on virtual Bayer shares. The aggregate compensation for 2016 according to the IFRS 
also includes a change of minus €1,275 thousand (2015: €556 thousand) in the value of existing 
entitlements.  

Provisions of €7,777 thousand (2015: €18,663 thousand) existed as of December 31, 2016, for 
the future cash disbursements to currently serving members of the Board of Management based 
on the virtual Bayer shares granted in previous years. This amount also contains the dividends 
attributable to the respective prior years. 

Long-term stock-based cash compensation (Aspire) 
The long-term stock-based cash compensation under the Aspire program is included in  
the aggregate compensation according to the German Commercial Code at its fair value of 
€12,333 thousand (2015: €1,290 thousand) at the respective grant date. 

The aggregate compensation according to the IFRS includes the fair value of the partial entitle-
ment earned in the respective year. Grants of stock-based compensation with a four-year perfor-
mance period are therefore expensed at their respective fair values over four years starting with 
the grant year. The stock-based compensation according to the IFRS also includes the change in 
the value of existing entitlements under ongoing Aspire tranches granted in prior years.  

A 4.3.1/5

Board of Management Compensation – Aspire Program (IFRS) 

€ thousand 

Stock-based 
compensation 
entitlements  
earned in the 
respective year1 

Change in value 
of existing 
entitlements2 

Total 

Serving members of the Board of Management as of December 31, 2016

Former members 

Werner
Baumann
(Chair-
man)

Liam
Condon

Johannes
Dietsch3

Dr. 
Hartmut 
Klusik

Kemal
Malik3

Erica 
Mann

Dieter 
Weinand

Dr. 
Marijn
Dekkers

Michael
König3

Total

2016

715 

506 

413

414

431

848

369 

1,521 

–

5,217

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

597 

(120)

71 

595 

668 

– 

(83)

– 

423 

– 

225

(57)

21

356

246

–

(47)

–

367

–

263

(98)

48

333

311

–

(165)

–

683

–

– 

(69)

– 

300 

– 

980 

(284)

108 

1,237 

1,088 

265

2,330

–

(923)

24

–

289

272

4,294

2,602

1 The newly earned entitlements are derived from the 2013 – 2016 (2015: 2012 – 2015) tranches of the Aspire program because this compensation was or is being 

earned over a four-year period. They are stated at their prorated fair values in 2015 and 2016, respectively. 

2 This line shows the change in the value of the entitlements already earned in 2013, 2014 and 2015 (2015: 2012, 2013 and 2014). 
3 The Aspire entitlements earned in 2015 and 2016 and the value changes for Liam Condon, Johannes Dietsch, Dr. Hartmut Klusik, Kemal Malik, Erica Mann,  
Dieter Weinand and Michael König relate in part to Aspire tranches granted to them before they joined the Board of Management but not yet fully earned. 

Provisions of €7,288 thousand (2015: €7,110 thousand) were established for the Aspire entitle-
ments of the members of the Board of Management serving as of December 31, 2016. Of this 
amount, €302 thousand relates to the tranches issued up to 2015 and €2,314 thousand to the 
2016 tranche. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
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Pension entitlements 
The pension service cost recognized for the members of the Board of Management in 2016  
according to the German Commercial Code was €2,887 thousand (2015: €1,847 thousand), while 
the current service cost for pension entitlements recognized according to the IFRS was 
€3,902 thousand (2015: €2,891 thousand). The following table shows the service cost and the 
settlement or present value of the pension obligations attributable to the individual members of the 
Board of Management. 

Pension Entitlements (German Commercial Code and IFRS) 

German Commercial Code

A 4.3.1/6

IFRS

Pension service cost 

1

Settlement value of
pension obligation
as of December 312

Current service cost for
pension entitlements

Present value of defined
benefit pension 
obligation
as of December 31

€ thousand 

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

Serving members of the  
Board of Management as of 
December 31, 2016 

Werner Baumann (Chairman) 

Liam Condon 

Johannes Dietsch 

Dr. Hartmut Klusik 

Kemal Malik 

Erica Mann 

Dieter Weinand 

Former members 

Dr. Marijn Dekkers 

3  

Michael König 

4 

Total 

227

–

220

–

222

–

–

967

211

764

330

318

316

318

219

240

382

–

1,847

2,887

7,022

–

2,681

–

516

–

–

7,452

2,151

2,854

4,533

1,990

7,199

468

385

– 

355

– 

372

– 

– 

11,014

2,371

23,604

–

–

26,647

1,418

361

2,891

1,054

10,131

12,429

487

431

399

438

288

322

483

–

3,902

–

3,995

–

1,700

–

–

3,860

4,882

6,782

2,507

7,232

735

14,106

3,559

33,491

_

–

38,427

1 Including company contribution to Bayer-Pensionskasse VVaG, Rheinische Pensionskasse VVaG and a pension fund outside Germany 
2 The pension obligations of foreign subsidiaries and Bayer pension funds are included at present value according to IFRS. 
3 Dr. Marijn Dekkers stepped down from the Board of Management as of midnight on April 30, 2016. 
4 Michael König stepped down from the Board of Management as of midnight on December 31, 2015. 

The difference between the pension service cost according to the German Commercial Code and 
the service cost for pension entitlements according to the IFRS arises from the difference in the 
valuation principles used in calculating the settlement value according to the German Commercial 
Code and the present value of the defined benefit pension obligation according to the IFRS. 

Benefits upon termination of service on the Board of Management 
It was agreed with Dr. Marijn Dekkers that he be granted benefits of €4,341 thousand according 
to the German Commercial Code and €4,542 thousand according to the IFRS in light of the mutu-
ally agreed early termination effective April 30, 2016, of his service contract, which originally ran 
until December 31, 2016. These comprise the fixed compensation, the short-term variable com-
pensation components, Aspire and the pension service cost, each for the period May 1, 2016, 
through December 31, 2016. Dr. Dekkers’ entitlements under the company pension plan and the 
Aspire program were set at the levels they would have reached if he had been eligible to partici-
pate until December 31, 2016. The fixed compensation and the short-term variable compensation 
component, together amounting to €1,900 thousand, were paid in May 2016. The payments from 
the Aspire tranches will be made upon expiration of each tranche based on the respective Aspire 
program parameters. The post-contractual noncompete agreement with Dr. Marijn Dekkers was 
rescinded without compensation when his service contract was extended in June 2014 in line with 
previous practice in a similar case.  

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
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4.3 Compensation Report

Augmented Version

It was agreed with Michael König that he be granted benefits of €1,131 thousand in connection 
with the mutually agreed early termination effective December 31, 2015, of his service contract, 
which originally ran until March 31, 2016. These benefits comprise fixed compensation, short-term 
variable compensation components, Aspire and the pension service cost – each for the period 
January 1 through March 31, 2016 –, along with the fair value of the accelerated vested portions 
of the existing Aspire tranches. The fixed compensation and the short-term variable compensation 
component, together amounting to €375 thousand, were paid in the first half of 2016. The pay-
ments from the Aspire tranches will be made upon expiration of each tranche based on the re-
spective Aspire program parameters. In addition, a two-year noncompete agreement ending on 
December 31, 2017, exists with Michael König under his service contract. The resulting compen-
satory payment of €725 thousand per year is being made to him in monthly installments. 

The aggregate Board of Management compensation according to the IFRS is shown in the follow-
ing table: 

Board of Management Compensation according to IFRS 

€ thousand 

Fixed annual compensation 

Fringe benefits 

Total short-term non-performance-related compensation 

Short-term performance-related cash compensation 

A 4.3.1/7

2016

6,385 

664 

7,049 

9,063 

2015

4,455

207

4,662

5,983

Total short-term compensation 

10,645

16,112 

Stock-based compensation earned (virtual Bayer shares) 

Change in value of existing entitlements to stock-based compensation  
(virtual Bayer shares) 

Stock-based compensation (Aspire) earned in the respective year 

Change in value of existing entitlements to stock-based compensation (Aspire) 

Total stock-based compensation (long-term incentive) 

Service cost for pension entitlements earned in the respective year 

Total long-term compensation 

Severance indemnity in connection with the termination of a service contract 

5,983

556

2,330

272

9,141

2,891

12,032

1,131

– 

(1,275)

5,217 

(923)

3,019 

3,902 

6,921 

4,542 

Aggregate compensation (IFRS) 

23,808

27,575 

4.3.2 Disclosures Pursuant to the Recommendations of the German 

Corporate Governance Code  

In accordance with the recommendations of the German Corporate Governance Code, the follow-
ing tables show the compensation – including fringe benefits – granted for 2016, indicating the 
target values and the maximum and minimum achievable values for the variable compensation 
components, along with the allocation of compensation. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
196 

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 Augmented Version 

4.3 Compensation Report 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

A 4.3.2/1

Compensation and Benefits Granted for 2016 

Serving members of the Board of Management as of December 31, 2016

Werner Baumann
(Chairman)

Liam Condon
(Crop Science)

Johannes Dietsch
(Finance)

Joined Jan. 1, 2010

Joined Jan. 1, 2016

Joined Sept. 1, 2014

€ thousand 

Target
value
2015

Target
value
2016

Min.
2016

Max.1
2016

Target
value
2015

Target
value
2016

Fixed annual compensation 

906

1,285

1,285

1,285

Fringe benefits 

47

47

47

47

Total fixed annual compensation 

953

1,332

1,332

1,332

Short-term variable cash 
compensation2 

Long-term variable cash 
compensation  
(virtual Bayer shares)2 

849

1,475

0

2,950

2015 (Jan. 1, 2016 – Dec. 31, 2018)(cid:3031) 

849

Long-term stock-based compensation 
(Aspire)3 

2015 (Jan. 1, 2015 – Dec. 31, 2018)(cid:3031) 

362

–

–

2016 (Jan. 1, 2016 – Dec. 31, 2019)(cid:3031) 

1,983

–

–

0

––

––

4,957

Total  

3,013

4,790

1,332

9,239

Service cost / benefit expense 

227

764

764

764

Total compensation 

3,240

5,554

2,096 10,003

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Compensation and Benefits Granted for 2016  

Min.
2016

Max.1
2016

800

44

844

800

44

844

Target
value
2015

Target
value
2016

725

44

769

750

83

833

Min.
2016

Max.1
2016

750

83

833

750

83

833

0

1,600

679

750

0

1,500

–

–

0

844

330

–

–

679

290

–

–

4,059

–

1,522

6,503

2,417

3,105

330

220

318

–

–

0

833

318

–

–

3,805

6,138

318

800

44

844

800

–

–

1,624

3,268

330

3,598

1,174

6,833

2,637

3,423

1,151

6,456

A 4.3.2/1 (continued)

Serving members of the Board of Management as of December 31, 2016

Dr. Harmut Klusik
(Human Resources,
Technology & Sustainability)

Kemal Malik
(Innovation)

Joined Jan. 1, 2016

Joined Feb. 1, 2014

Erica Mann
(Consumer Health)

Joined Jan. 1, 2016

Target
value
2015

Target
value
2016

Min.
2016

Max.1
2016

Target
value
2015

Target
value
2016

Min.
2016

Max.1
2016

Target
value
2015

Target
value
2016

Min.
2016

Max.1
2016

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

750

140

750

140

750

140

725

40

775

35

775

35

775

35

890

890

890

765

810

810

810

750

0

1,500

679

775

0

1,550

–

–

–

1,522

3,162

–

–

–

0

890

–

–

–

679

290

–

–

–

3,805

6,195

1,573

3,158

2,413

–

–

–

0

810

–

–

–

3,932

6,292

316

316

316

222

318

318

318

3,478

1,206

6,511

2,635

3,476

1,128

6,610

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

750

182

750

182

750

182

932

932

932

750

0

1,500

–

–

–

1,522

3,204

–

–

–

0

932

–

–

–

3,806

6,238

219

219

219

3,423

1,151

6,457

€ thousand 

Fixed annual 
compensation 

Fringe benefits 

Total fixed annual 
compensation 

Short-term variable  
2 
cash compensation 

Long-term variable  
cash compensation  
(virtual Bayer shares) 

2 

2015 (Jan. 1, 2016 – 
Dec. 31, 2018)(cid:3031) 

2016 (Jan. 1, 2017 – 
Dec. 31, 2019)(cid:3031) 

Long-term stock-based 
3 
compensation (Aspire) 

2015 (Jan. 1, 2015 – 
Dec. 31, 2018)(cid:3031) 

2016 (Jan. 1, 2016 – 
Dec. 31, 2019)(cid:3031) 

Total 

Service cost /   
benefit expense 

Total compensation 

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

A Combined Management Report 

197

4.3 Compensation Report

Augmented Version

Compensation and Benefits Granted for 2016  

Serving members of the
Board of Management 
as of December 31, 2016

Dieter Weinand 
(Pharmaceuticals)

A 4.3.2/1 (continued)

Former members

Dr. Marijn Dekkers 

Michael König

€ thousand 

Fixed annual compensation 

Fringe benefits 

Total fixed annual compensation 

Short-term variable cash compensation 

2 

Long-term variable cash 
compensation (virtual Bayer shares) 

2 

2015 (Jan. 1, 2016 – Dec. 31, 2018)(cid:3031) 

2016 (Jan. 1, 2017 – Dec. 31, 2019)(cid:3031) 

Long-term stock-based compensation 
(Aspire) 

3 

2015 (Jan. 1, 2015 – Dec. 31, 2018)(cid:3031) 

2016 (Jan. 1, 2016 – Dec. 31, 2019)(cid:3031) 

Total 

Service cost/benefit expense 

Total compensation 

Joined Jan. 1, 2016

Stepped down April 30, 2016

Stepped down Dec. 31, 2015

Target
value
2015

Target
value
2016

Min.
2016

Max.1
2016

Target
value
2015

Target
value
2016

Min.
2016

Max.1
2016

Target
value
2015

Target
value
2016

Min.
2016

Max.1
2016

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

800

34

834

800

800

34

834

800

1,374

34

40

834

1,414

0

1,600

1,477

475

99

574

475

–

–

–

1,623

3,257

240

–

–

–

0

834

240

–

–

–

1,477

550

–

–

–

4,058

964

6,492

4,918

2,013

240

967

382

3,497

1,074

6,732

5,885

2,395

475

99

574

0

–

–

–

0

475

99

574

950

–

–

–

2,410

725

36

761

679

679

290

574

382

956

3,934

2,409

382

211

4,316

2,620

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

_

_

–

_

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

_

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

_

_

–

_

1 The maximum achievable variable compensation shown here does not yet take into account the caps applicable. Payments in a single year  

are limited to 1.8 times the target compensation (see Chapter 4.3.1 “Compensation structure”). 

2 Following the change in the compensation system for the Board of Management effective January 1, 2016, the entire amount of the STI for 2016 will be paid out in 

cash in the second quarter of 2017. The 50:50 split of the STI into a cash payment and a grant of virtual Bayer shares was made for the last time for 2015. 

3 The Aspire tranche for 2016 is subject to the new system for Bayer’s Aspire program (see Chapter 4.3.1). The cap for this new long-term compensation program 

is 250%. 

Allocation of Compensation for 2015 and 2016 

A 4.3.2/2

Serving members of the Board of Management as of December 31, 2016

Werner Baumann
(Chairman)

Liam Condon
(Crop Science)

Johannes Dietsch
(Finance)

Dr. Hartmut Klusik
(Human Resources, 
Technology & 
Sustainability)

Joined Jan. 1, 2010

Joined Jan. 1, 2016

Joined Sept. 1, 2014

Joined Jan. 1, 2016

€ thousand 

Fixed annual compensation 

Fringe benefits 

Total 

Short-term variable cash compensation 

for 2015 

1  

for 2016 

Long-term cash compensation  
(virtual Bayer shares) 

2015

906

47

953

2016

1,285

47

1,332

1,237

–

–

2,329

2011 (Jan. 1, 2012 – Dec. 31, 2014) 

1,307

–

2012 (Jan. 1, 2012 – Dec. 31, 2015) 

–

1,747

Long-term stock-based  
cash compensation (Aspire) 

2011 (Jan. 1, 2011 – Dec. 31, 2014) 

2 

2012 (Jan. 1, 2012 – Dec. 31, 2015) 

Total 

Service cost(cid:3031)/(cid:3031)benefit expense3 

Total compensation 

769

–

4,266

227

4,493

–

789

6,197

764

6,961

2015

2016

2015

2016 

2015

2016

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

800

44

844

–

1,106

–

–

–

–

1,950

330

2,280

725

44

769

917

–

–

–

297

–

1,983

220

2,203

750 

83 

833 

– 

978 

– 

– 

– 

301 

2,112 

318 

2,430 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

750

140

890

–

1,053

–

–

–

–

1,943

316

2,259

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
198 

A Combined Management Report 

 Augmented Version 

4.3 Compensation Report 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Allocation of Compensation for 2015 and 2016  

Serving members of the Board of Management
 as of December 31, 2016

A 4.3.2/2 (continued)

Former members 

Kemal Malik
(Innovation)

Erica Mann
(Consumer Health)

Dieter Weinand 

(Pharmaceuticals) Dr. Marijn Dekkers 

Michael König

Joined 
Feb. 1, 2014

Joined
Jan. 1, 2016

Joined
Jan. 1, 2016

Stepped down
April 30, 2016

Stepped down
Dec. 31, 2015

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2016

2015

2016

€ thousand 

Fixed annual compensation 

Fringe benefits 

Total 

Short-term variable cash 
compensation  

for 2015 

1  

for 2016 

Long-term cash compensation  
(virtual Bayer shares) 

2011 (Jan. 1, 2012 – Dec. 31, 2014) 

2012 (Jan. 1, 2012 – Dec. 31, 2015) 

Long-term stock-based cash 
compensation (Aspire) 

2011 (Jan. 1, 2011 – Dec. 31, 2014) 

2 

2012 (Jan. 1, 2012 – Dec. 31, 2015) 

725

40

765

917

–

–

–

384

–

775

35

810

–

1,050

–

–

–

364

Total 

Service cost / benefit expense 

3 

Total compensation 

2,066

2,224

222

318

2,288

2,542

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

750

182

932

–

798

–

–

–

–

1,730

219

1,949

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2015

1,374

40

1,414

800

34

834

–

1,995

1,274

–

475

99

574

–

475

2,841

–

–

3,039

725

36

761

–

917

–

–

1,459

–

2,108

7,709

240

967

–

1,495

5,583

382

191

–

1,869

211

2,348

8,676

5,965

2,080

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1 The increased variable compensation for Werner Baumann in 2015 resulted mainly from his temporary duties as head of Bayer HealthCare in addition to his primary 

responsibilities as a member of the Board of Management. 

2 The payments to Johannes Dietsch, Michael König and Kemal Malik from the 2011 Aspire tranche related to vesting periods that began before they joined the 

Board of Management. The tranches were not yet fully vested at the dates on which they joined the Board of Management. The same applies to the payments in 
2016 from the 2012 Aspire tranche for Johannes Dietsch and Kemal Malik. 

3 The total service cost is the service cost in accordance with HGB plus contributions to pension funds. 

4.3.3 Compensation of the Supervisory Board 
The Supervisory Board is compensated according to the relevant provisions of the Articles of 
Incorporation.  

The members of the Supervisory Board receive fixed annual compensation of €120,000 plus reim-
bursement of their expenses.  

In accordance with the recommendations of the German Corporate Governance Code, additional 
compensation is paid to the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Supervisory Board and for 
chairing and membership of committees. The Chairman of the Supervisory Board receives fixed 
annual compensation of €360,000, the Vice Chairman €240,000. These amounts also cover 
membership and chairmanship of committees. The other members receive additional compensa-
tion for committee membership. The chairman of the Audit Committee receives an additional 
€120,000, the other members of the Audit Committee €60,000 each. The chairmen of the re-
maining committees receive €60,000 each, the other members of those committees €30,000 
each. No additional compensation is paid for membership of the Nominations Committee. A 
Supervisory Board member who is a member of more than two committees receives compensa-
tion only for the two committees with the highest compensation. If changes are made to the 
Supervisory Board and / or its committees during the year, members receive compensation on a 
prorated basis. The members of the Supervisory Board also receive an attendance fee of €1,000 
each time they personally attend a meeting of the Supervisory Board or a committee. The atten-
dance fee is limited to €1,000 per day. 

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

A Combined Management Report 

199

4.3 Compensation Report

Augmented Version

The members of the Supervisory Board have given a voluntary pledge that they will each purchase 
Bayer shares for 25% of their pretax fixed compensation, including any additional compensation 
for committee membership, and hold these shares for as long as they remain members of the 
Supervisory Board. This does not apply to members who are prevented from purchasing shares 
due to a service or employment contract with a company or who transfer at least 85% of their 
fixed compensation to the Hans Böckler Foundation in accordance with the rules of the German 
Trade Union Confederation or whose service or employment contract with a company requires 
them to transfer such compensation to that company. If less than 85% of the fixed compensation 
is transferred, the voluntary pledge applies to the portion not transferred. By voluntarily pledging 
to invest in and hold Bayer shares, the Supervisory Board members reinforce their interest in the 
long-term, sustainable success of the company.  

Compensation of the Supervisory Board in 2016 
The following table shows the components of each Supervisory Board member’s compensation 
for 2016.  

The members of the 
Supervisory Board have 
pledged to purchase 
Bayer shares. 

Compensation of the Members of the Supervisory Board of Bayer AG in 2016 

Fixed compensation

Attendance fee

€ thousand 

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

Members of the Supervisory Board 
serving as of December 31, 2016 

Dr. Paul Achleitner  

Dr. Simone Bagel-Trah 

Dr. Clemens Börsig 

André van Broich  

Thomas Ebeling  

Johanna W. (Hanneke) Faber 

1 

Dr. Thomas Fischer  

Reiner Hoffmann 

Yüksel Karaaslan 

Petra Kronen 

Frank Löllgen 

Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Plischke1 

Sue H. Rataj 

Petra Reinbold-Knape 

Michael Schmidt-Kiessling 

Dr. Klaus Sturany 

Werner Wenning (Chairman) 

Heinz Georg Webers 

Prof. Dr. Otmar D. Wiestler 

2 

Oliver Zühlke (Vice Chairman) 

Members who left the Supervisory 
Board in 2015 and 2016 

Dr. Helmut Panke 

3 

Prof. Dr. Dr. Ernst-Ludwig 
Winnacker 

3 

Peter Hausmann 

4 

Thomas de Win 

5 

Total 

180

120

120

129

120

–

180

180

135

150

19

–

120

130

120

240

360

60

49

195

180

137

125

119

180

120

120

150

120

81

180

127

150

150

173

162

120

180

120

240

360

120

150

240

59

59

–

–

5

4

4

6

4

–

9

5

6

6

1

–

5

5

5

9

11

3

3

9

8

6

5

4

5

5

5

5

4

2

9

5

5

4

8

5

5

5

4

9

9

5

4

9

4

2

–

–

185

124

124

135

124

–

189

185

141

156

20

–

125

135

125

249

371

63

52

204

188

143

130

123

A 4.3.3/1

Total

2016

185

125

125

155

124

83

189

132

155

154

181

167

125

185

124

249

369

125

154

249

63

61

–

–

3,168

3,361

123

118

3,291

3,479

1 Member of the Supervisory Board since April 30, 2016 
2 Prof. Wiestler has received compensation for his membership of the Supervisory Board since September 1, 2015. Previously, his 

office as Chairman of the Management Board of the German Cancer Research Center precluded his acceptance of this 
compensation. 

3 Member of the Supervisory Board until April 29, 2016 
4 Member of the Supervisory Board until June 30, 2015 
5 Vice Chairman and member of the Supervisory Board until June 30, 2015 

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
200 

A Combined Management Report 

 Augmented Version 

4.4 Takeover-Relevant Information 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

In addition to their compensation as members of the Supervisory Board, those employee repre-
sentatives who are employees of Bayer Group companies receive compensation unrelated to their 
service on the Supervisory Board. The total amount of such compensation in 2016 was €939 
thousand (2015: €741 thousand). 

No compensation was paid or benefits granted to members of the Supervisory Board for person-
ally performed services such as consultancy or agency services. The company has purchased 
insurance for the members of the Supervisory Board to cover their personal liability arising from 
their service on the Supervisory Board. 

4.3.4 Further Information 

Advances or loans to Members of the Board of Management or Supervisory Board  
There were no advances or loans to members of the Board of Management or the Supervisory 
Board outstanding as of December 31, 2016, nor at any time during 2016 or 2015.  

Pension payments to former members of the Board of Management  
or their surviving dependents 
We currently pay retired members of the Board of Management a monthly pension equal to a 
maximum of 80% of the fixed compensation received immediately prior to retirement. The pen-
sions paid to former members of the Board of Management or their surviving dependents are 
reassessed annually and adjusted, taking into account the development of consumer prices. The 
pensions paid to former members of the Board of Management or their surviving dependents in 
2016 totaled €12,800 thousand (2015: €13,416 thousand). These benefits are paid in addition to 
any amounts they receive under previous employee pension arrangements. The present value of 
the defined benefit pension obligation for former members of the Board of Management and their 
surviving dependents according to the IFRS amounted to €188,850 thousand (2015: €172,767 
thousand), while the settlement value of the pension obligation according to the German Com-
mercial Code amounted to €149,948 thousand (2015: €148,632 thousand). 

4.4 Takeover-Relevant Information 

Explanatory report pursuant to Sections 289, Paragraph 4 and 315, 
Paragraph 4 of the German Commercial Code (HGB) 
The capital stock of Bayer AG amounted as of December 31, 2016, to €2,117 million, divided into 
826,947,808 no-par registered shares. The capital stock and the number of shares were thus 
unchanged from the end of the previous year. Each share confers one voting right. A small num-
ber of shares may be subject to temporary trading restrictions, such as retention periods, in con-
nection with employee stock participation programs. We received no notifications in 2016 of direct 
or indirect holdings of shares in Bayer AG that exceed 10% of the capital stock. The company 
thus is not in possession of any notifications of holdings that exceed 10% of the capital stock.  

The appointment and dismissal of members of the Board of Management are subject to the provi-
sions of Sections 84 and 85 of the German Stock Corporation Act, Section 31 of the German 
Codetermination Act and Section 6 of the company’s Articles of Incorporation. Pursuant to Sec-
tion 84, Paragraph 1 of the German Stock Corporation Act, the members of the Board of Man-
agement are appointed and dismissed by the Supervisory Board. Since Bayer AG falls within the 
scope of the German Codetermination Act, the appointment or dismissal of members of the Board 
of Management requires a majority of two thirds of the votes of the members of the Supervisory 
Board on the first ballot pursuant to Section 31, Paragraph 2 of that act. If no such majority is 
achieved, the appointment is resolved pursuant to Section 31, Paragraph 3 of the Codetermina-
tion Act on a second ballot by a simple majority of the votes of the members of the Supervisory 
Board. If the required majority still is not achieved, a third ballot is held. Here again, a simple ma-

See also 
www.bayer.com/ 
ownership-structure 

 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

A Combined Management Report 

201

4.4 Takeover-Relevant Information

Augmented Version

jority of the votes suffices, but in this ballot the Chairman of the Supervisory Board has two votes 
pursuant to Section 31, Paragraph 4 of the Codetermination Act. Under Section 6, Paragraph 1 of 
the Articles of Incorporation of Bayer AG, the number of members of the Board of Management is 
determined by the Supervisory Board but must be at least two. The Supervisory Board may ap-
point one member of the Board of Management to be the Chairman of the Board of Management 
pursuant to Section 84, Paragraph 2 of the German Stock Corporation Act and Section 6, Para-
graph 1 of the Articles of Incorporation. 

Any amendments to the Articles of Incorporation are made pursuant to Section 179 of the German 
Stock Corporation Act and Sections 10 and 17 of the Articles of Incorporation. Under Sec-
tion 179, Paragraph 1 of the German Stock Corporation Act, amendments to the Articles of Incor-
poration require a resolution of the Stockholders’ Meeting. Pursuant to Section 179, Paragraph 2 
of the German Stock Corporation Act, this resolution must be passed by a majority of three quar-
ters of the voting capital represented at the meeting, unless the Articles of Incorporation provide 
for a different majority. However, where an amendment relates to a change in the object of the 
company, the Articles of Incorporation may only specify a larger majority. Section 17, Paragraph 2 
of the Articles of Incorporation of Bayer AG utilizes the scope for deviation pursuant to Sec-
tion 179, Paragraph 2 of the German Stock Corporation Act and provides that resolutions may be 
passed by a simple majority of the votes cast or, where a capital majority is required, by a simple 
majority of the capital represented. Pursuant to Section 10, Paragraph 9 of the Articles of Incorpo-
ration, the Supervisory Board may resolve on amendments to the Articles of Incorporation that 
relate solely to their wording. 

Provisions of the Articles of Incorporation concerning Authorized Capital I and Authorized Capital II 
are entered in the commercial register of Bayer AG. With the approval of the Supervisory Board 
and until April 28, 2019, the Board of Management may use the Authorized Capital I to increase 
the capital stock by up to a total of €530 million. New shares may be issued against cash contri-
butions and / or contributions in kind, but capital increases against contributions in kind may not 
exceed a total of €423 million. If the Authorized Capital I is used to issue shares in return for cash 
contributions, stockholders must normally be granted subscription rights. The Board of Manage-
ment may only exclude stockholders’ subscription rights to a volume of shares issued out of the 
Authorized Capital I that did not represent more than 20% of the existing capital stock at the time 
the respective resolution was adopted by the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting on April 29, 2014. 
Absent a further resolution on the exclusion of stockholders’ subscription rights, the Board of 
Management also may only exclude stockholders’ subscription rights to a volume of shares issued 
under other authorizations regarding capital measures (Authorized Capital II, bonds with warrants 
or convertible notes, purchase and disposal of own shares) that did not represent more than 20% 
of the existing capital stock at the time the respective resolution was adopted by the Annual 
Stockholders’ Meeting on April 29, 2014. 

With the approval of the Supervisory Board and until April 28, 2019, the Board of Management is 
authorized to increase the capital stock by up to €212 million in one or more installments by issu-
ing shares out of the Authorized Capital II against cash contributions. The stockholders must nor-
mally be granted subscription rights. However, the Board of Management is authorized, with the 
approval of the Supervisory Board, to exclude subscription rights for stockholders provided the 
volume of shares issued out of the Authorized Capital II against cash contributions does not ex-
ceed 10% of the capital stock existing at the time this authorization is registered or at the time the 
new shares are issued and the issue price of the new shares is not significantly below the market 
price of the already listed shares.  

Conditional capital of €212 million exists in connection with an authorization – valid through April 
28, 2019 – to issue bonds with warrants or convertible notes, profit-sharing rights or profit partici-
pation bonds (collectively referred to as “bonds”) with a total face value of €6 billion, €4 billion of 
which has already been used for mandatory convertible notes. The Board of Management may, 
with the consent of the Supervisory Board and under certain conditions, exclude the bond sub-
scription rights that would otherwise be granted to stockholders. One of the conditions is that the 

 
 
 
202 

A Combined Management Report 

 Augmented Version 

4.4 Takeover-Relevant Information 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

total volume of shares required to service the bonds exceed neither 10% of the capital stock that 
existed at the time the respective resolution was adopted by the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting on 
April 29, 2014 nor 10% of the capital stock existing at the time this authorization is exercised. 
Any other shares issued without granting subscription rights to the stockholders in direct or anal-
ogous application of Section 186, Paragraph 3, Sentence 4 of the German Stock Corporation Act 
shall be credited against this 10% limit.  

Further, by resolution of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting on April 29, 2014, the Board of Man-
agement is authorized to purchase and dispose of own shares representing up to 10% of the 
capital stock existing at the time the resolution was adopted. The authorization to purchase own 
shares also includes the purchase of own shares using put or call options (derivatives) up to a 
volume of 5% of the capital stock existing at the time the resolution was adopted or at the time 
the authorization is exercised. This authorization also expires on April 28, 2019.  

A material agreement that is subject to the condition precedent of a change of control pertains to 
the undrawn €3.5 billion syndicated credit facility arranged by Bayer AG and its U.S. subsidiary 
Bayer Corporation. This facility is available until December 2020. The participating banks are enti-
tled to terminate the credit facility in the event of a change of control at Bayer and demand repay-
ment of any loans that may have been granted under this facility up to that time. A similar clause is 
contained in the agreement on a syndicated credit facility granted to Bayer subsidiary Bayer World 
Investments B.V., Netherlands, in 2014 and guaranteed by Bayer AG. The facility still amounts to 
US$900 million (as of December 31, 2016) and matures in May 2018.  A similar clause is also con-
tained in the agreement on a syndicated credit facility in the original amount of US$56.9 billion 
granted to Bayer US Finance II LLC in September 2016, which is also guaranteed by Bayer AG. 
This as yet undrawn facility serves to finance the planned acquisition of Monsanto. Pursuant to the 
agreement, this credit facility was reduced in November 2016 by the US$4.2 billion net proceeds 
from the issuance of mandatory convertible notes, to US$52.7 billion. The mandatory convertible 
notes were issued by Bayer Capital Corporation B.V., guaranteed by Bayer AG and mature in No-
vember 2019. The terms on which holders may convert the notes into shares before the maturity 
date are more favorable in the event of a change of control than they would be otherwise. 

The terms of the nominal €3.4 billion (as of December 31, 2016) in notes issued by Bayer in the 
years 2006 to 2014 under its existing Debt Issuance Programme also contain a change-of-control 
clause. Holders of these notes have the right to demand the redemption of their notes by 
Bayer AG in the event of a change of control if Bayer AG’s credit rating is downgraded within 120 
days after such change of control becomes effective. The terms of the US$7 billion bond in 144A / 
Reg S format issued in October 2014 also contain a clause to this effect. The outstanding amount 
of this bond is US$6.5 billion. 

Agreements exist for the members of the Board of Management in compliance with Section 4.2.3 
of the German Corporate Governance Code to cover the eventuality of a takeover offer being 
made for Bayer AG. Under these agreements, payments promised in the event of early termination 
of the service contract of a Board of Management member due to a change of control are limited 
to the value of three years’ compensation and may not compensate more than the remaining term 
of the contract.  

 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

203

Bayer Group Consolidated Income Statements

Augmented Version

Consolidated Financial 
Statements   

Full Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Group Consolidated 
Income Statements 

€ million 

Net sales 

Cost of goods sold 

Gross profit 

Selling expenses 

Research and development expenses 

General administration expenses 

Other operating income 

Other operating expenses 

EBIT 

1 

Equity-method loss 

Financial income 

Financial expenses 

Financial result  

Income before income taxes 

Income taxes 

Income from continuing operations after income taxes 

Income from discontinued operations after income taxes 

Income after income taxes 

of which attributable to noncontrolling interest 

of which attributable to Bayer AG stockholders (net income) 

€ 

Earnings per share 

From continuing operations 

Basic 

Diluted 

From discontinued operations 

Basic 

Diluted 

From continuing and discontinued operations 

Basic 

Diluted 

B 1

Note

2015

2016

[7]

46,085 

46,769

[8]

[9]

[10]

[11]

[13.1]

[13]

[14]

[6.3]

[15]

[16]

[16]

[16]

[16]

(21,040)

(20,295)

25,045 

26,474

(12,272)

(12,474)

(4,274)

(2,092)

1,109 

(1,275)

6,241 

(9)

371 

(1,367)

(1,005)

5,236 

(1,223)

4,013 

85 

4,098 

(12)

4,110 

4.87 

4.87 

0.10 

0.10 

4.97 

4.97 

(4,666)

(2,256)

898

(934)

7,042

(26)

151

(1,280)

(1,155)

5,887

(1,329)

4,558

268

4,826

295

4,531

5.12

5.12

0.32

0.32

5.44

5.44

2015 figures restated 
1 For definition see Combined Management Report, Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 

 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
    
 
 
204 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Bayer Group Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income 

Bayer Group Consolidated Statements 
of Comprehensive Income

€ million 

Income after income taxes 

of which attributable to noncontrolling interest 

of which attributable to Bayer AG stockholders 

Remeasurements of the net defined benefit liability  
for post-employment benefit plans 

Income taxes 

Other comprehensive income from remeasurements of the net defined  
benefit liability for post-employment benefit plans 

Other comprehensive income that will not be reclassified subsequently  
to profit or loss 

Changes in fair values of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges 

[30.3]

Reclassified to profit or loss 

Income taxes 

Other comprehensive income from cash flow hedges 

Changes in fair values of available-for-sale financial assets 

Reclassified to profit or loss 

Income taxes 

Other comprehensive income from available-for-sale financial assets 

Changes in exchange differences recognized on translation of operations 
outside the eurozone 

Reclassified to profit or loss 

Other comprehensive income from exchange differences 

Other comprehensive income relating to associates accounted for using the 
equity method 

Other comprehensive income that may be reclassified subsequently  
to profit or loss 

[14]

[20]

[14]

Effects of changes in scope of consolidation 

Total other comprehensive income 

1 

of which attributable to noncontrolling interest 

of which attributable to Bayer AG stockholders 

Total comprehensive income 

of which attributable to noncontrolling interest 

of which attributable to Bayer AG stockholders 

2015 figures restated 
1 Total changes recognized outside profit or loss 

Note

[15]

[25]

[14]

2015

4,098 

(12)

4,110 

1,216 

(430)

B 2

2016

4,826

295

4,531

(1,036)

228

786 

(808)

786 

(266)

304 

(25)

13 

(5)

1 

(2)

(6)

748 

– 

748 

(20)

735 

– 

1,521 

33 

1,488 

5,619 

21 

5,598 

(808)

58

3

(16)

45

65

–

(8)

57

703

(58)

645

(14)

733

–

(75)

(10)

(65)

4,751

285

4,466

 
 
 
 
    
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

205

Bayer Group Consolidated Statements of Financial Position

Augmented Version

Bayer Group Consolidated Statements 
of Financial Position

€ million 

Noncurrent assets 

Goodwill 

Other intangible assets 

Property, plant and equipment 

Investments accounted for using the equity method 

Other financial assets 

Other receivables 

Deferred taxes 

Current assets 

Inventories 

Trade accounts receivable 

Other financial assets 

Other receivables 

Claims for income tax refunds 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Assets held for sale and discontinued operations 

Total assets 

Equity 

Capital stock 

Capital reserves 

Other reserves 

Equity attributable to Bayer AG stockholders 

Equity attributable to noncontrolling interest 

Noncurrent liabilities 

Provisions for pensions and other post-employment benefits 

Other provisions 

Financial liabilities 

Income tax liabilities 

Other liabilities 

Deferred taxes 

Current liabilities 

Other provisions 

Financial liabilities 

Trade accounts payable 

Income tax liabilities 

Other liabilities 

Liabilities directly related to assets held for sale and discontinued operations 

Total equity and liabilities  

B 3

Note

Dec. 31, 
2015

Dec. 31, 
2016

[17]

[17]

[18]

[19]

[20]

[23]

[14]

[21]

[22]

[20]

[23]

[6.3]

[24]

[25]

[26]

[27]

[29]

[14]

[26]

[27]

[28]

[29]

[6.3]

16,096

15,178

12,375

246

1,092

430

4,679

16,312

13,567

13,114

584

1,281

583

6,350

50,096

51,791

8,550

9,933

756

2,017

509

1,859

197

23,821

73,917

2,117

6,167

15,981

24,265

1,180

25,445

10,873

1,740

16,513

475

1,065

826

31,492

5,045

3,421

5,945

923

1,534

112

8,408

10,969

6,275

2,210

676

1,899

10

30,447

82,238

2,117

9,658

18,558

30,333

1,564

31,897

11,134

1,780

16,180

423

957

1,330

31,804

5,421

3,401

6,410

884

2,421

–

16,980

73,917

18,537

82,238

 
 
    
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
206 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Bayer Group Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity 

Bayer Group Consolidated Statements 
of Changes in Equity

€ million 

Dec. 31, 2014 

Equity transactions with owners 

Capital increase 

Dividend payments 

Other changes 

Other comprehensive income 

Income after income taxes 

Dec. 31, 2015 

Equity transactions with owners 

Capital increase 

1 

Dividend payments 

Other changes 

Other comprehensive income 

Income after income taxes 

Dec. 31, 2016 

B 4

Capital stock 

Capital 
reserves

Retained 
earnings 
incl. net 
income 

Exchange 
differences

Fair-value 
measurement 
of securities

2,117

6,167

12,974

(1,172)

30

(1,861)

582

776

4,110

16,581

(2,067)

129

(781)

4,531

18,393

(155)

705 

(622)

53 

614 

45 

(6)

24

57

81

2,117

6,167

3,491

2,117

9,658

1 The capital increase resulted from the issuance of mandatory convertible notes in the amount of €4,000 million on November 22, 2016.  

After deduction of €48 million in transaction costs and recognition of €191 million in deferred taxes, €3,491 million was allocated to capital 
reserves and €652 million to financial liabilities. 

B 4 continued

Equity

20,218

(1,869)

1,477

1,521

4,098

Cash flow 
hedges

Revaluation 
surplus

Equity 
attributable 
to Bayer AG 
stockholders

Equity 
attributable 
to non-
controlling 
interest 

(36)

26

20,106

112 

(5)

(1,861)

422

1,488

4,110

(8)

1,055 

33 

(12)

21

24,265

1,180 

25,445

3,491

(2,067)

178

(65)

4,531

30,333

(4)

17

(58)

157 

(10)

295 

1,564 

3,491

(2,125)

335

(75)

4,826

31,897

13

(23)

45

22

€ million 

Dec. 31, 2014 

Equity transactions with owners 

Capital increase 

Dividend payments 

Other changes 

Other comprehensive income 

Income after income taxes 

Dec. 31, 2015 

Equity transactions with owners 

Capital increase 

Dividend payments 

Other changes 

Other comprehensive income 

Income after income taxes 

Dec. 31, 2016 

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
    
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

207

Bayer Group Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Augmented Version

Bayer Group Consolidated Statements 
of Cash Flows 

€ million 

Income after income taxes 

Income taxes 

Financial result 

Income taxes paid 

Depreciation, amortization and impairments 

Change in pension provisions 

(Gains) losses on retirements of noncurrent assets 

Decrease (increase) in inventories 

Decrease (increase) in trade accounts receivable 

(Decrease) increase in trade accounts payable 

Changes in other working capital, other noncash items 

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 
from continuing operations 

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 
from discontinued operations 

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 

Cash outflows for additions to property, plant, equipment and intangible assets 

Cash inflows from sales of property, plant, equipment and other assets  

Cash inflows from divestments 

Cash inflows from (outflows for) noncurrent financial assets 

Cash outflows for acquisitions less acquired cash 

Interest and dividends received 

Cash inflows from (outflows for) current financial assets 

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 

Capital contributions 

Proceeds from shares of Covestro AG 

Dividend payments 

Issuances of debt 

Retirements of debt 

Interest paid including interest-rate swaps 

Interest received from interest-rate swaps 

Cash outflows for the purchase of additional interests in subsidiaries 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 

[35]

Change in cash and cash equivalents due to business activities 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 

Change in cash and cash equivalents due to changes in scope of consolidation 

Change in cash and cash equivalents due to exchange rate movements 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 

2015 figures restated 

B 5

2016

4,558

1,329

1,155

(2,092)

3,743

(285)

(44)

(3)

(552)

452

(2)

2015

4,013 

1,223 

1,005 

(1,699)

3,332 

(221)

(105)

(191)

(1,059)

400 

138 

6,836 

8,259

Note

[33]

54 

6,890 

(2,517)

193 

2 

(26)

(176)

106 

(344)

[34]

(2,762)

– 

1,490 

(1,869)

830

9,089

(2,578)

111

(18)

(690)

2

89

(5,645)

(8,729)

3,300

–

(2,126)

16,620 

15,190

(19,549)

(15,920)

(812)

160 

(14)

(3,974)

154 

1,853 

5 

(153)

1,859 

(853)

59

–

(350)

10

1,859

3

27

1,899

 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
208 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial 
Statements of the Bayer Group

1. Key data by segment and region    

Key Data by Segment 

€ million 

Net sales (external) 

Change 

1 

Currency-adjusted change 

1 

Intersegment sales 

Net sales (total) 

Other operating income 

EBIT 

1 

EBIT before special items 

1 

EBITDA before special items 

1 

ROCE 

1 

Net cash provided by  
operating activities 

Equity-method income (loss) 

Equity-method investments 

Assets 

Capital expenditures 

Additions to noncurrent  
assets from acquisitions 

Depreciation, amortization  
and impairments 

of which impairment losses 

of which impairment loss  
reversals 

Research and development  
expenses 

Number of employees  
(as of Dec. 31) 

2 

Pharmaceuticals

Consumer Health

Crop Science

Animal Health

B 1/1

2015

2016

15,308 

+ 13.3% 

+ 8.7% 

38 

16,420

+ 7.3%

+ 8.7%

29

2015

6,076

+ 43.1%

+ 40.4%

2

2016

2015

6,037

– 0.6%

+ 3.5%

5

10,128

+ 9.2%

+ 2.4%

34

15,346 

16,449

6,078

6,042

10,162

154 

3,028 

3,327 

4,616 

207

3,389

3,947

5,251

14.4% 

16.2%

3,157 

3,368

1 

3 

–

3

108

768

1,005

1,456

4.0%

816

–

11

101

695

987

1,411

3.5%

874

2

11

643

2,094

1,872

2,406

2016

9,915 

2015

1,490

– 2.1% 

+ 13.1%

+ 0.2% 

+ 4.5%

2016

1,523

+ 2.2%

+ 4.8%

10

36 

9,951 

301 

1,755 

1,898 

2,421 

20

1,510

1,533

4

254

318

347

10

313

320

349

16.3%

12.9% 

47.8%

63.5%

749

2,071 

348

193

(1)

4

(1)

15 

22,389 

22,173

16,560

16,558

14,230

14,868 

764 

851

(145)

(3)

1,347 

62 

(1)

1,695

464

–

182

149

454

25

–

220

(1)

601

175

–

735

98

534

35

–

773 

(10)

525 

52 

– 

–

–

791

43

–

63

34

–

678

134

–

–

838

39

–

30

1

(1)

699

140

2,450 

2,787

250

259

1,082

1,164 

40,504 

40,093

13,513

12,821

23,268

22,399 

3,804

3,957

Liabilities 

8,385 

8,941

1,596

1,614

5,344

5,897 

2015 figures restated 
1 For definition see Combined Management Report, Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 
2 Full-time equivalents 

 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

209

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Key Data by Segment 

All Other Segments

Reconciliation

Corporate Functions
and Consolidation

Life Sciences

Covestro

€ million 

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

Group

2016

Net sales (external) 

1,097 

1,042 

4

6

34,103

34,943

11,982 

11,826 

46,085

46,769

B 1/1 continued

Change 

1 

Currency-adjusted 
change 

1 

Intersegment sales 

Net sales (total) 

Other operating income 

EBIT 

1 

EBIT before special items 

1 

EBITDA  
before special items 

1 

ROCE 

1 

Net cash provided by 
operating activities 

Equity-method income 
(loss) 

Equity-method investments 

– 1.3% 

– 5.0% 

– 42.9% + 50.0% + 15.7%

+ 2.5%

+ 2.8% 

– 1.3% 

+ 12.1%

+ 1.5%

– 0.8% 

– 4.2% 

– 42.9%

–

+ 10.7%

+ 4.7%

– 5.1% 

0.0% 

+ 6.2%

+ 3.5%

2,249 

3,346 

2,124 

3,166 

(2,407)

(2,403)

(2,279)

(2,273)

64

(499)

(472)

77

(364)

(344)

–

–

1,042

5,606

6,093

–

–

787

5,738

6,826

64 

75 

–

–

12,046 

11,901 

46,085

46,769

67 

635 

967 

111 

1,304 

1,304 

1,109

6,241

7,060

898

7,042

8,130

(466)

(338)

8,597

9,318

1,659 

1,984 

10,256

11,302

–

–

10.4%

10.3%

7.1% 

15.3% 

9.9%

11.0%

27 

503 

287

(574)

5,384

6,435

1,452 

1,824 

6,836

8,259

– 

– 

– 

– 

–

1

(7)

325

–

19

(6)

354

(9)

227 

(20)

230 

(9)

246

(26)

584

69 

(39)

43 

238 

– 

91 

(50)

18 

224 

– 

Assets 

2,324 

2,632 

8,263

15,986

64,557

73,055

9,360 

9,183 

73,917

82,238

Capital expenditures 

311 

307 

Additions to noncurrent 
assets from acquisitions 

Depreciation, amortization 
and impairments 

of which impairment 
losses 

of which impairment  
loss reversals 

– 

– 

195 

206 

4 

– 

7 

– 

5

–

6

–

–

18

2,040

2,208

514 

419 

2,554

2,627

–

6

–

–

102

(14)

27 

– 

129

(14)

2,599

3,063

733 

680 

3,332

3,743

160

699

(1)

(1)

69 

– 

13 

229

712

– 

(1)

(1)

Liabilities 

4,814 

5,616 

23,915

23,724

44,732

46,491

3,740 

3,850 

48,472

50,341

Research and development 
expenses 

Number of employees  
(as of Dec. 31) 

2 

32 

39 

64

16

4,012

4,405

262 

261 

4,274

4,666

19,015 

19,494 

709

828

100,813

99,592

15,770 

15,578 

116,583

115,170

2015 figures restated 
1 For definition see Combined Management Report, Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 
2 Full-time equivalents 

 
 
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
210 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

2015 figures restated 
1 For definition see Combined Management Report, Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 
2 Full-time equivalents 

  B 1/2 (continued)

28,818

27,407

Key Data by Region 

€ million 

Net sales (external) – by market 

Change1 

Currency-adjusted change 

1 

Net sales (external) – by point of origin 

Change 

1 

Currency-adjusted change 

1 

Interregional sales 

Other operating income 

EBIT 

1 

Assets 

Capital expenditures 

Depreciation, amortization and impairments 

Liabilities 

Research and development expenses 

Number of employees (as of Dec. 31) 

2 

Key Data by Region 

€ million 

Net sales (external) – by market 

Change 

1 

Currency-adjusted change 

1 

Net sales (external) – by point of origin 

Change 

1 

Currency-adjusted change 

1 

Interregional sales 

Other operating income 

EBIT1 

Assets 

Capital expenditures 

Depreciation, amortization and impairments 

Liabilities 

Research and development expenses 

B 1/2

Europe /
Middle East / Africa

North America

Asia / Pacific

2015

17,707

+ 5.0%

+ 5.6%

18,528

+ 5.4%

+ 6.1%

10,340

580

4,119

2016

17,823

+ 0.7%

+ 2.8%

18,808

+ 1.5%

+ 3.5%

10,745

331

4,673

2015

12,621

+ 28.0%

+ 10.8%

12,332

+ 27.3%

+ 9.5%

3,994

109

1,483

2016

12,806

+ 1.5%

+ 2.0%

12,375

+ 0.3%

+ 0.8%

4,280

223

1,128

2015

10,263

+ 13.2%

+ 1.4%

10,022

+ 13.6%

+ 1.5%

828

107

547

34,145

39,146

20,522

21,088

9,492

1,442

1,874

29,116

2,944

58,839

1,549

1,997

30,506

3,285

59,483

587

834

13,461

1,051

15,961

628

1,181

13,478

1,081

15,788

402

496

3,583

214

Latin America

Reconciliation

2015

2016

2015

2015

5,494

+ 3.2%

+ 7.7%

5,203

+ 3.4%

+ 8.7%

582

313

591

2016

5,108

– 7.0%

+ 0.8%

4,800

– 7.7%

+ 0.6%

530

218

440

5,079

5,823

123

122

1,486

65

151

80

1,599

71

–

–

–

–

–

–

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(15,744)

(16,467)

–

(499)

4,679

–

6

– 

(364)

6,350 

– 

6 

826

1,330 

–

–

– 

– 

46,085

+ 12.1%

+ 6.2%

46,085

12.1%

6.2%

–

1,109

6,241

73,917

2,554

3,332

48,472

4,274

2016

11,032

+ 7.5%

+ 7.9%

10,786

+ 7.6%

+ 8.1%

912

126

1,165

9,831

299

479

3,428

229

Total

2016

46,769

+ 1.5%

+ 3.5%

46,769

1.5%

3.5%

–

898

7,042

82,238

2,627

3,743

50,341

4,666

Number of employees (as of Dec. 31) 

2 

12,965

12,492

116,583

115,170

2015 figures restated 
1 For definition see Combined Management Report, Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 
2 Full-time equivalents 

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

211

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

2. General information 

The consolidated financial statements of the Bayer Group as of December 31, 2016, were prepared by 
Bayer Aktiengesellschaft (Bayer AG) according to the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) 
issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), London, United Kingdom, and the inter-
pretations of the IFRS Interpretations Committee (IFRS IC), both as endorsed by the European Union and 
in effect at the end of the reporting period. The applicable further requirements of Section 315a of the 
German Commercial Code were also taken into account. 

Bayer AG is a global enterprise based in Germany. Its registered office is at Kaiser-Wilhelm-Allee 1, 51368 
Leverkusen. Its material business activities in the fields of health care, agriculture and high-tech polymer materi-
als took place in the reporting period in the Pharmaceuticals, Consumer Health, Crop Science, Animal Health 
and Covestro segments. The activities of each segment are outlined in Note [5]. 

The declarations required under Section 161 of the German Stock Corporation Act concerning the German 
Corporate Governance Code have been issued and made available to stockholders. 

The Board of Management of Bayer AG prepared the consolidated financial statements of the Bayer Group 
on February 14, 2017. They were discussed by the Audit Committee of the Supervisory Board of Bayer AG 
at its meeting on February 20, 2017, and approved by the Supervisory Board at its plenary meeting on 
February 21, 2017. 

In the income statement and statement of comprehensive income, statement of financial position, state-
ment of cash flows and statement of changes in equity, certain items are combined for the sake of clarity.  
These are explained in the Notes. The income statement is prepared using the cost-of-sales method. As-
sets and liabilities are classified by maturity. They are regarded as current if they mature within one year or 
within the normal business cycle of the company or the Group, or are held for sale. The normal business 
cycle is defined for this purpose as beginning with the procurement of the resources necessary for the 
production process and ending with the receipt of cash or cash equivalents as consideration for the sale of 
the goods or services produced in that process. Inventories and trade accounts receivable and payable are 
always presented as current items. Deferred tax assets and liabilities and pension provisions are always 
presented as noncurrent items. 

The consolidated financial statements of the Bayer Group are drawn up in euros. Amounts are stated 
in millions of euros (€ million) except where otherwise indicated. 

The financial statements of the individual consolidated companies are prepared as of the closing date of 
the Group financial statements. 

3. Effects of new financial reporting standards 

Financial reporting standards applied for the first time in 2016 
The first-time application of the following amended financial reporting standards had no impact, or no 
material impact, on the presentation of Bayer’s financial position or results of operations, or on earnings 
per share. 

In May 2014, the IASB published amendments to IAS 16 (Property, Plant and Equipment) and IAS 38  
(Intangible Assets) entitled “Clarification of Acceptable Methods of Depreciation and Amortisation.” These 
amendments clarify that revenue-based depreciation of property, plant and equipment or amortization of 
intangible assets is inappropriate. 

In May 2014, the IASB published amendments to IFRS 11 (Joint Arrangements) entitled “Accounting for 
Acquisitions of Interests in Joint Operations.” The amendments clarify the accounting for the acquisition of 
an interest in a joint operation in which the activity constitutes a business. 

 
 
212 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

In December 2014, the IASB published its Disclosure Initiative containing amendments to IAS 1 (Presenta-
tion of Financial Statements), which are intended to clarify the disclosure requirements. They relate to ma-
teriality, line-item aggregation, subtotals, the structure of the Notes to the financial statements, the identifi-
cation of significant accounting policies and the separate disclosure of the other comprehensive income of 
associates and joint ventures. 

In December 2014, the IASB published amendments to IFRS 10 (Consolidated Financial Statements), 
IFRS 12 (Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities) and IAS 28 (Investments in Associates and Joint Ven-
tures) entitled “Investment Entities: Applying the Consolidation Exception.” The amendments largely clarify 
which subsidiaries an investment entity must consolidate and which must be recognized at fair value 
through profit or loss. 

Changes in accounting methods 
The legal and economic independence of Covestro results in changes to the global annual impairment 
tests for Covestro. In the future, from the perspective of the Bayer Group, the strategic business entities of 
Covestro will be subjected to impairment testing as a group of cash-generating units because the goodwill 
of Covestro will be monitored by Bayer Group management at this aggregated level from now on. 

Published financial reporting standards that have not yet been applied 
The IASB and the IFRS Interpretations Committee have issued the following standards, amendments to 
standards, and interpretations whose application was not yet mandatory for the 2016 fiscal year and is 
conditional upon their endorsement by the European Union. 

In July 2014, the IASB published the most recent version of IFRS 9 (Financial Instruments). The new 
standard contains revised rules for the classification and measurement of financial assets and liabilities, 
impairments of financial assets, and hedge accounting. IFRS 9 defines three instead of four measurement 
categories for capitalized financial instruments, with classification to be based partly on the company’s 
business model and partly on the characteristics of the contractual cash flows from the respective financial 
asset. In the case of equity instruments that are not held for trading, an entity may irrevocably opt at initial 
recognition either to account for such instruments at fair value through profit or loss or to recognize future 
changes in their fair value outside profit or loss in the statement of comprehensive income and not subse-
quently reclassify these changes in fair value, even upon their derecognition.  

The new impairment model is based on the principle of accounting for an expected loss from the date of 
first-time recognition of a financial asset, before a loss event occurs. The aim of the revisions regarding 
hedge accounting is to achieve a more objective presentation of risk management in the financial state-
ments. This also involved the revision of IFRS 7, leading to a requirement for additional disclosures in the 
Notes. IFRS 9 is to be applied for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. It was endorsed 
by the European Union in November 2016. The evaluation of this standard’s impact on the presentation of 
Bayer’s financial position and results of operations has not yet been completed. No decision has yet been 
made on whether to exercise the options the standard provides for facilitating the transition and for ac-
counting for financial instruments recognized from January 1, 2018, onward. Based on current knowledge, 
the effects of applying the final version of IFRS 9 on the allocation of financial instruments to measurement 
categories and thus on the results of operations are estimated to be immaterial. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

213

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

In May 2014, the IASB issued IFRS 15 (Revenue from Contracts with Customers). IFRS 15 is the new 
standard for revenue recognition. It clarifies that the expected consideration for goods or services must 
be recognized as revenue when the goods or intangible assets are transferred or the services are ren-
dered to the customer. This principle is applied in five steps. In step 1, the contract with the customer is 
identified. In step 2, the distinct performance obligations in the contract are identified. In step 3, the 
transaction price is determined. In step 4, this transaction price is allocated to the distinct performance 
obligations. Finally, in step 5, revenue is recognized when the identified distinct performance obligations 
are satisfied, either over time or at a point in time. IFRS 15 replaces IAS 11 (Construction Contracts), 
IAS 18 (Revenue), IFRIC 13 (Customer Loyalty Programmes), IFRIC 15 (Agreements for the Construction 
of Real Estate), IFRIC 18 (Transfers of Assets from Customers) and SIC-31 (Revenue-Barter Transactions 
Involving Advertising Services). The new standard is to be applied for annual periods beginning on or after 
January 1, 2018.  

Bayer currently plans to implement IFRS 15 on the basis of the modified retrospective method, accounting 
for the aggregate amount of any transition effects by way of an adjustment to retained earnings as of Jan-
uary 1, 2018, and presenting the comparative period in line with previous rules. All of the established busi-
ness models for the Bayer Group’s Life Science divisions were examined in the course of the implementa-
tion project. The analysis did not yet cover all material consolidated companies. Based on current 
knowledge, Bayer does not expect the new standard to materially affect the timing of revenue recognition 
for the transactions concerned or their components. The evaluation of certain individual licensing agree-
ments has not yet been completed. 

IFRS 15 clarifies the allocation of individual topics to (new) line items in the statement of financial position 
and to functional cost items in the income statement, and whether gross or net amounts are to be pre-
sented. Determination of the effects on the level of sales or selling expenses has not yet been completed. 
Based on current knowledge, however, we do not anticipate any material effects on these items. Overall, 
we do not currently expect any material effects on the presentation of Bayer’s financial position or results 
of operations as a whole, or on earnings per share.  

In September 2014, the IASB published amendments to IFRS 10 (Consolidated Financial Statements) and 
IAS 28 (Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures) entitled “Sale or Contribution of Assets between an 
Investor and its Associate or Joint Venture.” The amendments clarify that in a transaction involving an as-
sociate or joint venture the extent of gain or loss recognition depends on whether the assets sold or con-
tributed constitute a business. An amendment issued in December 2015 indefinitely defers the effective 
date of the September 2014 amendments, which were originally intended to be applied for annual periods 
beginning on or after January 1, 2016. The IASB is to set a new effective date. 

In January 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16 (Leases), the new standard for lease accounting. IFRS 16 intro-
duces a uniform lease accounting model for lessees, requiring recognition of assets and liabilities for all 
leases with a term of more than 12 months unless such leases are immaterial. It will eliminate the current 
requirement for lessees to classify lease contracts as either operating leases – without recognizing the 
respective assets or liabilities – or as finance leases. The new standard is to be applied for annual periods 
beginning on or after January 1, 2019. It has not yet been endorsed by the European Union. Bayer is cur-
rently evaluating the impact the standard will have on the presentation of its financial position and results of 
operations. 

In January 2016, the IASB published amendments to IAS 12 (Income Taxes) under the title “Recognition of 
Deferred Tax Assets for Unrealised Losses.” These amendments clarify the accounting for deferred tax 
assets related to debt instruments measured at fair value. The amendments are to be applied for annual 
periods beginning on or after January 1, 2017. They have not yet been endorsed by the European Union. 
Bayer is currently evaluating the impact the amendments will have on the presentation of its financial posi-
tion and results of operations. 

 
 
 
 
214 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

In January 2016, the IASB published amendments to IAS 7 (Statement of Cash Flows) under its Disclosure 
Initiative. The following changes in liabilities arising from financing activities must be disclosed in the future: 
a) changes from financing cash flows; b) changes arising from obtaining or losing control of subsidiaries or 
other businesses; c) the effect of changes in foreign exchange rates; d) changes in fair values; e) other 
changes. The amendments are to be applied for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2017. 
They have not yet been endorsed by the European Union. 

In April 2016, the IASB issued Clarifications to IFRS 15 (Revenue from Contracts with Customers). These 
amendments address three topics: identifying performance obligations, principal versus agent considera-
tions, and licensing. They also provide some transition relief for modified contracts and completed con-
tracts. The amendments are to be applied for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. They 
have not yet been endorsed by the European Union. Bayer is currently evaluating the impact the amend-
ments will have on the presentation of its financial position and results of operations. 

In June 2016, the IASB published an amendment to IFRS 2 (Share-based Payment) under the title “Classi-
fication and Measurement of Share-based Payment Transactions.” This amendment provides guidance on 
certain accounting issues relating to cash-settled share-based payments. For example, the fair value of the 
equity instruments is not to be adjusted for service conditions or non-market-based performance condi-
tions. Instead, these are to be taken into account by adjusting the number of equity instruments expected 
to vest. The amendment is to be applied for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. It has 
not yet been endorsed by the European Union. Bayer is currently evaluating the impact the amendment will 
have on the presentation of its financial position and results of operations. 

In December 2016, the IASB published an amendment to IAS 40 (Investment Property) under the title 
“Transfers of Investment Property.” This specifies that a property may only be transferred to or from the 
investment property classification when there has been an actual change in use and not when there is a 
mere change of intent concerning the property. The amendment is to be applied for annual periods begin-
ning on or after January 1, 2018. It has not yet been endorsed by the European Union. Bayer is currently 
evaluating the impact the amendment will have on the presentation of its financial position and results of 
operations. 

In December 2016, the IASB published “Annual Improvements to IFRS Standards 2014-2016 Cycle” as 
part of its annual improvements project. The amendments relate to IFRS 1 (First Time Adoption of IFRS), 
IFRS 12 (Disclosure of Interest in Other Entities) and IAS 28 (Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures). 
They mainly contain clarifications on the scope of application and other matters. The amendments to 
IFRS 1 and IAS 28 are to be applied for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018, those to 
IFRS 12 for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2017. They have not yet been endorsed by the 
European Union. Bayer is currently evaluating the impact the amendments will have on the presentation of 
its financial position and results of operations. 

In December 2016, the IASB published the IFRIC Interpretation 22 (Foreign Currency Transactions and 
Advance Consideration) relating to IAS 21 (The Effects of Changes in Foreign Exchange Rates). The Inter-
pretation clarifies that the assets, income and expenses accounted for following a foreign currency trans-
action are to be translated at the same exchange rate as any related receipts or payments of advance 
consideration. IFRIC 22 is to be applied for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018. It has 
not yet been endorsed by the European Union. Bayer is currently evaluating the impact the Interpretation 
will have on the presentation of its financial position and results of operations. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

215

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

4. Basic principles, methods and critical accounting estimates 

The financial statements of the consolidated companies are prepared according to uniform accounting 
policies and measurement principles.  

The consolidated financial statements of the Group are based on the principle of the historical cost of 
acquisition, construction or production, with the exception of the items reflected at fair value, such as 
financial assets held for trading or available for sale, and derivatives. 

In preparing the consolidated financial statements, the management has to make certain assumptions and 
estimates that may substantially impact the presentation of the Group’s financial position and / or results of 
operations. 

Such estimates, assumptions or the exercise of discretion mainly relate to the useful life of noncurrent 
assets, the discounted cash flows used for impairment testing and purchase price allocations, and the 
recognition of provisions, including those for litigation-related expenses, pensions and other benefits, tax-
es, environmental compliance and remediation costs, sales allowances, product liability and guarantees. 
Essential estimates and assumptions that may affect reporting in the various item categories of the finan-
cial statements are described in the following sections of this Note. Estimates are based on historical ex-
perience and other assumptions that are considered reasonable under given circumstances. They are 
continually reviewed but may vary from the actual values. 

Changes in accounting policies or measurement principles in light of new or revised standards are applied 
retrospectively, except as otherwise provided in the respective standard. The income statement for the 
previous year and the opening statement of financial position for that year are adjusted as if the new ac-
counting policies and / or measurement principles had always been applied. 

Consolidation 
The consolidated financial statements include subsidiaries, joint arrangements and associates. 

Subsidiaries are companies over which Bayer AG is currently able to exercise power by virtue of existing 
rights. Power means the ability to direct the activities that significantly influence a company’s profitability. 
Control is therefore only deemed to exist if Bayer AG is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its 
involvement with a company and has the ability to use its power over that company to affect the amount of 
that company’s returns. The ability to control another company generally derives from Bayer AG’s direct or 
indirect ownership of a majority of the voting rights. In the case of structured entities, however, control is 
based on contractual agreements. Inclusion of an entity’s accounts in the consolidated financial state-
ments begins when the Bayer Group is able to exercise control over the entity and ceases when it is no 
longer able to do so.  

Joint operations and joint ventures are based on joint arrangements. A joint arrangement is deemed to 
exist if the Bayer Group through a contractual agreement jointly controls activities managed with a third 
party. Joint control is only deemed to exist if decisions regarding the relevant activities require the unani-
mous consent of the parties sharing control. 

 
 
 
 
216 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

A joint operation is a joint arrangement whereby the parties that have joint control of the arrangement have 
rights to the assets, and obligations for the liabilities, relating to the arrangement. The Bayer Group recog-
nizes the share of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses relating to its interest in a joint operation in 
accordance with its rights and obligations. 

A joint venture is a joint arrangement whereby the parties that have joint control of the arrangement have 
rights to the net assets of the arrangement. Joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method. 

Associates over which Bayer AG exerts significant influence, generally through an ownership interest be-
tween 20% and 50%, are also accounted for using the equity method. 

The carrying amount of a company accounted for using the equity method is adjusted annually by any 
change in its equity corresponding to Bayer’s percentage interest in the company. Differences arising upon 
first-time inclusion using the equity method are accounted for according to full-consolidation principles. 
Bayer’s share of changes in these companies’ equities recognized in profit or loss – including impairment 
losses recognized on goodwill – are reflected in equity-method income / loss. 

Companies that do not have a material impact on the Group’s financial position or results of operations, 
either individually or in aggregate, are accounted for at cost of acquisition less any impairment losses. 

Foreign currency translation 
The financial statements of the individual companies for inclusion in the consolidated financial statements 
are prepared in their respective functional currencies. A company’s functional currency is that of the eco-
nomic environment in which it primarily generates and expends cash. The majority of consolidated compa-
nies carry out their activities autonomously from a financial, economic and organizational point of view, and 
their functional currencies are therefore the respective local currencies. 

In the consolidated financial statements, the assets and liabilities of companies outside the eurozone at the 
start and end of the year are translated into euros at closing rates. All changes occurring during the year 
and all income and expense items and cash flows are translated into euros at average monthly rates. Equi-
ty components are translated at the historical exchange rates prevailing at the respective dates of their 
first-time recognition in Group equity. 

The exchange differences arising between the resulting amounts and those obtained by translating at clos-
ing rates are recognized outside profit or loss as “Exchange differences on translation of operations out-
side the eurozone” (in other comprehensive income) or “Exchange differences” (in the tables in the Notes). 
When a company is deconsolidated or the net investment in a foreign operation is reduced, such exchange 
differences are reclassified from equity to profit or loss. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

217

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

The exchange rates for major currencies against the euro varied as follows: 

Exchange Rates for Major Currencies  

€1/ 

BRL 

CAD 

CHF 

CNY 

GBP 

JPY 

MXN 

RUB 

USD 

Brazil 

Canada 

Switzerland 

China 

United Kingdom 

Japan 

Mexico 

Russia 

United States 

Closing rate

Average rate

B 4/1

2015

4.31

1.51

1.08

7.06

0.73

131.07

18.91

80.67

1.09

2016

3.43

1.42

1.07

7.35

0.86

123.36

21.78

64.30

1.05

2015

3.64

1.42

1.07

6.97

0.73

134.28

17.56

67.23

1.11

2016

3.84

1.47

1.09

7.36

0.82

120.06

20.62

73.79

1.11

In 2016, as in prior years, the rules of IAS 29 (Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies) were 
relevant for Bayer S.A., Venezuela. Gains and losses incurred upon adjusting the carrying amounts of 
nonmonetary assets and liabilities and of items in the income statement for inflation are recognized in other 
operating income and expenses. 

Starting in January 2016, foreign currency translation and valuation were switched to the “hyperinflation-
adjusted” SIMADI exchange rate. This is determined internally because reliable exchange rates are not 
available externally. It was initially based on the official SIMADI rate and has subsequently been adjusted in 
line with published inflation rates. The exchange rate thus calculated was VEF 2,737 to the U.S. dollar at 
the end of December 2016. The resulting U.S. dollar amounts were then translated at the dollar / euro  
closing-date rate.  

Foreign currency measurement 
In the separate financial statements of the individual consolidated companies, monetary items, such as 
receivables and liabilities, that are denominated in currencies other than the respective functional currency 
are measured at closing rates. Related exchange differences are recognized in profit or loss as exchange 
gains or losses under other financial income or expenses. 

Net sales and other operating income 
All revenues derived from the selling of products or rendering of services or from licensing agreements are 
recognized as sales. Other operational revenues are recognized as other operating income. Sales are rec-
ognized in profit or loss when the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods have been trans-
ferred to the customer, the company retains neither continuing managerial involvement to the degree usu-
ally associated with ownership nor effective control over the goods sold, the amount of revenue and costs 
incurred or to be incurred can be measured reliably, and it is sufficiently probable that the economic bene-
fits associated with the transaction will flow to the company. 

Sales are stated net of sales taxes, other taxes and sales deductions at the fair value of the consideration 
received or to be received. Sales deductions are estimated amounts for rebates, cash discounts and 
product returns. They are deducted at the time the sales are recognized, and appropriate provisions are 
recorded. Sales deductions are estimated primarily on the basis of historical experience, specific contrac-
tual terms and future expectations of sales development. It is unlikely that factors other than these could 
materially affect sales deductions in the Bayer Group. Adjustments to provisions made in prior periods for 
rebates, cash discounts or product returns were of secondary importance for income before income taxes 
in the years under report. 

 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
218 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Provisions for rebates in 2016 amounted to 4.2% of total net sales (2015: 3.8%). In addition to rebates, 
Group companies offer cash discounts for prompt payment in some countries. Provisions for cash dis-
counts as of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 were less than 0.1% of total net sales for the 
respective year.  

Sales are reduced by the amount of the provisions for expected returns of defective goods or of saleable 
products that may be returned under contractual arrangements. The net sales are reduced on the date of 
sale or on the date when the amount of future returns can be reasonably estimated. Provisions for product 
returns in 2016 amounted to 0.4% of total net sales (2015: 0.4%). If future product returns cannot be rea-
sonably estimated and are significant to a sales transaction, the revenues and the related cost of sales are 
deferred until a reasonable estimate can be made or the right to return the goods has expired. 

Some of the Bayer Group’s revenues are generated on the basis of licensing agreements under which third 
parties have been granted rights to products and technologies. Payments received, or expected to be 
received, that relate to the sale or out-licensing of technologies or technological expertise are recognized 
in profit or loss as of the effective date of the respective agreement if all rights relating to the technologies 
and all obligations resulting from them have been relinquished under the contract terms. However, if rights 
to the technologies continue to exist or obligations resulting from them have yet to be fulfilled, the pay-
ments received are deferred accordingly. Upfront payments and similar nonrefundable payments received 
under these agreements are recorded as other liabilities and recognized in profit or loss according to the 
degree of performance over the estimated performance period stipulated in the agreement. 

License agreements and research and development collaboration agreements may be multiple-deliverable 
arrangements with varying consideration terms, such as upfront payments and milestone or similar pay-
ments. Such agreements therefore have to be assessed to determine whether the revenues allocated to 
individual deliverables must be recognized at different points in time and therefore form separate units of 
account.  

To qualify as a separate unit of account for revenue recognition purposes, a deliverable must have value to 
the licensee on a standalone basis. If this is not the case, the agreement as a whole or a combination of 
individual deliverables that has value on a standalone basis forms a unit of account. 

If necessary goods have yet to be delivered or necessary services provided for a unit of account and such 
delivery or provision is probable, nonrefundable (royalty) payments already received are recognized through 
profit or loss over the periods in which these goods are delivered or these services are provided. 

Income may also arise from the exchange of intangible assets. The amount recognized is generally based 
on the fair value of the assets given up, calculated using the discounted cash flow method. If the assets 
given up are internally generated, the gain from the exchange generally equals their fair value. 

Research and development expenses 
For accounting purposes, research expenses are defined as costs incurred for current or planned investi-
gations undertaken with the prospect of gaining new scientific or technical knowledge and understanding. 
Development expenses are defined as costs incurred for the application of research findings or specialist 
knowledge to plans or designs for the production, provision or development of new or substantially im-
proved products, services or processes, respectively, prior to the commencement of commercial produc-
tion or use. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

219

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Research and development expenses are incurred in the Bayer Group for in-house research and develop-
ment activities as well as numerous research and development collaborations and alliances with third par-
ties. 

Research and development expenses mainly comprise the costs for active ingredient discovery, clinical 
studies, research and development activities in the areas of application technology and engineering, field 
trials, regulatory approvals and approval extensions. 

Research costs cannot be capitalized. The conditions for capitalization of development costs are closely 
defined: an intangible asset must be recognized if, and only if, there is reasonable certainty of receiving 
future cash flows that will cover an asset’s carrying amount. Since our own development projects are often 
subject to regulatory approval procedures and other uncertainties, the conditions for the capitalization of 
costs incurred before receipt of approvals are not normally satisfied. 

In the case of research and development collaborations, a distinction is generally made between payments 
on contract signature, upfront payments, milestone payments and cost reimbursements for work per-
formed. If an intangible asset (such as the right to the use of an active ingredient) is acquired in connection 
with any of these payment obligations, the respective payment is capitalized even if it is uncertain whether 
further development work will ultimately lead to the production of a saleable product. Reimbursements of 
the cost of research or development work are recognized in profit or loss, except where they are required 
to be capitalized. 

Income taxes 
Income taxes comprise the taxes levied on taxable income in the individual countries along with changes in 
deferred tax assets and liabilities that are recognized in profit or loss. The income taxes recognized are 
reflected at the amounts likely to be payable under the statutory regulations in force, or already enacted in 
relation to future periods, at the end of the reporting period. 

Complex tax regulations may give rise to uncertainties with respect to their interpretation and the amounts 
and timing of future taxable income. Given the wide range of international business relationships and the 
long-term nature and complexity of existing contractual agreements, differences arising between the actual 
results and the assumptions made, or future changes to such assumptions, could necessitate adjustments 
to tax income and expense in future periods. The Group establishes provisions for taxes, based on rea-
sonable estimates, for liabilities to the tax authorities of the respective countries that are uncertain as to 
their amount and the probability of their occurrence. The amount of such provisions is based on various 
factors, such as experience with previous tax audits and differing legal interpretations by the taxable entity 
and the responsible tax authority. 

In compliance with IAS 12 (Income Taxes), deferred taxes are recognized for temporary differences be-
tween the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the statement of financial position prepared accord-
ing to IFRS and their tax bases. Deferred taxes are also recognized for consolidation measures and for loss 
carryforwards, interest carryforwards and tax credits that are likely to be usable. 

Deferred tax assets relating to deductible temporary differences, tax credits, loss carryforwards and inter-
est carryforwards are recognized where it is sufficiently probable that taxable income will be available in the 
future to enable them to be used. Deferred tax liabilities are recognized on temporary differences taxable in 
the future. Deferred taxes are calculated at the rates which – on the basis of the statutory regulations in 
force, or already enacted in relation to future periods, as of the closing date – are expected to apply in the 
individual countries at the time of realization. Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset if 
they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority and Bayer has a legal right to settle on a 
net basis. Material effects of changes in tax rates or tax law on deferred tax assets and liabilities are gen-
erally accounted for in the period in which the changes are enacted. Such effects are recognized in profit 
or loss except where they relate to deferred taxes that were recognized outside profit or loss, in which 
case they are recognized in other comprehensive income. 

 
 
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Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Deferred and current taxes are recognized in profit or loss unless they relate to items recognized outside 
profit or loss in other comprehensive income, in which case they, too, are recognized in other comprehen-
sive income. 

The probability that deferred tax assets resulting from temporary differences, loss carryforwards or interest 
carryforwards can be used in the future is the subject of forecasts by the individual consolidated compa-
nies regarding their future earnings situation and other parameters.  

Deferred tax liabilities are recognized on planned dividend payments by subsidiaries. Where no dividend 
payment is planned for the foreseeable future, no deferred tax liability is recognized on the difference be-
tween the proportionate net assets according to IFRS and the tax base of the investment in the subsidiary. 

Goodwill  
In a business combination, goodwill is capitalized at the acquisition date. It is measured at its cost of ac-
quisition, which is the excess of the acquisition price for shares in a company over the acquired net assets. 
The net assets are the balance of the fair values of the acquired identifiable assets and the assumed liabili-
ties and contingent liabilities. 

Goodwill is not amortized, but tested annually for impairment. Details of the annual impairment tests are 
given under “Procedure used in global impairment testing and its impact.” Once an impairment loss has 
been recognized on goodwill, it is not reversed in subsequent periods. 

Other intangible assets 
An “other intangible asset” is an identifiable nonmonetary asset without physical substance, other than 
goodwill (such as a patent, a trademark or a marketing right). It is capitalized if the future economic bene-
fits attributable to the asset will probably flow to the company and the cost of acquisition or generation of 
the asset can be reliably measured. 

Other intangible assets are recognized at the cost of acquisition or generation. Those with a determinable 
useful life are amortized accordingly on a straight-line basis over a period of up to 30 years, except where 
their actual depletion demands a different amortization pattern. Determination of the expected useful lives 
of such assets and the amortization patterns is based on estimates of the period for which they will gener-
ate cash flows. An impairment test is performed if there is an indication of possible impairment. 

Other intangible assets with an indefinite life (such as the Bayer Cross trademark) and intangible assets not 
yet available for use (such as research and development projects) are not amortized, but tested annually 
for impairment. 

Property, plant and equipment 
Property, plant and equipment is depreciated by the straight-line method over an asset’s useful life, except 
where depreciation based on actual depletion is more appropriate. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

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The following depreciation periods are applied throughout the Group: 

Useful Life of Property, Plant and Equipment 

Buildings  

Outdoor infrastructure 

Storage tanks and pipelines 

Plant installations 

Machinery and equipment 

Furniture and fixtures 

Vehicles 

Computer equipment 

Laboratory and research facilities 

B 4/2

20 to 50 years

10 to 20 years

10 to 20 years

6 to 20 years

6 to 12 years

4 to 10 years

5 to 8 years

3 to 5 years

3 to 5 years

When assets are sold, closed down or scrapped, the difference between the net proceeds and the net 
carrying amount of the assets is recognized as a gain or loss in other operating income or expenses, re-
spectively. 

Investment property comprises land and buildings not being used for operational or administrative purpos-
es. It is measured using the cost model. The fair value of the investment property reported in the Notes is 
determined using the discounted cash flow method, comparisons with the current market values of similar 
properties, or reports from external experts. 

Financial assets 
Financial assets comprise loans and receivables, acquired equity and debt instruments, cash and cash 
equivalents, and derivatives with positive fair values. 

Regular-way purchases and sales of financial assets are generally posted on the settlement date. Financial 
assets are initially recognized at fair value plus transaction costs. The transaction costs incurred for the 
purchase of financial assets held at fair value through profit or loss are expensed immediately. 

If there are substantial and objective indications of a decline in the value of loans and receivables, held-
to-maturity financial assets or available-for-sale financial assets, an impairment test is performed. Indica-
tions of possible impairment include a high probability of insolvency, a significant deterioration in credit 
standing, a material breach of contract, operating losses reported by a company over several years, a 
reduction in market value, the financial restructuring of the debtor, or the disappearance of an active 
market for the asset. 

Financial assets are derecognized when contractual rights to receive cash flows from the financial assets 
expire or the financial assets are transferred together with all material risks and benefits. 

Inventories 
In accordance with IAS 2 (Inventories), inventories encompass assets consumed in production or in the 
rendering of services (raw materials and supplies), assets in the production process for sale (work in 
process), goods held for sale in the ordinary course of business (finished goods and goods purchased for 
resale), and advance payments on inventories. Inventories are recognized at their cost of acquisition or 
production – calculated by the weighted-average method – or at their net realizable value, whichever  
is lower. The net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less esti-
mated cost to complete and selling expenses. 

 
 
  
 
  
  
 
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Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Cash and cash equivalents 
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash, checks received and balances with banks and companies. 
Cash equivalents are highly liquid short-term financial investments that are subject to an insignificant risk of 
changes in value, are easily convertible into a known amount of cash and have a maturity of three months 
or less from the date of acquisition or investment. 

Provisions for pensions and other post-employment benefits 
Within the Bayer Group, post-employment benefits are provided under defined contribution and / or defined 
benefit plans. In the case of defined contribution plans, the company pays contributions to publicly or 
privately administered pension plans on a mandatory, contractual or voluntary basis. Once the contribu-
tions have been paid, the company has no further payment obligations. The regular contributions consti-
tute expenses for the year in which they are due and as such are included in the functional cost items, and 
thus in EBIT. All other post-employment benefit systems are defined benefit plans, which may be either 
unfunded, i.e. financed by provisions, or funded, i.e. financed through pension funds. 

The present value of provisions for defined benefit plans and the resulting expense are calculated in ac-
cordance with IAS 19 (Employee Benefits) by the projected unit credit method. The future benefit obliga-
tions are valued by actuarial methods and spread over the entire employment period on the basis of spe-
cific assumptions regarding beneficiary structure and the economic environment. These relate mainly to the 
discount rate, future salary and pension increases, variations in health care costs, and mortality rates. 

The discount rates used are calculated from the yields of high-quality corporate bond portfolios in specific 
currencies with cash flows approximately equivalent to the expected disbursements from the pension 
plans. The uniform discount rate derived from this interest-rate structure is thus based on the yields, at the 
closing date, of a portfolio of AA-rated corporate bonds whose weighted residual maturities approximately 
correspond to the duration necessary to cover the entire benefit obligation. 

The fair value of plan assets is deducted from the present value of the defined benefit obligation for pen-
sions and other post-employment benefits to determine the net defined benefit liability. The obligations and 
plan assets are valued at regular intervals of not more than three years. Comprehensive actuarial valuations 
for all major plans are performed annually as of December 31. Plan assets in excess of the benefit obliga-
tion are reflected in other receivables, subject to the asset ceiling specified in IAS 19 (Employee Benefits). 

The balance of all income and expenses relating to defined benefit plans, except the net interest on the net 
liability, is recognized in EBIT. The net interest is reflected in the financial result under other financial income 
and expenses.  

The effects of remeasurements of the net defined benefit liability are reflected in the statement of compre-
hensive income as other comprehensive income. They consist of actuarial gains and losses, the return on 
plan assets and changes in the effects of the asset ceiling, less the respective amounts included in net 
interest. Deferred taxes relating to the effects of remeasurements are also recognized in other comprehen-
sive income. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

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Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Other provisions  
Other provisions are recognized for present legal and constructive obligations arising from past events that 
will probably give rise to a future outflow of resources, provided that a reliable estimate can be made of the 
amount of the obligations. 

If the projected obligation declines as a result of a change in the estimate, the provision is reversed by the 
corresponding amount and the resulting income recognized in the operating expense item(s) in which the 
original charge was recognized. 

To enhance the information content of the estimates, certain provisions that could have a material effect on 
the financial position or results of operations of the Group are tested for their sensitivity to changes in the 
underlying parameters. To reflect uncertainty about the likelihood of the assumed events actually occurring, 
the impact of a five-percentage-point change in the probability of occurrence is examined in each case. 
This analysis has not shown other provisions to be materially sensitive. 

Provisions for environmental protection are recorded if future cash outflows are likely to be necessary to 
ensure compliance with environmental regulations or to carry out remediation work, such costs can be 
reliably estimated and no future benefits are expected from such measures. Provisions for environmental 
protection mainly relate to the rehabilitation of contaminated land, recultivation of landfills, and redevelop-
ment and water protection measures. 

Estimating the future costs of environmental protection and remediation involves many uncertainties, par-
ticularly with regard to the status of laws, regulations and the information available about conditions in the 
various countries and at the individual sites. Significant factors in estimating the costs include previous 
experiences in similar cases, the conclusions in expert opinions obtained regarding the Group’s environ-
mental programs, current costs and new developments affecting costs, management’s interpretation of 
current environmental laws and regulations, the number and financial position of third parties that may 
become obligated to participate in any remediation costs on the basis of joint liability, and the remediation 
methods likely to be deployed. Changes in these assumptions could impact future reported results of the 
Group. 

Taking into consideration experience gained to date regarding environmental matters of a similar nature, 
provisions are believed to be adequate based upon currently available information. Given the difficulties 
inherent in estimating liabilities in the businesses in which the Group operates, especially those for which 
the risk of environmental damage is greater in relative terms (Crop Science and Covestro), it remains pos-
sible that material additional costs will be incurred beyond the amounts accrued. It may transpire during 
remediation work that additional expenditures are necessary over an extended period and that these ex-
ceed existing provisions and cannot be reasonably estimated.  

Provisions for restructuring only cover expenses that arise directly from restructuring measures, are nec-
essary for restructuring and are not related to future business operations. Such expenses include sever-
ance payments to employees and compensation payments in respect of rented property that can no long-
er be used. 

Restructuring measures may include the sale or termination of business units, site closures, relocations of 
business activities or fundamental reorganizations of business units. 

Trade-related provisions are recorded mainly for the granting of rebates or discounts, product returns, 
obligations in respect of services already received but not yet invoiced, and impending losses or onerous 
contracts. 

 
 
 
 
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Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

As a global enterprise with a diverse business portfolio, the Bayer Group is exposed to numerous legal risks 
for which provisions for litigations must be established under certain conditions – particularly in the areas of 
product liability, competition and antitrust law, patent disputes, tax law and environmental protection.  

Litigations and other judicial proceedings often raise complex issues and are subject to many uncertainties 
and complexities including, but not limited to, the facts and circumstances of each particular case, the 
jurisdiction in which each suit is brought and differences in applicable law. The outcomes of currently 
pending and future proceedings generally cannot be predicted. It is particularly difficult to assess the likely 
outcomes of class actions for damages or mass compensation claims in the United States, which may give 
rise to significant financial risks for the Bayer Group. As a result of a judgment in court proceedings, regu-
latory decisions or the conclusion of a settlement, the Bayer Group may incur charges for which no ac-
counting measures have yet been taken for lack of reasonable estimability or which exceed presently es-
tablished provisions and the insurance coverage. 

The Bayer Group considers the need for accounting measures in respect of pending or future litigations, 
and the extent of any such measures, on the basis of the information available to its legal department and 
in close consultation with legal counsel acting for the Bayer Group.  

Where it is more likely than not that such a litigation will result in an outflow of resources that is already 
reasonably estimable, a provision for litigation is recorded in the amount of the present value of the ex-
pected cash outflows. Such provisions cover the estimated payments to the plaintiffs, court and procedur-
al costs, attorney costs and the cost of potential settlements.  

It is frequently impossible to reliably determine the existence of a present obligation or reasonably estimate 
the probability that a potential outflow of resources will result from a pending or future litigation. The status 
of the material “legal risks” is described in Note [32]. Due to the special nature of these litigations, provi-
sions generally are not established until initial settlements allow an estimate of potential amounts or judg-
ments have been issued. Provisions for legal defense costs are established if it is probable that material 
costs will have to be incurred for external legal counsel to defend the company’s legal position.  

Internal and external legal counsel evaluates the current status of the Bayer Group’s material legal risks at 
the end of each reporting period. The need to establish or adjust a provision and the amount of the provi-
sion or adjustment are determined on this basis. Adjusting events are reflected up to the date of prepara-
tion of the consolidated financial statements. The measurement of provisions in the case of class actions 
or mass compensation claims is mainly based on any settlements reached during the past year and on 
pending or anticipated future claims. 

Provisions for personnel commitments mainly include those for variable one-time payments under short-
term incentive programs and for stock-based compensation. Also reflected here are commitments for 
service awards, early retirements and pre-retirement part-time working arrangements. Provisions for sever-
ance payments resulting from restructuring are reflected in provisions for restructuring. 

Miscellaneous provisions include those for other liabilities, contingent liabilities from business combinations, 
and asset retirement obligations (other than those included in provisions for environmental protection). 

Financial liabilities 
Financial liabilities comprise primary financial liabilities and negative fair values of derivatives. 

Liabilities for contingent consideration arising from business combinations are measured at fair value. 
Changes in fair value are recognized through profit or loss as of the respective closing date. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
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Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Financial liabilities are derecognized when the contractual obligation is discharged or canceled, or has 
expired. 

An assessment of the mandatory convertible notes issued in 2016 was performed to determine whether 
these should be accounted for entirely as debt or split into an equity component and a debt component. 
The assessment identified Bayer’s right to early conversion of the notes as an important criterion in this 
regard, and the economic substance of this right was examined. The early conversion right has economic 
substance with respect to maintaining the current credit rating if early conversion can prevent a rating 
downgrade. In this event, future savings of credit interest would more than offset the cost of early conver-
sion by Bayer. 

On the basis of this assessment, the mandatory convertible notes are accounted for as a hybrid financial 
instrument. The directly attributable costs along with the debt component, which corresponds to the pre-
sent value of the future interest payments, are deducted from the proceeds of the issue. The debt compo-
nent is included in financial liabilities. The remaining amount is the equity component, which is reflected in 
capital reserves. 

Other receivables and liabilities 
Accrued items and other nonfinancial assets and liabilities are carried at amortized cost. They are amor-
tized to income by the straight-line method or according to performance of the underlying transaction. 

Grants and subsidies from third parties that serve to promote investment are reflected in the statement of 
financial position under other liabilities and amortized to income over the useful lives of the respective in-
vestments or in line with the terms of the grant or subsidy. 

Derivatives 
The Bayer Group uses derivatives to mitigate the risk of changes in exchange rates, interest rates or prices 
and to hedge stock-based compensation programs. The instruments used include forward exchange con-
tracts, interest-rate swaps and stock options. Derivatives are recognized at the trade date. 

Contracts concluded in order to receive or deliver nonfinancial items for the company’s own purposes are 
not accounted for as derivatives but treated as pending transactions. Where embedded derivatives are 
identified that are required to be separated from the pending transactions, they are accounted for sepa-
rately. To take advantage of market opportunities or cover possible peak demand, a nonmaterial volume of 
transactions may be entered into for which the possibility of immediate resale cannot be excluded. Such 
transactions are allocated to separate portfolios upon acquisition and accounted for as derivatives accord-
ing to IAS 39. 

Derivatives are carried at fair value. Positive fair values at the end of the reporting period are reflected in 
financial assets, negative fair values in financial liabilities. Changes in the fair values of these derivatives are 
recognized directly in profit or loss except where hedge accounting is used.  

Changes in the fair values of the effective portion of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges are initially 
recognized outside profit or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income. They are reclassified to 
profit or loss when the underlying transaction is realized. If such a derivative is sold or ceases to qualify for 
hedge accounting, the change in its value continues to be recognized in accumulated other comprehen-
sive income until the forecasted transaction is realized. If the forecasted transaction is no longer expected 
to occur, the amount previously recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income has to be reclas-
sified to profit or loss. The ineffective portion of gains or losses on derivatives designated as cash flow 
hedges is recognized either in other operating income or expenses or in the financial result, depending on 
the type of underlying transaction. 

 
 
 
 
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Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Changes in the fair values of derivatives designated as fair-value hedges and the adjustments in the carry-
ing amounts of the underlying transactions are recognized in profit or loss. 

Changes in the fair values of forward exchange contracts and currency options serving as hedges of items 
in the statement of financial position are reflected in other financial income and expenses as exchange 
gains or losses, while changes in the values of interest-rate swaps and interest-rate options are recognized 
in interest income or expense. Changes in the fair values of commodity futures and options, and of forward 
exchange contracts used to hedge forecasted sales transactions in foreign currencies, are recognized in 
other operating income or expenses. Changes in the fair values of stock options or forward stock transac-
tions used to hedge stock-based employee compensation are initially recognized outside profit or loss and 
subsequently reclassified to profit or loss in the functional costs over the periods of the Aspire programs. 

The income and expense reflected in the financial result pertaining to the derivatives and the underlying 
transactions are shown separately. Income and expense are not offset. 

Acquisition accounting 
Acquired businesses are accounted for using the acquisition method, which requires that the assets ac-
quired and liabilities assumed be recorded at their respective fair values on the date Bayer obtains control. 
Ancillary acquisition costs are recognized as expenses in the periods in which they occur. 

The application of the acquisition method requires certain estimates and assumptions to be made, espe-
cially concerning the fair values of the acquired intangible assets, property, plant and equipment and the 
liabilities assumed at the acquisition date, and the useful lives of the acquired intangible assets, property, 
plant and equipment. 

Measurement is based to a large extent on anticipated cash flows. If actual cash flows vary from those 
used in calculating fair values, this may materially affect the Group’s future results of operations. In particu-
lar, the estimation of discounted cash flows from intangible assets under development, patented and non-
patented technologies and brands is based on assumptions concerning, for example: 

>  The outcomes of research and development activities regarding the efficacy of a crop protection or seed 

product, compound, results of clinical trials, etc. 

>  The probability of obtaining regulatory approvals in individual countries 
>  Long-term sales projections  
>  Possible selling price erosion due to offerings of unpatented products following patent expirations 
>  The behavior of competitors (launch of competing products, marketing initiatives, etc.) 

For significant acquisitions, the purchase price allocation is carried out with assistance from independent 
third-party valuation specialists. The valuations are based on the information available at the acquisition 
date. 

In step acquisitions, the fair values of the acquired entity’s assets and liabilities are measured in accord-
ance with IFRS 3 (Business Combinations) at the date on which control is obtained. Any resulting adjust-
ments to the fair value of the existing interest are recognized in profit or loss. The carrying amount of the 
assets and liabilities already recognized in the statement of financial position is then adjusted accordingly. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
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Augmented Version

Divestment accounting 
Divestments of shares in subsidiaries that result in a loss of control are generally accounted for in profit  
or loss. 

When shares in a subsidiary are gradually divested in several tranches, a reduction in the majority share-
holding without the loss of control is reflected outside profit or loss and results in an increase in the equity 
attributable to noncontrolling stockholders. If Bayer AG loses control of an entity but retains significant 
influence, the entity is accounted for as an associate using the equity method. If Bayer can no longer exert 
significant influence following a loss of control, the remaining interest is immediately classified as an availa-
ble-for-sale financial asset and recognized at fair value outside profit or loss. 

Procedure used in global impairment testing and its impact 
Impairment tests are performed not only on individual items of intangible assets, property, plant and 
equipment, but also at the level of cash-generating units or groups of cash-generating units. A cash-
generating unit is the smallest identifiable group of assets that generates cash inflows that are largely inde-
pendent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets. The Bayer Group regards its strategic 
business entities or groups of strategic business entities, as well as certain product families, as cash-
generating units and subjects them to global impairment testing. The strategic business entities constitute 
the second financial reporting level below the segments. 

Cash-generating units and unit groups are globally tested if there is an indication of possible impairment. 
Those to which goodwill is allocated are tested at least annually. 

Impairment testing involves comparing the carrying amount of each cash-generating unit, unit group or 
item of intangible assets, property, plant or equipment to the recoverable amount, which is the higher of its 
fair value less costs of disposal or value in use. If the carrying amount exceeds the recoverable amount, an 
impairment loss must be recognized for the difference. In this case an impairment loss is first recognized 
on any goodwill allocated to the cash-generating unit or unit group. Any remaining part of the impairment 
loss is then allocated among the other noncurrent nonfinancial assets of the cash-generating unit or unit 
group in proportion to their carrying amounts. The resulting expense is reflected in the functional item of 
the income statement in which the depreciation or amortization of the respective assets is recognized. The 
same applies to income from impairment loss reversals. 

The recoverable amount is generally determined on the basis of the fair value less costs of disposal, taking 
into account the present value of the future net cash flows as market prices for the individual units are not 
normally available. These are forecasted on the basis of the Bayer Group’s current planning, the planning 
horizon normally being three to five years. Forecasting involves making assumptions, especially regarding 
future selling prices, sales volumes, costs, market growth rates, economic cycles and exchange rates. 
These assumptions are based on internal estimates along with external market studies. Where the recov-
erable amount is the fair value less costs of disposal, the cash-generating unit or unit group is measured 
from the viewpoint of an independent market participant. Where the recoverable amount is the value in 
use, the cash-generating unit, unit group or individual asset is measured as currently used. In either case, 
net cash flows beyond the planning period are determined on the basis of long-term business expectations 
using the respective individual growth rates derived from market information. The fair value less costs of 
disposal is determined on the basis of unobservable inputs (Level 3). 

 
 
 
 
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Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

The net cash inflows are discounted at a rate equivalent to the weighted average cost of equity and debt 
capital. To allow for the different risk and return profiles of the Bayer Group’s principal businesses, the 
after-tax cost of capital is calculated separately for each reporting segment, and a segment-specific capital 
structure is defined by benchmarking against comparable companies in the same industry sector. The cost 
of equity corresponds to the return expected by stockholders, while the cost of debt is based on the con-
ditions on which comparable companies can obtain long-term financing. Both components are derived 
from capital market information. 

The growth rates applied for impairment testing in 2016 and 2015 and the capital cost factors used to 
discount the expected cash flows are shown in the following table: 

Impairment Testing Parameters 

% 

Pharmaceuticals 

Radiology 

Consumer Health 

Crop Protection 

Seeds 

Environmental Science 

Animal Health 

Covestro 

B 4/3

Growth rate After-tax cost of capital

2015

2016

2015

2016

0.0

0.0

0.0

2.3

1.9

1.8

0.0

1.8

0.0

0.0

0.0

2.1

1.7

2.4

0.0

1.8

6.2

6.2

6.2

6.3

6.3

6.3

6.2

6.1

5.5

5.5

5.2

5.3

5.3

5.3

5.3

5.4

In light of the legal and economic independence of Covestro, its strategic business entities were impair-
ment-tested as a group of cash-generating units from the point of view of the Bayer Group. 

No impairment losses were recognized on goodwill on the basis of the global annual impairment testing of 
the cash-generating units and unit groups in 2016 or 2015. Impairment losses on intangible assets, prop-
erty, plant and equipment – net of €1 million (2015: €1 million) in impairment loss reversals – totaled €711 
million (2015: €229 million). Details are provided in Notes [17] and [18]. 

Although the estimates of the useful lives of certain assets, assumptions concerning the macroeconomic 
environment and developments in the industries in which the Bayer Group operates, and estimates of the 
discounted future cash flows are believed to be appropriate, changes in assumptions or circumstances 
could require changes in the analysis. This could lead to the recognition of additional impairment losses in 
the future or – except in the case of goodwill – to reversals of previously recognized impairment losses if 
developments are contrary to expectations.  

The sensitivity analysis for cash-generating units and unit groups to which goodwill is allocated was based 
on a 10% reduction in future cash flows, a 10% increase in the weighted average cost of capital or a one-
percentage-point reduction in the long-term growth rate. Bayer concluded that no impairment loss would 
need to be recognized on goodwill in any cash-generating unit or unit group under these conditions. 

 
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
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5. Segment reporting 

At Bayer, the Board of Management – as the chief operating decision-maker – allocates resources to the 
operating segments and assesses their performance. The reportable segments and regions are identified, 
and the disclosures selected, in line with the internal financial reporting system (management approach) 
and based on the Group accounting policies outlined in Note [4]. 

In 2015, the Bayer Group comprised three subgroups, with operations subdivided into strategic business 
entities known as divisions (HealthCare), business groups (CropScience) and business units (Covestro; 
formerly MaterialScience). On December 31, 2015, there were four reportable segments. In September 
2015, it was decided to introduce a new organizational structure effective January 1, 2016, in line with 
Bayer’s focus on the Life Science businesses. The former Bayer HealthCare subgroup was dissolved, and 
the Radiology business is now assigned to the Pharmaceuticals segment. The Consumer Health segment 
consists entirely of the consumer care business. Animal Health is a reportable segment. The Bayer Crop-
Science subgroup became the Crop Science segment. Covestro remains a reportable segment. 

In the Crop Science segment, the Crop Protection / Seeds and Environmental Science operating segments 
were combined, mainly in light of the comparable nature of their products for the agricultural industry, such 
as in the area of crop protection and the related comparable production processes and comparable distri-
bution methods, including via wholesalers in particular. 

The segments’ activities are as follows:  

Activities of the Segments  

Segment 

Activities 

B 5/1

Pharmaceuticals 

Development, production and marketing of prescription products, especially for cardiology and women’s 
health care; specialty therapeutics in the areas of oncology, hematology and ophthalmology; diagnostic 
imaging equipment and the necessary contrast agents 

Consumer Health  Development, production and marketing of mainly nonprescription (OTC = over-the-counter) products in 

the dermatology, dietary supplement, analgesic, gastrointestinal, cold, allergy, sinus and flu, foot care and 
sun protection categories 

Crop Science 

1 

Development, production and marketing of a broad portfolio of products in seeds and plant traits, crop 
protection and nonagricultural pest control 

Animal Health 

Development, production and marketing of prescription and nonprescription veterinary products 

Covestro 

Development, production and marketing of raw materials for polyurethanes; polycarbonate granules and 
sheets; raw materials for coatings, adhesives and sealants; and by-products of polyether production and 
of chlorine production and use 

1 Following the signing of a sales agreement with SBM Développement SAS, Lyon, France, the Consumer business of the Environmental Science 

unit was no longer reported under continuing operations in 2016. 

Business activities that cannot be allocated to any other segment are reported under “All other segments.” 
These primarily include the services provided by the service areas: Business Services, Technology Services 
and Currenta. 

The items in “Corporate Functions and Consolidation” mainly comprise the Bayer holding companies and 
the Bayer Lifescience Center, which focuses on the development of crucial, cross-species innovations. 
They also include the increase or decrease in expenses for Group-wide long-term stock-based compensa-
tion arising from fluctuations in the performance of Bayer stock, and the consolidation of intersegment 
sales (2016: €2.3 billion; 2015: €2.4 billion).  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
230 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

In Table B 1/2 “Key Data by Region” as of December 31, 2016, the Europe region is combined with the 
Middle East and Africa. Latin America is a separate region. The regional breakdown is in line with the inter-
nal regional responsibilities of the individual members of the Bayer AG Board of Management. The prior-
year figures are restated accordingly. The reconciliation in the table “Key Data by Region” eliminates inter-
regional items and transactions and reflects income, expenses, assets and liabilities not allocable to geo-
graphical areas. 

The segment data are calculated as follows: 

>  Tables B 1/1 “Key Data by Segment” and B 1/2 “Key Data by Region” and the present chapter contain 
supplementary performance indicators that are not subject to requirements of the financial reporting 
standards governing the preparation of the Combined Management Report and the consolidated 
financial statements. The most important of these indicators are EBIT, EBITDA, EBIT before special 
items, EBITDA before special items, and the return on capital employed. These supplementary 
indicators are defined, and their calculation explained, in Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance 
Measures Used by the Bayer Group” of the Combined Management Report in the Bayer Annual Report 
2016. 

>  The intersegment sales reflect intra-Group transactions effected at transfer prices fixed on an arm’s-

length basis. 

>  The net cash provided by operating activities is the cash flow from operating activities as defined in 

IAS 7 (Statement of Cash Flows). 

>  The segment assets comprise all assets serving the respective segment, stated as of December 31, 

including material participating interests of direct relevance to business operations. 

>  Starting in 2016, the cash flow return on investment (CFROI) was replaced by the return on capital 

employed (ROCE) as a value-based indicator. Both CFROI and ROCE constitute alternative performance 
measures. 

>  The equity items reflect the earnings and carrying amounts of investments accounted for using the 

equity method. 

>  Since the financial management of Group companies is carried out centrally by Bayer AG, financial 
liabilities are not directly allocated among the segments. Consequently, the liabilities shown for the 
individual segments do not include financial liabilities. These are included in the reconciliation. 

>  The number of employees on either permanent or temporary contracts is stated in full-time equivalents 
(FTE), with part-time employees included on a pro-rated basis in line with their contractual working 
hours. The figures do not include apprentices.  

Reconciliations 
The reconciliations of EBITDA before special items, EBIT before special items and EBIT to Group income 
before income taxes and of the assets and liabilities of the segments to the assets and liabilities, respec-
tively, of the Group are given in the following tables. 

 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

231

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Reconciliation of Segments’ EBITDA Before Special Items to Group Income Before Income Taxes  

€ million 

EBITDA before special items of segments 

EBITDA before special items of Corporate Functions and Consolidation 

EBITDA before special items1 

2015

2016

10,722 

11,640

(466)

(338)

10,256 

11,302

Depreciation, amortization and impairment losses / loss reversals before special items of segments 

(3,190)

(3,166)

B 5/2

Depreciation, amortization and impairment losses / loss reversals before special items  
of Corporate Functions and Consolidation 

Depreciation, amortization and impairment losses / loss reversals before special items 

EBIT before special items of segments 

EBIT before special items of Corporate Functions and Consolidation 

EBIT before special items1 

Special items of segments 

Special items of Corporate Functions and Consolidation 

Special items1 

EBIT of segments 

EBIT of Corporate Functions and Consolidation 

EBIT1 

Financial result 

Income before income taxes  

(6)

(3,196)

7,532 

(472)

7,060 

(792)

(27)

(819)

6,740 

(499)

6,241 

(1,005)

5,236 

2015 figures restated 
1 For definition see Combined Management Report, Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 

(6)

(3,172)

8,474

(344)

8,130

(1,068)

(20)

(1,088)

7,406

(364)

7,042

(1,155)

5,887

B 5/3

Reconciliation of Segments’ Assets to Group Assets 

€ million 

Assets of the operating segments 

Corporate Functions and Consolidation assets  

Nonallocated assets 

Assets of discontinued operations 

Group assets 

Reconciliation of Segments’ Liabilities to Group Liabilities 

€ million 

Liabilities of the operating segments 

Corporate Functions and Consolidation liabilities 

Nonallocated liabilities 

Liabilities directly related to discontinued operations 

Group liabilities 

2015

2016

65,654

66,252

181

7,899

183

507

15,479

–

73,917

82,238

B 5/4

2016

26,617

1,996

21,728

–

2015

24,557

2,645

21,158

112

48,472

50,341

The reconciliation of segment sales to Group sales is apparent from the table of key data by segment in 
Note [1]. 

 
 
 
    
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
232 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Information on geographical areas 
The following table provides a regional breakdown of external sales by market and of intangible assets, 
property, plant and equipment: 

Information on Geographical Areas 

€ million 

Germany 

United States 

China 

Switzerland 

Other 

Total 

2015 figures restated 

B 5/5

Net sales (external) 
– by market

Intangible assets and property, 
plant and equipment

2015

4,925

11,168

4,212

691

25,089

46,085

2016

4,809

11,310

4,603

662

25,385

46,769

2015

12,385

14,420

3,260

5,298

8,286

43,649

2016

12,468

14,297

2,938

5,047

8,243

42,993

Information on major customers 
Revenues from transactions with a single customer in no case exceeded 10% of Bayer Group sales in 
2016 or 2015. 

GRI G4-17 

6. Scope of consolidation; subsidiaries and affiliates 

6.1 Changes in the scope of consolidation 
Changes in the scope of consolidation in 2016 were as follows: 

Change in Number of Consolidated Companies 

Bayer AG and consolidated companies 

December 31, 2015 

Changes in scope of consolidation 

Additions 

Retirements 

December 31, 2016 

B 6.1/1

Total

307

1

2

(9)

Germany

Other 
countries

68 

– 

– 

(4)

64 

239 

1 

2 

(5)

237 

301

The decrease in the total number of consolidated companies in 2016 was primarily due to mergers among 
Group companies. 

Bayer Pearl Polyurethane Systems LLC, United Arab Emirates, is fully consolidated because the Bayer 
Group holds a majority of the voting rights. 

Pure Salt Baytown LLC, United States, is fully consolidated as a structured entity. The Bayer Group guar-
antees the liabilities of Pure Salt Baytown LLC to banks. These liabilities, which are reflected in full in the 
consolidated statement of financial position, amounted to €12 million as of December 31, 2016 (2015: €17 
million). 

The above table includes one joint operation, LyondellBasell Covestro Manufacturing Maasvlakte V.O.F., 
Netherlands, as of December 31, 2016 (2015: one). Pursuant to IFRS 11, Bayer’s share of this company’s 
assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses are included in the consolidated financial statements in accord-
ance with Bayer’s rights and obligations. The main purpose of LyondellBasell Covestro Manufacturing 
Maasvlakte V.O.F., Netherlands, is the joint production of propylene oxide (PO) for Covestro and its partner 
Lyondell. 

 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
    
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

233

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

In conjunction with the acquisition of the consumer care business of Merck & Co., Inc., United States, 
Bayer entered into a strategic collaboration with that company. This collaboration is included in the consol-
idated financial statements as a joint operation. Bayer and Merck & Co., Inc., have mutually agreed to 
collaborate on the development, production, life-cycle management and marketing of active ingredients 
and products in the field of soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) modulation. 

GRI G4-17 

Five (2015: four) associates and six (2015: three) joint ventures were accounted for in the consolidated 
financial statements using the equity method. Details of these companies are given in Note [19]. 

Flagship Ventures V Agricultural Fund, L.P., United States, was included in the consolidated financial 
statements for the first time in 2015 and classified as an associate. Bayer has no control over this associ-
ate despite owning 99.9% of the capital, but is able to significantly influence its financial and operating 
policy decisions. 

Bayer Trendlines AG Innovation Fund, Limited Partnership, Israel, was included in the consolidated finan-
cial statements for the first time in 2016 and classified as an associate. Bayer is a limited partner and has 
no control over this entity due to contractual restrictions, despite owning 100% of the capital. 

Nanjing Baijingyu Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., China, was classified as an associate in view of Bayer’s repre-
sentation on its executive committee and supervisory board. This enables Bayer to significantly influence 
its financial and operating policy decisions despite owning only 15% of its voting rights and capital. 

A total of 72 (2015: 71) subsidiaries, including one (2015: one) structured entity and 12 (2015: 12) associ-
ates or joint ventures that in aggregate are immaterial to the Bayer Group’s financial position and results of 
operations are neither consolidated nor accounted for using the equity method, but are recognized at cost. 
The immaterial subsidiaries accounted for less than 0.2% of Group sales, less than 0.2% of equity and less than 
0.2% of total assets. 

Details of subsidiary and affiliated companies pursuant to Section 313 of the German Commercial Code 
can be accessed at www.bayer.com/owner16. 

The following domestic subsidiaries availed themselves in 2016 of certain exemptions granted under  
Section 264, Paragraph 3, and Section 264b of the German Commercial Code regarding the publication of 
legal-entity financial statements: 

German Exempt Subsidiaries 

Company name 

Adverio Pharma GmbH 

AgrEvo Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH 

Alcafleu Management GmbH & Co. KG 

Bayer 04 Immobilien GmbH 

Bayer 04 Leverkusen Fußball GmbH 

Bayer Altersversorgung GmbH 

Bayer Animal Health GmbH 

Bayer Beteiligungsverwaltung Goslar GmbH 

Bayer Business Services GmbH 

Bayer Chemicals Aktiengesellschaft 

Bayer Consumer Care Deutschland GmbH 

Bayer CropScience Aktiengesellschaft 

Bayer CropScience Biologics GmbH 

B 6.1/2

Place of business

Bayer’s interest (%)

Schönefeld

Frankfurt am Main

Schönefeld

Leverkusen

Leverkusen

Leverkusen

Leverkusen

Leverkusen

Leverkusen

Leverkusen

Berlin

Monheim am Rhein

Wismar

100.0

100.0

99.9

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

 
 
  
  
  
 
234 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

German Exempt Subsidiaries 

Company name 

Bayer CropScience Deutschland GmbH 

Bayer Direct Services GmbH 

Bayer Gastronomie GmbH 

Bayer Gesellschaft für Beteiligungen mbH 

Bayer Innovation GmbH 

Bayer Intellectual Property GmbH 

Bayer Real Estate GmbH 

Bayer Schering Pharma AG 

Bayer Vital GmbH 

Bayer Weimar GmbH und Co. KG 

Bayer-Handelsgesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung 

BGI Deutschland GmbH 

Chemion Logistik GmbH 

Dritte Bayer Real Estate VV GmbH & Co. KG 

Erste Bayer Real Estate VV GmbH & Co. KG 

Erste K-W-A Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH 

Fünfte Bayer Real Estate VV GmbH & Co. KG 

GP Grenzach Produktions GmbH 

Hild Samen GmbH 

Intendis GmbH 

Intraserv GmbH & Co. KG 

Jenapharm GmbH & Co. KG 

KOSINUS Grundstücks-Verwaltungsgesellschaft mbH & Co. Gamma OHG 

KVP Pharma+Veterinär Produkte GmbH 

MENADIER Heilmittel GmbH 

Schering-Kahlbaum Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung 

Sechste Bayer Real Estate VV GmbH & Co. KG 

Siebte Bayer VV GmbH 

Steigerwald Arzneimittelwerk GmbH 

TECTRION GmbH 

TravelBoard GmbH 

Vierte Bayer Real Estate VV GmbH & Co. KG 

Zweite Bayer Real Estate VV GmbH & Co. KG 

Zweite K-W-A Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH 

B 6.1/2 (continued)

Place of business  Bayer’s interest (%)

Langenfeld

Leverkusen

Leverkusen

Leverkusen

Leverkusen

Monheim am Rhein

Leverkusen

Berlin

Leverkusen

Weimar

Leverkusen

Leverkusen

Leverkusen

Schönefeld

Schönefeld

Leverkusen

Schönefeld

Grenzach-Wyhlen

Marbach am Neckar

Berlin

Schönefeld

Jena

Schönefeld

Kiel

Berlin

Berlin

Schönefeld

Leverkusen

Darmstadt

Leverkusen

Leverkusen

Schönefeld

Schönefeld

Leverkusen

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

6.2 Business combinations and other acquisitions 
Business combinations and other acquisitions in 2016 
Adjustments to purchase prices and purchase price allocations effected in 2016 relating to previous years’ 
transactions totaled minus €5 million. Adjustments to purchase price allocations and other adjustments 
increased the total carrying amount of goodwill by €9 million.  

The changes in goodwill mainly resulted from the following purchase price allocation adjustment: On July 
1, 2015, Crop Science completed the acquisition of all the shares of SeedWorks India Pvt. Ltd., based in 
Hyderabad, India. The company is specialized in the breeding, production and marketing of hybrid seeds 
of tomato, hot pepper, okra and gourds. It has research and seed processing locations in Bangalore and 
Hyderabad, respectively. The purchase of SeedWorks India is intended to further strengthen Crop Sci-
ence’s vegetable seed business in India. A purchase price of €80 million was agreed, pertaining mainly to 
patents, research and development projects and goodwill. 

 
 
 
 
  
  
  
       
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

235

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Improved information obtained about the acquired assets in the first quarter of 2016 in the course of the 
global purchase price allocation led to decreases of €23 million in intangible assets and €8 million in de-
ferred tax liabilities and a corresponding increase of €13 million in goodwill in the opening statement of 
financial position. In addition, the purchase price declined by €2 million to €78 million following completion 
of the final purchase price negotiations. 

On February 12, 2016, Bayer and CRISPR Therapeutics AG, Basel, Switzerland, established the joint ven-
ture Casebia Therapeutics LLP, Ascot, United Kingdom. Its purpose is the development and commerciali-
zation of new methods to treat blood disorders, blindness and heart diseases. Capital contribution liabili-
ties of US$255 million to Casebia Therapeutics LLP were recognized in the statement of financial position 
as of December 31, 2016. These liabilities mature on December 31, 2020, at the latest. US$45 million was 
already paid in 2016, and a further US$60 million was paid on January 3, 2017. 

On December 9, 2016, Bayer and Versant Ventures, San Francisco, United States, established the joint 
venture BlueRock Therapeutics LP, San Francisco, United States. The company will be active in the field of 
next-generation regenerative medicine. Its goal is to develop induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) therapies 
to cure a range of diseases. As of December 31, 2016, Bayer had capital contribution obligations of 
US$150 million pertaining to the establishment of the joint venture. This amount should be paid by De-
cember 31, 2020, at the latest. 

Acquisitions after the end of the reporting period 
On January 3, 2017, Bayer acquired the Cydectin™ portfolio in the United States from Boehringer Ingel-
heim Vetmedica Inc., St. Joseph, United States. The acquisition comprises the CYDECTIN Pour-On, CY-
DECTIN Injectable and CYDECTIN Oral Drench endectocides for cattle and sheep. The acquisition is in-
tended to strengthen the antiparasitics portfolio in the United States through the addition of endectocides. 
An initial purchase price of approximately €150 million was agreed, which is subject to the usual price 
adjustment mechanisms. The purchase price was provisionally allocated mainly to trademarks and good-
will. The purchase price allocation currently remains incomplete pending compilation and review of the 
relevant financial information. 

Planned acquisitions 
On September 14, 2016, Bayer signed a definitive merger agreement with Monsanto Company, St. Louis, 
Missouri, United States, which provides for Bayer’s acquisition of all outstanding shares in Monsanto 
Company against a cash payment of US$128 per share. At the time this corresponded to an expected 
transaction volume of approximately US$66 billion, comprising an equity value (purchase price) of approx-
imately US$56 billion and net debt to be assumed in an amount of US$10 billion, which includes pension 
obligations as of May 31, 2016, as well as liabilities for payments under stock-based compensation pro-
grams. Bayer thus has a contingent financial commitment in the amount of approximately US$56 billion to 
acquire Monsanto’s entire outstanding capital stock. The agreed transaction has been partially hedged 
against the euro / U.S. dollar currency risk using derivatives contracts. 

The transaction brings together two different, but highly complementary businesses. Monsanto is a leading 
global provider of agricultural products, including seeds and seed technologies, herbicides, and digital 
platforms to give farmers agronomic recommendations. The combined business will offer a comprehensive 
set of solutions to meet growers’ current and future needs, including enhanced solutions in high-quality 
seeds and traits, digital farming, and crop protection. The combination also brings together both compa-
nies’ leading innovation capabilities and R&D technology platforms. 

Syndicated bank financing of US$56.9 billion was committed by Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Credit 
Suisse, Goldman Sachs, HSBC and JP Morgan upon the signing of the merger agreement. The bank fi-
nancing was subsequently syndicated to more than 20 other partner banks of Bayer. 

 
 
 
 
236 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Bayer intends to finance the transaction with a combination of debt and equity. The planned equity com-
ponent amounts to approximately US$19 billion in total. As the first part of the equity component, Bayer 
placed €4 billion in mandatory convertible notes on November 22, 2016, excluding subscription rights for 
existing stockholders of the company. The remainder of the equity component is expected to be raised by 
way of a rights issue. The net proceeds from the issuance of the mandatory convertible notes were used 
for the early replacement of a portion of the undrawn syndicated bank credit facility. Details of the manda-
tory convertible notes issue are provided in Note [24]. 

The stockholders of Monsanto Company approved the merger with the requisite majority on December 13, 
2016. The transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, including relevant antitrust and 
other regulatory approvals. Closing of the transaction is currently expected by the end of 2017. 

The merger agreement provides for payment by Bayer of a US$2 billion reverse break fee including, in 
particular, in the event that the necessary antitrust approvals are not granted by June 14, 2018, and Bayer 
or Monsanto therefore terminates the merger agreement. 

Acquisitions in 2015 
In 2015, the following acquisitions were accounted for in accordance with IFRS 3: 

On March 2, 2015, Covestro successfully completed the acquisition of all the shares of Thermoplast Com-
posite GmbH, Germany, a technology leader specializing in the production of thermoplastic fiber compo-
sites. The aim of the acquisition is to expand the range of polycarbonate materials for major industries to 
include composites made from continuous fiber-reinforced thermoplastics. A purchase price of €18 million 
was agreed, including a variable component of €4 million. The purchase price mainly pertained to patents 
and goodwill. 

In connection with the acquisition of the consumer care business of Merck & Co., Inc., Whitehouse Sta-
tion, New Jersey, United States, in 2014, the production facilities at the Pointe-Claire site in Canada were 
acquired on July 1, 2015. Of the agreed €67 million purchase price, €61 million pertains to property, plant 
and equipment. 

The global purchase price allocation for the consumer care business acquired from Merck & Co., Inc. in 
2014 was completed in September 2015. This resulted in an €821 million increase in deferred tax assets 
due to temporary differences between the carrying amounts of intangible assets in the IFRS financial 
statements and those reported for tax purposes, along with a corresponding decline in goodwill in the 
statement of financial position. These adjustments were effected retroactively as of the date of acquisition 
pursuant to IFRS 3.45 ff. In addition, the purchase price was reduced by €8 million in 2015 on the basis of 
agreed purchase price adjustment mechanisms. 

Settlements were reached in August 2015 in the court proceedings initiated by former minority stockhold-
ers of Bayer Pharma AG (formerly Bayer Schering Pharma AG). The additional payment made as a result 
represents a subsequent purchase price adjustment according to the March 31, 2004, version of IFRS 3 in 
effect at the acquisition date. The goodwill was increased by €261 million in 2013 based on the status of 
the proceedings at that time. Following the settlements in August 2015, it was possible to finally determine 
the goodwill arising from the acquisition. It was therefore necessary to reduce the goodwill amount by 
€115 million in 2015 as a result of the proceedings. Both the increase and the reduction were recognized 
outside profit or loss against the liability resulting from the minority stockholders’ compensation claim. 

The global purchase price allocation for Dihon Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd., Kunming, Yunnan, China, 
acquired in 2014, was completed in October 2015. The main outcomes were increases in the amounts 
recognized for trademarks (€18 million), other provisions (€19 million) and other liabilities (€27 million). The 
purchase price was reduced by €43 million in 2015 due to adjustment mechanisms. 

 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

237

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

6.3 Divestments, material sale transactions and discontinued operations  

Divestments and discontinued operations in 2016 
The effects of divestments and discontinued operations in 2016 and those from previous years on the 
consolidated financial statements were as follows: 

The sale of the Diabetes Care business to Panasonic Healthcare Holdings Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan, for 
around €1 billion was completed on January 4, 2016. The sale includes the leading Contour™ portfolio of 
blood glucose monitoring meters and strips, as well as other products such as Breeze™2, Elite™ and 
Microlet™ lancing devices. 

The sale of the Diabetes Care business also comprises further significant obligations by Bayer that will be 
fulfilled over a period of up to two years subsequent to the date of divestment. The sale proceeds will be 
recognized accordingly over this period and reported as income from discontinued operations. Deferred 
income has been recognized in the statement of financial position and will be dissolved as the obligations 
are fulfilled. Of this, an amount of €497 million was recognized in sales in 2016. The €71 million outflow of 
net assets is reflected accordingly in the cost of goods sold.  

The obligations to be fulfilled over a period of up to two years after the divestment of the Diabetes Care 
business are also reported as discontinued operations in the income statement and the statement of cash 
flows. These resulted in sales of €76 million in 2016. This information is provided from the standpoint of 
the Bayer Group and does not present these activities as a separate entity. It is therefore not possible to 
compare these sales against the proceeds from operational product sales achieved in 2015. 

The items in the statement of financial position pertaining to the Diabetes Care business are shown in the 
segment reporting under “All Other Segments.” In addition to the aforementioned deferred income (€469 
million), the statement of financial position includes other receivables (net: €66 million), deferred tax assets 
(net: €73 million), income tax liabilities (€65 million) and miscellaneous provisions (€9 million). 

The sale of the Consumer business (CS Consumer) of Bayer’s Environmental Science unit to SBM Dé-
veloppement SAS, Lyon, France, was completed on October 4, 2016. The Consumer business encom-
passes the Bayer Garden and Bayer Advanced businesses in Europe and North America. These activities 
are reported as discontinued operations in the income statement and the statement of cash flows.  

The effects of these and other, smaller divestments made in 2016 were as follows: 

Divested Assets and Liabilities 

€ million 

Goodwill 

Patents and technologies 

Other intangible assets 

Inventories 

Provisions for pensions and other post-employment benefits 

Other provisions 

Divested net assets 

B 6.3/1

2015

2016

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

36

4

16

184

(28)

(97)

115

 
 
    
  
 
 
 
  
  
238 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

The income statements for the discontinued operations are given below: 

Income Statements for Discontinued Operations 

€ million 

Net sales 

Cost of goods sold 

Gross profit 

Selling expenses 

Research and development expenses 

General administration expenses 

Other operating income / expenses 

EBIT 

1 

Financial result 

Income before income taxes 

Income taxes 

Income after income taxes 

Diabetes Care

CS Consumer

2015

947

(380)

567

(386)

(48)

(36)

(20)

77

–

77

3

80

2016

573

(146)

427

(9)

(1)

(12)

(4)

401

–

401

(76)

325

2015

239

(118)

121

(95)

(7)

(6)

(4)

9

–

9

(4)

5

2016

195 

(121)

74 

(83)

(11)

(9)

(55)

(84)

– 

(84)

27 

(57)

2015

1,186

(498)

688

(481)

(55)

(42)

(24)

86

–

86

(1)

85

1 For definition see Combined Management Report, Chapter 2.4 “Alternative Performance Measures Used by the Bayer Group.” 

 The discontinued operations affected the Bayer Group statements of cash flows as follows: 

Statements of Cash Flows for Discontinued Operations 

€ million 

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 

Change in cash and cash equivalents 

Diabetes Care

CS Consumer 

2015

43

(4)

(39)

–

2016

788

–

(788)

–

2015

2016 

2015

11

(2)

(9)

–

42 

– 

(42) 

– 

54

(6)

(48)

–

B 6.3/2

Total

2016

768

(267)

501

(92)

(12)

(21)

(59)

317

–

317

(49)

268

B 6.3/3

Total

2016

830

–

(830)

–

As no cash is assigned to discontinued operations, the balance of the cash provided is deducted again in 
financing activities. 

Divestments and material sale transactions in 2015 
On March 2, 2015, Animal Health completed the sale of two equine products, Legend / Hyonate and Mar-
quis, to Merial, Inc., Duluth, Georgia, United States. A purchase price of €120 million was agreed. The 
one-time payment was accounted for as deferred income. The purchase prices for Legend / Hyonate and 
Marquis are being reflected in sales and earnings over a four-year and a three-year period, respectively, as 
Bayer has entered into further significant obligations. 

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

239

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Notes to the Income Statements

7. Net sales 

Net sales are derived primarily from product deliveries. Total reported net sales for 2016 amounted  
to €46,769 million, rising by €684 million, or 1.5%, compared to 2015. The increase resulted from the  
following factors: 

Factors in Sales Development 

Volume 

Price 

Currency 

Portfolio 

Total 

B 7/1

 2016

%

+ 4.2

– 0.7

– 2.0

–

+ 1.5

€ million

1,936 

(348)

(913)

9 

684 

Breakdowns of net sales by segment and region are given in the table in Note [1]. 

8. Selling expenses 

Selling expenses comprise all expenses incurred in the reporting period for the sale, storage and transpor-
tation of saleable products, advertising, the provision of advice to customers, and market research. Selling 
expenses were comprised as follows:  

Selling Expenses 

€ million 

Internal and external sales force 

Advertising and customer advice 

Physical distribution and warehousing of finished products 

Commission and licensing expenses 

Other selling expenses 

Total 

2015 figures restated 

B 8/1

2016

4,828

2,970

1,421

1,514

1,741

2015

4,761

2,986

1,255

1,396

1,874

12,272

12,474

9. Research and development expenses 

Research and development expenses and their accounting treatment are defined in Note [4]. Breakdowns 
of research and development expenses by segment and region are given in Note [1]. 

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
240 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

10. Other operating income 

Other operating income was comprised as follows: 

Other Operating Income 

€ million 

Gains on retirements of noncurrent assets 

Reversals of impairment losses on receivables 

Reversals of unutilized provisions 

Gains from derivatives 

Miscellaneous operating income 

Total 

of which special items 

2015 figures restated 

B 10/1

2016

66

20

131

259

422

898

115

2015

137

32

25

272

643

1,109

336

Income from reversals of unutilized provisions include an amount of €104 million from the reversal of provi-
sions for the YasminTM  / YAZTM litigation. 

Miscellaneous operating income included a €32 million gain incurred by Bayer 04 Leverkusen Fußball 
GmbH from the sale of transfer rights and a payment of €32 million received from insurers (Covestro seg-
ment). A reimbursement payment relating to the termination of a contract accounted for income of 
€27 million (Covestro segment). In the Crop Science segment, milestone payments led to income of 
€21 million. In the Pharmaceuticals segment, a €14 million compensation payment was received in con-
nection with the closure of the production site in Putuo, China. Income of €19 million resulted from the 
reimbursement of indirect taxes paid in previous years (Covestro segment). A €10 million gain was incurred 
on the sale of the BAYQUIK™ technology to Chemetics, Inc., Canada (Other segments). 

In 2015, gains from retirements of noncurrent assets included an amount of €53 million from the sale 
of trademark rights for the Biovital™, Benerva™, Bactine™ and ProPlus™ brands (Consumer Health  
segment). 

Miscellaneous operating income in 2015 included €314 million in claims against Dow AgroSciences LLC, 
United States, for damages and royalty payments resulting from the infringement of Bayer’s rights to the 
Liberty Link™ weed control system (Crop Science segment).  

11. Other operating expenses 

Other operating expenses were comprised as follows: 

Other Operating Expenses 

€ million 

Losses on retirements of noncurrent assets 

Impairment losses on receivables 

Expenses related to significant legal risks 

Losses from derivatives 

Miscellaneous operating expenses 

Total 

of which special items 

2015 figures restated 

B 11/1

2016

(22)

(171)

(262)

(181)

(298)

(934)

(205)

2015

(32)

(183)

(151)

(626)

(283)

(1,275)

(247)

Of the impairment losses on receivables, €115 million pertained to past-due receivables in Brazil. In 2015, 
impairment losses of €91 million were recognized on receivables from the Venezuelan exchange control 

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

241

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

authority because the authority did not allocate U.S. dollars at the subsidized exchange rate with respect 
to the full amounts of older receivables. 

The €262 million in expenses for significant legal risks mainly included accounting measures taken in con-
nection with legal proceedings relating to the products Xarelto™, Essure™ and Cipro™/Avelox™. In 2015, 
the €151 million in expenses for significant legal risks mainly included accounting measures taken in con-
nection with legal proceedings relating to the products Luna™, LL Rice™ and Xarelto™. 

Miscellaneous operating expenses included €48 million (2015: €51 million) in donations to charitable caus-
es (all segments). Expenses of €34 million pertained to provisions established for environmental protection 
measures in the United States (Crop Science segment). 

As in the previous year, the remaining amount of miscellaneous operating expenses comprised a large 
number of individually immaterial items at the subsidiaries. 

12. Personnel expenses and employee numbers 

Personnel expenses for continuing operations rose in 2016 by €181 million to €11,357 million (2015: 
€11,176 million). The change was mainly due to compensation adjustments and increases in employee 
bonuses, which together offset opposing currency effects.  

Personnel Expenses 

€ million 

Salaries 

Social expenses and expenses for pensions and other benefits 

of which for defined contribution pension plans 

of which for defined benefit and other pension plans 

Total 

2015 figures restated 

B 12/1

2016

9,171

2,186

581

483

2015

8,991

2,185

557

503

11,176

11,357

The personnel expenses shown here do not contain the interest portion of the allocation to personnel-
related provisions – mainly for pensions and other post-employment benefits – which is included in the 
financial result under other financial expenses (Note [13.3]).  

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
242 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

The average numbers of employees, classified by corporate function, were as shown in the table below: 

Employees 

Production 

Marketing and distribution 

Research and development 

General administration 

Total 

Apprentices 

2015 figures restated 

B 12/2

2016

50,326

40,756

15,016

9,590

2015

51,280

42,212

14,462

9,376

117,330

115,688

2,332

2,393

The number of employees on either permanent or temporary contracts is stated in full-time equivalents 
(FTE), with part-time employees included on a pro-rated basis in line with their contractual working hours. 
The figures do not include apprentices.  

13. Financial result 

The financial result for 2016 was minus €1,155 million (2015: minus €1,005 million), comprising an equity-
method loss of €26 million (2015: €9 million), financial expenses of €1,280 million (2015: €1,367 million) 
and financial income of €151 million (2015: €371 million). Details of the components of the financial result 
are provided below. 

13.1 Income (loss) from investments in affiliated companies 
The net income (loss) from investments in affiliated companies was comprised as follows: 

Income (Loss) from Investments in Affiliated Companies 

€ million 

Net loss from investments accounted for using the equity method (equity-method loss) 

Expenses 

Impairment losses on investments in affiliated companies 

Income 

Impairment loss reversals on investments in affiliated companies 

Income / losses from investments in affiliated companies and from profit  
and loss transfer agreements (net) 

Gains from the sale of investments in affiliated companies 

Total 

B 13.1/1

2016

(26)

(2)

–

–

6

(22)

2015

(9)

(1)

– 

3 

31 

24 

The main components of the loss (2015: income) from investments in affiliated companies were the €24 
million (2015: €23 million) equity-method loss from the associate PO JV, LP, United States, and the minus 
€2 million (2015: €14 million) aggregate of the equity-method income and losses of the remaining joint 
ventures and associates accounted for using the equity method.  

Further details of the companies accounted for using the equity method are given in Note [19]. 

 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

243

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

13.2 Net interest expense 
The net interest expense was comprised as follows: 

Net Interest Expense 

€ million 

Expenses 

Interest and similar expenses 

Interest expenses for derivatives (held for trading) 

Income 

Interest and similar income 

Interest income from derivatives (held for trading) 

Total 

B 13.2/1

2015

2016

(752)

(25)

297 

25 

(455)

(684)

(3)

137

2

(548)

Interest and similar expenses included interest expense of €42 million (2015: €49 million) relating to nonfi-
nancial liabilities. Interest and similar income included interest income of €10 million (2015: €133 million) 
from nonfinancial assets.   

13.3 Other financial income and expenses  
Other financial income and expenses were comprised as follows: 

Other Financial Income and Expenses 

€ million 

Expenses 

Interest portion of interest-bearing provisions 

Exchange loss 

Miscellaneous financial expenses 

Income 

Miscellaneous financial income 

Total 

B 13.3/1

2015

2016

(287)

(254)

(48)

15 

(574)

(294)

(193)

(104)

6

(585)

The interest portion of noncurrent provisions comprised €276 million (2015: €276 million) in interest ex-
pense for pension and other post-employment benefit provisions plus €18 million (2015: €11 million) in 
effects of interest expense and interest-rate fluctuations for other provisions and corresponding overfund-
ing. The interest expense for pension and other post-employment benefit provisions included €736 million 
(2015: €712 million) for the unwinding of discount on the present value of the defined benefit obligation 
and €460 million (2015: €436 million) in interest income from plan assets. 

The miscellaneous financial expenses included €51 million in commitment fees and other fees related to 
the syndicated bank financing for the planned acquisition of Monsanto. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
244 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

14. Taxes 

The breakdown of tax expense by origin was as follows:  

Tax Expense by Origin 

€ million 

Taxes paid or accrued 

Current income taxes 

Germany 

Other countries 

Other taxes 

Germany 

Other countries 

Deferred taxes 

from temporary differences 

from tax loss carryforwards and tax credits 

Total  

2015 figures restated 

2015

Of which
income taxes

B 14/1

2016

Of which
income taxes

(1,140)

(1,114)

(44)

(221)

(934)

(991)

(86)

(204)

(2,519)

(2,254)

(2,215)

(1,925)

1,056

(25)

1,031

(1,488)

577 

19 

596 

(1,619)

1,031

(1,223)

596

(1,329)

The other taxes mainly include land, vehicle and other indirect taxes. They are reflected in the respective 
functional cost items. 

The deferred tax assets and liabilities were allocable to the following items in the statements of financial 
position: 

Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities 

€ million 

Intangible assets 

Property, plant and equipment 

Financial assets 

Inventories 

Receivables 

Other assets 

Provisions for pensions and other post-employment benefits 

Other provisions 

Liabilities 

Tax loss and interest carryforwards 

Tax credits 

of which noncurrent 

Set-off 

Total 

B 14/2

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2016

Deferred
tax assets

Deferred 
tax liabilities

Deferred
tax assets

Deferred 
tax liabilities

1,411

1,910 

1,478 

1,766

253

18

943

98

28

3,601

1,025

714

393

191

8,675

7,398

(3,996)

4,679

678 

183 

63 

580 

14 

1,213 

90 

91 

– 

– 

4,822 

4,750 

(3,996)

826 

264 

240 

1,267 

71 

39 

3,637 

1,083 

793 

473 

177 

9,522 

7,868 

(3,172)

6,350 

692

224

32

547

13

983

112

133

–

–

4,502

3,662

(3,172)

1,330

 
 
 
 
    
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
    
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

245

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Deferred taxes on remeasurements, recognized outside profit or loss, of the net liability for defined benefit 
pension and other post-employment benefits increased equity by €228 million (2015: diminished equity by 
€430 million). Deferred taxes on changes, recognized outside profit or loss, in fair values of available-for-
sale financial assets and derivatives designated as cash flow hedges diminished equity by €24 million 
(2015: diminished equity by €27 million). These effects on equity are reported in the statement of compre-
hensive income. 

The use of tax loss carryforwards reduced current income taxes in 2016 by €152 million (2015: €136 mil-
lion). The use of tax credits reduced current income taxes by €18 million (2015: €21 million). 

Of the total tax loss and interest carryforwards of €5,447 million, including interest carryforwards of €118 
million (2015: €5,497 million, including interest carryforwards of €72 million), an amount of €2,269 million, 
including interest carryforwards of €0 million (2015: €1,812 million, including interest carryforwards of €0 
million) is expected to be usable within a reasonable period. The decrease in tax loss and interest car-
ryforwards was mainly due to the favorable overall business development. Deferred tax assets of €473 
million (2015: €393 million) were recognized for the amount of tax loss and interest carryforwards expected 
to be usable.  

The use of €3,178 million of tax loss and interest carryforwards, including interest carryforwards of €118 
million (2015: €3,685 million, including interest carryforwards of €72 million) was subject to legal or eco-
nomic restrictions. Consequently, no deferred tax assets were recognized for this amount. If these tax loss and 
interest carryforwards had been fully usable, deferred tax assets of €294 million (2015: €322 million) would 
have been recognized.  

Tax credits of €177 million were recognized in 2016 (2015: €191 million) as deferred tax assets. The use of 
€38 million (2015: €41 million) of tax credits was subject to legal or economic restrictions. Consequently, 
no deferred tax assets were recognized for this amount. 

Unusable tax credits, tax loss carryforwards and interest carryforwards will expire as follows: 

Expiration of Unusable Tax Credits, Tax Loss Carryforwards and Interest Carryforwards 

B 14/3

€ million 

Within one year 

Within two years 

Within three years 

Within four years 

Within five years  

Thereafter 

Total 

Tax credits

Tax loss and interest 
carryforwards

Dec. 31, 
2015

Dec. 31, 
2016

Dec. 31,
2015

Dec. 31, 
2016

4

–

4

–

26

6

40

4

–

4

–

29

–

37

17

70

25

32

234

3,307

3,685

4

1

31

132

31

2,979

3,178

In 2016, subsidiaries that reported losses for 2016 or 2015 recognized net deferred tax assets totaling 
€2,575 million (2015: €2,455 million) from temporary differences and tax loss carryforwards. These assets 
were considered to be unimpaired because the companies concerned were expected to generate taxable 
income in the future. 

Deferred tax liabilities of €41 million were recognized in 2016 (2015: €35 million) for planned dividend pay-
ments by subsidiaries. Deferred tax liabilities were not recognized for temporary differences on €20,069 
million (2015: €12,087 million) of retained earnings of subsidiaries because these earnings are to be rein-
vested for an indefinite period. 

 
 
    
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
246 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

The reported tax expense of €1,329 million for 2016 (2015: €1,223 million) differed by €128 million (2015: 
€119 million) from the expected tax expense of €1,457 million (2015: €1,342 million) that would have re-
sulted from applying an expected weighted average tax rate to the pre-tax income of the Group. This aver-
age rate, derived from the expected tax rates of the individual Group companies, was 24.7% in 2016 
(2015: 25.6%). The effective tax rate was 22.6% (2015: 23.4%).  

The reconciliation of expected to reported income tax expense and of the expected to the effective tax rate 
for the Group was as follows: 

Reconciliation of Expected to Actual Income Tax Expense 

Expected income tax expense and expected tax rate 

1,342

25.6

1,457

2015

€ million

 % 

€ million

Reduction in taxes due to tax-free income 

Income related to the operating business 

Income from affiliated companies and divestment proceeds 

First-time recognition of previously unrecognized deferred tax assets on 
tax loss and interest carryforwards 

Use of tax loss and interest carryforwards on which deferred tax assets 
were not previously recognized 

Increase in taxes due to non-tax-deductible expenses 

Expenses related to the operating business 

Impairment losses on investments in affiliated companies 

New tax loss and interest carryforwards unlikely to be usable 

Existing tax loss and interest carryforwards on which deferred tax assets 
were previously recognized but which are unlikely to be usable 

Tax income (-) and expenses (+) relating to other periods 

Tax effects of changes in tax rates 

Other tax effects 

(155)

(10)

(30)

(6)

148

7

81

16

(95)

(25)

(50)

(3.0)

(0.2)

(0.6)

(0.1)

2.8 

0.1 

1.5 

0.3 

(1.8)

(0.5)

(0.7)

(161)

(2)

(27)

(19)

153 

2 

45 

6 

(80)

(4)

(41)

B 14/4

2016

 % 

24.7

(2.7)

–

(0.5)

(0.3)

2.6

–

0.8

0.1

(1.4)

(0.1)

(0.6)

Actual income tax expense and effective tax rate 

1,223

23.4 

1,329 

22.6

2015 figures restated 

15. Income / losses attributable to noncontrolling interest 

Income attributable to noncontrolling interest amounted to €468 million (2015: €115 million). Losses at-
tributable to noncontrolling interest amounted to €173 million (2015: €127 million).  

 
 
 
 
    
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

247

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

16. Earnings per share  

Earnings per share from continuing operations are determined according to IAS 33 (Earnings per Share) by 
dividing net income (income after income taxes attributable to Bayer AG stockholders) minus income from 
discontinued operations after income taxes (attributable to Bayer AG stockholders) by the weighted aver-
age number of shares. Earnings per share for continuing and discontinued operations are calculated by divid-
ing net income by the weighted average number of shares. 

In November 2016, Bayer placed €4.0 billion in mandatory convertible notes without granting subscription 
rights to existing stockholders of the company. According to IAS 33.23, the weighted average number of 
shares increases as soon as the notes contract is signed, and this increase must be taken into account in 
calculating undiluted and diluted earnings per share. The new weighted average number of shares is based 
on the minimum conversion price of €90, which determines the maximum conversion ratio. Undiluted and 
diluted earnings per share are not adjusted for financing expenses incurred in connection with the manda-
tory convertible notes because the interest component was recognized outside profit or loss when the 
notes were placed. Further details of the mandatory convertible notes are provided in Note [24]. 

Because the undiluted and diluted earnings per share were determined for each interim reporting period, 
earnings per share for the full year or year to date may differ from the sum of the earnings per share for the 
respective interim reporting periods. 

Earnings per Share 

€ million 

Income from continuing operations after income taxes 

Income from discontinued operations after income taxes 

Income after income taxes 

of which attributable to noncontrolling interest 

of which attributable to Bayer AG stockholders (net income) 

Weighted average number of shares 

Earnings per share (€) 

From continuing operations 

Basic 

Diluted 

From discontinued operations 

Basic 

Diluted 

From continuing and discontinued operations 

Basic 

Diluted 

2015 figures restated 

B 16/1

2016

4,558

268

4,826

295

4,531

2015

4,013 

85 

4,098 

(12)

4,110 

Shares

Shares

826,947,808

832,502,808

4.87

4.87

0.10

0.10

4.97

4.97

5.12

5.12

0.32

0.32

5.44

5.44

 
 
    
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
248 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Notes to the Statements 
of Financial Position

17. Goodwill and other intangible assets 

Changes in intangible assets in 2016 were as follows:  

Changes in Intangible Assets 

€ million 

Cost of acquisition  
or generation,  
December 31, 2015 

Changes in scope  
of consolidation 

Acquisitions 

Capital expenditures 

Retirements 

Transfers 

Transfers (IFRS 5) 

Inflation adjustment (IAS 29) 

Exchange differences 

December 31, 2016 

Accumulated amortization  
and impairment losses,  
December 31, 2015 

Changes in scope  
of consolidation 

Retirements 

Amortization and  
impairment losses in 2016 

Amortization 

Impairment losses 

Impairment loss reversals 

Transfers 

Transfers (IFRS 5) 

Exchange differences 

December 31, 2016 

Carrying amounts,  
December 31, 2016 

Carrying amounts,  
December 31, 2015 

Patents 
and
technol-
ogies

Marketing 
and 
distribution 
rights

Trade-
marks

Acquired 
goodwill

Production
rights

R&D 
projects 

Other 
rights and 
advance 
payments 

B 17/1

Total

16,096

13,069

10,952

1,944

2,172

–

9

–

–

–

–

3

204

–

1

55

(6)

5

(5)

–

43

–

–

3

(47)

–

(8)

–

145

–

–

47

(14)

50

(15)

–

32

–

–

5

(25)

3

(16)

–

(1)

16,312

13,162

11,045

2,044

2,138

946

– 

(23)

96 

(108)

(43)

–

– 

19 

887 

2,600

47,779

– 

–

157 

(80)

(15)

(11)

– 

15 

–

(13)

363

(280)

–

(55)

3

457

2,666 

48,254

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

8,277

3,083

1,134

2,021

225 

1,765 

16,505

–

(2)

1,007

708

299

–

–

(5)

35

–

(38)

604

393

211

(1)

–

(8)

33

–

(14)

144

137

7

–

–

(15)

19

–

(25)

48

28

20

–

–

(16)

(1)

– 

(106)

109 

– 

109 

– 

– 

– 

7 

(1)

(66)

160 

129 

31 

– 

– 

(11)

13 

(1)

(251)

2,072

1,395

677

(1)

–

(55)

106

9,312

3,673

1,268

2,027

235 

1,860 

18,375

16,312

3,850

7,372

16,096

4,792

7,869

776

810

111

151

652 

721 

806 

29,879

835 

31,274

The capitalized patents and technologies include an amount pertaining to the active ingredient 
alemtuzumab (product name: Lemtrada™) for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Bayer gave back the 
worldwide distribution rights for alemtuzumab to Genzyme Corp., United States, in 2009 and in return 
received global co-promotion rights and an entitlement to royalties and revenue-based milestone pay-
ments. Genzyme Corp. received marketing approval for alemtuzumab in Europe in 2013 and in the United 
States in 2014. Bayer has decided not to exercise its co-promotion rights. 

Impairment losses of €676 million were recognized on intangible assets, net of €1 million in impairment 
loss reversals. In the Pharmaceuticals reporting segment, the current assessment of the market environ-
ment and lower revenue expectations led to impairment losses of €391 million on intangible assets in con-

 
 
 
 
    
  
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

249

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

nection with the product Essure™. In addition, impairment losses of €56 million were recognized on re-
search and development projects, mainly in the oncology area. In the Consumer Health reporting segment, 
impairment losses of €132 million on a dermatology product trademark in Russia and €28 million on a 
nutritional supplement trademark in the United States were recognized due to a weaker market environ-
ment. In the Crop Science reporting segment, recent research findings necessitated impairment losses of 
€20 million on production rights in the Environmental Science unit, and a €20 million impairment loss was 
also recognized on a research and development project in Crop Protection due to a delayed market intro-
duction. 

The remaining impairment losses pertained to intangible assets in the Crop Science (€11 million), Pharma-
ceuticals (€9 million), Covestro (€9 million) and Consumer Health (€1 million) segments. A €1 million im-
pairment loss in the Animal Health segment was reversed. 

Details of acquisitions and divestments are provided in Notes [6.2] and [6.3]. The impairment testing pro-
cedure for goodwill and other intangible assets is explained in Note [4].  

Changes in intangible assets in 2015 were as follows: 

Changes in Intangible Assets (Previous Year) 

Patents 
and
technol-
ogies

Marketing 
and 
distribution 
rights

Trade-
marks

Acquired
goodwill

Production
rights

R&D 
projects 

Other 
rights and 
advance 
payments 

B 17/2

Total

15,347 

12,827

10,242

1,808

2,168 

882 

3,189

46,463

– 

(5)

– 

– 

– 

(34)

7 

781 

4

39

77

(33)

40

(2)

–

–

53

–

(35)

–

(14)

–

117

706

–

–

52

(55)

75

(33)

–

97

– 

– 

– 

– 

(2)

– 

– 

6 

16,096 

13,069

10,952

1,944

2,172 

– 

26 

107 

(7)

(113)

– 

– 

51 

946 

1

(20)

152

(966)

–

(20)

–

264

2,600

5

93

388

(1,096)

–

(103)

7

2,022

47,779

€ million 

Cost of acquisition  
or generation,  
December 31, 2014 

Changes in scope  
of consolidation 

Acquisitions 

Capital expenditures 

Retirements 

Transfers 

Transfers (IFRS 5) 

Inflation adjustment (IAS 29) 

Exchange differences 

December 31, 2015 

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
250 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Changes in Intangible Assets (Previous Year) 

B 17/2 (continued)

Patents 
and
technol-
ogies

Marketing 
and 
distribution 
rights

Trade-
marks

Acquired 
goodwill

Production 
rights

R&D 
projects 

Other 
rights and 
advance 
payments 

Total

€ million 

Accumulated 
amortization  
and impairment 
losses,  
December 31, 2014 

Changes in scope  
of consolidation 

Retirements 

Amortization and  
impairment losses  
in 2015 

Amortization 

Impairment losses 

Impairment  
loss reversals 

Transfers 

Transfers (IFRS 5) 

Exchange 
differences 

December 31, 2015 

Carrying amounts,  
December 31, 2015 

Carrying amounts,  
December 31, 2014 

7,428

2,588

1,039

1,911

153 

2,344 

15,463

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

4

(17)

801

801

–

–

–

(1)

–

(31)

447

422

25

–

1

–

62

8,277

78

3,083

16,096

4,792

7,869

15,347

5,399

7,654

–

(55)

148

147

1

–

1

(25)

26

1,134

810

769

–

–

106

106

–

–

(2)

–

6

2,021

151

257

– 

(7)

66 

– 

66 

– 

– 

– 

13 

225 

721 

729 

– 

4

(949)

(1,059)

183 

161 

22 

– 

– 

(19)

1,751

1,637

114

–

–

(45)

206 

391

1,765 

16,505

835 

31,274

845 

31,000

Changes in the carrying amounts of goodwill for the reporting segments in 2016 and 2015 were as follows: 

B 17/3

Goodwill by Reporting Segment  

€ million 

Carrying amounts, January 1, 
2015 

Change in scope of 
consolidation 

Acquisitions 

Retirements 

Impairment losses in 2015 

Transfers 

Transfers (IFRS 5) 

Inflation adjustment (IAS 29) 

Exchange differences 

Pharma-
ceuticals

Consumer 

Health Crop Science

Animal 
Health

Covestro Bayer Group

7,215

5,698

2,137

54

243

15,347

–

(133)

–

–

–

–

1

234

–

71

–

–

–

(34)

6

446

–

50

–

–

–

–

–

90

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

7

–

–

–

–

–

11

–

(5)

–

–

–

(34)

7

781

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
    
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

251

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Goodwill by Reporting Segment 

€ million 

Pharma-
ceuticals

Consumer 
Health

Crop
Science

Animal 
Health

Covestro

Bayer 
Group

Carrying amounts, December 31, 2015 

7,317

6,187

2,277

54

261

16,096

 B 17/3 (continued)

Change in scope of consolidation 

Acquisitions 

Retirements 

Impairment losses in 2016 

Transfers 

Transfers (IFRS 5) 

Inflation adjustment (IAS 29) 

Exchange differences 

Carrying amounts, December 31, 2016 

2015 figures restated 

–

(3)

–

–

–

–

–

–

(1)

–

–

–

–

3

–

13

–

–

–

–

–

84

7,398

84

6,273

31

2,321

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

3

–

9

–

–

–

–

3

204

56

264

16,312

Goodwill and other intangible assets with an indefinite useful life that are of material significance for the 
Bayer Group are allocated to the following cash-generating units or unit groups as of the end of the report-
ing period: 

Intangible Assets with an Indefinite Useful Life 

Reporting segment 

Pharmaceuticals 

Consumer Health 

Crop Science 

Crop Science 

Cash-generating unit /
unit group

Pharmaceuticals

Consumer Care

Crop Protection

Seeds

B 17/4

Goodwill 
(€ million)

Material intangible 
assets with indefinite 
useful life (€ million)

6,114

6,273

1,291

540

454

22

63

129

In the case of research and development projects, the point in time from which a capitalized asset can be 
expected to generate an economic benefit for the company cannot be determined. Such assets are there-
fore classified as having an indefinite useful life. Development projects were capitalized at a total amount of 
€652 million as of the end of 2016 (2015: €721 million). 

Another intangible asset classified as having an indefinite useful life is the Bayer Cross, which was reac-
quired for the North America region in 1994, having been awarded to the United States and Canada under 
the reparations agreements at the end of the First World War. The period for which the Bayer Group will 
derive an economic benefit from this name cannot be determined as Bayer intends to make continuous 
use of it. The Bayer Cross is capitalized at €108 million. 

 
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
    
 
    
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
252 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

18. Property, plant and equipment 

Changes in property, plant and equipment in 2016 were as follows: 

Changes in Property, Plant and Equipment 

€ million  

Cost of acquisition or construction,  
December 31, 2015 

Changes in scope of consolidation 

Acquisitions 

Capital expenditures 

Retirements 

Transfers 

Transfers (IFRS 5) 

Inflation adjustment (IAS 29) 

Exchange differences 

December 31, 2016 

Accumulated depreciation  
and impairment losses,  
December 31, 2015 

Changes in scope of consolidation 

Retirements 

Depreciation and impairment losses in 2016 

Depreciation 

Impairment losses 

Impairment loss reversals 

Transfers 

Transfers (IFRS 5) 

Exchange differences 

December 31, 2016 

Carrying amounts, December 31, 2016 

Carrying amounts, December 31, 2015 

Plant 
installations 
and 
machinery

Furniture,
fixtures and
other
equipment

Construction 
in progress 
and advance 
payments 

Land and 
buildings

B 18/1

Total 

9,685

19,418

2,142 

2,295 

33,540

–

–

248

(69)

407

(14)

3

86

10,346

–

–

369

(262)

698

(4)

1

115

20,335

– 

– 

206 

(158)

82 

(1)

– 

26 

– 

– 

1,441 

(9)

(1,187)

(1)

– 

12 

–

–

2,264

(498)

–

(20)

4

239

2,297 

2,551 

35,529

5,255

14,303

1,578 

–

(49)

334

314

20

–

5

(2)

49

5,592

4,754

4,430

–

(245)

936

927

9

–

(4)

(1)

122

15,111

5,224

5,115

– 

(139)

235 

234 

1 

– 

– 

(1)

12 

1,685 

612 

564 

29 

– 

(6)

5 

– 

5 

– 

(1)

–

– 

27 

2,524 

2,266 

21,165

–

(439)

1,510

1,475

35

–

–

(4)

183

22,415

13,114

12,375

Impairment losses totaling €35 million were recognized on property, plant and equipment in the reporting 
segments Consumer Health (€14 million), Pharmaceuticals (€8 million), Covestro (€4 million), Crop Science 
(€1 million), Animal Health (€1 million) and All Other Segments (€7 million). 

In 2016, borrowing costs of €31 million (2015: €33 million) were capitalized as components of the cost of 
acquisition or construction of qualifying assets, applying an average interest rate of 2.5% (2015: 2.5%). 

Capitalized property, plant and equipment included assets with a total net value of €471 million (2015: 
€533 million) held under finance leases. The cost of acquisition or construction of these assets as of the 
closing date totaled €867 million (2015: €915 million). They comprised plant installations and machinery  
with a carrying amount of €191 million (2015: €220 million), buildings with a carrying amount of €146 million 
(2015: €168 million) and other property, plant and equipment with a carrying amount of €134 million (2015: 
€145 million). For information on the liabilities arising from finance leases, see Note [27]. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

253

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

In 2016, rental payments of €429 million (2015: €263 million) were made for assets leased under operating 
leases as defined in IAS 17 (Leases). 

Lease payments of €3 million are expected to be received in 2017 from operating leases – as defined in 
IAS 17 (Leases) – pertaining to property, plant and equipment, excluding the investment property stated 
below. Lease payments totaling €4 million are expected to be received between 2018 and 2021 and lease 
payments totaling €0 million after 2021. 

Investment property 
The fair values of investment property are mainly determined using the income approach based on internal 
valuations for buildings and developed sites, and using the market comparison approach for undeveloped 
sites. 

The total carrying amount of investment property as of December 31, 2016, was €136 million (Decem-
ber 31, 2015: €164 million). The fair value of this property was €507 million (2015: €484 million). The rental 
income from investment property was €18 million (2015: €13 million), and the operating expenses directly 
allocable to this property amounted to €11 million (2015: €8 million). A further amount of €3 million (2015: 
€1 million) in operating expenses was directly allocable to investment property from which no rental income 
was derived. 

Changes in property, plant and equipment in 2015 were as follows: 

Changes in Property, Plant and Equipment (Previous Year) 

€ million  

Cost of acquisition or construction, 
December 31, 2014 

Changes in scope of consolidation 

Acquisitions 

Capital expenditures 

Retirements 

Transfers 

Transfers (IFRS 5) 

Inflation adjustment (IAS 29) 

Exchange differences 

December 31, 2015 

Accumulated depreciation  
and impairment losses,  
December 31, 2014 

Changes in scope of consolidation 

Retirements 

Depreciation and impairment losses in 2015 

Depreciation 

Impairment losses 

Impairment loss reversals 

Transfers 

Transfers (IFRS 5) 

Exchange differences 

December 31, 2015 

Carrying amounts, December 31, 2015 

Carrying amounts, December 31, 2014 

Plant
installations
and
machinery

Furniture, 
fixtures and 
other 
equipment 

Construction
in progress
and advance
payments

Land and 
buildings

B 18/2

Total 

9,088

18,144

2,009

2,078 

31,319

–

33

230

(167)

273

1

7

220

9,685

3

2

390

(429)

797

(64)

2

573

1

1

239

(185)

56

(4)

1

24

– 

– 

1,309 

(58)

(1,126)

– 

– 

92 

4

36

2,168

(839)

–

(67)

10

909

19,418

2,142

2,295 

33,540

4,940

13,426

1,482

–

(101)

317

294

23

–

–

1

98

5,255

4,430

4,148

1

(397)

945

892

53

(1)

(1)

(57)

387

14,303

5,115

4,718

1

(156)

232

230

2

–

1

(3)

21

1,578

564

527

43 

– 

(72)

38 

– 

38 

– 

– 

– 

20 

29 

2,266 

2,035 

19,891

2

(726)

1,532

1,416

116

(1)

–

(59)

526

21,165

12,375

11,428

 
 
  
  
  
  
254 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

19. Investments accounted for using the equity method 

Five (2015: four) associates and six (2015: three) joint ventures were accounted for in the consolidated 
financial statements using the equity method. 

Associates and Joint Ventures Accounted for Using the Equity Method 

B 19/1

Place of business 

Bayer’s interest (%)

Company name 

Associates 

Bayer Trendlines AG Innovation Fund, L.P.1 

Flagship Ventures V Agricultural Fund, L.P.1 

Nanjing Baijingyu Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. 

Paltough Industries (1998) Ltd. 

PO JV, LP 

Joint ventures 

Bayer Zydus Pharma Private Limited 

BlueRock Therapeutics GP LLC 

BlueRock Therapeutics LP 

Casebia Therapeutics LLC 

Misgav, Israel 

Cambridge, U.S.A. 

Nanjing, China 

Kibbutz Ramat Yochanan, Israel 

Wilmington, U.S.A. 

Mumbai, India 

San Francisco, U.S.A. 

San Francisco, U.S.A. 

Cambridge, U.S.A. 

DCSO Deutsche Cyber-Sicherheitsorganisation GmbH 

Berlin, Germany 

DIC Covestro Polymer Ltd. 

Tokyo, Japan 

1 For information concerning the interest in this company see Note [6.1] 

100

99.9

15

25

39.4

50

50

50

50

25

50

In 2000, Bayer acquired the polyols business and parts of the propylene oxide (PO) production operations 
of Lyondell Chemicals with the objective of ensuring access to patented technologies and safeguarding the 
long-term supply of PO, a starting product for polyurethane. As part of this strategy, a company was es-
tablished to produce PO (PO JV, LP, United States, in which Covestro holds a 39.4% interest). Covestro 
benefits from fixed long-term supply quotas / volumes of PO from this company’s production. The two 
following tables contain summarized data from the income statements and statements of financial position 
of the associated company PO JV, LP, United States, which is accounted for using the equity method, and 
show the respective amounts recognized in the consolidated financial statements of the Bayer Group. 

 
 
 
 
    
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

255

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Income Statement Data PO JV, LP, Wilmington, U.S.A. 

€ million  

Net sales 

Net loss after taxes 

Share of net loss after taxes 

Share of total comprehensive income after taxes 

Data from the Statements of Financial Position of PO JV, LP, Wilmington, U.S.A. 

€ million  

Noncurrent assets 

Equity 

Share of equity 

Other 

Carrying amount  

2015

1,695 

(56)

(23)

(23)

B 19/2

2016

1,659

(53)

(24)

(24)

B 19/3

Dec. 31,
2015

Dec. 31, 
2016

475 

475 

201 

(3)

198 

469

469

202

(4)

198

The item “Other” mainly comprises differences arising from adjustments of data to Bayer’s uniform ac-
counting policies, along with purchase price allocations and their amortization in profit or loss. 

In December 2015, Bayer and CRISPR Therapeutics AG, Switzerland, agreed to establish a company to 
develop and commercialize new, breakthrough therapeutics for blood disorders, blindness and congenital 
heart diseases. The joint venture Casebia Therapeutics, established at the beginning of 2016, has access 
to gene-editing technology from CRISPR Therapeutics in specific disease areas, as well as access to pro-
tein engineering expertise and relevant disease know-how through Bayer. The two following tables contain 
summarized data from the income statements and statements of financial position of the joint venture 
Casebia Therapeutics LLC, United States, which is accounted for using the equity method, and show the 
respective amounts recognized in the consolidated financial statements of the Bayer Group. 

Income Statement Data of Casebia Therapeutics LLC, Cambridge, U.S.A. 

€ million  

Net sales 

Net loss after taxes 

Share of net loss after taxes 

Share of total comprehensive income after taxes 

B 19/4

2015

2016

–

–

–

–

–

(8)

(4)

(4)

 
 
   
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
256 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Data from the Statements of Financial Position of Casebia Therapeutics LLC, Cambridge, U.S.A. 

B 19/5

€ million  

Noncurrent assets 

Current assets 

Noncurrent liabilities 

Current liabilities 

Equity 

Share of equity 

Other 

Carrying amount  

Dec. 31, 
2015

Dec. 31, 
2016

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

68

4

-

3

69

38

242

280

The item “Other” comprises Bayer’s outstanding capital contribution obligation. 

The following table contains a summary of the aggregated income statement data and aggregated carrying 
amounts of the individually nonmaterial associates accounted for using the equity method.  

Income Statement Data and Carrying Amount of Associates Accounted for Using the Equity Method 

B 19/6

€ million  

Income after taxes 

Share of income after taxes 

Share of total comprehensive income after taxes 

Carrying amount 

2015

2016

12

1

1

37

11

3

3

49

The following table contains a summary of the aggregated income statement data and aggregated carrying 
amounts of the individually nonmaterial joint ventures that are accounted for using the equity method.    

Income Statement Data and Carrying Amount of Joint Ventures Accounted for Using the Equity Method  

B 19/7

€ million  

Income after taxes 

Share of income after taxes 

Share of total comprehensive income after taxes 

Carrying amount 

2015

2016

6

3

3

11

–

(1)

(1)

57

 
 
 
 
 
 
    
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
  
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

257

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

20. Other financial assets 

The other financial assets were comprised as follows: 

Other Financial Assets 

€ million  

Loans and receivables 

Available-for-sale financial assets 

of which debt instruments 

of which equity instruments 

Held-to-maturity financial investments 

Receivables from derivatives 

Receivables under lease agreements 

Total 

B 20/1

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2016

Total

65

1,177

1,092

85

73

526

7

1,848

Of which 
current

21

266

262

4

6

463

–

756

Total

2,140

4,629

4,371

258

65

714

8

Of which 
current

2,087

3,517

3,514

3

8

663

–

7,556

6,275

Loans and receivables included €1,770 million in bank deposits and €305 million in commercial paper. 

The debt instruments categorized as available-for-sale financial assets included capital of €612 million 
(2015: €610 million) provided to Bayer-Pensionskasse VVaG (Bayer-Pensionskasse) for its effective initial 
fund, and jouissance right capital (Genussrechtskapital) of €154 million (2015: €153 million), also provided 
to Bayer-Pensionskasse. Also reported in this category were investments of €3,513 million (2015: €119 
million) in money market funds.  

The equity instruments categorized as available-for-sale financial assets included the €98 million interest 
held in CRISPR Therapeutics AG, Switzerland, along with €32 million (2015: €40 million) in instruments 
whose fair value could not be determined from a stock exchange or other market price or by discounting 
reliably determinable future cash flows. These equity instruments were recognized at cost. 

Further information on the accounting for receivables from derivatives is given in Note [30]. 

Receivables under lease agreements relate to finance leases where Bayer is the lessor and the economic 
owner of the leased assets is the lessee. These receivables comprised expected lease payments of €39 
million (2015: €38 million), including €31 million (2015: €31 million) in interest. Of the expected lease pay-
ments, €1 million (2015: €1 million) is due within one year, €2 million (2015: €2 million) within the following 
four years and €36 million (2015: €35 million) in subsequent years. 

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
    
 
 
258 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

21. Inventories 

Inventories were comprised as follows:  

Inventories 

€ million  

Raw materials and supplies 

Work in process, finished goods and goods purchased for resale 

Advance payments 

Total 

B 21/1

Dec. 31, 
2015

Dec. 31, 
2016

2,296

6,241

13

8,550

2,396

5,991

21

8,408

Impairment losses recognized on inventories were reflected in the cost of goods sold. They were 
comprised as follows: 

Impairments of Inventories 

€ million  

Accumulated impairment losses, January 1 

Changes in scope of consolidation 

Impairment losses in the reporting period 

Impairment loss reversals or utilization 

Exchange differences 

Transfers (IFRS 5) 

Accumulated impairment losses, December 31 

B 21/2

2016

(427)

–

(321)

346

(18)

4

(416)

2015

(477)

(5)

(216)

246 

21 

4 

(427)

22. Trade accounts receivable 

Trade accounts receivable less impairment losses amounted to €10,969 million (2015: €9,933 million) on 
the closing date and were comprised as follows: 

Trade Accounts Receivable 

€ million  

Trade accounts receivable (before impairments) 

Accumulated impairment losses 

Carrying amount, December 31 

of which noncurrent 

Changes in impairment losses on trade accounts receivable were as follows: 

Impairments of Trade Accounts Receivable 

€ million  

Accumulated impairment losses, January 1 

Impairment losses in the reporting period 

Impairment loss reversals or utilization 

Exchange differences 

Accumulated impairment losses, December 31 

B 22/1

2015

2016

10,181 

11,377

(248)

9,933 

46 

(408)

10,969

144

B 22/2

2016

(248)

(165)

35

(30)

(408)

2015

(233)

(84)

46 

23 

(248)

 
 
 
 
    
    
    
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

259

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Trade accounts receivable amounting to €10,954 million (2015: €9,858 million) were not individually impaired. 
Of this amount, €1,161 million (2015: €1,251 million) was past due or due immediately on the closing date.  

The amounts of impaired and past-due trade accounts receivable are summarized in the following table: 

Impaired and Past-Due Trade Accounts Receivable 

Of which
neither
impaired
nor past 
due at the
closing date

B 22/3

Of which 
impaired
at the
closing 
date

Of which
unimpaired but 
past due at the 
closing date

Carrying amount  
€ million 

December 31, 2016 

December 31, 2015 

up to 
3 months 

3 – 6 
months 

6 – 12 
months 

more than 
12 months 

10,969

9,933

9,793

8,607

780

823

162

202

125

109

94

117

15

75

The gross carrying amount of individually impaired trade accounts receivable was €192 million (2015: €245 
million). The impairment losses recognized on these assets totaled €177 million (2015: €170 million), re-
sulting in a net carrying amount of €15 million (2015: €75 million). 

The unimpaired receivables were deemed to be collectible on the basis of established credit management 
processes and individual assessments of customer risks. Recognized impairment losses included an ap-
propriate allowance for the default risk as of the end of the reporting period.  

Receivables from government health service institutions, especially in Greece, Italy, Portugal and Spain, are 
under special observation in view of the government debt crisis. Although there were no material defaults 
on such receivables in 2016 or 2015, it is possible that future developments in these countries could result 
in payment delays and / or defaults. This could necessitate the recognition of impairment losses due to new 
occurrences. Trade accounts receivable from government health service institutions in the above countries 
at the end of 2016 totaled €134 million (2015: €168 million).   

An excess-of-loss policy exists for the Pharmaceuticals, Consumer Health and Animal Health segments as 
part of a global credit insurance program. More than 80% of the receivables of these segments are insured 
up to a maximum total annual compensation payment of €150 million (2015: €100 million). A global ex-
cess-of-loss policy has also existed for the Crop Science segment since January 2016. In this global credit 
insurance program, more than 80% of this segment’s receivables are insured up to a maximum total annual 
compensation payment of €300 million. 

A further €743 million (2015: €559 million) of receivables was secured by advance payments, letters of 
credit or guarantees or by liens on land, buildings or harvest yields.  

 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
    
 
 
260 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

23. Other receivables 

Other receivables were comprised as follows: 

Other Receivables 

€ million 

Other tax receivables 

Deferred charges 

Reimbursement claims 

Net defined benefit asset 

Receivables from employees 

Miscellaneous receivables 

Total 

B 23/1

 Dec. 31, 2015

 Dec. 31, 2016

Total

746

384

97

30

39

1,151

2,447

Of which 
current

Total

Of which 
current

658

348

81

–

36

894

2,017

764

549

120

26

50

1,284

2,793

746

358

104

–

49

953

2,210

The reimbursement claims of €120 million (2015: €97 million) mainly consisted of receivables from insur-
ance companies in connection with product liability claims.  

Miscellaneous receivables included a €441 million (2015: €423 million) receivable from Dow AgroSciences 
LLC, United States, for damages and royalty payments resulting from the infringement of Bayer’s rights to 
the Liberty Link™ weed control system.  

Of the €690 million (2015: €565 million) in financial receivables included in other receivables, €612 million 
(2015: €460 million) was neither impaired nor past due. Receivables of €50 million (2015: €65 million) were 
due immediately or up to three months past due. Receivables of €27 million (2015: €39 million) were more 
than three months past due. 

Other receivables are stated net of impairment losses totaling €56 million (2015: €55 million), of which €52 
million (2015: €52 million) related to a receivable from the Venezuelan exchange control authority reflecting 
the right to receive U.S. dollars at a preferential rate. 

24. Equity 

The foremost objectives of our financial management are to help bring about a sustained increase in 
Bayer’s value for the benefit of all stakeholders, and to ensure the Group’s creditworthiness and liquidity. 
The pursuit of these goals means reducing our cost of capital, optimizing our capital structure, improving 
our financing cash flow and effectively managing risk. 

The rating agencies commissioned by Bayer assess Bayer’s creditworthiness as follows:  

Rating 

S & P Global Ratings 

Moody’s 

B 24/1

Long-term rating

Short-term rating

A–

A3

A–2

P–2

 
 
 
 
    
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

261

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

These ratings reflect the company’s good creditworthiness and ensure access to a broad investor base for 
financing. Both S & P Global Ratings and Moody’s are currently considering a rating downgrade in view of 
the  agreed  acquisition  of  Monsanto  Company.  Bayer  will  continue  to  target  an  investment-grade  rating 
after  the  successful  closing  of  the  Monsanto  acquisition.  We  remain  committed  to  the  single  “A”  credit 
rating category over the long term.  

Apart from utilizing cash inflows from our operating business to reduce net financial debt, we are imple-
menting our financial strategy by way of vehicles such as the subordinated hybrid bonds issued in July 
2014 and April 2015, the mandatory convertible notes issued in November 2016, the authorized and con-
ditional capital created by resolutions of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting, and a potential share buyback 
program. Bayer’s Articles of Incorporation do not stipulate capital ratios. 

The changes in the various components of equity during 2015 and 2016 are shown in the consolidated 
statements of changes in equity. 

Capital stock 
The capital stock of Bayer AG on December 31, 2016 amounted to €2,117 million (2015: €2,117 million), 
divided into 826,947,808 (2015: 826,947,808) registered no-par shares, and was fully paid in. Each no-par 
share confers one voting right. 

Authorized and conditional capital 
The authorized and conditional capital was comprised as follows:  

Authorized and Conditional Capital 

B 24/2

Capital 

Authorized  
capital I 

Authorized  
capital II 

Conditional  
capital 

Resolution 

Amount / shares 

Expires 

Purpose 

April 29, 2014 

€530 million 

April 28, 2019 

April 29, 2014 

€212 million 

April 28, 2019 

April 29, 2014 

€212 million /  
up to 
82,694,750 shares

April 28, 2019 

Increase the capital stock by issuing 
new no-par shares against cash 
contributions and  / or contributions in 
kind, the latter not to exceed €423 
million 

Increase the capital stock by issuing 
new no-par shares against cash 
contributions 

Increase the capital stock by granting 
no-par shares to the holders of bonds 
with warrants or convertible notes, 
profit participation certificates or income 
bonds; the authorizations to issue such 
instruments are limited to a total 
nominal amount of €6 billion. 

Capital increases are effected by issuing new registered no-par shares. Stockholders must normally be 
granted subscription rights. However, subscription rights may be excluded under certain conditions stated 
in the authorization resolutions. Absent a further resolution of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting on the 
exclusion of stockholders’ subscription rights, the Board of Management will only use the existing authori-
zations to increase the capital stock out of the authorized or conditional capital – while excluding stock-
holders' subscription rights – up to a total amount of 20% of the capital stock that existed when the re-
spective resolutions were adopted by the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting on April 29, 2014. All issuances or 
sales of no-par shares or of bonds with warrants or conversion rights or obligations that are effected while 
excluding stockholders’ subscription rights also count toward this 20% limit. Details of the authorized and 
conditional capital are provided in the Notice of the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting of April 29, 2014, and 
on the Bayer website. 

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
262 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

On November 22, 2016, Bayer placed mandatory convertible notes in the amount of €4,000 million without 
granting subscription rights to existing stockholders of the company. The notes, denominated in units of 
€100,000, were issued by Bayer Capital Corporation B.V. under the subordinated guarantee of Bayer AG. 
At maturity, the outstanding amount of the notes will be mandatorily converted into registered no-par 
shares of Bayer AG. After deduction of €48 million in transaction costs and recognition of €191 million in 
deferred taxes, €3,491 million were allocated to capital reserves and €652 million to financial liabilities. The 
deferred taxes result from temporary differences in accounting for the liability component and were recog-
nized outside profit or loss in equity. The issuance of the mandatory convertible notes constitutes a utiliza-
tion of conditional capital. 

The authorized capital has not been utilized so far.  

Accumulated comprehensive income 
Accumulated comprehensive income comprises retained earnings and accumulated other comprehensive 
income. The retained earnings include prior years’ undistributed income of consolidated companies and all 
remeasurements of the net liability for defined benefit pension and other post-employment benefit plans 
that are recognized outside profit or loss. The accumulated other comprehensive income comprises ex-
change differences, the changes in fair values of cash flow hedges and available-for-sale financial assets, 
and the revaluation surplus. In 2016, an amount of €4 million (2015: €5 million) corresponding to the annu-
al amortization / depreciation of the respective assets was transferred from the revaluation surplus to re-
tained earnings. The reserves for exchange differences included an amount of minus €51 million (2015: 
minus €45 million) attributable to associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method. 

Dividend 
Under the German Stock Corporation Act (AktG), the dividend payment is determined by the distributable 
profit reported in the annual financial statements of Bayer AG, which are prepared according to the Ger-
man Commercial Code. Retained earnings were diminished by payment of the dividend of €2.50 per share 
for 2015. The proposed dividend for the 2016 fiscal year is €2.70 per share, which would result in a total 
dividend payment of €2,233 million. Payment of the proposed dividend is contingent upon approval by the 
stockholders at the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting and therefore is not recognized as a liability in the con-
solidated financial statements. 

Noncontrolling interest 
In April 2016, Bayer AG contributed 10 million shares it held in Covestro AG – equivalent to 4.9% of the 
outstanding shares – to Bayer Pension Trust e.V. Bayer therefore currently holds 64.2% of the shares in the 
capital stock of Covestro AG. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

263

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

The changes in noncontrolling interest in equity during 2015 and 2016 are shown in the following table:  

Components of Noncontrolling Interest in Equity 

€ million 

January 1 

Changes in equity not recognized in profit or loss 

Remeasurements of the net pension liability 

Changes in fair value of cash flow hedges 

Changes in fair value of securities  

Exchange differences on translation of operations outside the eurozone 

Other changes in equity 

Dividend payments 

Income after income taxes 

December 31 

B 24/3

2015

112 

2016

1,180

10 

– 

– 

23 

1,055 

(8)

(12)

(27)

–

–

17

157

(58)

295

1,180 

1,564

The reserves for exchange differences included an amount of minus €28 million (2015: minus €20 million) 
attributable to associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method. 

Noncontrolling interest mainly pertained to the following companies: 

Material Noncontrolling Interests 

Interest held 

Equity attributable to noncontrolling interest 

Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest 

Current assets 

Noncurrent assets 

Current liabilities 

Noncurrent liabilities 

Sales 

Income after income taxes 

Total comprehensive income 

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 

* Including direct and indirect subsidiaries 

B 24/4

Covestro AG *

Bayer CropScience 
Limited, India

%

€ million

€ million

€ million

€ million

€ million

€ million

€ million

€ million

€ million

€ million

€ million

€ million

2015

30.9

1,092

0

4,237

6,294

4,564

2,355

2016

35.8

1,472

52

4,268

5,966

2,474

3,544

12,082

11,904

352

558

1,473

(380)

(645)

806

747

1,786

(1,042)

(1,122)

2015

31.4 

73 

3 

52 

304 

11 

92 

465 

6 

15 

44 

53 

(79)

2016

31.4

85

3

55

352

11

97

484

44

47

–

(4)

(9)

 
 
    
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
264 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

25. Provisions for pensions and other 

post-employment benefits 

Provisions were established for defined benefit obligations pertaining to pensions and other post-
employment benefits. The net liability was accounted for as follows: 

Net Defined Benefit Liability Reflected in the Statement of Financial Position

Pensions

Other post-employment 
benefits

B 25/1

Total

€ million 

Dec 31, 
2015

Dec 31, 
2016

Dec 31, 
2015

Dec 31, 
2016

Dec 31, 
2015

Dec 31, 
2016

Provisions for pensions and other post-
employment benefits (net liability) 

10,454

10,736

of which Germany 

of which other countries 

Net defined benefit asset 

of which Germany 

of which other countries 

Net defined benefit liability 

of which Germany 

of which other countries 

8,972

1,482

29

23

6

9,176

1,560

25

23

2

10,425

10,711

8,949

1,476

9,153

1,558

419

–

419

1

–

1

418

–

418

398

–

398

1

–

1

397

–

397

10,873

11,134

8,972

1,901

30

23

7

9,176

1,958

26

23

3

10,843

11,108

8,949

1,894

9,153

1,955

The expenses for defined benefit plans for pensions and other post-employment benefits comprised the 
following components: 

Expenses for Defined Benefit Plans 

€ million 

Current service cost 

Past service cost 

of which plan 
curtailments 

Plan settlements 

Plan administration 
cost paid out of plan 
assets 

Net interest 

Total 

Germany

Other countries

2016

350

26

–

–

3

204

583

2015

99

(3)

(2)

–

1

52

149

2016

102

(5)

1

(9)

1

52

141

2015

362

27

–

–

–

204

593

B 25/2

Pension plans

Other post-employment 
benefit plans

2015

461

24

(2)

–

1

256

742

Total

2016

452 

21 

1 

(9)

4 

256 

724 

Other countries

2015

17 

– 

– 

– 

– 

20 

37 

2016

16

(1)

–

–

–

20

35

In addition, a total of minus €1,036 million in effects of remeasurements of the net defined benefit liability 
was recognized in 2016 outside profit or loss (2015: €1,216 million). Of this amount, minus €1,063 million 
(2015: €1,185 million) related to pension obligations, €34 million (2015: €53 million) to other post-
employment benefit obligations, and minus €7 million (2015: minus €22 million) to the effects of the asset 
ceiling. 

 
 
 
 
    
    
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
 
  
  
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

265

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

The net defined benefit liability developed as follows: 

Changes in Net Defined Benefit Liability 

€ million 

Germany 

January 1, 2016 

Acquisitions 

Divestments / changes in the scope of consolidation 

Current service cost 

Past service cost 

(Gains) / losses from plan settlements 

Net interest 

Net actuarial (gain) loss 

of which due to changes in financial assumptions 

of which due to changes in demographic assumptions 

of which due to experience adjustments 

Return on plan assets excluding amounts recognized as interest income 

Remeasurement of asset ceiling 

Employer contributions 

Employee contributions 

Payments due to plan settlements 

Benefits paid out of plan assets 

Benefits paid by the company 

Plan administration cost paid from plan assets 

Reclassification to current assets / liabilities held for sale 

December 31, 2016 

Other countries 

January 1, 2016 

Acquisitions 

Divestments / changes in the scope of consolidation 

Current service cost 

Past service cost 

(Gains) / losses from plan settlements 

Net interest 

Net actuarial (gain) loss 

of which due to changes in financial assumptions 

of which due to changes in demographic assumptions 

of which due to experience adjustments 

Return on plan assets excluding amounts recognized as interest income 

Remeasurement of asset ceiling 

Employer contributions 

Employee contributions 

Payments due to plan settlements 

Benefits paid out of plan assets 

Benefits paid by the company 

Plan administration costs paid out of plan assets 

Reclassification to current assets / liabilities held for sale 

Exchange differences 

December 31, 2016 

of which other post-employment benefits 

Total, December 31, 2016 

B 25/3

Defined
benefit
obligation

Fair value of 
plan assets

Effects of the
asset ceiling

Net defined 
benefit 
liability

19,148

10,199 

–

(4)

350

26

–

452

1,610

1,563

1

46

39

–

(219)

(440)

–

– 

(2)

248 

669 

878 

39 

– 

(219)

(3)

– 

20,962

11,809

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(8,949)

–

2

(350)

(26)

–

(204)

(1,610)

(1,563)

(1)

(46)

669

–

878

–

–

–

440

(3)

–

(9,153)

7,660

5,799

(32)

(1,893)

–

(4)

118

(6)

(9)

284

515

650

(89)

(46)

12

(83)

(295)

(87)

–

–

(72)

8,033

867

28,995

1 

(3)

–

–

215 

(3)

427 

152 

12 

(84)

(295)

– 

(1)

– 

(96)

6,127 

471 

17,936 

(7)

–

(7)

(49)

–

(49)

1

1

(118)

6

9

(72)

(515)

(650)

89

46

427

(7)

152

–

(1)

–

87

(1)

–

(31)

(1,955)

(396)

(11,108)

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
266 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Changes in Net Defined Benefit Liability (Previous Year) 

€ million 

Germany 

January 1, 2015 

Acquisitions 

Divestments / changes in the scope of consolidation 

Current service cost 

Past service cost 

(Gains) / losses from plan settlements 

Net interest 

Net actuarial (gain) loss 

of which due to changes in financial assumptions 

of which due to changes in demographic assumptions 

of which due to experience adjustments 

Return on plan assets excluding amounts recognized as interest income 

Remeasurement of asset ceiling 

Employer contributions 

Employee contributions 

Payments due to plan settlements 

Benefits paid out of plan assets 

Benefits paid by the company 

Plan administration cost paid from plan assets 

Reclassification to current assets / liabilities held for sale 

December 31, 2015 

Other countries 

January 1, 2015 

Acquisitions 

Divestments / changes in the scope of consolidation 

Current service cost 

Past service cost 

(Gains) / losses from plan settlements 

Net interest 

Net actuarial (gain) loss 

of which due to changes in financial assumptions 

of which due to changes in demographic assumptions 

of which due to experience adjustments 

Return on plan assets excluding amounts recognized as interest income 

Remeasurement of asset ceiling 

Employer contributions 

Employee contributions 

Payments due to plan settlements 

Benefits paid out of plan assets 

Benefits paid by the company 

Plan administration costs paid out of plan assets 

Reclassification to current assets / liabilities held for sale 

Exchange differences 

December 31, 2015 

of which other post-employment benefits 

Total, December 31, 2015 

Defined
benefit
obligation

Fair value of 
plan assets

Effects of the
asset ceiling

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(9)

– 

– 

B 25/4

Net defined 
benefit 
liability

(10,314)

–

(4)

(362)

(27)

–

(204)

1,393

1,371

–

22

(262)

–

387

–

–

–

433

–

11

(8,949)

(1,881)

(4)

–

(116)

3

–

(72)

318

310

79

(71)

(211)

(22)

148

–

–

–

60

(1)

12

(128)

(1,894)

(418)

(10,843)

20,339

10,025 

–

21

362

27

–

425

(1,393)

(1,371)

–

(22)

37

–

(215)

(433)

(22)

– 

17 

221 

(262)

387 

37 

– 

(215)

– 

11 

19,148

10,199 

7,432

5,560 

– 

– 

4

–

116

(3)

–

287

(318)

(310)

(79)

71

11

–

(289)

(60)

–

(20)

501

7,661

836

26,809

215 

–

(211)

148 

11 

– 

(289)

– 

(1)

(8)

374 

5,799 

418 

15,998 

(22)

– 

(1)

(32)

– 

(32)

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

267

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

The benefit obligations pertained mainly to Germany (72%; 2015: 71%), the United States (14%; 
2015: 15%) and the United Kingdom (7%; 2015: 7%). In Germany, current employees accounted for about 
46% (2015: 44%), retirees or their surviving dependents for about 47% (2015: 49%) and former employees 
with vested pension rights for about 7% (2015: 7%) of entitlements under defined benefit plans. In the 
United States, current employees accounted for about 25% (2015: 26%), retirees or their surviving de-
pendents for about 53% (2015: 61%) and former employees with vested pension rights for about 22% 
(2015: 13%) of entitlements under defined benefit plans. 

The actual return on the assets of defined benefit plans for pensions or other post-employment benefits 
amounted to €1,519 million (2015: minus €34 million) and €40 million (2015: minus €3 million), respectively.   

The following table shows the defined benefit obligations for pensions and other post-employment benefits 
along with the funded status of the funded obligations. 

Defined Benefit Obligation and Funded Status 

€ million 

Defined benefit obligation 

of which unfunded 

of which funded 

Funded status of funded obligations 

Overfunding 

Underfunding 

Pension obligation

Other post-
employment 
benefit obligation

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

B 25/5

Total

2016

25,973

28,128

1,126

1,231

24,847

26,897

61

74

9,328

9,506

836

101

735

1

318

867

125

742

1

272

26,809

28,995

1,227

1,356

25,582

27,639

62

75

9,646

9,778

Pension and other post-employment benefit obligations 
Group companies provide retirement benefits for most of their employees, either directly or by contributing 
to privately or publicly administered funds. The way these benefits are provided varies according to the 
legal, fiscal and economic conditions of each country, the benefits generally being based on employee 
compensation and years of service. The obligations relate both to existing retirees’ pensions and to pen-
sion entitlements of future retirees. 

Bayer has set up funded pension plans for its employees in various countries. The most appropriate in-
vestment strategy is determined for each defined benefit pension plan based on the risk structure of the 
obligations (especially demographics, the current funded status, the structure of the expected future cash 
flows, interest sensitivity, biometric risks etc.), the regulatory environment and the existing level of risk 
tolerance or risk capacity. A strategic target investment portfolio is then developed in line with the plan’s 
risk structure, taking capital market factors into consideration. Further determinants are risk diversification, 
portfolio efficiency and the need for both a country-specific and a global risk / return profile centered on 
ensuring the payment of all future benefits. As the capital investment strategy for each pension plan is 
developed individually in light of the plan-specific conditions listed above, the investment strategies for 
different pension plans may vary considerably. For example, the proportion of plan assets invested in equi-
ties is greater with the non-German pension plans than with the plans domiciled in Germany. The invest-
ment strategies are generally aligned less toward maximizing absolute returns and more toward the maxi-
mum probability of being able to finance pension commitments over the long term. For plan assets, stress 
scenarios are simulated and other risk analyses (such as value at risk) undertaken with the aid of risk man-
agement systems. 

 
 
    
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
268 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Bayer-Pensionskasse VVaG (Bayer-Pensionskasse), Leverkusen, Germany, is by far the most significant of the 
pension plans. It has been closed to new members since 2005. This legally independent fund is regarded 
as a life insurance company and therefore is subject to the German Insurance Supervision Act. The benefit 
obligations covered by Bayer-Pensionskasse comprise retirement, surviving dependents’ and disability 
pensions. It constitutes a multi-employer plan, to which the active members and their employers contrib-
ute. The company contribution is a certain percentage of the employee contribution. This percentage is the 
same for all participating employers, including those outside the Bayer Group, and is set by agreement 
between the plan’s executive committee and its supervisory board, acting on a proposal from the respon-
sible actuary. It takes into account the differences between the actuarial estimates and the actual values 
for the factors used to determine liabilities and contributions. Bayer may also adjust the company contribu-
tion in agreement with the plan’s executive committee and its supervisory board, acting on a proposal from 
the responsible actuary. The plan’s liability is governed by Section 1, Paragraph 1, Sentence 3 of the Ger-
man Law on the Improvement of Occupational Pensions. This means that if the pension plan exercises its 
right under the articles of association to reduce benefits, each participating employer has to make up the 
resulting difference. Bayer is not liable for the obligations of participating employers outside the Bayer 
Group, even if they cease to participate in the plan.  

Pension entitlements for people who joined Bayer in Germany in 2005 or later are granted via Rheinische 
Pensionskasse VVaG, Leverkusen. Future pension payments from this plan are based on contributions and 
the return on plan assets; a guaranteed interest rate applies. 

Another important pension provision vehicle is Bayer Pension Trust e.V. (BPT). This covers further retire-
ment provision arrangements of the Bayer Group, such as deferred compensation, pension obligations 
previously administered by Schering Altersversorgung Treuhand e.V., and components of other direct 
commitments. 

The defined benefit pension plans in the United States have been frozen for some years, and no significant 
new entitlements can be earned under these plans. The assets of all the U.S. pension plans are held by a mas-
ter trust for reasons of efficiency. The applicable regulatory framework is based on the Employee Retirement 
Income Security Act (ERISA), which includes a statutory 80% minimum funding requirement to avoid bene-
fit restrictions. The actuarial risks, such as investment risk, interest-rate risk and longevity risk, remain with the 
company. 

The defined benefit pension plans in the United Kingdom have been closed to new members for some 
years. Plan assets in the U.K. are administered by independent trustees, who are legally obligated to act 
solely in the interests of the beneficiaries. A technical assessment is performed every three years in line 
with U.K. regulations. This serves as the basis for developing a plan to cover any potential financing re-
quirements. Here, too, the actuarial risks remain with the company. 

The other post-employment benefit obligations outside Germany mainly comprised health care benefit 
payments for retirees in the United States. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

269

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

The fair value of the plan assets to cover pension and other post-employment benefit obligations was  
as follows: 

Fair Value of Plan Assets as of December 31 

B 25/6

Pension obligations

Other post-employment 
benefit obligations

Germany

Other countries

Other countries

€ million 

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

Plan assets based on quoted prices  
in active markets 

Real estate and special real estate funds 

Equities and equity funds 

Callable debt instruments 

Noncallable debt instruments 

Bond funds 

Derivatives 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Other 

Plan assets for which quoted prices  
in active markets are not available 

Real estate and special real estate funds 

Equities and equity funds 

Callable debt instruments 

Noncallable debt instruments 

Bond funds 

Derivatives 

Other 

–

–

2,105

2,919

–

112

–

556

199

1,855

182

752

215

1,861

263

736

3,543

3,754

1,744

1,823

18

158

–

11

243

–

(5)

84

4

(3)

114

6

19

130

–

121

90

–

8

–

5,936

7,483

4,815

5,015

368

517

90

1,555

1,832

–

(2)

271

4,263

563

115

1,525

1,870

–

1

252

4,326

83

59

2

–

60

–

362

566

124

72

–

–

72

–

373

641

–

–

–

–

–

–

50

50

418

22

149

–

128

104

–

17

–

420

–

–

–

–

–

–

51

51

471

Total plan assets 

10,199

11,809

5,381

5,656

The fair value of plan assets in Germany included real estate leased by Group companies, recognized at a 
fair value of €82 million (2015: €61 million), and Bayer AG shares and bonds held through investment 
funds, recognized at their fair value of €41 million (2015: €48 million) and €3 million (2015: €3 million), 
respectively. In April 2016, Bayer AG contributed 10 million shares it held in Covestro AG – equivalent to 
4.9% of the outstanding shares – to BPT. This equity position had a market value of €652 million as of 
December 31, 2016. In 2016, Covestro placed short-term securities with a volume of €450 million into 
Metzler Trust e.V. In 2015, Bayer placed short-term securities with a volume of €300 million into BPT. The 
other plan assets comprised mortgage loans granted, other receivables and qualified insurance policies. 

Risks 
The risks from defined benefit plans arise partly from the defined benefit obligations and partly from the 
investment in plan assets. The risks lie in the possibility that higher direct pension payments will have to be 
made to the beneficiaries and / or that additional contributions will have to be made to plan assets in order 
to meet current and future pension obligations. 

 
 
   
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
270 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Demographic / biometric risks 
Since a large proportion of the defined benefit obligations comprises lifelong pension payments to retirees 
or surviving dependents’ pensions, longer claim periods or earlier claims may result in higher benefit obli-
gations, higher benefit expense and / or higher pension payments than previously anticipated. 

Investment risks 
If the actual return on plan assets were below the return anticipated on the basis of the discount rate, the 
net defined benefit liability would increase, assuming there were no changes in other parameters. This 
could happen as a result of a drop in share prices, increases in market rates of interest, default of individu-
al debtors or the purchase of low-risk but low-interest bonds, for example. 

Interest-rate risk 
A decline in capital market interest rates, especially for high-quality corporate bonds, would increase the 
defined benefit obligation. This effect would be at least partially offset by the ensuing increase in the mar-
ket values of the debt instruments held.  

Measurement parameters and their sensitivities 
The following weighted parameters were used to measure the obligations for pensions and other post-
employment benefits as of December 31 of the respective year: 

Parameters for Benefit Obligations 

% 

Pension obligations 

Discount rate 

of which U.S.A. 

of which U.K. 

Germany

Other countries

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2.40

1.80

3.85

4.00

3.80

3.35

3.20

3.25

3.70

2.65

3.50

3.35

2.75

4.00

3.80

3.10

2.15

B 25/7

Total

2016

2.15

3.70

2.65

2.95

1.95

Projected future salary increases 

Projected future benefit increases 

3.00

1.75

2.75

1.50

Other post-employment benefit obligations 

Discount rate 

–

–

4.45

4.35

4.45

4.35

In Germany the Heubeck 2005 G mortality tables were used, in the United States the RP-2014 Mortality 
Tables, and in the United Kingdom 95% of S1NXA.  

The following weighted parameters were used to measure the expense for pension and other post-
employment benefits in the respective year: 

Parameters for Benefit Expense 

% 

Pension obligations 

Discount rate 

Projected future salary increases 

Projected future benefit increases 

Other post-employment benefit obligations 

Germany

Other countries

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2.20

3.00

1.75

2.40

3.00

1.75

3.70

3.65

3.30

3.85

3.35

3.20

2.55

3.15

2.10

B 25/8

Total

2016

2.75

3.10

2.15

Discount rate 

–

–

3.95

4.45

3.95

4.45

 
 
 
 
    
    
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

271

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

The parameter sensitivities were computed by expert actuaries based on a detailed evaluation similar to 
that performed to obtain the data presented in Table B 25/4. Altering individual parameters by 5 percent-
age points (mortality by 10% per beneficiary) while leaving the other parameters unchanged would have 
impacted pension and other post-employment benefit obligations as of year end 2016 as follows: 

Sensitivity of Benefit Obligations 

€ million 

Pension obligations 

Germany

Other countries

B 25/9

Total

Increase Decrease

Increase Decrease

Increase Decrease

0.5%-pt. change in discount rate  

(1,752)

2,014

(478)

539

(2,230)

2,553

0.5%-pt. change in projected future  
salary increases  

0.5%-pt. change in projected future  
benefit increases 

10% change in mortality 

Other post-employment benefit obligations 

0.5%-pt. change in discount rate  

10% change in mortality 

135

(125)

50

(47)

185 

(172)

1,107

(670)

(1,009)

752

–

–

–

–

139

(195)

(48)

(24)

(94)

209

53

27

1,246 

(865)

(1,103)

961

(48)

(24)

53

27

Sensitivity of Benefit Obligations (prior year) 

Germany

Other countries

B 25/10

Total

€ million 

Pension obligations 

Increase Decrease

Increase Decrease

Increase Decrease

0.5%-pt. change in discount rate  

(1,544)

1,767

(450)

504

(1,994)

2,271

0.5%-pt. change in projected future  
salary increases  

0.5%-pt. change in projected future  
benefit increases 

10% change in mortality 

Other post-employment benefit obligations 

0.5%-pt. change in discount rate  

10% change in mortality 

121

(113)

47

(44)

168 

(157)

1,006

(597)

–

–

(919)

669

–

–

127

(173)

(46)

(21)

(96)

185

51

24

1,133 

(770)

(1,015)

854

(46)

(21)

51

24

 
 
    
    
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
272 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Provisions are also set up for the obligations, mainly of U.S. subsidiaries, to provide post-employment 
benefits in the form of health care cost payments for retirees. The valuation of health care costs was based 
on the assumption that they will increase at a rate of 6.8%, which should gradually decline to 5.0% by 
2023 (assumption in 2015: 7.0%, which should gradually decline to 5.0% by 2023). The following table 
shows the impact on other post-employment benefit obligations and total benefit expense of a one-
percentage-point change in the assumed cost increase rates: 

Sensitivity to Health Care Cost Increases 

€ million 

Impact on other post-employment benefit obligations 

Impact on benefit expense 

B 25/11

Increase of one
percentage point

2015

2016

79

5

77 

4 

Decrease of one 
percentage point

2015

(68)

(4)

2016

(66)

(3)

Payments made and expected future payments 
The following payments or asset contributions correspond to the employer contributions made or expected 
to be made to funded benefit plans:  

Employer Contributions Paid or Expected 

€ million  

Pension obligations 

Other post-employment benefit obligations 

Total 

Germany

2017
expected

74

–

74

2016

878

–

878

2015

148

–

148

2015

387

–

387

B 25/12

Other countries

2016

151

1

152

2017 
expected

123

1

124

Bayer has currently committed to make deficit contributions for its U.K. pension plans of approximately 
GBP 16 million annually through 2019. For its U.S. pension plans, Bayer made payments of US$50 million 
in 2016 and expects to make payments of US$50 million in 2017, the latter amount being subject to 
change depending on future circumstances.  

Pensions and other post-employment benefits payable in the future from funded and unfunded plans are 
estimated as follows: 

B 25/13

Future Benefit Payments 

Payments out of plan assets

Payments by the company

€ million 

Germany

Other post-
employment 
benefits

Pensions

Other 
countries

Other 
countries

2017 

2018 

2019 

2020 

2021 

223

226

230

236

242

297

305

312

321

331

9

9

9

9

9

Other post-
employment 
benefits

Pensions

Other 
countries

Other 
countries

76

77

78

83

91

35

38

42

43

45

Total

563

572

584

597

613

Total

Germany

529

540

551

566

582

452

457

464

471

477

2022-2026 

1,310

1,715

46

3,071

2,454

477

252

3,183

The weighted average term of the pension obligations is 18 years (2015: 17.3 years) in Germany and  
13.3 years (2015: 13.4 years) in other countries. The weighted average term of the obligations for other 
post-employment benefits in other countries is 11.5 years (2015: 11.5 years). 

 
 
 
 
    
    
    
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
  
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

273

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

26. Other provisions 

Changes in the various provision categories in 2016 were as follows: 

Changes in Other Provisions  

€ million  

December 31, 2015 

Additions 

Utilization 

Reversal 

Reclassification to 
current liabilities 

Interest cost 

Exchange 
differences 

December 31, 2016 

Environ-
mental
protec-
tion

Other
Taxes

Restruc-
turing

Trade-
related
commit-

ments Litigations

Personnel 
commit-
ments

Miscella-
neous

65

18

(32)

(12)

–

–

2

41

272 

67 

(23)

(5)

– 

4 

6 

306

113

(121)

(29)

–

–

7

321 

276

2,113

4,679

(4,019)

(477)

(12)

–

91

2,375

663

240

(280)

(123)

–

–

12

512

3,099

3,109

(2,503)

(457)

(1)

18

25

3,290

267 

382 

(230)

(48)

–

– 

15 

386 

B 26/1

Total

6,785

8,608

(7,208)

(1,151)

(13)

22

158

7,201

The provisions recognized in the statement of financial position as of December 31, 2016, were expected 
to be utilized as follows:  

Expected Utilization of Other Provisions 

€ million 

2017 

2018 

2019 

2020 

2021 

2022 or later 

Total 

Environ-
mental 
protec-
tion

Restruc-
turing

Trade-
related 
commit-

ments Litigations

69

31

21

11

4

185

321

93

79

71

11

6

16

2,241

66

28

5

6

29

276

2,375

280

152

3

1

4

72

512

Personnel
commit-
ments

Miscella-
neous

2,451

270

147

90

186

57

359

3,290

6

1

1

24

84

386

Other
Taxes

17

–

–

–

1

23

41

B 26/2

Total

5,421

481

214

215

102

768

7,201

The provisions were partly offset by claims for refunds in the amount of €110 million (2015: €97 million), 
which were recognized as receivables. These claims mainly related to product liability.  

Restructuring 
Provisions for restructuring included €179 million (2015: €180 million) for severance payments and 
€97 million (2015: €126 million) for other restructuring expenses, which mainly comprised other costs re-
lated to the closure of production facilities. 

 
 
    
    
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
274 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

In the Pharmaceuticals segment, restructuring took place mainly in the areas of marketing and supply network opti-
mization as part of the Continuous Efficiency Program. Provisions were established for this restructuring primarily in 
Japan, France and the United States. Provisions for the above and other restructuring measures in Pharma-
ceuticals as of December 31, 2016, totaled €66 million. Of this amount, severance payments accounted 
for €62 million and other restructuring expenses for €4 million. 

In the Consumer Health segment, the restructuring initiated in prior years to integrate the acquired busi-
nesses continued. Provisions for restructuring in this segment totaled €8 million as of December 31, 2016. 
Of this amount, severance payments accounted for €7 million and other restructuring expenses for 
€1 million. 

In the Crop Science segment, restructuring took place mainly in connection with the “Advancing our lead-
ership strategy” program, which aims to increase customer focus, promote innovation and improve effi-
ciency. The restructuring initiated in the United States in prior years, involving the closure of several car-
bamate production facilities and a formulation plant, continued in addition. Provisions for the above and 
other restructuring measures in Crop Science as of December 31, 2016, totaled €104 million. Of this 
amount, severance payments accounted for €53 million and other restructuring expenses for €51 million. 

Provisions for restructuring in the Animal Health segment as of December 31, 2016, totaled €8 million. Of 
this amount, severance payments accounted for €5 million and other restructuring expenses for €3 million. 

Provisions for restructuring at Covestro mainly existed for the closure of an MDI production facility at the 
site in Tarragona, Spain. The restructuring provisions at Covestro as of December 31, 2016, totaled 
€66 million. Of this amount, severance payments accounted for €31 million and other restructuring ex-
penses for €35 million.  

Restructuring continued in the central functions, particularly in France, to enhance their efficiency. Also 
included here are provisions for the residual costs for the closure of a Covestro production facility at the 
Belford Roxo site in Brazil. The restructuring provisions in the central functions as of December 31, 2016, 
totaled €24 million. Of this amount, severance payments accounted for €21 million and other restructuring 
expenses for €3 million.  

Litigations 
The legal risks currently considered to be material, and their development, are described in Note [32]. 

Personnel commitments 

Stock-based compensation programs 
Bayer offers stock-based compensation programs collectively to different groups of employees. As re-
quired by IFRS 2 (Share-based Payment) for compensation systems involving cash settlement, awards to 
be made under the stock-based programs are covered by provisions in the amount of the fair value of the 
obligations existing as of the date of the financial statements vis-à-vis the respective employee group. All 
resulting valuation adjustments are recognized in profit or loss. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

275

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

The following table shows the changes in provisions for the various programs: 

Changes in Provisions for Stock-Based Compensation Programs 

€ million 

December 31, 2015 

Additions 

Utilization  

Reversal 

Exchange differences 

December 31, 2016 

Aspire I

Aspire II Aspire 2.0

Aspire I
Covestro

Aspire II 
Covestro

Covestro
Prisma

125 

61 

(54)

(71)

– 

61 

339

204

(149)

(194)

3

203

–

90

–

(7)

2

85

22

5

(8)

(2)

–

17

59

13

(23)

(2)

1

48

– 

15 

– 

– 

– 

15 

B 26/3

Total

545

388

(234)

(276)

6

429

The value of the Aspire tranches that were fully earned at the end of 2016, resulting in payments at the 
beginning of 2017, was €241 million (2015: €230 million). 

The net expense for all stock-based compensation programs in 2016 was €118 million (2015: €248 mil-
lion), including €5 million (2015: €6 million) for the BayShare program, €2 million (2015: €0 million) for 
Covestro’s stock participation program and €1 million income from (2015: €8 million expense for) grants of 
virtual Bayer shares. 

The fair value of the obligations under the Aspire I, Aspire II and Aspire 2.0 programs (excluding Aspire programs 
for Covestro) was calculated using the Monte Carlo simulation method based on the following key parameters: 

Parameters for Monte Carlo Simulation 

Dividend yield 

Risk-free interest rate 

Volatility of Bayer stock 

Volatility of EURO STOXX 50 

Correlation between Bayer stock price and the EURO STOXX 50 

B 26/4

2015

1.96%

2016

2.90%

(0.159)% (0.670)%

25.61%

19.08%

0.83

22.78%

11.66%

0.67

Long-term incentive program for members of the Board of Management and other senior 
executives (Aspire I) 
From 2005 through 2015, members of the Board of Management and other senior executives were entitled 
to participate in Aspire I on the condition that they purchased a certain number of Bayer shares – deter-
mined for each individual according to specific guidelines – and retained them for the full term of the pro-
gram. A percentage of the executive’s annual base salary – according to his or her position – was defined 
as a target for variable payments (Aspire target opportunity). Depending on the performance of Bayer 
stock, both in absolute terms and relative to the EURO STOXX 50 index over a four-year performance 
period, participants receive a payment of up to 300% of their individual Aspire target opportunity at the 
end of the period. The prices used to determine the amount of the payment are the averages of the official 
closing prices of Bayer shares over the last 30 stock-exchange trading days of the respective year. The 
tranche issued in 2012 expired at the end of 2015, and the maximum payment of 300% was made at the 
beginning of 2016. The tranche issued in 2013 expired at the end of 2016, and a payment of 270% was 
made at the beginning of 2017. 

Long-term incentive program for middle management (Aspire II) 
From 2005 through 2015, other senior managers were offered Aspire II, which is similar to Aspire I but did 
not require a personal investment in Bayer shares. The amount of the payment is based entirely on the 
absolute performance of Bayer stock over a four-year period. The maximum payment is 250% of each 
manager’s Aspire target opportunity. The prices used to determine the amount of the payment are the aver-
ages of the official closing prices of Bayer shares over the last 30 stock-exchange trading days of the respec-

 
 
    
    
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
276 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

tive year. The tranche issued in 2012 expired at the end of 2015, and the maximum payment of 250% was 
made at the beginning of 2016. The tranche issued in 2013 expired at the end of 2016, and a payment of 
220% was made at the beginning of 2017. 

Long-term incentive program Aspire 2.0 
Since 2016, Aspire has been offered to all eligible employees in a new, standardized format named Aspire 
2.0. For the Board of Management, there is an additional hurdle in the form of a comparison between the 
performance of Bayer stock and that of the EURO STOXX 50. Aspire 2.0 is also based on a target value, 
which is a percentage of each employee’s annual base salary, the percentage varying according to his or 
her position. This target value is multiplied by the employee’s STI payment factor for the previous year to 
give the Aspire grant value. The STI payment factor reflects the employee’s individual performance and the 
business performance under the global short-term incentive program (STI). The Aspire grant value is con-
verted into virtual Bayer shares by dividing it by the share price at the start of the program. The program’s 
performance is based on these virtual shares. The fair value of the obligations is determined from the price 
of Bayer stock at year end and the dividends paid up to that time. The payment made at the end of each 
tranche is determined by multiplying the number of virtual shares by the Bayer share price at that time and 
adding an amount equivalent to the dividends paid during the period of the tranche. The maximum pay-
ment for Aspire 2.0 is 250% of the Aspire grant value. 

Special arrangement for Covestro employees concerning the Aspire programs 
The compensation programs described above were modified for Covestro employees in December 2015 in 
light of the legal carve-out of the Covestro companies and the subsequent stock exchange listing of 
Covestro AG. 

The arrangement for the 2012 tranches of both Aspire programs was the same as for Bayer employees. 
Based on the development of Bayer’s share price, the maximum payment amounts were reached for both 
programs (Aspire I and Aspire II). Payments of 300% and 250%, respectively, were therefore made at the 
beginning of 2016.  

Valuation for the other three Aspire tranches issued in 2013, 2014 and 2015, respectively, was based on 
the average price of Bayer shares on the last 30 trading days of 2015 (€119.17). This price was fixed in 
advance as the end price. Thus the amounts of the payments from the three remaining tranches – where 
these were fully vested – were already finally determined at the end of 2015. A payment of at least 100% is 
guaranteed. The tranches issued in 2013 expired at the end of 2016, and payments of 300% (Aspire I) and 
250% (Aspire II) were made at the beginning of 2017. 

Long-term incentive program for members of the Board of Management and other senior 
executives of Covestro (Prisma) 
Effective January 1, 2016, Covestro established a new long-term compensation program named Prisma for 
the 2016-2019 performance period. Senior executives and other managers are eligible to participate. A 
percentage of the executive’s annual base salary – according to his or her position – is defined as a target 
for variable payments (Prisma target opportunity). Depending on the performance of Covestro stock includ-
ing dividends paid (total shareholder return) – both in absolute terms and relative to the STOXX Europe 600 
Chemicals index – over a four-year performance period, participants are granted a payment of up to 200% 
of their individual Prisma target opportunity at the end of the period. Payment for the performance period 
ending December 31, 2019, will be made in January 2020 according to the performance of Covestro stock 
over the period. This will be determined by comparing the average stock price on the last 30 trading days 
of 2019 to the price at the start of the performance period. The fair value of the obligations was calculated 
using the Monte Carlo simulation method based on parameters applicable at the closing date. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

277

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

BayShare 2016 
All management levels and nonmanagerial employees are offered an annual stock participation program 
known as BayShare, under which Bayer subsidizes their personal investments in the company’s stock. The 
discount under this program in 2016 was 20% (2015: 20%) of the subscription amount. Employees stated 
a fixed amount that they wished to invest in shares. The maximum subscription amount in Germany was 
set at €2,500 (2015: €2,500) or €5,000 (2015: €5,000), depending on the employee’s position. The shares 
thus acquired must be retained until December 31, 2017. 

In 2016, employees purchased a total of about 259,000 shares (2015: 208,000 shares) under the  
BayShare program.  

Stock participation program at Covestro in 2016 
The stock participation program at Covestro named Covestment allowed employees of Covestro AG and 
participating Group companies in Germany to invest a fixed amount of their compensation – plus a subsidy 
from the company – in Covestro shares. The subsidy, which will be reassessed annually, was 30% in 2016. 
The total amount for which shares could be purchased was capped at €1,200 or €3,600, depending on 
the employee’s position. The shares were purchased at the volume-weighted average price of Covestro 
shares on four trading days in November 2016. Employees purchased a total of about 126,000 shares 
under the Covestment program. These shares must be retained until December 31, 2017. 

27. Financial liabilities 

Financial liabilities were comprised as follows: 

Financial Liabilities 

€ million 

Bonds and notes / promissory notes 

Liabilities to banks 

Liabilities under finance leases  

Liabilities from derivatives 

Other financial liabilities  

Total 

B 27/1

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2016

Total

 15,547

 2,779

 474

 765

 369

Of which 
current

 1,235

 1,174

 59

 598

 355

Total

 15,991

 1,837

 436

 587

 730

Of which 
current

 2,010

 820

 59

 309

 203

 19,934

 3,421

 19,581

 3,401

A breakdown of financial liabilities by contractual maturity is given below: 

Maturities of Financial Liabilities 

€ million 

2016 

2017 

2018 

2019 

2020 

2021 or later 

Total 

Dec. 31, 2015

  € million 

Dec. 31, 2016

B 27/2

3,421

2,245

2,828

2,066

45

9,329

19,934

  2017 

  2018 

  2019 

  2020 

  2021 

  2022 or later 

  Total 

3,401

3,241

2,456

44

2,714

7,725

19,581

 
 
    
    
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
278 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

In addition to promissory notes in the amount of €45 million (2015: €120 million), the Bayer Group has 
issued the following bonds and notes: 

B 27/3

Nominal volume

Dec. 31, 2015 
€ million

Dec. 31, 2016 
 € million

Bonds and Notes 

Effective 
interest rate 

Stated rate

Floating 

1 

Floating 

1 DIP bond 2014 / 2016 

  Bayer AG, Germany 

1.253% 

5.774% 

5.541% 

2.086% 

3.811% 

2.517% 

3.093% 

1.333% 

6.061% 

1.125% DIP bond 2014 / 2018 

5.625% DIP bond 2006 / 2018 

5.625% DIP bond 2006 / 2018 (increase) 

1.875% DIP bond 2014 / 2021 

3.750% Hybrid bond 2014 / 2024 

7

 / 2074 

2.375% Hybrid bond 2015 / 2022 

7

 / 2075 

3.000% Hybrid bond 2014 / 2020 

7

 / 2075 

  Bayer Capital Corporation B.V., Netherlands 

1.250% DIP bond 2014 / 2023 

5.625% Mandatory Convertible Notes 

8 2016 / 2019 

  Bayer Corporation, U.S.A. 

EUR 500 million

EUR 750 million

GBP 250 million

GBP 100 million

EUR 750 million

EUR 1,500 million

EUR 1,300 million

EUR 1,750 million

EUR 500 million

EUR 4,000 million

6.670% 

6.650% Notes 1998 / 2028 

US$350 million

0.858% 

1.493% 

3.654% 

0.629% 

Floating 

2 

Floating 

3 

Floating 

4 

Floating 

5 

1.615% 

2.564% 

3.096% 

3.579% 

Floating 

6 

1.076 % 

1.782 % 

  Bayer Holding Ltd., Japan 

0.816% DIP bond 2012 / 2017 

1.459% DIP bond 2010 / 2017 

3.575% DIP bond 2008 / 2018 

0.594% DIP bond 2013 / 2019 

  Bayer Nordic SE, Finland 

Floating 

2 DIP bond 2013 / 2016 

Floating 

3 DIP bond 2014 / 2017 

  Bayer U.S. Finance LLC, U.S.A. 

Floating 

4 Notes 2014 / 2016 

Floating 

5 Notes 2014 / 2017 

1.500% Notes 2014 / 2017 

2.375% Notes 2014 / 2019 

3.000% Notes 2014 / 2021 

3.375% Notes 2014 / 2024 

  Covestro AG, Germany 

Floating 

6 DIP bond 2016 / 2018 

1.000% DIP bond 2016 / 2021 

1.750% DIP bond 2016 / 2024 

  Total 

JPY 30 billion

JPY 10 billion

JPY 15 billion

JPY 10 billion

EUR 200 million

EUR 500 million

US$500 million

US$400 million

US$850 million

US$2,000 million

US$1,500 million

US$1,750 million

EUR 500 million

EUR 500 million

EUR 500 million

1 Floating-rate coupon comprising three-month EURIBOR plus 22 basis points 
2 Floating-rate coupon comprising three-month EURIBOR plus 35 basis points 
3 Floating-rate coupon comprising three-month EURIBOR plus 22 basis points 
4 Floating-rate coupon comprising three-month USD-LIBOR plus 25 basis points 
5 Floating-rate coupon comprising three-month USD-LIBOR plus 28 basis points 
6 Floating-rate coupon comprising three-month EURIBOR plus 60 basis points 
7 Date of first option to early redeem the bond at par 
8 The mandatory convertible notes were allocated to capital reserves and to other financial liabilities.  

500

748

339

137

753

1,493

1,289

1,743

497

–

342

229

76

115

76

200

500

459

367

779

1,826

1,372

1,587

–

–

–

–

749

292

117

755

1,494

1,290

1,745

497

–

351

243

81

122

81

–

500

–

379

806

1,889

1,419

1,642

500

497

497

15,427

15,946

Debt Issuance Programme 
An important means of external financing are the bonds issued under the Debt Issuance Programme (DIP), previ-
ously known as the multi-currency European Medium Term Notes (EMTN) program. The Debt Issuance Pro-
gramme allows bonds in different currencies and with different maturities to be placed flexibly with investors. 

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

279

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Hybrid bonds 
The hybrid bonds issued by Bayer AG are subordinated, and 50% of their amount is treated by Moody’s 
and S & P Global Ratings as equity. They therefore have a more limited effect on the Group’s rating-
relevant debt indicators than senior borrowings. 

Mandatory convertible notes 
On November 22, 2016, Bayer Capital Corporation B.V. placed subordinated mandatory convertible notes 
in the amount of €4,000 million, which will be converted into no-par shares of Bayer AG at maturity. The 
notes represented the first part of the equity component of the financing for the planned acquisition of 
Monsanto Company. After deducting transaction costs of €48 million and recognition of deferred taxes of 
€191 million, €3,491 million were allocated to capital reserves and €652 million to other financial liabilities. 

Bayer AG guarantees all the notes and bonds issued by subsidiaries (except Covestro companies). 

Lease liabilities 
Lease payments totaling €609 million (2015: €646 million), including €173 million (2015: €172 million) in 
interest, are to be made under finance leases to the respective lessors in future years. 

The liabilities under finance leases mature as follows: 

B 27/4

Lease Liabilities  

€ million 

Maturity 

2016 

2017 

2018 

2019 

2020 

2021 or later 

Total 

Lease
payments

Interest 
component 

86

76

68

60

60

296

646

27 

23 

20 

18 

15 

69 

172 

Dec. 31, 2015

€ million 

Dec. 31, 2016

Liabilities
under 
finance 
leases

59

53

48

42

45

227

474

Lease 
payments

Interest 
component

Liabilities 
under 
finance 
leases

88

76

68

59

57

261

609

29

24

21

17

15

67

173

59

52

47

42

42

194

436

Maturity 

2017 

2018 

2019 

2020 

2021 

2022 or later 

Total 

Other information 
As of December 31, 2016, the Group had undrawn credit facilities at its disposal totaling €55 billion (2015: 
€6.2 billion), including €50 billion in bridge financing for the planned acquisition of Monsanto Company and 
€1.5 billion in facilities available to Covestro. 

Further information on the accounting for liabilities from derivatives is given in Note [30]. 

 
 
    
 
 
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
280 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

28. Trade accounts payable 

Trade accounts payable comprised €6,403 million (2015: €5,937 million) due within one year and €7 million 
(2015: €8 million) due after one year.  

29. Other liabilities 

Other liabilities comprised: 

Other Liabilities 

€ million 

Other tax liabilities 

Deferred income 

Liabilities to employees 

Liabilities for social expenses  

Accrued interest on liabilities 

Miscellaneous liabilities 

Total 

B 29/1

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2016

Total

435

1,148

217

174

189

436

Of which 
current

428

204

210

165

180

347

Total

544

1,463

229

168

186

788

Of which 
current

527

651

219

157

181

686

2,599

1,534

3,378

2,421

Deferred income included an upfront payment, originally amounting to US$1 billion, in connection with the 
strategic pharmaceutical collaboration agreed between Bayer and Merck & Co., Inc., United States, in the 
field of soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) modulation. This deferred income is being amortized over a period of 
13.5 years as the obligations are satisfied. The remaining amount deferred at the end of 2016 was 
€660 million (2015: €719 million). The amount amortized in 2016 was €59 million (2015: €59 million).  

Deferred income also included the proceeds from the sale of the Diabetes Care business at the beginning of 
2016. The original sale proceeds of around €1 billion are being realized over a period of up to 24 months as 
the obligations are satisfied. €469 million remained deferred at the end of 2016.  

The deferred income included €62 million (2015: €62 million) in grants and subsidies received from gov-
ernments, of which €15 million (2015: €7 million) was reversed and recognized in profit or loss. 

The miscellaneous liabilities included €271 million (2015: €125 million) from derivatives.  

30. Financial instruments 

The system used by the Bayer Group to manage credit risks, liquidity risks and the different types of mar-
ket price risk (interest-rate and currency risks), together with its objectives, methods and procedures, is 
outlined in the Opportunity and Risk Report, which forms part of the Combined Management Report. 

30.1 Financial instruments by category 
The following table shows the carrying amounts and fair values of financial assets and liabilities for each 
financial instrument category and a reconciliation to the corresponding line item in the statements of finan-
cial position. Since the line items “Other receivables,” “Trade accounts payable” and “Other liabilities” con-
tain both financial instruments and nonfinancial assets or liabilities (such as other tax receivables or ad-
vance payments for services to be received in the future), the reconciliation is shown in the column headed 
“Nonfinancial assets / liabilities.” 

 
 
 
 
    
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

281

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Carrying Amounts and Fair Values of Financial Instruments  

Carried at 
amortized 
cost

Carried at fair value
1]

[Fair value for information 

Based on 
quoted 
prices in 
active 
markets 
(Level 1)

Based on 
observable 
market 
data 
(Level 2)

Based on 
unobserv-
able inputs 
(Level 3)

Carrying 
amount

Carrying 
amount

Carrying 
amount

Carrying 
amount

Carrying 
amount

€ million 

Trade accounts receivable 

Loans and receivables 

Other financial assets 

Loans and receivables 

Available-for-sale financial assets 

Held-to-maturity financial assets 

Derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting 

Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting 

Other receivables 

Loans and receivables 

Available-for-sale financial assets 

Nonfinancial assets 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Loans and receivables 

Total financial assets 

of which loans and receivables 

10,969

10,969

2,245

2,148

32

65

633

633

1,899

1,899

15,746

15,649

523

520

3

3,985 

[2,145]

3,283 

[68]

269 

433 

[633]

523

[1,899]

3,985 

of which available-for-sale financial assets 

32

520

3,283 

Financial liabilities 

Carried at amortized cost 

18,994

18,994

587 

[16,040]

[3,362]

Derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting 

Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting 

Trade accounts payable 

Carried at amortized cost 

Nonfinancial liabilities 

Other liabilities 

Carried at amortized cost 

Carried at fair value (nonderivative) 

Derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting 

Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting 

Nonfinancial liabilities 

Total financial liabilities 

of which carried at amortized cost 

of which derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting 

of which derivatives that do not qualify  
for hedge accounting 

6,035

6,035

840

840

25,869

25,869

312 

275 

252 

[840]

165 

87 

839 

477 

362 

2

2

2

2

1 The exemption provisions under IFRS 7.29(a) were applied for information on specific fair values. 

B 30.1/1

Dec. 31, 2016

Non-
financial 
assets / 
liabilities

Carrying
amount in
the state-
ment of
financial
position

10,969

10,969

7,556

2,148

4,629

65

269

445

2,103

2,793

2,103

375

375

2,259

2,259

633

57

2,103

1,899

1,899

21,114

15,649

4,686

19,581

18,994

312

275

6,410

6,035

375

3,378

840

8

165

106

2,259

26,735

25,869

477

381

803

[16]

794

9

57

57

860

851

25

8

17

25

17

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
282 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Carrying Amounts and Fair Values of Financial Instruments   

Carried at 
amortized 
cost

Carried at fair value
[Fair value for information1]

Based on 
quoted 
prices in 
active 
markets 
(Level 1)

Based on 
observable 
market 
data 
(Level 2)

Based on 
unobserv-
able inputs 
(Level 3)

Carrying 
amount

Carrying 
amount

Carrying 
amount

Carrying 
amount

Carrying 
amount

€ million 

Trade accounts receivable 

Loans and receivables 

Other financial assets 

Loans and receivables 

Available-for-sale financial assets 

Held-to-maturity financial assets 

Derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting 

Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting 

Other receivables 

Loans and receivables 

Available-for-sale financial assets 

Nonfinancial assets 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Loans and receivables 

Total financial assets 

of which loans and receivables 

of which available-for-sale financial assets 

Financial liabilities 

Carried at amortized cost 

Derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting 

Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting 

Trade accounts payable 

Carried at amortized cost 

Nonfinancial liabilities 

Other liabilities 

Carried at amortized cost 

Carried at fair value (nonderivative) 

Derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting 

Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting 

Nonfinancial liabilities 

Total financial liabilities 

of which carried at amortized cost 

of which derivatives that qualify for hedge accounting 

of which derivatives that do not qualify  
for hedge accounting 

9,933

9,933

185

72

40

73

506

506

1,859

1,859

12,483

12,370

40

19,169

19,169

5,680

5,680

606

606

25,455

25,455

509

[64]

[74]

125

384

[506]

[1,859]

509

363

363

363

363

765

[15,440]

[4,121]

470

295

117

[606]

93

24

882

563

319

791

[18]

774

17

59

59

850

833

45

37

8

45

8

1 The exemption provisions under IFRS 7.29(a) were applied for information on specific fair values. 

B 30.1/2

Dec. 31, 2015

Non-
financial 
assets / 
liabilities

Carrying 
amount in 
the state-
ment of 
financial 
position

9,933

9,933

1,848

72

1,177

73

125

401

1,882

2,447

1,882

265

265

1,831

1,831

506

59

1,882

1,859

1,859

14,205

12,370

1,236

19,934

19,169

470

295

5,945

5,680

265

2,599

606

37

93

32

1,831

26,382

25,455

563

327

 
 
 
 
    
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

283

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

The loans and receivables reflected in other financial assets and the liabilities measured at amortized cost 
also include receivables and liabilities under finance leases in which Bayer is the lessor or lessee and which 
are therefore measured in accordance with IAS 17. 

Because of the short maturities of most trade accounts receivable and payable, other receivables and 
liabilities, and cash and cash equivalents, their carrying amounts at the closing date do not significantly 
differ from the fair values. 

The fair values of loans and receivables, held-to-maturity financial investments and of financial liabilities 
carried at amortized cost that are given for information are the present values of the respective future cash 
flows. The present values are determined by discounting the cash flows at a closing-date interest rate, 
taking into account the term of the assets or liabilities and the creditworthiness of the counterparty. Where 
a market price is available, however, this is deemed to be the fair value. 

The fair values of available-for-sale financial assets correspond to quoted prices in active markets (Level 1), 
are determined using valuation techniques based on observable market data as of the end of the reporting 
period (Level 2) or are the present values of the respective future cash flows, determined on the basis of 
unobservable inputs (Level 3). 

The fair values of derivatives for which no publicly quoted prices exist in active markets (Level 1) are de-
termined using valuation techniques based on observable market data as of the end of the reporting period 
(Level 2). In applying valuation techniques, credit value adjustments are determined to allow for the con-
tracting party’s credit risk. 

Currency and commodity forward contracts are measured individually at their forward rates or forward 
prices on the closing date. These depend on spot rates or prices, including time spreads. The fair values of 
interest-rate hedging instruments and cross-currency interest-rate swaps are determined by discounting 
future cash flows over the remaining terms of the instruments at market rates of interest, taking into ac-
count any foreign currency translation as of the closing date. 

Fair values estimated using unobservable inputs are categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. 
This applies to certain available-for-sale debt or equity instruments, in some cases to the fair values of 
embedded derivatives, and to obligations for contingent consideration in business combinations. Credit 
risk is frequently the principal unobservable input used to determine the fair values of debt instruments 
classified as available-for-sale financial assets by the discounted cash flow method. Here the credit 
spreads of comparable issuers are applied. A significant increase in credit risk could result in a lower fair 
value, whereas a significant decrease could result in a higher fair value. However, a relative change of 10% 
in the credit spread does not materially affect the fair value. 

 
 
 
 
284 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Embedded derivatives are separated from their respective host contracts. Such host contracts are general-
ly sale or purchase agreements relating to the operational business. The embedded derivatives cause the 
cash flows from the contracts to vary with exchange-rate or price fluctuations. The internal measurement 
of embedded derivatives is mainly performed using the discounted cash flow method, which is based on 
unobservable inputs. These include planned sales and purchase volumes, and prices derived from market 
data. Regular monitoring is carried out based on these fair values as part of quarterly reporting.  

The changes in the amount of financial assets and liabilities recognized at fair value based on unobserva-
ble inputs (Level 3) for each financial instrument category were as follows: 

Development of Financial Assets and Liabilities (Level 3) 

Available-
for-sale 
financial 
assets

Derivatives
(net)

Liabilites 
measured 
at fair 
value (non-
derivative)

2015

Total

Available-
for-sale
financial
assets

Derivatives
(net)

Liabilites 
carried at 
fair value 
(non-
derivative)

€ million  

Carrying amounts of net assets /  
(net liabilities), Jan. 1 

Gains (losses) recognized  
in profit or loss 

of which related to assets / liabilities 
recognized in the statements  
of financial position  

Gains (losses) recognized outside 
profit or loss 

Additions of assets / (liabilities) 

Settlements of (assets) / liabilities 

Transfers (IFRS 5) 

Transfers to a different fair-value 
hierarchy 

Net carrying amounts of assets / 
(liabilities), Dec. 31 

803 

22 

22 

19 

11 

(22)

– 

– 

833 

6

(12)

(17)

–

–

9

6

–

9

(31)

778

833

(3)

(3)

–

(4)

1

–

–

7

2

19

7

(12)

6

–

18

18

9

46

(23)

–

(32)

9 

(17)

(17)

– 

– 

– 

– 

– 

(37)

23 

– 

– 

– 

6 

– 

– 

(37)

805

851

(8)

(8)

835

B 30.1/3

2016

Total

805

24

1

9

46

(17)

–

(32)

The changes recognized in profit or loss were included in other operating income / expenses, interest  
income or exchange gains / losses. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

285

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Income, expense, gains and losses on financial instruments can be assigned to the following categories: 

Income, Expense, Gains and Losses on Financial Instruments 

€ million 

Interest income 

Interest expense 

Income / expenses from 
affiliated companies 

Changes in fair value 

Impairment losses 

Impairment loss reversals 

Exchange gains / losses 

Gains / losses from retirements 

Other financial income / 
expenses 

Net result 

Held-to-
maturity
financial
investments

Available-
for-sale 
financial 
assets

Loans and 
receivables

Liabilities 
carried at 
amortized 
cost

Held for
trading

44 

– 

– 

– 

(171)

26 

355 

– 

(1)

253 

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

21

–

–

–

(2)

–

–

6

–

25

2

(3)

–

(77)

–

–

(103)

–

–

(181)

62 

(642)

– 

– 

– 

– 

(374)

– 

(34)

(988)

Income, Expense, Gains and Losses on Financial Instruments (Previous Year) 

€ million 

Interest income 

Interest expense 

Income / expenses from 
affiliated companies 

Changes in fair value 

Impairment losses 

Impairment loss reversals 

Exchange gains / losses 

Gains / losses from retirements 

Other financial income / 
expenses 

Net result 

Held-to-
maturity
financial
investments

Available-
for-sale 
financial 
assets

Loans and 
receivables

Held for
trading

55 

– 

– 

– 

(93)

32 

450 

– 

(1)

443 

1

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1

22

–

3

–

(1)

–

–

31

13

68

25

(25)

–

147

–

–

(235)

–

–

(88)

Liabilities 
carried at 
amortized 
cost

86 

(703)

– 

– 

– 

– 

(679)

– 

(12)

(1,308)

B 30.1/4

2016

Total

129

(645)

–

(77)

(173)

26

(122)

6

(35)

(891)

B 30.1/5

2015

Total

189

(728)

3

147

(94)

32

(464)

31

–

(884)

The interest expense of €642 million (2015: €703 million) from nonderivative financial liabilities also includ-
ed the income and expense from interest-rate swaps that qualified for hedge accounting. Interest income 
from financial assets not measured at fair value through profit or loss amounted to €65 million (2015: 
€73 million). Interest income from interest-rate derivatives that qualified for hedge accounting was 
€62 million (2015: €86 million). The changes in fair values of financial assets held for trading related mainly 
to forward commodity contracts and embedded derivatives. 

 
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
    
   
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
286 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Derivatives that form part of a master netting arrangement, constitute a financial asset or liability and can 
only be netted in the event of breach of contract by, or insolvency of, one of the contracting parties do not 
satisfy, or only partially satisfy, the criteria for offsetting in the statement of financial position according to 
IAS 32. The volume of such derivatives with positive fair values was €630 million (2015: €415 million), and 
the volume with negative fair values was €762 million (2015: €761 million). Included here is an amount of 
€362 million (2015: €256 million) in positive and negative fair values of derivatives concluded with the same 
contracting party. 

30.2 Maturity analysis 
The liquidity risks to which the Bayer Group was exposed from its financial instruments at the end of the 
reporting period comprised obligations for future interest and repayment installments on financial liabilities 
and the liquidity risk arising from derivatives, as shown in the table in Note [30.3]. 

In addition, loan commitments existed for an as yet unpaid €1,213 million (2015: €1,213 million) portion of 
the effective initial fund of Bayer-Pensionskasse VVaG, which may result in further payments by Bayer AG 
(€1,005 million) and / or Covestro AG (€208 million) in subsequent years. 

Maturity Analysis of Financial Instruments    

B 30.2/1

€ million 

Financial liabilities 

Bonds and notes /  
promissory notes 

Liabilities to banks 

Remaining liabilities 

Trade accounts payable 

Other liabilities 

Accrued interest on liabilities 

Remaining liabilities 

Liabilities from derivatives 

Derivatives that qualify for 
hedge accounting 

Derivatives that do not qualify 
for hedge accounting 

Receivables from derivatives 

Derivatives that qualify for 
hedge accounting 

Derivatives that do not qualify 
for hedge accounting 

Loan commitments 

Financial guarantees 

Dec. 31, 
2016

Carrying
amount

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

after 2021

15,991

2,261

2,160

2,367

1,837

1,166

6,035

884

293

6,028

186

662

477

381

269

445

–

–

181

626

178

374

210

467

1,213

14

998

303

4

1

3

39

382

2

1

5

231

157

3

23

2

–

–

4

4

2

–

–

295

–

61

1

1

2

2

2

3

1

–

–

Interest and repayment

2,916

8,093

–

58

–

–

1

–

1

2

1

–

–

9

268

–

2

25

–

1

–

1

–

3

 
 
 
 
   
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

287

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Maturity Analysis of Financial Instruments  

B 30.2/2

€ million 

Financial liabilities 

Bonds and notes /  
promissory notes 

Liabilities to banks 

Remaining liabilities 

Trade accounts payable 

Other liabilities 

Accrued interest on liabilities 

Remaining liabilities 

Liabilities from derivatives 

Derivatives that qualify for 
hedge accounting 

Derivatives that do not qualify 
for hedge accounting 

Receivables from derivatives 

Derivatives that qualify for 
hedge accounting 

Derivatives that do not qualify 
for hedge accounting 

Loan commitments 

Financial guarantees 

Dec. 31, 
2015

Carrying 
amount

15,547

2,779

843

5,680

189

454

563

327

125

401

–

–

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

after 2020

Interest and repayment

1,475

1,221

440

5,673

180

420

397

312

66

379

1,213

14

2,334

298

79

1,704

1,387

69

3

1

5

11

8

26

2

–

–

3

2

2

122

1

13

3

–

–

2,282

38

60

2

1

1

50

3

2

2

–

–

277

–

61

–

1

1

–

1

2

2

–

–

9,845

10

307

–

4

25

–

2

1

4

–

2

30.3 Information on derivatives  
Asset and liability fair values and future cash flows are exposed to currency, interest-rate and commodity 
price risks. Derivatives are used to reduce this risk. In some cases they are designated as hedging instru-
ments in a hedge accounting relationship. 

Currency risks 
Foreign currency receivables and liabilities are hedged using foreign exchange derivatives without the ex-
istence of a hedge accounting relationship. A bond of Bayer AG denominated in British pounds was 
swapped on the issuance date into a fixed-rate euro bond by means of a cross-currency interest-rate 
swap, which was designated as a cash flow hedge. Cross-currency interest-rate swaps used to hedge 
intra-Group loans were also designated as cash flow hedges.  

Fluctuations in future cash flows resulting from forecasted foreign currency transactions and procurement 
activities are avoided partly through derivatives contracts, most of which are designated as cash flow 
hedges. 

Foreign currency risks related to the planned acquisition of Monsanto Company were partially hedged with 
currency derivatives, which were designated as cash flow hedges. 

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
288 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Interest-rate risk 
The interest-rate risks from fixed-interest borrowings are managed in part using interest-rate swaps. Two 
interest-rate swaps in the total amount of €200 million were designated as fair value hedges for the €750 
million DIP bond issued in 2014 and maturing in 2021. 

Losses of €1 million were recorded on fair-value hedging instruments in 2016 (2015: €26 million). Gains of 
€1 million were recorded on the underlying hedged items (2015: €25 million). 

Commodity price risks 
Hedging contracts are also used to partly reduce exposure to fluctuations in future cash outflows and 
inflows resulting from price changes on procurement and selling markets. 

Hedging of obligations under stock-based employee compensation programs 
A portion of the obligations to make variable payments to employees under stock-based compensation 
programs (Aspire) is hedged against share price fluctuations using derivatives contracts that are settled in 
cash at maturity. These derivatives are designated as cash flow hedges. 

Further information on cash flow hedges 
Accumulated other comprehensive income from cash flow hedges increased in 2016 by €44 million (2015: 
decreased by €203 million) due to changes in the fair values of derivatives net of tax. Total changes of €3 
million in the fair values of derivatives were expensed in 2016 (2015: €304 million). The respective pro-
rated deferred tax income of €2 million (2015: €88 million) was likewise recognized through profit or loss. 

No material ineffective portions of hedges required recognition through profit or loss in 2016 or 2015. 

The income and expense from cash flow hedges recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income 
mainly comprised gains of €204 million (2015: €91 million) and losses of €143 million (2015: €90 million) 
from the hedging of forecasted transactions in foreign currencies and the planned acquisition of Monsanto 
Company. Of these gains and losses, a net amount of minus €91million (2015: minus €5 million) will be 
reclassifiable to profit or loss within one year, and a net amount of €2 million (2015: €6 million) in subse-
quent years. 

 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

289

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

The fair values of existing contracts in the major categories at the end of the reporting period are indicated 
in the following table together with the included volumes of cash flow hedges. 

Fair Values of Derivatives 

€ million 

Currency hedging of recorded transactions 

Forward exchange contracts 

of which cash flow hedges 

Cross-currency interest-rate swaps 

of which cash flow hedges 

Currency hedging of forecasted transactions 

Forward exchange contracts 

of which cash flow hedges 

Currency options 

of which cash flow hedges 

Interest-rate hedging of recorded 
transactions 

Interest-rate swaps 

of which fair value hedges 

Commodity price hedging 

Forward commodity contracts 

Commodity option contracts 

Hedging of stock-based employee 
compensation programs 

Share price options 

of which cash flow hedges 

Share price forwards 

of which cash flow hedges 

Total  

of which current derivatives  

for currency hedging 

for interest-rate hedging 

2 

for commodity price hedging 

for hedging of stock-based employee 
compensation programs 

B 30.3/1

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2016

Notional 
1
amount 

Positive 
fair value

Negative 
fair value

Notional 
1
amount 

Positive
fair value

Negative 
fair value

22,275

19,896

–

2,379

2,362

4,082

3,627

3,255

455

368

200

200

200

91

86

5

80

30

30

50

50

26,728

25,022

24,931

–

91

–

337

336

–

1

–

99

86

78

13

13

13

13

13

14

12

2

21

21

21

–

–

484

435

420

1

14

–

(753)

(283)

–

(470)

(470)

22,645

20,454

–

2,191

2,146

(100)

17,799

(99)

(90)

(1)

(1)

–

–

–

(12)

(10)

(2)

(2)

–

–

(2)

(2)

(867)

(692)

(680)

–

(12)

–

3,805

3,672

13,994

13,698

200

200

200

168

167

1

532

152

152

380

380

41,344

38,349

38,111

–

168

70

299

296

–

3

3

317

48

43

269

161

14

14

14

5

4

1

48

48

48

–

–

683

635

597

3

5

30

(587)

(273)

–

(314)

(312)

(206)

(145)

(138)

(61)

(5)

–

–

–

(4)

(4)

–

(22)

–

–

(22)

(22)

(819)

(514)

(510)

–

(4)

–

1 The notional amount is reported as gross volume, which also contains economically closed hedges. 
2 The portion of the fair value of long-term interest-rate swaps that relates to current interest payments is classified as current. 

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
   
 
 
290 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

31. Contingent liabilities and other financial commitments 

Contingent liabilities 
The following warranty contracts, guarantees and other contingent liabilities existed at the end of the  
reporting period: 

Contingent Liabilities  

€ million 

Warranties 

Guarantees 

Other contingent liabilities 

Total 

B 31/1

Dec. 31, 2015 Dec. 31, 2016

99

123

562

784

100

264

444

808

The guarantees mainly comprise a declaration issued by Bayer AG to the trustees of the U.K. pension 
plans guaranteeing the pension obligations of Bayer Public Limited Company and Bayer CropScience 
Limited. Under the declaration, Bayer AG – in addition to the two companies – undertakes to make further 
payments into the plans upon receipt of a payment request from the trustees. The net liability with respect 
to these defined benefit plans as of December 31, 2016, rose to €264 million (2015: €123 million) due to 
the sharp drop in interest rates. 

Other financial commitments 
The other financial commitments were as follows:  

Other Financial Commitments 

€ million 

Operating leases  

Orders already placed under purchase agreements 

Capital contribution commitments 

Definitive merger agreement with Monsanto Company, St. Louis, Missouri, U.S.A. 

1 

Unpaid portion of the effective initial fund  

Potential payment obligations under R&D collaboration agreements  

Revenue-based milestone payment commitments  

Total 

1 The contingent financial commitment of around US$56 billion was translated at the closing rate. 

B 31/2

Dec. 31, 2015 Dec. 31, 2016

891

690

391

–

1,213

2,887

2,241

8,313

1,101

722

182

53,000

1,213

2,444

1,839

60,501

On September 14, 2016, Bayer signed a definitive merger agreement with Monsanto Company, St. Louis, 
Missouri, United States, which provides for Bayer’s acquisition of all outstanding shares in Monsanto 
Company against a cash payment of US$128 per share. Bayer thus has a contingent financial commitment 
in the amount of approximately US$56 billion to acquire Monsanto’s entire outstanding capital stock. Fur-
ther details of this planned acquisition are given in Note [6.2]. 

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
   
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

291

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

The nondiscounted future minimum lease payments relating to operating leases totaled €1,101 million 
(2015: €891 million). The maturities of the respective payment obligations were as follows: 

Operating Leases 
Maturing in 

2016 

2017 

2018 

2019 

2020 

2021 or later 

Total 

Dec. 31, 2015

Maturing in 

€ million

195

155

110

94

79

258

891

2017 

2018 

2019 

2020 

2021 

2022 or later 

Total 

B 31/3

Dec. 31, 2016

€ million

237

192

161

138

102

271

1,101

Financial commitments resulting from orders already placed under purchase agreements related to planned 
or ongoing capital expenditure projects totaled €722 million (2015: €690 million). 

The Bayer Group has entered into cooperation agreements with third parties under which it has agreed to 
fund various research and development projects or has assumed other payment obligations based on the 
achievement of certain milestones or other specific conditions. If all of these payments have to be made, 
their maturity distribution as of December 31, 2016, was expected to be as set forth in the following table. 
The amounts shown represent the maximum payments to be made, and it is unlikely that they will all fall 
due. Since the achievement of the conditions for payment is highly uncertain, both the amounts and the 
dates of the actual payments may vary considerably from those stated in the table. 

Potential Payment Obligations Under R&D Collaboration Agreements 

Maturing in 

 Dec. 31, 2015

  Maturing in 

2016 

2017 

2018 

2019 

2020 

2021 or later 

Total 

€ million

262

229

  2017 

  2018 

96

  2019 

240

  2020 

78

  2021 

1,982

  2022 or later 

2,887

  Total 

B 31/4

Dec. 31, 2016

€ million

233

151

333

66

28

1,633

2,444

In addition to the above commitments, there were also revenue-based milestone payment commitments 
totaling €1,839 million (2015: €2,241 million), of which €1,834 million (2015: €2,237 million) was not ex-
pected to fall due until 2022 (2015: 2021) or later. These commitments are also highly uncertain. 

32. Legal risks 

As a global company with a diverse business portfolio, the Bayer Group is exposed to numerous legal 
risks, particularly in the areas of product liability, competition and antitrust law, anticorruption, patent dis-
putes, tax assessments and environmental matters. The outcome of any current or future proceedings 
cannot normally be predicted. It is therefore possible that legal or regulatory judgments or future settle-
ments could give rise to expenses that are not covered, or not fully covered, by insurers’ compensation 
payments and could significantly affect our revenues and earnings. 

Legal proceedings currently considered to involve material risks are outlined below. The legal proceedings 
referred to do not represent an exhaustive list. 

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
    
 
  
 
  
    
  
  
  
292 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Product-related litigation 
Yasmin™ / YAZ™: Most of the lawsuits and claims concerning Bayer’s drospirenone-containing oral contra-
ceptives in the United States have been resolved. Claimants allege that users have suffered personal inju-
ries, some of them fatal, from the use of Yasmin™ and / or YAZ™ or their generic versions, and seek com-
pensatory and punitive damages, claiming, in particular, that Bayer had not adequately warned of the 
alleged risks. 

As of January 23, 2017, lawsuits and claims of approximately 100 claimants remain pending against Bayer 
in the United States. Without admission of liability, Bayer is considering about a dozen of the lawsuits and 
claims for possible settlement after a case-specific analysis of medical records.  

A few U.S. State Attorney Generals are investigating alleged violations of consumer protection statutes, 
including off-label promotion and failure to warn. One Attorney General has filed an action against Bayer. 

As of January 23, 2017, 13 lawsuits seeking class action certification had been served upon Bayer in 
Canada. In two of these lawsuits a class has been certified. Two motions for certification of a class action 
are pending in Israel. 

Bayer believes that it has meritorious defenses and will continue to defend itself vigorously against all 
claims that are not considered for settlement.  

Mirena™: As of January 23, 2017, lawsuits from approximately 2,600 users of Mirena™, a levonorgestrel-
releasing intrauterine system providing long-term contraception, had been served upon Bayer in the United 
States (excluding lawsuits no longer pending). Plaintiffs allege personal injuries resulting from the use of 
Mirena™, including perforation of the uterus, ectopic pregnancy or idiopathic intracranial hypertension, and 
seek compensatory and punitive damages. Plaintiffs claim, inter alia, that Mirena™ is defective and that 
Bayer knew or should have known of the risks associated with it and failed to adequately warn its users. 
Additional lawsuits are anticipated. Most of the cases pending in U.S. federal courts have been consolidat-
ed in a multidistrict litigation proceeding for common pre-trial management. In July 2016, the multidistrict 
litigation court granted summary judgment dismissing approximately 1,230 cases pending before that 
court. Plaintiffs have appealed the decision. As of January 23, 2017, five Canadian lawsuits relating to 
Mirena™ seeking class action certification had been served upon Bayer. Bayer believes it has meritorious 
defenses and intends to defend itself vigorously.  

Xarelto™: As of January 23, 2017, U.S. lawsuits from approximately 16,400 recipients of Xarelto™, an oral 
anticoagulant for the treatment and prevention of blood clots, had been served upon Bayer. Plaintiffs allege 
personal injuries from the use of Xarelto™, including cerebral, gastrointestinal or other bleeding and death, 
and seek compensatory and punitive damages. They claim, amongst other things, that Xarelto™ is defec-
tive and that Bayer knew or should have known of these risks associated with the use of Xarelto™ and 
failed to adequately warn its users. Additional lawsuits are anticipated. Cases pending in U.S. federal 
courts have been consolidated in a multidistrict litigation for common pre-trial management. As of January 
23, 2017, ten Canadian lawsuits relating to Xarelto™ seeking class action certification had been served 
upon Bayer. Bayer believes it has meritorious defenses and intends to defend itself vigorously.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

293

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Essure™: As of January 23, 2017, U.S. lawsuits from approximately 3,700 users of Essure™, a medical 
device offering permanent birth control with a nonsurgical procedure, had been served upon Bayer. Plain-
tiffs allege personal injuries from the use of Essure™, including hysterectomy, perforation, pain, bleeding, 
weight gain, nickel sensitivity, depression and unwanted pregnancy. Additional lawsuits are anticipated. As 
of January 23, 2017, two Canadian lawsuits relating to Essure™ seeking class action certification had 
been served upon Bayer. Bayer believes it has meritorious defenses and intends to defend itself vigorously.  

In connection with the above-mentioned proceedings, Bayer is insured against statutory product liability 
claims against Bayer to the extent customary in the respective industries and has, based on the infor-
mation currently available, taken appropriate accounting measures for anticipated defense costs. However, 
the accounting measures relating to Yasmin™ / YAZ™ and Essure™ claims exceed the available insurance 
coverage. Concerning Yasmin™ / YAZ™, the accounting measures include costs for agreed and anticipat-
ed future settlements based on the information currently available and based on the number of pending 
and estimated future claims alleging venous clot injuries. 

Patent disputes 
Beyaz™ / Safyral™: Beyaz™ and Safyral™ are Bayer’s oral contraceptives containing folate. In 2015, a 
U.S. federal court ruled in favor of Bayer regarding both the validity of its patent and the infringement 
thereof by Watson Laboratories, Inc. (“Watson”). Watson had filed Abbreviated New Drug Applications with 
a Paragraph IV certification (“ANDA IV”) seeking approval of generic versions of both Beyaz™ and 
Safyral™ in the United States. In May 2016, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit invalidated 
the patent claims asserted by Bayer and reversed the judgment by the U.S. federal court. Bayer petitioned 
the U.S. Supreme Court to review the decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. In 
January 2017, the U.S. Supreme Court denied Bayer’s petition. The decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals 
for the Federal Circuit against Bayer is now final. In 2015, Bayer filed two lawsuits against Lupin Ltd. and 
Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (together “Lupin”) in a U.S. federal court for infringement of the same patent. 
Prior to this in 2015, Bayer had received two notices of an ANDA IV application by Lupin seeking approval 
to market generic versions of Safyral™ and Beyaz™ in the United States. In view of the May 2016 decision 
by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, the U.S. federal court ruled in favor of Lupin in No-
vember 2016. This decision is now also final. 

Betaferon™ / Betaseron™: In 2010, Bayer filed a complaint against Biogen Idec MA Inc. in a U.S. federal 
court seeking a declaration by the court that a patent issued to Biogen in 2009 is invalid and not infringed 
by Bayer’s production and distribution of Betaseron™, Bayer’s drug product for the treatment of multiple 
sclerosis. Biogen is alleging patent infringement by Bayer through Bayer’s production and distribution of 
Betaseron™ and Extavia™ and has sued Bayer accordingly. Bayer manufactures Betaseron™ and distrib-
utes the product in the United States. Extavia™ is also a drug product for the treatment of multiple sclero-
sis; it is manufactured by Bayer, but distributed in the United States by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corpora-
tion, another defendant in the lawsuit. In March 2016, the U.S. federal court decided a disputed issue 
regarding the scope of the patent in Biogen’s favor. Bayer disagrees with the decision, which may be ap-
pealed at the conclusion of the proceedings in the U.S. federal court.  

Damoctocog alfa pegol (BAY 94-9027, long-acting rFVIII): In 2013, Bayer filed a lawsuit against Nektar 
Therapeutics in the district court of Munich, Germany. In this proceeding, Bayer claims rights to certain 
European patent applications based on a past collaboration between Bayer and Nektar in the field of he-
mophilia. The European patent applications with the title “Polymer-factor VIII moiety conjugates” are part of 
a patent family registered in the name of Nektar comprising further patent applications and patents in other 
countries including the United States. However, Bayer believes that the patent family does not include any 
valid patent claim relevant for Bayer’s drug candidate BAY 94-9027 for the treatment of hemophilia A. 

 
 
 
 
294 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Nexavar™: In 2015, Bayer filed patent infringement lawsuits in a U.S. federal court against Mylan Pharma-
ceuticals Inc. and Mylan Inc. (together “Mylan”). In 2014 and 2015, Bayer had received notices of an ANDA 
IV application pursuant to which Mylan seeks approval of a generic version of Bayer’s cancer drug 
Nexavar™ in the United States. In November 2016, Bayer received another notice of such an ANDA IV 
application by Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. In December 2016, Bayer filed a patent infringement lawsuit 
against Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. and Teva Pharmaceutical Industries LTD in the same U.S. federal 
court. 

Stivarga™: In December 2016, Bayer filed patent infringement lawsuits in a U.S. federal court against Apo-
tex, Inc. and Apotex Corp. (together “Apotex”) and against Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. and Teva 
Pharmaceutical Industries LTD (together “Teva”). In November 2016, Bayer had received notices of an 
ANDA IV application pursuant to which Apotex and Teva each seek approval of a generic version of Bayer’s 
cancer drug Stivarga™ in the United States. 

Xarelto™: In 2015, Bayer and Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. filed a patent infringement lawsuit in a U.S. 
federal court against Aurobindo Pharma Limited, Aurobindo Pharma USA, Inc. (together “Aurobindo”), 
Breckenridge Pharmaceutical Inc. (“Breckenridge”), Micro Labs Ltd., Micro Labs USA Inc. (together  
“Micro Labs”), Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc., Mylan Inc. (together “Mylan”), Prinston Pharmaceutical Inc.  
(“Prinston”), Sigmapharm Laboratories, LLC (“Sigmapharm”), Torrent Pharmaceuticals, Limited and Torrent 
Pharma Inc. (together “Torrent”). Earlier in 2015, Bayer had received notices of an ANDA IV application by 
Aurobindo, Breckenridge, Micro Labs, Mylan, Prinston, Sigmapharm and Torrent, each seeking approval to 
market a generic version of Xarelto™, an oral anticoagulant for the treatment and prevention of blood 
clots, in the United States. In January 2016, Bayer received another notice of such an ANDA IV application 
by InvaGen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (“InvaGen”). In February 2016, Bayer and Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 
filed a patent infringement lawsuit against InvaGen in the same U.S. federal court. 

Bayer believes it has meritorious defenses in the above ongoing patent disputes and intends to defend 
itself vigorously. 

Further legal proceedings 
Trasylol™ / Avelox™: A qui tam complaint relating to marketing practices for Trasylol™ (aprotinin) and 
Avelox™ (moxifloxacin) filed by a former Bayer employee is pending in the United States District Court in 
New Jersey. The U.S. government has declined to intervene at the present time. 

Newark Bay Environmental Matters: In the United States, Bayer is one of numerous parties involved in a 
series of claims brought by federal and state environmental protection agencies. The claims arise from 
operations by entities which historically were conducted near Newark Bay or surrounding bodies of water, 
or which allegedly discharged hazardous waste into these waterways or onto nearby land. Bayer and the 
other potentially responsible parties are being asked to remediate and contribute to the payment of past 
and future remediation or restoration costs and damages. In August 2016, Bayer learned that two major 
potentially responsible parties had filed for protection under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. 
While Bayer remains unable to determine the extent of its liability for these matters, this development is 
likely to adversely affect the share of costs potentially allocated to Bayer. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

295

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

In the Lower Passaic River matter, a group of more than sixty companies including Bayer is investigating 
contaminated sediments in the riverbed under the supervision of the United States Environmental Protec-
tion Agency (EPA) and other governmental authorities. Future remediation will involve some form of dredg-
ing, the nature and scope of which are not yet defined, and potentially other tasks. The cost of the investi-
gation and the remediation work may be substantial if the final remedy involves extensive dredging and 
disposal of impacted sediments. In the Newark Bay matter, an unaffiliated party is currently conducting an 
investigation of sediments in Newark Bay under EPA supervision. The investigation is in a preliminary 
stage. Bayer has contributed to certain investigation costs in the past and may incur costs for future inves-
tigation and remediation activities in Newark Bay. 

Bayer has also been notified by governmental authorities acting as natural resource trustees that it may 
have liability for natural resource damages arising from the contamination of the Lower Passaic River, 
Newark Bay and surrounding water bodies. Bayer is currently unable to determine the extent of its liability. 

Asbestos: A further risk may arise from asbestos litigation in the United States. In many cases, the plaintiffs 
allege that Bayer and co-defendants employed third parties on their sites in past decades without provid-
ing them with sufficient warnings or protection against the known dangers of asbestos. Additionally, a 
Bayer affiliate in the United States is the legal successor to companies that sold asbestos products until 
1976. Union Carbide has agreed to indemnify Bayer for this liability. Bayer believes it has meritorious de-
fenses and intends to defend itself vigorously. 

Covestro U.S. Lawsuit: In September 2016, Covestro LLC – along with three other defendants – was 
served with a lawsuit filed by a law firm in a California federal court. The parties recently agreed to change 
the venue to a federal court in the District of Columbia. The aim of the lawsuit is to recover financial dam-
ages in the form of statutory fines allegedly owed by the defendants to the United States Environmental 
Protection Agency for the companies’ failure to disclose health risk information associated with the manu-
facture and handling of TDI, MDI and PMDI. Under the pertinent statutes, the U.S. government was afford-
ed an opportunity to intervene and prosecute the claims, but it has declined to do so. Accordingly, the law 
firm is prosecuting the claims on the government’s behalf. Violations of the Toxic Substances Control Act 
(“TSCA”) and False Claims Act (“FCA”) are asserted. Covestro will defend itself vigorously and regards the 
claims asserted against the company as meritless. 

Tax proceedings: 
Stamp taxes in Greece: In 2014, 2016 and 2017, a Greek administrative court of first instance dismissed 
Bayer’s lawsuits against the assessment of stamp taxes and contingent penalties in the total amounts of 
approximately €130 million on certain intra-Group loans to a Greek subsidiary. Bayer is convinced that the 
decisions are wrong and has appealed or will do so in due course. Bayer believes it has meritorious argu-
ments to support its legal position and intends to defend itself vigorously. 

 
 
 
296 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Notes to the Statements of Cash Flows 

The statement of cash flows shows how cash inflows and outflows during the fiscal year affected the cash 
and cash equivalents of the Bayer Group. Cash flows are classified by operating, investing and financing 
activities in accordance with IAS 7 (Statement of Cash Flows). Effects of changes in the scope of consoli-
dation are stated separately.  

Of the cash and cash equivalents, an amount of €15 million (2015: €17 million) had limited availability due 
to foreign exchange restrictions. Past experience has shown such restrictions to be of short duration. The 
above amount included €1 million (2015: €3 million) of exchange-restricted cash in Venezuela. The conver-
sion of cash from Venezuelan bolivars (VEF) into U.S. dollars is subject to a government approval process.  

The cash flows reported by consolidated companies outside the eurozone are translated at average 
monthly exchange rates, with the exception of cash and cash equivalents, which are translated at closing 
rates. The “Change in cash and cash equivalents due to exchange rate movements” is reported in a sepa-
rate line item. 

33. Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 

Following the switch to a different value management concept, the gross cash flow is no longer used as an 
indicator. The previous disclosure of “income taxes paid or accrued” is replaced by “income taxes paid.” 
This has also resulted in amendments to “Changes in other working capital, other noncash items.” 

The transfers of bonds with a total value of €450 million (2015: €300 million) to pension funds and of 
Covestro shares with a value of €337 million to Bayer Pension Trust e.V. were noncash transactions and 
therefore did not result in operating cash outflows. 

34. Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 

The net cash outflow for investing activities in 2016 amounted to €8,729 million (2015: €2,762 million).  

Additions to property, plant and equipment and intangible assets in 2016 resulted in a cash outflow of 
€2,578 million (2015: €2,517 million). Cash inflows from sales of property, plant and equipment and intan-
gible assets amounted to €111 million (2015: €193 million).  

The net cash outflow for noncurrent and current financial assets amounted to €6,335 million (2015: 
€370 million). 

The transfers of bonds in the total amount of €450 million (2015: €300 million) to pension funds were non-
cash transactions and therefore did not result in investing cash inflows.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

297

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

35. Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 

In 2016 there was a net cash outflow of €350 million (2015: €3,974 million) for financing activities. Net loan 
repayments amounted to €730 million (2015: €2,929 million). 

Cash outflows for dividend payments amounted to €2,126 million (2015: €1,869 million). Net interest pay-
ments – including payments for and receipts from interest-rate swaps – rose to €794 million (2015: €652 
million). The net inflow of €3,952 million from the mandatory convertible notes is reflected as a capital con-
tribution of €3,300 million and a borrowing of €652 million. In 2015, the proceeds from the stock market 
flotation of Covestro AG accounted for a €1,490 million cash inflow. 

The transfer of Covestro shares with a value of €337 million to Bayer Pension Trust e.V. was a noncash 
transaction and therefore did not result in a financing cash inflow. 

 
 
 
298 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

Other Information

36. Audit fees 

The following fees for the services of the worldwide network of PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), including 
PricewaterhouseCoopers Aktiengesellschaft Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft (PwC AG WPG), were recog-
nized as expenses: 

Audit Fees 

€ million 

Financial statements auditing 

Audit-related services and other audit work 

Tax consultancy 

Other services 

Total 

B 36/1

PwC of which PwC AG WPG

2015

17

9

3

7

36

2016

16

2

3

7

28

2015

2016

7

9

–

5

21

7

1

–

5

13

The fees for the auditing of financial statements mainly comprised those for the audits of the consolidated 
financial statements of the Bayer Group and the financial statements of Bayer AG and its subsidiaries. The 
decrease in fees for audit-related services and other audit work mainly resulted from the absence of fees 
related to the carve-out and stock market flotation of Covestro, which took place in 2015. 

The Independent Auditor’s Report on the consolidated financial statements for fiscal 2016 was signed by 
Dr. Peter Bartels and Eckhard Sprinkmeier. Eckhard Sprinkmeier is the responsible audit partner. Dr. Peter 
Bartels signed the Independent Auditor’s Report for the first time for the year ended December 31, 2012, 
and Eckhard Sprinkmeier for the year ended December 31, 2014. PwC has served as the auditor of Bayer’s 
consolidated financial statements since the merger of Price Waterhouse Deutschland and Coopers & Lybrand 
Deutsche Revision in 1998. The predecessor firm of Coopers & Lybrand Deutsche Revision had already audit-
ed Bayer’s consolidated financial statements for some years prior to that date. 

37. Related parties 

Related parties as defined in IAS 24 (Related Party Disclosures) are those legal entities and natural persons 
that are able to exert influence on Bayer AG and its subsidiaries or over which Bayer AG or its subsidiaries 
exercise control or joint control or have a significant influence. They include, in particular, nonconsolidated 
subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates included in the consolidated financial statements at cost of 
acquisition or using the equity method, and post-employment benefit plans, as well as the corporate offic-
ers of Bayer AG whose compensation is reported in Note [38] and in the Compensation Report, which 
forms part of the Combined Management Report. 

 
 
 
 
    
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

299

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

Transactions with nonconsolidated subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates included in the consolidated 
financial statements at cost of acquisition or using the equity method, and post-employment benefit plans 
are carried out on an arm’s-length basis. 

The following table shows the volume of transactions with related parties included in the consolidated 
financial statements of the Bayer Group at amortized cost or using the equity method, and with post-
employment benefit plans: 

Related Parties 

€ million 

Nonconsolidated 
subsidiaries 

Joint ventures 

Associates 

Post-employment 
benefit plans 

2015

B 37/1

2016

Sales of
goods and
services

Purchases 
of goods 
and 
services

Receiv-
ables

Liabilities

Sales of 
goods and 
services

Purchases 
of goods 
and 
services

Receiv-

ables Liabilities

21

25

36

–

4

–

645

11

4

–

–

822

22

1

4

68

4

24

34

–

5

–

557

9

4

3

–

823

19

243

6

63

Goods and services in the amount of €524 million (2015: €609 million) were purchased from the associate 
PO JV, LP, Wilmington, United States, mainly in the course of day-to-day business operations. 

Liabilities rose mainly with respect to Casebia Therapeutics Limited Liability Partnership, Ascot, United 
Kingdom, the newly established joint venture with CRISPR Therapeutics AG, Basel, Switzerland.  

Intercompany profits and losses for companies accounted for in the consolidated financial statements 
using the equity method were immaterial in 2016 and 2015. 

Bayer AG has undertaken to provide jouissance right capital (Genussrechtskapital) in the form of an inter-
est-bearing loan with a nominal volume of €150 million (2015: €150 million) for Bayer-Pensionskasse 
VVaG. The entire amount remained drawn as of December 31, 2016. The carrying amount as of December 
31, 2016, was €154 million (2015: €153 million). Loan capital was first provided to Bayer-Pensionskasse 
VVaG in 2008 for its effective initial fund. This capital had a nominal volume of €595 million as of December 
31, 2016 (2015: €595 million). The carrying amount as of December 31, 2016, was €612 million (2015: 
€610 million). The outstanding receivables, comprised of different tranches, are each subject to a five-year 
interest-rate adjustment mechanism. Interest income of €18 million was recognized for 2016 (2015: 
€22 million).  

 
 
    
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
300 

B Consolidated Financial Statements 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Augmented Version 

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group 

38. Total compensation of the Board of Management and the 

Supervisory Board, advances and loans 

The compensation of the Board of Management comprises short-term payments, stock-based payments 
and post-employment benefits.  

The following table shows the individual components of the Board of Management’s compensation accord-
ing to IFRS:  

Board of Management Compensation according to IFRS 

€ thousand 

Fixed annual compensation 

Fringe benefits 

Total short-term non-performance-related compensation 

Short-term performance-related cash compensation 

Total short-term compensation 

Stock-based compensation (virtual Bayer shares) earned in the respective year 

Change in value of existing entitlements to stock-based compensation (virtual Bayer shares) 

Stock-based compensation (Aspire) earned in the respective year 

Change in value of existing entitlements to stock-based compensation (Aspire) 

Total stock-based compensation (long-term incentive) 

Service cost for pension entitlements earned in the respective year 

Total long-term compensation 

Severance indemnity in connection with the termination of a service contract 

Aggregate compensation (IFRS) 

B 38/1

2016

6,385

664

7,049

9,063

2015

4,455

207

4,662

5,983

10,645

16,112

5,983

556

2,330

272

9,141

2,891

12,032

1,131

–

(1,275)

5,217

(923)

3,019

3,902

6,921

4,542

23,808

27,575

In addition to the above compensation, actuarial losses of €3,196 thousand (2015: gains of €2,309 thou-
sand) incurred in connection with pension obligations to the currently serving members of the Board of 
Management were recognized outside profit or loss. These changes mainly resulted from the decline 
(2015: slight increase) in the level of interest rates. 

Further details are provided in the Compensation Report, which forms part of the Combined Management 
Report. 

In addition to the provisions of €6,575 thousand (2015: €5,983 thousand) for the short-term variable cash 
compensation, an amount of €7,777 thousand (2015: €18,663 thousand) was recognized in the statement 
of financial position for future payments of stock-based compensation based on virtual shares to the 
members of the Board of Management serving as of December 31, 2016. 

An amount of €7,288 thousand (2015: €7,110 thousand) was recognized in the statement of financial posi-
tion for future payments of stock-based compensation based on the Aspire program to the members of 
the Board of Management serving as of December 31, 2016. 

The present value of the defined benefit pension obligation for the members of the Board of Management 
serving as of December 31, 2016, was €38,427 thousand (2015: €33,491 thousand). 

Pension payments to former members of the Board of Management and their surviving dependents in 
2016 amounted to €12,800 thousand (2015: €13,416 thousand). The defined benefit obligation for former 
members of the Board of Management and their surviving dependents amounted to €188,850 thousand 
(2015: €172,767 thousand). 

 
 
 
 
    
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

B Consolidated Financial Statements

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Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Bayer Group

Augmented Version

The compensation of the Supervisory Board amounted to €3,479 thousand (2015: €3,291 thousand).  

In addition to their compensation as members of the Supervisory Board, those employee representatives 
who are employees of Bayer Group companies receive compensation unrelated to their service on the 
Supervisory Board. The total amount of such compensation in 2016 was €939 thousand (2015: 
€741 thousand). 

Pension obligations for employee representatives on the Supervisory Board amounted to €4,399 thousand 
(2015: €3,756 thousand). 

There were no advances or loans to members of the Board of Management or the Supervisory Board out-
standing as of December 31, 2016, or at any time during 2016 or 2015.  

39. Events After the End of the Reporting Period 

Acquisition of Cydectin™ 
On January 3, 2017, Bayer acquired the Cydectin™ portfolio in the United States from Boehringer Ingel-
heim Vetmedica Inc., St. Joseph, United States. A payment of €158 million was made on January 3, 2017, 
in connection with the acquisition. 

Leverkusen, February 14, 2017 

Bayer Aktiengesellschaft  

The Board of Management 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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A Combined Management Report 

 Augmented Version 

Responsibility Statement 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Responsibility Statement

To the best of our knowledge, and in accordance with the applicable reporting principles for  
financial reporting, the consolidated financial statements give a true and fair view of the assets, 
liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the Bayer Group, and the combined management 
report includes a fair review of the development and performance of the business and the position 
of the Bayer Group and Bayer AG, together with a description of the principal opportunities and 
risks associated with the expected development of the Bayer Group and Bayer AG. 

Leverkusen, February 14, 2017 
Bayer Aktiengesellschaft 

The Board of Management 

Werner Baumann 
Chairman 

Liam Condon 

Johannes Dietsch 

Dr. Hartmut Klusik 

Kemal Malik 

Erica Mann 

Dieter Weinand 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

Independent Auditor’s Report

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Independent Auditor’s Report

To Bayer AG, Leverkusen 

Report on the Audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements 
Audit Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements  
We have audited the consolidated financial statements of Bayer AG, Leverkusen, and its subsidiaries (the 
Group), which comprise the consolidated statement of financial position as at December 31, 2016, and the 
consolidated income statement, the consolidated statement of comprehensive income, consolidated 
statement of changes in equity and consolidated statement of cash flows for the financial year from Janu-
ary 1, to December 31, 2016, and notes to the consolidated financial statements, including a summary of 
significant accounting policies. 

According to § (Article) 322 Abs. (paragraph) 3 Satz (sentence) 1 zweiter Halbsatz (second half sentence) 
HGB (“Handelsgesetzbuch”: German Commercial Code), we state that, in our opinion, based on the find-
ings of our audit, the accompanying consolidated financial statements comply, in all material respects, with 
IFRS, as adopted by the EU, and the additional requirements of German commercial law pursuant to § 
315a Abs. 1 HGB, and give a true and fair view of the net assets and financial position of the Group as at 
December 31, 2016, as well as the results of operations for the financial year from January 1 to December 
31, 2016, in accordance with these requirements. 

According to § 322 Abs. 3 Satz 1 erster Halbsatz HGB, we state that our audit has not led to any 
reservations with respect to the propriety of the consolidated financial statements. 

Basis for Audit Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements 
We conducted our audit in accordance with § 317 HGB and German generally accepted standards for the 
audit of financial statements promulgated by the Institut der Wirtschaftsprüfer (Institute of Public Auditors 
in Germany) (IDW), and additionally considered the International Standards on Auditing (ISA). Our respon-
sibilities under those provisions and standards, as well as supplementary standards, are further described 
in the “Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements” section of our 
report. We are independent of the Group entities in accordance with the provisions under German com-
mercial law and professional requirements, and we have fulfilled our other German ethical responsibilities in 
accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and 
appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion. 

Key Audit Matters 
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgment, were of most significance in our 
audit of the consolidated financial statements for the financial year from January 1 to December 31, 2016. 
These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the consolidated financial statements as a 
whole, and in forming our audit opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate audit opinion on these 
matters. 

In our view, the key audit matters were as follows: 

 1

  Change in segment reporting 

Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives 

 2  
 3   Financial instruments – Issuance of mandatory convertible notes 
 4   Financial instruments – Accounting treatment of hedging transactions 

 
 
 
 
 
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Bayer Annual Report 2016

 5   Accounting treatment of the discontinued operation “Diabetes Care” 
 6   Accounting treatment of legal risks stemming from product-related disputes 
 7   Adjusting EBITDA and earnings per share for non-recurring items 

Our presentation of these key audit matters has been structured as follows: 

 1   Matter and issue 
 2   Audit approach and findings 
 3   Reference to further information 

 1

 1

  Change in segment reporting 
  As part of the organizational and strategic restructuring of the Bayer Group following the spin-off of the 

former MaterialScience subgroup, which has been listed under the name Covestro AG since the 2015 
financial year, the Bayer Group’s internal reporting structure was reorganized. Since the internal reporting 
structure is used as a basis for determining the reportable segments under IFRS 8, the revised reporting 
structure consequently resulted in a change in the Bayer Group’s segment reporting. From our point of 
view, this matter was of particular importance because, in the context of capital market communications, 
segment reporting has a special significance and the change in the segment structure also affects other 
accounting-related areas. 

 2

  During our audit we, among other procedures, considered the internal reporting and its sub-

categorization of the individual reporting units and the changes in presentation, and reconciled this struc-
ture to the presentation used in the segment reporting. Moreover, we examined the method applied for the 
reallocation of goodwill and questioned the decision-makers on the Board of Management about the allo-
cation of resources. We were able to satisfy ourselves that the changes in segment reporting applied by 
management were consistent with the reorganization of the internal reporting structure. 

 3

  The Company’s disclosures about the change of the internal reporting structure in connection with the 
organizational and strategic restructuring of the Bayer Group are contained in section 5 of the notes to the 
consolidated financial statements. 

 2

Impairment of goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives 

 1

  An amount of EUR 16,312 million (20% of consolidated total assets) is reported under the line item 
"Goodwill" in the consolidated financial statements. Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives amount-
ing to EUR 760 million (1% of consolidated total assets) are reported under “Other intangible assets.” The 
Company allocates goodwill to strategic business units or groups of strategic business units within the 
Bayer Group. As part of the regular impairment testing of goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite 
useful lives the carrying amounts of the Company’s strategic business units or intangible assets with 
indefinite useful lives are compared against their respective recoverable amount. In general, the recovera-
ble amount is calculated on the basis of the fair value less costs to sell. This is based on the present 
value of future cash flows since, as a rule, market values are not available for the individual business 
units. The present value is calculated using discounted cash flow models on the basis of the Bayer 
Group’s three-year operating plan prepared by management and approved by the Supervisory Board and 
extrapolated on the basis of assumptions about long-term growth rates. The discount rate used is the 
weighted average cost of capital for the relevant reporting segment. The result of this measurement de-
pends to a large extent on management’s assessment of future cash inflows of the respective strategic 
business unit and the discount rate used, and is therefore subject to considerable uncertainty. Against 
this background and due to the underlying complexity of the measurement models, this matter was of 
particular importance during our audit. 

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 2

  As part of our audit, we, among other things, reviewed the method used for performing impairment 
tests and assessed the calculation of the weighted average cost of capital. We satisfied ourselves as to 
the appropriateness of the future cash inflows used in the measurement by, inter alia, comparing this data 
with the current budgets in the three-year plan prepared by management and approved by the Superviso-
ry Board, and reconciling them against general and sector-specific market expectations. We also satisfied 
ourselves that the costs of the corporate functions reported in the “Corporate Functions and Consolida-
tion” segment in the segment reporting were properly taken into consideration when testing the respec-
tive strategic business units for impairment. With the knowledge that even relatively small changes in the 
discount rate applied can have material effects on the recoverable amount calculated in this way, we also 
focused our testing in particular on the parameters used to determine the discount rate applied, and 
evaluated the measurement model. Furthermore, due to the materiality of goodwill, we also performed 
our own sensitivity analyses for the strategic business units (comparison of carrying and recoverable 
amounts) and determined that the respective goodwill was sufficiently covered by the discounted future 
cash flows. Overall, we consider the measurement inputs and assumptions used by management to be in 
line with our expectations. 

 3

  The Company’s disclosures pertaining to goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are 

contained in sections 4 and 17 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements. 

 3

 1

  Financial instruments – Issuance of mandatory convertible notes 
  On November 22, 2016, the Bayer Group placed mandatory convertible notes amounting to EUR 4.0 
billion, excluding the pre-emptive subscription rights of the Company’s existing shareholders. The manda-
tory convertible notes are issued in denominations of EUR 100,000 by Bayer Capital Corporation B.V. 
under the subordinate guarantee of Bayer AG. The notes carry a fixed coupon of 5.625% p.a. until maturi-
ty. The coupon is payable annually in arrears on the respective coupon payment date. At maturity in 2019, 
the notes will automatically convert into ordinary shares of Bayer AG (these shares will either already exist 
or will stem from a conditional capital increase). The conversion ratio will be calculated on the basis of the 
share price on the conversion date. Both the “Minimum Conversion Price” and the “Maximum Conversion 
Price” were fixed upon conclusion of the agreement. In addition to the mandatory conversion upon maturi-
ty, the issuer may exercise its right to early conversion at any time during the “Conversion Period.” In the 
case of an early conversion, the issuer must deliver shares at the “Maximum Conversion Ratio.” Upon initial 
recognition, the present value of the coupon payments (taking into account the expected coupon payment 
dates) was recognized as a financial liability, and the difference to the fair value of the instrument as a 
whole was recognized as equity. Of the mandatory convertible notes, EUR 3.3 billion was recognized as 
capital reserves and EUR 0.7 billion as financial liabilities. Since the classification of mandatory convertible 
notes as debt or partially as equity and partially as debt impacts the Bayer Group’s capital structure (and 
thus the credit quality as well as the cost of capital for new loans), this matter was of particular importance 
during our audit. 

 
 
 
 
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 2

  As part of our audit, we critically assessed the terms and conditions for the issuance of the mandatory 
convertible notes and evaluated whether the mandatory convertible bond constitutes a contract within the 
meaning of IAS 32.13 that must be recognized in Bayer AG’s consolidated financial statements as a finan-
cial liability and as an equity instrument in accordance with IAS 32.28. For the equity component, we, inter 
alia, assessed to what extent the requirements under IAS 32.16 were met and whether the substance of 
the contractual terms and conditions of the mandatory convertible notes suffice to classify the notes as 
equity (IAS 32.16 in conjunction with IFRIC Update, January 2014). We evaluated the obligation to make 
ongoing coupon payments in accordance with IAS 32.16 in conjunction with IAS 32.19 in order to deter-
mine to what extent Bayer AG does not have a right to avoid delivering cash to settle a contractual obliga-
tion, thus giving rise to a financial liability. Ultimately, the mandatory convertible notes represent a com-
pound financial instrument that must be broken down into an equity component and a liability component 
upon initial recognition. Therefore, the obligation to make ongoing coupon payments must be classified as 
a financial liability whereas the obligation to redeem, i.e. convert, the notes must be classified as an equity 
component. 

 3

  The Company’s disclosures pertaining to the accounting treatment of the mandatory convertible notes 

are contained in sections 24 and 27 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements. 

 4

 1

  Financial instruments – Accounting treatment of hedging transactions 
  The companies of the Bayer Group use a number of different derivative financial instruments to hedge 

against currency, commodity price and interest rate risks associated with ordinary business activities. 
Management’s hedging policy is documented in corresponding internal guidelines and serves as the basis 
for these transactions. Currency risks arise primarily from revenue, sales and procurement transactions (in 
particular commodities) and financing denominated in foreign currencies. Interest rate hedges are entered 
into for the purpose of achieving a sensible ratio of variable and fixed interest rate exposures. Derivative 
financial instruments are recognized at fair value as of the balance sheet date. The positive fair value of the 
derivative financial instruments used as hedges amounts to EUR 683 million as of the balance sheet date 
and the negative fair value amounts to EUR 819 million. If the financial instruments used by the Bayer 
Group are effective hedges of future cash flows in the context of hedging relationships in accordance with 
the requirements of IAS 39, the effective portion of the changes in fair value are recognized over the dura-
tion of the hedging relationships directly in equity until the maturity of the hedged cash flows. As of the 
balance sheet date, a cumulative EUR 61 million were recognized outside profit or loss as expenses and 
income before taxes on income. We believed that these matters were of particular importance due to the 
high complexity and number of transactions as well as the extensive accounting and reporting require-
ments under IAS 39. 

 2

  As a part of our audit and together with the help of our internal specialists from Corporate Treasury 
Solutions, we, among other things, assessed the contractual and financial parameters and reviewed the 
accounting treatment, including the effects on equity and profit or loss, of the various hedging transac-
tions. Together with these specialists, we also assessed the Company’s internal control system with regard 
to derivative financial instruments, including the internal activities to monitor compliance with the hedging 
policy. Furthermore, we also used market data to review the measurement method applied to measure the 
fair value of the financial instruments. In addition, we also obtained bank confirmations in order to assess 
the completeness of and to examine the fair values of the recorded transactions. With regard to the ex-
pected cash flows and the assessment of the effectiveness of hedges, we essentially retrospectively as-
sessed past hedge levels. We verified that hedges were accounted for and measured in accordance with 
the provisions of IAS 39. 

 3

  The Company’s disclosures pertaining to the accounting treatment of hedging transactions are con-

tained in sections 4 and 30 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements. 

 
 
  
 
 
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 5

 1

  Accounting treatment of the discontinued operation “Diabetes Care” 
  During the financial year, as part of optimizing its portfolio and on the basis of a share and asset pur-
chase agreement dated June 10, 2015 with Panasonic Healthcare Holdings Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan, the 
Company disposed of its global Diabetes Care business for approximately EUR 1 billion on January 4, 
2016. The business will continue to operate as an independent enterprise under the name Ascensia Diabe-
tes Care (“ADC”). Until such a time that ADC has established its own, appropriate and functioning infra-
structure, Bayer Group companies – for a transition period of up to two years – will act, among other 
things, as a distributor for ADC in various countries and provide ADC with accounting services. The Diabe-
tes Care business generated revenue of EUR 573 million in financial year 2016. The business activities of 
the Diabetes Care business were presented as a discontinued operation in the consolidated financial 
statements of Bayer AG in accordance with the provisions of IFRS 5. The assets, liabilities, expenses and 
income from this discontinued operation are calculated and allocated in accordance with the share and 
asset purchase agreement. In our view, this matter was of particular importance during our audit due to 
the complexity of the underlying agreement and the inherent risk that not all of the assets and liabilities 
transferring to ADC as part of the sale would be identified. 

 2

  As part of our audit, we, among other things, conducted an in-depth review of the provisions of the 
underlying share and asset purchase agreement. We assessed the Bayer Group’s plan for identifying and 
recognizing the assets and liabilities that will transfer to ADC in accordance with the share and asset pur-
chase agreement, and reconciled this with the underlying agreement. In identifying those assets and liabili-
ties that are assigned to the Diabetes Care business and that will transfer to ADC in 2016 in accordance 
with the share and asset purchase agreement, we reviewed whether management’s actions were in line 
with the underlying plan and whether all of the relevant assets and liabilities had been identified. We also 
assessed and reviewed the determination of the income and expenses that are to be assigned to the dis-
continued operation “Diabetes Care” and that must be recognized separately in the income statement and 
in the notes to the financial statements in accordance with IFRS 5. We found that the assets, liabilities, 
income and expenses of the discontinued operation “Diabetes Care” were appropriately recognized in the 
consolidated financial statements in accordance with the provisions of IFRS 5. 

  The Company’s disclosures pertaining to the discontinued operation “Diabetes Care” are contained in 

 3
section 6.3 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements. 

 6

 1

  Accounting treatment of legal risks stemming from product-related disputes 
  Bayer Group entities are involved in court and out-of-court proceedings with authorities, peers and 
other parties. This gives rise to legal risks, in particular in the area of product liability, competition and anti-
trust law, patent law, tax law and environmental protection. 

As of January 23, 2017, 100 claims had been asserted against Bayer Group in the United States of Ameri-
ca both in and out-of-court, with regard to Yasmin™/YAZ™ products. Several attorneys general in U.S. 
states are reviewing allegations that consumer protection provisions had been violated and one attorney 
general has brought legal action against Bayer Group. Furthermore, class action lawsuits are pending in 
Canada and Israel and claims are known to have been asserted in other countries. Against the background 
of the pending and expected product liability lawsuits in connection with Mirena™, as of January 23, 2017, 
approximately 2,600 (previous year: 3,500) users of Mirena™ had brought action against the Bayer Group 
in the United States of America. Furthermore, as of January 23, 2017, approximately 16,400 (previous 
year: 4,300) users of Xarelto™ had asserted claims for compensatory and punitive damages against the 
Bayer Group in the United States of America. As of January 23, 2017, in Canada 10 lawsuits had also 
been brought against the Bayer Group in connection with Xarelto™; in each of those lawsuits, the plaintiffs 
were applying for class action status. As of January 23, 2017, approximately 3,700 users of Essure™ had 
brought action against the Bayer Group in the United States of America, and two lawsuits had been filed in 
Canada; in each of those lawsuits, the plaintiffs were applying for class action status. 

 
 
 
 
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The evaluation whether or not a provision should be recognized to cover the risks stemming from a pend-
ing legal dispute, and if so, in what amount, is shaped to a high degree by estimates and assumptions 
made by management. In the light of this background and due to the high monetary amount of the assert-
ed claims, we considered the aforementioned product-related disputes of the Bayer Group to be of par-
ticular importance. 

 2

  As part of our audit, we, among other things, assessed the process established by the Company to 

ensure that a legal dispute is recorded, its outcome is assessed, and the dispute is accounted for. Fur-
thermore, we also hold regular meetings with the Company's legal department in order to receive updates 
on current developments and the reasons for the corresponding assessments. The development of materi-
al legal disputes, including management’s assessments as to their potential outcome, is provided to us by 
the company in writing. As of the balance sheet date, we also obtained external legal confirmations that 
 1
support management’s risk assessments with regard to the product-related disputes discussed under 
above. In connection with these product-related disputes, we reviewed management’s assessments on the 
basis of the grounds of the claims asserted against the Bayer Group, and we agree with the assessments 
taken by management. 

 3

  The Company’s disclosures relating to the aforementioned legal disputes are contained in section 32 of 

the notes to the consolidated financial statements. 

 7

 1

  Adjusting EBITDA and earnings per share for non-recurring items 
  For the Bayer Group’s management and analysis purposes, EBITDA (earnings before interests, taxes, 
depreciation and amortization) is used and adjusted for special items (by their nature and amount of spe-
cific effects). Adjustments to EBITDA in the amount of EUR 517 million have been reported in the consoli-
dated financial statements of the Bayer AG. The adjusted EBITDA is used for capital market communica-
tion as a core financial performance indicator. Furthermore, the adjusted EBITDA is used as a target 
achievement measure for the annual performance-related remuneration of the Bayer Group’s employees. 
The adjustments to EBITDA were of particular importance during our audit, because the applied adjust-
ments are based on the Bayer Group’s internal accounting guidelines and there is a risk of bias in man-
agement’s judgment. 

 2

  We reviewed the calculation of underlying EBITDA and critically assessed the special items identified 
by the management. Based on the knowledge obtained during the audit and the information provided to us 
by management, we examined at the same time whether the adjustments had been applied in accordance 
with the definition and approach presented in the segment reporting disclosures. We were able to satisfy 
ourselves that the adjustments applied to EBITDA by management were in line with the segment reporting 
disclosures and had been applied consistently. 

 3

  The Company’s disclosures about the adjustments to and determination of EBITDA are presented 

under section 5 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements. 

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
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Other Information 
Management is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises 

> 

the Corporate Governance Report according to section 3.10 of the German Corporate Governance 
Code, 
the Corporate Governance Statement pursuant to § 289a HGB and § 315 Abs. 5 HGB, as well as 

> 
>  other parts of the annual report of Bayer AG, Leverkusen, for the financial year ended on December 31, 

2016, which were not subject of our audit. 

Our audit opinion on the consolidated financial statements does not cover the other information and we do 
not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. 

In connection with our audit of the consolidated financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other 
information, and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the 
consolidated financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be mate-
rially misstated. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstate-
ment of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. 

Responsibilities of Management and Those Charged with Governance  

for the Consolidated Financial Statements 
Management is responsible for the preparation of the consolidated financial statements, which comply with 
IFRS, as adopted by the EU, and the additional German legal requirements applicable under § 315a Abs. 1 
HGB, and give a true and fair view of the net assets, financial position and results of operations of the 
Group in accordance with these requirements. Furthermore, management is responsible for such internal 
control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of consolidated financial state-
ments that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.  

In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Group’s 
ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and 
using the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the Group or 
to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so. 

The Supervisory Board is responsible for overseeing the Group’s financial reporting process for the prepa-
ration of the consolidated financial statements. 

Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Consolidated Financial Statements 
Our objective is to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements as a 
whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report 
that includes our audit opinion on the consolidated financial statements. Reasonable assurance is a high 
level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with § 317 HGB and 
German generally accepted standards for the audit of financial statements promulgated by the Institut der 
Wirtschaftsprüfer (Institute of Public Auditors in Germany) (IDW), under additional consideration of the ISA, 
will always detect a material misstatement. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered 
material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence economic deci-
sions of users taken on the basis of these consolidated financial statements. 

As part of an audit in accordance with § 317 HGB and German generally accepted standards for the audit 
of financial statements promulgated by the Institut der Wirtschaftsprüfer (Institute of Public Auditors in 
Germany) (IDW), under additional consideration of the ISA, we exercise professional judgment and maintain 
professional skepticism throughout the audit. We also: 

 
 
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Bayer Annual Report 2016

> 

Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether 
due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit 
evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a 
material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may 
involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. 
>  Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that 

are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the 
effectiveness of the Group’s internal control. 

>  Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting 

estimates and related disclosures made by management. 

>  Conclude on the appropriateness of management’s use of the going concern basis of accounting and, 

based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or 
conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we 
conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report to 
the related disclosures in the consolidated financial statements or the group management report or, if 
such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our audit opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit 
evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may 
cause the Group to cease to continue as a going concern. 

>  Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the consolidated financial statements, 

including the disclosures, and whether the consolidated financial statements represent the underlying 
transactions and events in a manner that the consolidated financial statements give a true and fair view 
of the net assets and financial position as well as the results of operations of the Group in accordance 
with IFRS, as adopted by the EU, and the additional German legal requirements applicable under 
§ 315a Abs. 1 HGB. 

>  Obtain sufficient and appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities or 

business activities within the Group to express an audit opinion on the consolidated financial 
statements. We are responsible for the direction, supervision and performance of the group audit. We 
remain solely responsible for our audit opinion. 

We communicate with those charged with governance, among other matters, the planned scope and 
timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control 
that we identify during our audit. 

We also provide those charged with governance with a statement that we have complied with relevant 
ethical requirements regarding independence, and to communicate with them all relationships and other 
matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence, and related safeguards. 

From the matters communicated with those charged with governance, we determine those matters that 
were of most significance in the audit of the consolidated financial statements of the current period and are 
therefore the key audit matters. We describe these matters in our report on the audit of the consolidated 
financial statements unless law or regulation precludes public disclosure about the matter. 

 
 
  
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

Independent Auditor’s Report

311

Augmented Version

Other Legal and Regulatory Requirements 
Report on the Audit of the Group Management Report 
Audit Opinion on the Group Management Report 
We have audited the group management report of Bayer AG, Leverkusen, which is combined with the 
Company’s management report, for the financial year from January 1 to December 31, 2016. 

In our opinion, based on the findings of our audit, the accompanying group management report as a whole 
provides a suitable view of the Group’s position. In all material respects, the group management report is 
consistent with the consolidated financial statements, complies with legal requirements and suitably pre-
sents the opportunities and risks of future development. 

Our audit has not led to any reservations with respect to the propriety of the group management report.  

Basis for Audit Opinion on the Group Management Report 
We conducted our audit of the group management report in accordance with § 317 Abs. 2 HGB and Ger-
man generally accepted standards for the audit of management reports promulgated by the Institut der 
Wirtschaftsprüfer (Institute of Public Auditors in Germany) (IDW). We believe that the audit evidence we 
have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.  

Responsibilities of Management and Those Charged with Governance for the Group Management Report 
Management is responsible for the preparation of the group management report, which as a whole pro-
vides a suitable view of the Group’s position, is consistent with the consolidated financial statements, 
complies with legal requirements, and suitably presents the opportunities and risks of future development. 
Furthermore, management is responsible for such policies and procedures (systems) as management de-
termines are necessary to enable the preparation of a group management report in accordance with the 
German legal requirements applicable under § 315 Abs. 1 HGB and to provide sufficient and appropriate 
evidence for the assertions in the group management report. 

The Supervisory Board is responsible for overseeing the Group’s financial reporting process for the prepa-
ration of the group management report. 

Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Group Management Report 
Our objective is to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the group management report as a whole 
provides a suitable view of the Group’s position as well as, in all material respects, is consistent with the 
consolidated financial statements as well as the findings of our audit, complies with legal requirements, 
and suitably presents the opportunities and risks of future development, and to issue an auditor’s report 
that includes our audit opinion on the group management report. 

As part of an audit, we examine the group management report in accordance with § 317 Abs. 2 HGB and 
German generally accepted standards for the audit of management reports promulgated by the IDW. In 
this connection, we draw attention to the following:  

>  The audit of the group management report is integrated into the audit of the consolidated financial 

statements. 

>  We obtain an understanding of the policies and procedures (systems) relevant to the audit of the group 
management report in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but 
not for the purpose of expressing an audit opinion on the effectiveness of these policies and procedures 
(systems). 

 
 
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>  We perform audit procedures on the prospective information presented by management in the group 
management report. Based on appropriate and sufficient audit evidence, we hereby, in particular, 
evaluate the material assumptions used by management as a basis for the prospective information  
and assess the reasonableness of these assumptions as well as the appropriate derivation of the 
prospective information from these assumptions. We are not issuing a separate audit opinion on the 
prospective information or the underlying assumptions. There is a significant, unavoidable risk that 
future events will deviate significantly from the prospective information.  

>  We are also not issuing a separate audit opinion on individual disclosures in the group management 

report; our audit opinion covers the group management report as a whole. 

Responsible Auditor 
The auditor responsible for the audit is Eckhard Sprinkmeier. 

Essen, February 15, 2017 

PricewaterhouseCoopers 
Aktiengesellschaft 
Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft 

Dr. Peter Bartels 
Wirtschaftsprüfer 
(German Public Auditor) 

Eckhard Sprinkmeier 
Wirtschaftsprüfer 
(German Public Auditor) 

 
 
  
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

Independent Practitioner’s Limited Assurance Report on the Sustainability Information

313

Augmented Version

Independent Practitioner’s Limited 
Assurance Report on the Sustainability 
Information 

To Bayer AG, Leverkusen 

PricewaterhouseCoopers  AG  Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft  has  performed  a  moderate  assurance  en-
gagement on the German version of the augmented online version of the Annual Report of Bayer AG and 
issued an independent assurance report, authoritative in German language, which has been translated  as 
follows: 

We have been engaged to perform a limited assurance engagement on the sustainability information 
marked with “limited assurance” in the online annexes of the augmented online version of the Annual Re-
port of Bayer AG, Leverkusen, (hereafter: the “Company”) for the period 1 January 2016 to 31 December 
2016 (“Annual Report 2016 – Augmented Version”; hereafter: “Online Version”). 

Management’s Responsibility  
The Company’s Management is responsible for the preparation and presentation of the Online Version in 
accordance with the criteria as set out in the G4 Sustainability Reporting Guidelines of the Global Report-
ing Initiative (GRI) (hereafter the “GRI Criteria”) and for the selection of the information to be assessed.  

This responsibility includes the selection and application of appropriate methods to prepare the Online 
Version as well as the use of assumptions and estimates for individual sustainability disclosures which are 
reasonable in the circumstances. Furthermore, the responsibility includes designing, implementing and 
maintaining systems and processes relevant for the preparation of the Sustainability Report, which is free 
of material misstatements due to intentional or unintentional errors. 

Audit Firm’s Independence and Quality Control 
We have complied with the German professional provisions regarding independence as well as other ethi-
cal requirements. 

The audit firm applies the national legal requirements and professional standards – in particular the Profes-
sional Code for German Public Auditors and German Chartered Auditors (“Berufssatzung für 
Wirtschaftsprüfer und vereidigte Buchprüfer”: “BS WP/vBP”) as well as the Institut der Wirtschaftsprüfer 
(“Institute of Public Auditors in Germany; IDW”): Requirements to quality control for audit firms (“Entwurf 
eines IdW Qualitätssicherungsstandards 1 “Anforderungen an die Qualitätssicherung in der 
Wirtschaftsprüferpraxis” (IdW EQS 1)”) – and accordingly maintains a comprehensive system of quality 
control including documented policies and procedures regarding compliance with ethical requirements, 
professional standards and applicable legal and regulatory requirements. 

Practitioner’s Responsibility 
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the sustainability information marked with “limited assurance” 
in the Online Version based on our work performed.  

Within the scope of our engagement we did not perform an audit on external sources of information or 
expert opinions, referred to in the Online Version.  

We conducted our work in accordance with the International Standard on Assurance Engagements (ISAE) 
3000 (Revised): “Assurance Engagements other than Audits or Reviews of Historical Financial Information” 
published by IAASB. This Standard requires that we plan and perform the assurance engagement to obtain 
limited assurance whether any matters have come to our attention that cause us to believe that the sus-
tainability information marked with “(cid:284)” in the Online Version has not been prepared, in all material re-
spects, in accordance with the GRI Criteria. 

 
 
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Independent Practitioner’s Limited Assurance Report on the Sustainability Information 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

In a limited assurance engagement the evidence-gathering procedures are more limited than for a reason-
able assurance engagement and therefore significantly less assurance is obtained than in a reasonable 
assurance engagement. The procedures selected depend on the practitioner’s judgement. This includes 
the assessment of the risks of material misstatements of the sustainability information marked with “limited 
assurance” in the Online Version with regard to the GRI Criteria.  

Within the scope of our work we performed amongst others the following procedures: 

>  Obtaining an understanding of the structure of the sustainability organization and of the stakeholder 

> 

engagement  
Inquiries of personnel involved in the preparation of the Online Version regarding the preparation 
process, the underlying internal control system and selected sustainability information 

>  Site visits as part of the inspection of processes and analysis of selected data at the following Bayer 
sites: Pharmaceuticals, Bergkamen, Germany; Consumer Health, Myerstown, USA; Crop Science, 
Frankfurt, Germany; Crop Science, Kansas City, USA; as well as the Covestro site Baytown, USA; and 
the Currenta sites Leverkusen, Dormagen, Krefeld-Uerdingen, Germany; 

>  Analytical procedures on selected sustainability information of the Online Version 
>  Comparison of selected sustainability information with corresponding data in the consolidated financial 

statements and in the group management report  

>  Assessment of the presentation of selected sustainability information in the Online Version regarding the 

sustainability performance 

Conclusion 
Based on our limited assurance engagement, nothing has come to our attention that causes us to believe 
that the sustainability information marked with “limited assurance” in the Online Version of the Company for 
the period 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2016 has not been prepared, in all material respects, in ac-
cordance with the GRI Criteria.  

Emphasis of Matter – Recommendations 
Without qualifying our conclusion above, we make the following recommendations for the further develop-
ment of the Company’s sustainability management and sustainability reporting: 

>  Further alignment of the sustainability reporting in consideration of the changing focus topics of a life 

science company; 

>  Further development and formalization of internal controls and systems for non-financial indicators 

particularly at decentralized level, as well as increasing implementation of automated system interfaces 
and controls 

Restriction on Use and Distribution 
We issue this report on the basis of the engagement agreed with the Company. The review has been per-
formed for purposes of the Company and is solely intended to inform the Company about the results of the 
review. The report is not intended for any third parties to base any (financial) decision thereon. We do not 
assume any responsibility towards third parties.  

Essen, February 21, 2017 

PricewaterhouseCoopers 
Aktiengesellschaft 
Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft 

Hendrik Fink 
Wirtschaftsprüfer 
(German Public Auditor)  

ppa. Juliane v. Clausbruch 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

C Further Information

315

Governance Bodies

Augmented Version

Further  
Information 

Governance Bodies 

Supervisory Board 

Members of the Supervisory Board held offices as members of the supervisory board or a comparable supervising  
body of the corporations listed (as at December 31, 2016, or the date on which they ceased to be members of  
the Supervisory Board of Bayer AG) and as shown attended the meetings of the Supervisory Board and committees  
to which he or she belonged: 

Werner Wenning  
Leverkusen, Germany 
(born October 21, 1946) 

Chairman of the Supervisory Board 
effective October 2012 

Chairman of the Supervisory Board 
of Bayer AG  

Memberships on other supervisory 
boards:  

•  Bayer Pharma AG  
(until January 2017) 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
and committee meetings: 10 of 12 

Dr. Paul Achleitner 
Munich, Germany 
(born September 28, 1956)  

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective April 2002 

Chairman of the Supervisory Board 
of Deutsche Bank AG  

Memberships on other supervisory 
boards:  

•  Daimler AG 

•  Deutsche Bank AG (Chairman) 

Memberships in comparable  
supervising bodies of German or 
foreign corporations:  

•  Henkel AG & Co. KGaA  

(Member of the Shareholders’ 
Committee) 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
and committee meetings: 13 of 13 

Memberships on other  
supervisory boards:  

•  E.ON SE (Chairman)  
(until June 2016) 

•  Henkel Management AG 

•  Siemens AG (Vice Chairman) 

Memberships in comparable  
supervising bodies of German or 
foreign corporations: 

•  Henkel AG & Co. KGaA  

(Member of the Shareholders’ 
Committee) 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
and committee meetings: 19 of 19 

Oliver Zühlke 
Solingen, Germany 
(born December 11, 1968) 

Vice Chairman of the Supervisory 
Board effective July 2015 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective April 2007 

Chairman of the Bayer Central 
Works Council  

Dr. rer. nat. Simone Bagel-Trah 
Düsseldorf, Germany  
(born January 10, 1969) 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective April 2014 

Chairwoman of the Supervisory 
Board of Henkel AG & Co. KGaA 
and Henkel Management AG  
and of the Shareholders’ Commit-
tee of Henkel AG & Co. KGaA 

Memberships on other  
supervisory boards:  

•  Henkel AG & Co. KGaA  

(Chairwoman) 

•  Henkel Management AG 

•  Heraeus Holding GmbH 

Memberships in comparable  
supervising bodies of German or 
foreign corporations:  

•  Henkel AG & Co. KGaA  
(Chairwoman of the  
Shareholders’ Committee) 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
meetings: 5 of 5 

Dr. Clemens Börsig 
Frankfurt am Main, Germany 
(born July 27, 1948) 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective April 2007 

Member of various supervisory 
boards  

Memberships on other supervisory 
boards:  

•  Daimler AG 

•  Linde AG 

Memberships in comparable  
supervising bodies of German or 
foreign corporations:  

•  Emerson Electric Co. 

•  Istituto per le Opere di  

Religione (Member of the  
Board of Superintendence)  
(until May 2016) 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
meetings: 5 of 5 

André van Broich 
Dormagen, Germany 
(born June 19, 1970) 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective April 2012 

Chairman of the Works Council  
of the Dormagen site 

Memberships on other supervisory 
boards:  

•  Bayer CropScience AG  
(until January 2017) 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
and committee meetings: 7 of 7 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
316 

C Further Information 

Augmented Version  

Governance Bodies 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Chairman of the Works Council  
of the Berlin site  

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective April 2016 

Memberships on other supervisory 
boards: 

•  Bayer Pharma AG  
(Vice Chairman)  
(until January 2017) 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
and committee meetings: 8 of 8 

Independent consultant 

Memberships in comparable  
supervising bodies of German or 
foreign corporations:  

•  Evotec AG (Chairman) 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
and committee meetings: 6 of 6 

Thomas Ebeling 
Muri bei Bern, Switzerland 
(born February 9, 1959) 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective April 2012 

Chief Executive Officer of  
ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE  

Memberships in comparable  
supervising bodies of German or 
foreign corporations:  

•  Lonza Group AG 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
meetings: 5 of 5 

Johanna W. (Hanneke) Faber 
Amstelveen, Netherlands 
(born April 19, 1969) 

Petra Kronen 
Krefeld, Germany 
(born August 22, 1964) 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective July 2000 

Chairwoman of the Central Works 
Council of Covestro 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective April 2016 

Chairwoman of the Works Council 
of Covestro of the Uerdingen site 

Chief E-Commerce and Innovation 
Officer and Member of the  
Executive Committee of Koninklijke 
Ahold Delhaize N.V. 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
meetings: 3 of 3 

Dr.-Ing. Thomas Fischer 
Krefeld, Germany 
(born August 27, 1955) 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective October 2005 

Chairman of the Managerial  
Employees Committee of Covestro 
Deutschland AG  

Memberships on other supervisory 
boards: 

•  Covestro AG  

•  Covestro Deutschland AG  

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
and committee meetings: 9 of 9 

Reiner Hoffmann 
Wuppertal, Germany  
(born May 30, 1955)  

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective October 2006 

Chairman of the German Trade 
Union Confederation 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
meetings: 5 of 5 

Yüksel Karaaslan 
Hohen Neuendorf, Germany 
(born March 1, 1968) 

Memberships on other supervisory 
boards:  

•  Covestro AG (Vice Chairwoman)  

•  Covestro Deutschland AG  

(Vice Chairwoman) 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
and committee meetings: 7 of 8 

Frank Löllgen 
Cologne, Germany 
(born June 14, 1961) 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective November 2015 

North Rhine District Secretary of 
the German Mining, Chemical and 
Energy Industrial Union  

Memberships on other supervisory 
boards: 

•  IRR-Innovationsregion  

Rheinisches Revier GmbH 

•  Evonik Industries AG  

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
and committee meetings: 8 of 8 

Dr. rer. nat. Helmut Panke 
Munich, Germany 
(born August 31, 1946) 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
until April 2016 

Member of various supervisory 
boards  

Memberships in comparable  
supervising bodies of German or 
foreign corporations:  

•  Microsoft Corporation 

•  Singapore Airlines Limited 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective April 2012 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
and committee meetings: 4 of 4 

Chairman of the Bayer Group 
Works Council  

Vice Chairman of the Bayer Central 
Works Council  

Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Plischke 
Aschau im Chiemgau, Germany 
(born September 15, 1951) 

Sue H. Rataj 
Sebastopol, U.S.A. 
(born January 8, 1957) 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective April 2012 

Member of the Board of Directors 
of Cabot Corporation, Boston, 
U.S.A.  

Member of the Board of Directors 
of Agilent Technologies Inc., Santa 
Clara, U.S.A. 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
meetings: 5 of 5 

Petra Reinbold-Knape 
Gladbeck, Germany 
(born April 16, 1959) 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective April 2012 

Member of the Executive  
Committee of the German Mining, 
Chemical and Energy Industrial 
Union  

Memberships on other supervisory 
boards:  

•  Lausitz Energie Bergbau AG 
(formerly Vattenfall Europe  
Mining AG) 
(Vice Chairwoman) 

•  Lausitz Energie Kraftwerk AG 
(formerly Vattenfall Europe  
Generation AG )   

Memberships in comparable  
supervising bodies of German or 
foreign corporations:  

•  MDSE Mitteldeutsche  

Sanierungs- und Entsorgungs-
gesellschaft mbH (until August 
2016) 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
and committee meetings: 8 of 8 

Michael Schmidt-Kießling 
Schwelm, Germany 
(born March 24, 1959) 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective April 2012 

Chairman of the Works Council  
of the Elberfeld site 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
meetings: 4 of 5 

Dr. Klaus Sturany* 
Ascona, Switzerland 
(born October 23, 1946) 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective April 2007 

Member of various supervisory 
boards 

Memberships on other supervisory 
boards:  

•  Hannover Rück SE  
(Vice Chairman) 

Memberships in comparable  
supervising bodies of German or 
foreign corporations:  

•  Sulzer AG (until April 2016) 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
and committee meetings: 9 of 9 

Heinz Georg Webers 
Bergkamen, Germany 
(born December 27, 1959) 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective July 2015 

Chairman of the Bayer European 
Forum 

Chairman of the Works Council of 
the Bergkamen site  

Memberships on other supervisory 
boards: 

•  Bayer Pharma AG  
(until January 2017) 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
meetings: 5 of 5 

Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Otmar D. 
Wiestler 
Berlin, Germany 
(born November 6, 1956) 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
effective October 2014 

President of the Helmholtz  
Association of German Research 
Centres 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
and committee meetings: 7 of 7 

Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. mult.  
Ernst-Ludwig Winnacker 
Munich, Germany 
(born July 26, 1941) 

Member of the Supervisory Board 
until April 2016 

Professor-Emeritus of Ludwig-
Maximilians University Munich  

Memberships on other supervisory 
boards:  

•    Medigene AG (until August 

2016) 

•    Wacker Chemie AG 

Attendance at Supervisory Board 
and committee meetings: 3 of 3 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

C Further Information

317

Governance Bodies

Augmented Version

Board of Management

Standing committees of the  
Supervisory Board of Bayer AG 
(as at December 31, 2016) 

Members of the Board of Management held offices as members of the 
supervisory board or a comparable supervising body of the corporations 
listed (as at December 31, 2016): 

Presidial Committee /  
Mediation Committee 
Wenning (Chairman), 
Achleitner, Reinbold-Knape, 
Zühlke 

Audit Committee 
Sturany* (Chairman), 
Fischer, Löllgen, Plischke, 
Wenning, Zühlke 

Human Resources Committee 
Wenning (Chairman), 
Achleitner, Karaaslan, Kronen 

Nominations Committee 
Wenning (Chairman), 
Achleitner 

Innovation Committee 
Plischke (Chairman), van Broich, 
Reinbold-Knape, Wenning, Wiestler, 
Zühlke 

* Expert member pursuant to Section 

100, Paragraph 5 of the German 

Stock Corporation Act (AktG) 

Werner Baumann 
(born October 6, 1962) 

Chairman 
(effective May 2016) 

Member of the Board of  
Management effective  
January 1, 2010, appointed  
until April 30, 2021 

Dr. Hartmut Klusik 
(born July 30, 1956) 

Member of the Board of  
Management effective  
January 1, 2016, appointed  
until December 31, 2018  

Labor Director  

•  Bayer HealthCare AG  

•  Bayer CropScience AG  

(Chairman) (until April 2016) 

(Chairman)  
(until July 2016)  

•  Bayer Pharma AG  
(until April 2016) 

Liam Condon 
(born February 27, 1968) 

Member of the Board of  
Management effective  
January 1, 2016, appointed  
until December 31, 2018 

Johannes Dietsch 
(born January 2, 1962) 

Member of the Board of  
Management effective  
September 1, 2014, appointed  
until August 31, 2017 

•  Bayer Business Services GmbH 

(Chairman)  

•  Bayer CropScience AG  

(Chairman)  
(May 2016 until February 2017) 

•  Covestro AG  

•   Covestro Deutschland AG 

•  Bayer Pharma AG (Chairman)  

(until February 2017) 

•  Bayer Technology Services GmbH 

(Chairman) (until July 2016) 

•  Currenta Geschäftsführungs-

GmbH (Chairman)  

Kemal Malik 
(born September 29, 1962) 

Member of the Board of  
Management effective  
February 1, 2014, appointed  
until January 31, 2022 

Erica Mann 
(born October 11, 1958) 

Member of the Board of  
Management effective  
January 1, 2016, appointed  
until December 31, 2018 

Dieter Weinand 
(born August 16, 1960) 

Member of the Board of  
Management effective  
January 1, 2016, appointed  
until December 31, 2018  

•  Board of Directors of 

HealthPrize Technologies LLC 

Chairman of the Board of  
Management until April 2016 

Dr. Marijn Dekkers 
(born September 22, 1957) 

•  Board of Directors of  

General Electric Company 

•  Chairman of Unilever N.V.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
318

Augmented Version

Organization Chart

Organization Chart

C 1

Werner Baumann  
Chairman

Johannes Dietsch 
Finance

Hartmut Klusik *  
Human Resources, Technology  
& Sustainability

Kemal Malik  
Innovation

A. Bouchon 
Bayer Lifescience Center

M. Lessl 
Corporate Innova tion and 
Research & Development

M. Arnold 
Corporate Office

M. Baum 
Risk Management

T.-P. Hausner 
Strategy

B.-P. Bier  
Accounting & Taxes

O. Maier 1 
Investor Relations 

V. Hahn 
Regional Coordination

A. Günther 
Human Resources  
& Organization

P.-G. Heiden 
Corporate Quality

R. Heumann 
Corporate Supply Chain

M. Preuss 
Communications and  
Public Affairs

G. Harnier 
Law, Patents & Compliance

G. Hilken 
Currenta

F. Rittgen 
Mergers, Licencing & Acquisitions

R. Schwarz 
Internal Audit

M. Vehreschild 
Country & Functional  Excellence

D. Hartert 
Business Services

P. Müller 
Finance

G. Schildmeyer 
Corporate Controlling

T. Udesen 
Procurement

A. Knors 
Engineering & Technology

K. van Laak 
Corporate Health, Safety  
& Sustainability

C. Pörtner 
Corporate Technology  
& Manufacturing

Chairman

Finance

Innovation

…

Human Resources, Technology & Sustainability

Graphic C 1 continued

Labor Director

1 From March 1, 2017

2  Europe / Middle East / Africa 

3 Asia / Pacific

As of March 1, 2017

4  Until March 31, 2017; J. Koelink from April 1, 2017

* Labor Director
1  From March 1, 2017
2  Europe / Middle East / Africa
3 Asia / Pacific
4 Until March 31, 2017; J. Koelink from April 1, 2017

C Further InformationBayer Annual Report 2016 
 
Organization Chart

Augmented Version

319

C 1

C 1 continued

Dieter Weinand  
Pharmaceuticals

Erica Mann 
Consumer Health

Liam Condon  
Crop Science

C. Brunn 
Commercial Operations  
Americas 

N. Bartner 
Commercial Operations  
North America

J. Applegate 
Environmental Science

A. Busch 
Drug Discovery

W. Carius 
Product Supply

M. Devoy 
Chief Medical Officer

R. Franzen 
Commercial Operations EMEA 2 

S. Guth 
Strategic Marketing

W. Jiang 
Commercial Operations  
China & APAC 3

R. LaCaze 
Oncology

J. Möller 
Development

H. Prinz 
Commercial Operations  
Japan 

J. Triana 
Finance

S. Davies 
Division Operations 

O. Mauroy-Bressier 
Finance

J. Ohle 
Commercial Operations  
International

J. O’Mullane 
Innovation & Development

F. Reiff 
Strategic Marketing

D. Backhaus 
Product Supply

M. Dawkins 
Post Merger Integration

M. Kremer 
Crop Strategies & Portfolio  
Management

T. Menne 
Digital Farming

B. Naaf  
Business Affairs  
& Communications

R. Spoor 4 
Product Supply

A. Percy 
Research & Development

L. Yuen 
Commercial Operations  
China

M. Reichardt 
Agricultural Commercial  
Operations

M. A. Schulz 
Finance

F. Terhorst 
Pre-Merger Planning

D. Ehle 
Animal Health

As of March 1, 2017

C Further InformationBayer Annual Report 2016 
 
 
 
320 

C Further Information 

 Augmented Version 

GRI Content Index 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

G4 Content Index of the 
Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) with the  
10 Principles of the U.N. Global Compact  

For fiscal 2016, we are once again applying the GRI G4 Guidelines in accordance with the “comprehensive” option. 
Where there is insufficient information for a particular GRI indicator, we have explained this. In addition, the detailed GRI 
Content Index includes the corresponding principles of the UNGC and the assignment of our areas of activity to the GRI 
aspects. Moreover, we indicate whether our scope to exercise influence lies within or outside the company (GRI G4-19, 
G4-20, G4-21).  

For the implementation of the GRI Materiality Disclosure Service the GRI had access to the “Annual Report 2016 – Aug-
mented Version.” The correct positioning of the “G4 Materiality Disclosures” (G4-17 – G4-27) was confirmed by the GRI. 

M

GRI aspect 
limitation 
G4-20   G4-21 

within 

out-
side 

GRI G4 Content Index 

UNGC 
Prin-
ciples  G4 Standard Disclosures  

Page 

Comments 

Bayer area  
of activity 

General Standard Disclosures 

Strategy and Analysis 

G4–1 

Statement from the most 
senior decision-maker 

1-7 

Key impacts, risks and 
opportunities concerning 
sustainability 

41, 47-57, 62, 
92, 95, 171, 
173, 179  

G4–2 

Organizational Profile 

G4–3  Name of the organization 44 

G4–4 

Primary brands, products 
and services 

41, 44-46 

Location of the 
organization’s 
headquarters 

G4–5 

42 

G4–6 

Countries with significant 
operations 

42-44 

Nature of ownership  
and legal form 

G4–7 

40, 44 

G4–8  Markets served 

Scale of the  
organization 

G4–9 

6 

G4–10 

Employees by 
employment type, gender 
and region 

42-43, 52,  
99-100 

Cover 3 (front 
inside cover), 
42-43, 77, 96, 
203, 205 

77-79, 84 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
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UNGC 
Prin-
ciples  G4 Standard Disclosures  

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Comments 

Bayer area  
of activity 

General Standard Disclosures 

3 

G4–11 

Percentage of employees 
covered by collective 
bargaining agreements 

86 

GRI aspect 
limitation 
G4-20   G4-21 

within 

out-
side 

G4–12 

Description of the  
supply chain 

90-91 

Significant changes 
during the reporting 
period 

G4–13 

5, 44, 129, 144

G4–14 

Implementation of the 
precautionary principle 

105 

External initiatives  
that the organization 
endorses 

G4–15 

Significant memberships 
in industry and business 
associations 

G4–16 

28, 55-56, 61, 
87, 93, 103, 
105, 125 

55, 59, 82, 92, 
105, 117 

Identified Material Aspects and Boundaries 

Entities included in the 
consolidated financial 
statements 

G4–17 

G4–18 

Process for defining  
the report content 

G4–19 

Material Aspects 
identified 

G4–20 

Aspect Boundaries  
within the organization 

G4–21 

Aspect Boundaries 
outside the organization 

28, 232- 233 

56-57; 
www.bayer.com/
materiality 

320-333; 
www.bayer.com/
areas-of-activity,
www.bayer.com/
gri 

320-333; 
www.bayer.com/
areas-of-activity, 
www.bayer.com/
gri 

320-333; 
www.bayer.com/
areas-of-activity, 
www.bayer.com/
gri 

Restatements of 
information provided  
in previous reports 

G4–22 

28-29 

Significant changes in 
the Scope and Aspect 
Boundaries 

56-57; 
www.bayer.com/
areas-of-activity 

G4–23 

Stakeholder Engagement 

G4–24 

Stakeholder groups 
engaged 

58-59 

G4–25 

Identification and 
selection of stakeholders  58 

Approach to stakeholder 
engagement and 
frequency 

G4–26 

39, 56-62, 65, 77, 
82, 94 

Key topics and concerns 
raised through 
stakeholder engagement 
and response 

39, 56-57; 
www.bayer.com/
en/corporate- 
governance.aspx 

G4–27 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
                         
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
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Bayer Annual Report 2016

GRI aspect 
limitation 
G4-20   G4-21 

within 

out-
side 

GRI G4 Content Index 

UNGC 
Prin-
ciples  G4 Standard Disclosures  

Page 

Comments 

Bayer area  
of activity 

General Standard Disclosures 

Report Profile 

G4– 28  Reporting period 

28 

G4–29 

Date of most recent 
previous report 

Annual Report: 
2016-02-26 

G4–30  Reporting cycle 

Annually 

Contact point for 
questions regarding  
the report 

G4–31 

“In accordance” option 
with GRI and Content 
Index chosen 

G4–32 

Cover 5 (back 
inside cover) 

28, 320-333 

G4–33 

External verification  
of the report 

29, 303-314 

Governance 

Governance structure, 
incl. committees of the 
highest governance body

G4–34 

Process for delegating 
authority for economic, 
environmental and social 
topics 

Executive-level position 
with responsibility for 
economic, environ-
mental and social topics

G4–35 

G4–36 

Processes for 
consultation between 
stakeholders and the 
highest governance body

G4–37 

30-32, 34-36, 
182-184 

56, 182, 185 

30-31, 56, 88, 
102, 168, 170, 
182-183 

39, Cover 5 (back 
inside cover); 
www.bayer.com/e
n/corporate-
governance.aspx 

Composition of the 
highest governance body 
and its committees 

32, 181 

G4–38 

Independence of the 
Chair of the highest 
governance body 

G4–39 

Nomination and selection 
processes for the highest 
governance body and its 
committees 

G4–40 

32, 183 

35, 180-181, 
184 

G4–41 

Process for avoiding 
conflicts of interest 

180-182, 185 

Highest governance 
body's role concerning 
strategy and goals 

G4–42 

Measures taken 
concerning the highest 
governance body’s 
knowledge in 
sustainability issues 

G4–43 

32-34, 182-183 

34-35 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
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limitation 
G4-20   G4-21 

within 

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side 

GRI G4 Content Index 

UNGC 
Prin-
ciples  G4 Standard Disclosures  

Page 

Comments 

Bayer area  
of activity 

General Standard Disclosures 

Evaluation of the highest 
governance body’s 
performance concerning 
sustainability 

32 

G4–44 

Highest governance 
body’s role concerning 
sustainability impacts, 
risks, and opportunities 

Highest governance 
body’s role concerning 
the effectiveness of the 
risk management 

Frequency of the highest 
governance body’s 
review of sustainability 
impacts, risks, and 
opportunities 

G4–45 

G4–46 

G4–47 

168-170, 183, 
185 

33-35, 169-170, 
183 

34-35, 170 

Highest committee that 
formally reviews and 
approves the 
sustainability report 

56 

G4–48 

Process for 
communicating critical 
concerns to the highest 
governance body 

Critical concerns that 
were communicated to 
the highest governance 
body 

36, 39, 185-186; 
www.bayer.com/
asm 

33; 
www.bayer.com/
asm 

G4–49 

G4–50 

Remuneration policies for 
the highest governance 
body and senior 
executives 

G4–51 

41, 185, 187-191, 
198-199 

G4–52 

Process for determining 
remuneration 

34, 187, 198 

G4–53 

Stakeholders’ views 
regarding remuneration 

187, 198; 
www.bayer.com/
asm 

Ratio of the highest 
annual total 
compensation to the 
median annual total 
compensation 

G4–54 

Ratio of percentage 
increase in the  
highest annual total 
compensation 

G4–55 

Not available: we do not consider this 
compensation detail to be of informative 
value for the evaluation of the 
appropriateness of our compensation 
structures. We report on these in detail in the 
section “Competitive compensation and 
variable pay” and in our Compensation 
Report. 

Not available: we do not consider this 
compensation detail to be of informative 
value for the evaluation of the 
appropriateness of our compensation 
structures. We report on these in detail in the 
section “Competitive compensation and 
variable pay” and in our Compensation 
Report. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
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Bayer Annual Report 2016

GRI G4 Content Index 

UNGC 
Prin-
ciples  G4 Standard Disclosures  

Page 

Comments 

Bayer area  
of activity 

GRI aspect 
limitation 
G4-20   G4-21 

within 

out-
side 

 within 

out-
side 

Employee relations & 
development 

Product and process 
innovation 

Environmental 
protection / resource 
efficiency 

X 

X 

X 

X 

X 

General Standard Disclosures 

Ethics and Integrity 

10 

G4–56 

Values, principles, 
standards and norms of 
behavior 

41, 56, 81, 87, 
184-185 

10 

G4–57 

Mechanisms for seeking 
advice on ethical and 
lawful behavior 

185 

10 

G4–58 

Mechanisms for reporting 
concerns about unethical 
or unlawful behavior 

87, 101, 185 

Specific Standard Disclosures G4-19          

Economic 

7 

7 

Aspect: Economic Performance – 
Management Approach 

47, 88 

G4-
EC1 

Direct economic value 
created and distributed 

47, 83-84, 87-88, 
244 

Financial implications 
and other risks and 
opportunities due to 
climate change 

171; 
www.bayer.cm/
CDP-Climate 

Coverage of benefit plan 
obligations 

83, 86, 177, 
264-269, 272 

G4-
EC2 

G4-
EC3 

G4-
EC4 

Financial assistance 
received from 
government 

6 

Aspect: Market Presence – 
Management Approach 

65 

82 

Employee relations & 
development 

X 

We align our compensation with local 
market conditions in Emerging Markets 
and developing countries. Furthermore, 
in keeping with our human rights 
position, we pursue the goal of paying 
adequate salaries that ensure a suitable 
standard of living for our employees and 
their families. In all Emerging Markets 
where we are active, the lowest salary 
paid by Bayer is at least in line with the 
applicable minimum wage and in most 
cases higher. We are not currently 
reporting on the margin between 
standard entry salary and minimum 
wage. A new survey on this aspect is 
currently being performed. 

6 

6 

G4-
EC5 

G4-
EC6 

Ratios of standard entry 
level wage compared to 
local minimum wage 

Proportion of senior 
management hired from 
the local community 

82 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
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GRI G4 Content Index 

UNGC 
Prin- 
ciples  G4 Standard Disclosures  

Page  

Comments  

Specific Standard Disclosures G4-19      

Aspect: Indirect Economic  
Impacts – Management Approach  47, 88 

G4-
EC7 

G4-
EC8 

Infrastructure 
investments and 
services provided 

Indirect economic 
impacts 

Aspect: Procurement Practices – 
Management Approach 

49, 88-89, 95 

47 

91 

G4-
EC9 

Proportion of spending 
on local suppliers 

91, 335 

Environmental 

7, 8 

Aspect: Materials –  
Management Approach 

96, 102-103, 120

7, 8 

G4-
EN1 

Materials used by  
weight or volume 

91 

8 

G4-
EN2 

Percentage of materials 
used that are recycled 
input materials 

127-128 

7, 8, 
9 

Aspect: Energy –  
Management Approach 

54, 96, 102-103, 
120-121 

7, 8 

G4-
EN3 

Energy consumption 
within the organization 

120-121 

G4-
EN4 

G4-
EN5 

G4-
EN6 

8 

8, 9 

Energy consumption 
outside of the 
organization 

Energy intensity 

120-121 

Reduction of energy 
consumption 

121 

We do not report on the weight and volume of 
the materials used. This information constitutes 
a business secret. 

We do not provide any information on volumes 
relating to the total material use of secondary 
raw materials since this also constitutes a 
business secret. We do provide information on 
production-, material- and, where possible, 
product-related recycling. 

Such energy consumption is contained in the 
details of greenhouse gas emissions for Scope 
3, which we publish in the CDP Report 
(www.bayer.com/CDP-Climate). 

Bayer area of 
activity 

Sustainable food 
supply 

Access to          
health care 

Supplier 
management 

GRI aspect 
limitation 
G4-20  G4-21 

within 

out-
side 

X 

X 

X 

Environmental 
protection / resource 
efficiency 

X 

X 

Environmental 
protection / resource 
efficiency 

X 

X 

8, 9 

G4-
EN7 

Reductions in energy 
requirements of 
products and services 

We do not consider this indicator to be 
applicable to our product portfolio as a Life 
Science company. Data are therefore not 
available. 

7; 8 

7, 8 

Aspect: Water –  
Management Approach 

54, 96, 102-103, 
120, 124-125 

G4-
EN8 

Total water with- 
drawal by source 

125 

8 

G4-
EN9 

Water resources 
significantly affected 

124; 
www.bayer.com
/CDP-Water 

Environmental 
protection / resource 
efficiency 

X 

X 

 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
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Comments  

Bayer area of 
activity 

Specific Standard Disclosures G4-19      

8 

G4-
EN10 

Water recycled and 
reused 

125 

7, 8, 
9 

Aspect: Emissions –  
Management Approach 

54, 96, 102-103, 
120-123 

G4-
EN15 

G4-
EN16 

G4-
EN17 

G4-
EN18 

G4-
EN19 

G4-
EN20 

G4-
EN21 

Direct greenhouse gas 
(GHG) emissions  
(Scope 1) 

Energy indirect 
greenhouse gas (GHG) 
emissions (Scope 2) 

122 

122 

Other indirect 
greenhouse gas (GHG) 
emissions (Scope 3) 

122-123; 
www.bayer.com/
CDP-Climate 

Greenhouse gas (GHG) 
emissions intensity 

122-123 

Reduction of 
greenhouse gas (GHG) 
emissions 

Emissions of ozone-
depleting substances 
(ODS) 

NOx, SOx and other 
significant air emissions

121, 127 

123 

123 

Aspect: Effluents and Waste – 
Management Approach 

G4-
EN22 

G4-
EN23 

G4-
EN24 

Total water discharge 
by quality and 
destination 

Total weight of waste 
by type and disposal 
method 

Total number and 
volume of significant 
spills 

96, 102-103, 110, 
120, 124-128, 
174 

125-126 

126-127 

124 

G4-
EN25 

Handling of hazardous 
waste 

126-127 

Water bodies 
significantly affected  
by discharges of water 
and runoff 

G4-
EN26 

124 

Waste transported across borders is recorded 
in Europe in line with legal regulations and 
reported to the responsible authorities. 

We give detailed information on all water-
related issues in our CDP Water Report 
(www.bayer.com/CDP-Water) 

7, 8 

7, 8 

7, 8 

8 

8, 9 

7, 8 

7, 8 

8 

8 

8 

8 

8 

8 

7, 8, 
9 

Aspect: Products and Services –
Management Approach 

104, 111, 114, 
120, 174 

7, 8, 
9 

G4-
EN27 

Mitigation of 
environmental impacts 
of products and 
services 

76, 111-113 

GRI aspect 
limitation 
G4-20  G4-21 

within 

out-
side 

Environmental 
protection / resource 
efficiency 

X 

X 

Environmental 
protection / resource 
efficiency 

X 

X 

Product and process 
innovation 

Product stewardship 

Environmental 
protection / resource 
efficiency 

X 

X 

X 

X  

X 

X 

 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
 
  
  
 
  
 
 
  
  
  
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Prin- 
ciples  G4 Standard Disclosures  

Page  

Comments  

Bayer area of 
activity 

GRI aspect 
limitation 
G4-20  G4-21 

within 

out-
side 

Business ethics 

X 

X 

Safety 

Environmental 
protection / resource 
efficiency 

X 

X 

Supplier 
management 

X 

X 

X 

Specific Standard Disclosures G4-19      

G4-
EN28 

Reclaimed products  
and packaging 

Aspect: Compliance –  
Management Approach 

Fines and sanctions  
for noncompliance  
with environmental 
regulations 

G4-
EN29 

127-128 

54, 169, 175, 
184-186 

223, 273, 291, 
294-295 

Aspect: Transport –  
Management Approach 

90, 98-99, 174 

G4-
EN30 

Significant 
environmental impacts 
of transporting products  98-99 

Aspect: Supplier Environmental 
Assessment – Management 
Approach 

53, 90, 92-93, 99, 
174 

Percentage of new 
suppliers that were 
screened using 
environmental criteria 

G4-
EN32 

92-93 

G4-
EN33 

Significant 
environmental impacts 
in the supply chain 

93-94 

We do not report on the percentage of 
new suppliers screened using 
environmental criteria because these data 
are not available. We report on the 
procedure used for assessment. 

We do not report in detail on the negative 
environmental impact determined during 
supplier assessment. We give details on 
the areas in which essential impacts were 
identified and corrective measures were 
defined. 

Aspect: Environmental  
Grievance Mechanisms – 
Management Approach 

113, 185-186 

Business ethics 

X 

X 

We do not report on the number of grievances 
with respect to negative environmental impact. 
We report on the total number of notifications 
registered with the compliance hotline. We 
internally record the precise reason for the 
grievance, track how it is followed up and take 
corresponding action in line with our corporate 
policy. More detailed information on this would 
constitute a business secret. 

Employee relations 
& development 

X 

G4-
EN34 

Grievances about 
environmental impacts 

185-186 

Labor Practices and Decent Work 

Aspect: Employment –  
Management Approach 

76-77, 84 

G4-
LA1  

G4-
LA2  

New employee hires  
and employee turnover 

79-80 

Benefits provided to 
full-time employees 

83 

8 

8 

8 

8 

8 

8 

8 

8 

8 

8 

6 

6 

 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
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Comments  

Bayer area of 
activity 

GRI aspect 
limitation 
G4-20  G4-21 

within 

out-
side 

Specific Standard Disclosures G4-19      

G4-
LA3  

Return to work and 
retention rates after 
parental leave 

Aspect: Labor / Management 
Relations – Management 
Approach 

G4-
LA4  

Minimum notice 
period(s) regarding 
operational changes 

84-85 

81-82 

81 

6 

3 

3 

Aspect: Occupational Health 
and Safety –  
Management Approach 

54, 76, 85, 96, 
102-103, 114-
116, 174, 185 

1, 6 

Percentage of total 
workforce represented 
in health and safety 
committees 

G4-
LA5  

G4-
LA6  

G4-
LA7  

G4-
LA8  

Injuries, occupational 
diseases, lost days and 
work-related fatalities 

115-116 

Workers with high 
incidence or risk of 
diseases 

115-116 

Health and safety topics 
covered in formal 
agreements with trade 
unions 

85-86 

Aspect: Training and Education –
Management Approach 

76-77, 80, 174 

G4-
LA9  

Average hours of 
training 

81 

Employee relations 
& development 

X 

Safety 

X 

X 

We do not report on the percentage of the total 
workforce represented in health and safety 
committees as these data are not available. We 
plan to record these data in the future. 

We do not report on occupational injuries by 
gender, as these data have to be collected in 
certain regions anonymously. It is important for 
us to have classification by incident type and a 
detailed analysis of the causes of the individual 
incidents. 

6 

6 

6 

1, 6 

6 

6 

Programs that support 
the continued 
employability of 
employees 

Percentage of 
employees receiving 
regular performance 
and career 
development reviews 

G4-
LA10 

G4-
LA11 

Aspect: Diversity and  
Equal Opportunity –  
Management Approach 

Composition of 
governance bodies and 
breakdown of 
employees by aspects 
of diversity 

G4-
LA12 

80, 86, 116 

81 

54, 76-77, 81-82, 
174, 181 

30-31, 77-78, 82-
83, 87, 181, 315-
317 

We do not report on minorities, as these data 
may not be recorded in some countries on 
grounds of protection of personal rights. 

Aspect: Equal Remuneration for 
Women and Men –  
Management Approach 

83 

Employee relations 
& development 

X 

Employee relations 
& development 

X 

Employee relations 
& development 

X 

 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

C Further Information

329

 GRI Content Index

Augmented Version

GRI G4 Content Index 

UNGC 
Prin- 
ciples  G4 Standard Disclosures  

Page  

Comments  

Bayer area of 
activity 

GRI aspect 
limitation 
G4-20  G4-21 

within 

out-
side 

Specific Standard Disclosures G4-19      

G4-
LA13 

Ratio of basic salary  
and remuneration of 
women to men 

83 

6 

We do not report quantitatively on the ratio of 
the basic salary and compensation of women 
to men. Male and female employees at Bayer 
receive equal compensation. It is awarded on 
the basis of qualifications and responsibility. 

Aspect: Supplier Assessment  
for Labor Practices –  
Management Approach 

53, 90, 92-93, 
174 

Percentage of new 
suppliers that were 
screened using labor 
practices criteria 

G4-
LA14 

92-93 

G4-
LA15 

Significant impacts  
for labor practices in  
the supply chain 

93-94 

We do not report on the percentage of 
new suppliers screened using labor 
practices criteria because these data are 
not available. We report on the procedure 
used for assessment. 

We do not report in detail on the negative 
impact on labor practices determined 
during supplier assessment. We give 
details on the areas in which essential 
impacts were identified and corrective 
measures were defined. 

Supplier 
management 

X 

Aspect: Labor Practices  
Grievance Mechanisms – 
Management Approach 

87, 185-186 

Business ethics 

X 

X 

We do not report on the number of 
grievances with respect to the negative 
impact on labor practices. We report on 
the total number of notifications registered 
with the compliance hotline. We internally 
record the precise reason for the 
grievance, track how it is followed up and 
take corresponding action in line with our 
corporate policy. More detailed 
information on this would constitute a 
business secret. 

We do not report on the number of 
incidents of discrimination. We report on 
the total number of notifications registered 
with the compliance hotline. We internally 
record the precise reason for the 
grievance, track how it is followed up and 
take corresponding action in line with our 
corporate policy. More detailed 
information on this would constitute a 
business secret. 

Business ethics 

X 

X 

Employee relations 
& development 

X 

Supplier 
management 

X 

X 

G4-
LA16 

Grievances about  
labor practices 

185-186 

Human Rights 

6 

Aspect: Non-discrimination – 
Management Approach 

81, 87, 185 

6 

G4-
HR3  

Incidents of 
discrimination and 
corrective actions taken  185-186 

Aspect: Freedom of Association  
and Collective Bargaining – 
Management Approach 

2, 3 

87, 92, 185 

 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
330 

C Further Information 

 Augmented Version 

GRI Content Index 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

GRI G4 Content Index 

UNGC 
Prin- 
ciples  G4 Standard Disclosures  

Page  

Comments  

Bayer area of 
activity 

GRI aspect 
limitation 
G4-20  G4-21 

within 

out-
side 

Specific Standard Disclosures G4-19      

Operations and 
suppliers identified in 
which the right to 
exercise freedom of 
association may be 
violated or at risk, and 
measures taken 

87, 93 

2, 3 

G4-
HR4  

2, 5 

Aspect: Child Labor –  
Management Approach 

87, 90, 95, 185 

Operations and 
suppliers having 
significant risk for 
incidents of child labor, 
and measures taken 

87, 95-96 

2, 5 

G4-
HR5  

Aspect: Forced or  
Compulsory Labor – 
Management Approach 

2, 4 

87, 92, 185 

Operations and 
suppliers having 
significant risk for 
incidents of forced or 
compulsory labor, and 
measures taken 

2, 4 

G4-
HR6  

Aspect: Security Practices – 
Management Approach 

G4-
HR7  

Percentage of security 
personnel trained in the 
field of human rights 

87, 93 

87 

87 

Employee relations 
& development 

Supplier 
management 

Employee relations 
& development 

Supplier 
management 

X 

X 

X 

X 

Employee relations 
& development 

X 

Supplier 
management 

X 

X 

X 

1 

1 

2 

2 

2 

1 

Aspect: Supplier Human Rights 
Assessment – Management 
Approach 

53, 87, 90, 92-93, 
174 

Percentage of new 
suppliers that were 
screened using human 
rights criteria 

G4-
HR10 

92-93 

G4-
HR11 

Significant human rights 
impacts in the supply 
chain 

93-94 

We do not report on the percentage of 
new suppliers screened using human 
rights criteria because these data are not 
available. We report on the procedure 
used for assessment. 

We do not report in detail on the negative 
impact on human rights determined 
during supplier assessment. We give 
details on the areas in which essential 
impacts occurred and corrective 
measures were defined. 

Aspect: Human Rights  
Grievance Mechanisms – 
Management Approach 

87, 185-186 

Business ethics 

X 

X 

1 

G4-
HR12 

Grievances about 
human rights impacts 

185-186 

We do not report on the number of formal
grievances with respect to human rights 
violations, but on the total number of 
notifications registered with the compliance
hotline. We internally record the precise 
reason for the grievance and take corre-
sponding action in line with our corporate 
policy. More detailed information on this 
would constitute a business secret.

 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

C Further Information

331

 GRI Content Index

Augmented Version

GRI G4 Content Index 

UNGC 
Prin- 
ciples  G4 Standard Disclosures  

Page  

Comments  

Bayer area of 
activity 

GRI aspect 
limitation 
G4-20  G4-21 

within 

out-
side 

Specific Standard Disclosures G4-19      

Society 

1 

1 

1 

10 

Aspect: Local Communities – 
Management Approach 

Percentage of 
operations with 
implemented local 
community 
engagement, impact 
assessments and 
development programs 

Operations with actual 
and potential negative 
impacts on local 
communities 

G4-
SO1  

G4-
SO2  

Aspect: Anti-corruption – 
Management Approach 

Percentage of 
operations assessed  
for risks related to 
corruption and risks 
identified 

10 

G4-
SO3  

10 

G4-
SO4  

Communication  
and training on  
anti-corruption 

54, 58, 62, 88, 90, 
96, 98-99, 102-
103, 114-115, 
117-118, 124-
125, 174, 185 

58, 62 

117, 119, 124 

54, 101-102, 169, 
175, 184-186 

185 

186 

G4-
SO5  

Confirmed incidents of 
corruption and actions 
taken 

Aspect: Public Policy – 
Management Approach 

G4-
SO6  

Total value of political 
contributions 

185-186 

60, 63 

60-61 

10 

10 

10 

Aspect: Anti-competitive 
Behavior – Management 
Approach 

54, 102, 169, 175, 
184-186 

Legal actions for anti-
competitive behavior, 
anti-trust and monopoly 
practices 

G4-
SO7  

Aspect: Compliance –  
Management Approach 

223, 273, 291 

54, 169, 175, 
184-186  

Safety 

Stakeholder 
engagement / 
partnering 

Societal 
engagement 

X 

X 

X 

X 

X 

X 

Business ethics 

X 

X 

Business ethics 

X 

X 

Business ethics 

X 

X 

Business ethics 

X 

X 

We do not report such risks in relation to 
operations but in relation to sales. Complete 
coverage across segments is key in 
compliance / anti-corruption in the first 
instance. Areas at risk are monitored more 
frequently than others. 

We do not report quantitatively on training for 
the Board of Management, Supervisory Board 
and business partners. Anti-corruption training 
is performed globally, we therefore do not 
disclose such information explicitly according to 
region. 

We do not report on the number of confirmed 
incidents of corruption. We report on the total 
number of notifications registered with the 
compliance hotline. We internally record the 
precise reason for the grievance, track how it is 
followed up and take corresponding action in 
line with our corporate policy. More detailed 
information on this would constitute a business 
secret. 

 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
 
332 

C Further Information 

 Augmented Version 

GRI Content Index 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

GRI G4 Content Index 

UNGC 
Prin- 
ciples  G4 Standard Disclosures  

Page  

Comments  

Bayer area of 
activity 

GRI aspect 
limitation 
G4-20  G4-21 

within 

out-
side 

Specific Standard Disclosures G4-19      

G4-
SO8  

Fines and sanctions for 
noncompliance with 
laws and regulations 

223, 273, 291, 
294-295 

Aspect: Supplier Assessment  
for Impacts on Society – 
Management Approach 

2 

53, 90, 92-93, 98-
99, 174 

Percentage of new 
suppliers that were 
screened using criteria 
for impacts on society 

G4-
SO9  

92-93 

2 

G4-
SO10 

Negative impacts on 
society in the supply 
chain and actions 
taken 

93-94 

Aspect: Grievance Mechanisms  
for Impacts on Society – 
Management Approach 

2, 3 

101, 185-186 

2, 3 

G4-
SO11 

Number of grievances 
about impacts on 
society 

185-186 

Product Responsibility 

Aspect:  
Customer Health and Safety – 
Management Approach 

54, 102-107,109-
112, 114, 172, 
184 

Percentage of significant 
product and service 
categories for which health 
and safety impacts are 
assessed 

Incidents of 
noncompliance with 
regulations and 
voluntary codes 
concerning the health 
and safety impacts of 
products and services 

G4-
PR1  

G4-
PR2  

68, 76, 104-106, 
109, 114 

291 

Aspect: Product and Service 
Labelling – Management 
Approach 

90, 99-100, 104-
106, 111, 113-
114 

G4-
PR3  

Principles / procedures 
for product and service 
information and labeling

104-106, 109 

7 

7 

We do not report on the percentage of new 
suppliers screened using criteria for impact on 
society because these data are not available. 
We report on the procedure used for 
assessment. 

We do not report in detail on the negative 
impact on society determined during supplier 
evaluation. We give details on the areas in 
which essential impacts occurred and 
corrective measures were defined. 

We do not report on the number of formal 
grievances with respect to the negative impact 
on society. We report on the total number of 
notifications registered with the compliance 
hotline. We internally record the precise reason 
for the grievance, track how it is followed up 
and take corresponding action in line with our 
corporate policy. More detailed information on 
this would constitute a business secret. 

Supplier 
management 

X 

Business ethics 

X 

X 

Sustainable food 
supply 

Product 
stewardship 

X 

 X 

X 

We do not report on the number of incidents of 
noncompliance with regulations and voluntary 
codes concerning the health and safety impact 
of products and services. Any proceedings  
on account of violations would be reported in 
B Note 32 to the Consolidated Financial 
Statements, Chapter “Legal Risks.” 

Product 
stewardship 

X 

X 

Incidents of 
noncompliance with 
regulations and 
voluntary codes 
concerning product 
and service information 
and labeling 

291 

G4-
PR4  

We do not report on the number of incidents of 
noncompliance with regulations and voluntary 
codes concerning product and service 
information and labeling. Any proceedings on 
account of violations would be reported in B 
Notes to the Consolidated Financial 
Statements, Chapter “Legal Risks.” 

 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

C Further Information

333

 GRI Content Index

Augmented Version

GRI G4 Content Index 

UNGC 
Prin- 
ciples  G4 Standard Disclosures  

Page  

Comments  

Bayer area of 
activity 

GRI aspect 
limitation 
G4-20  G4-21 

within 

out-
side 

We do not report on the number of incidents of 
noncompliance with regulations and voluntary 
codes concerning marketing communications. 
Any proceedings on account of violations 
would be reported in B Note 32 to the 
Consolidated Financial Statements, Chapter 
“Legal Risks.” 

Product 
stewardship 

X 

X 

Business ethics 

X 

X 

We use our site register to record all site-related 
data (including size). For confidentiality reasons, 
we do not publish any size data on our sites, for 
example. 

Specific Standard Disclosures G4-19      

G4-
PR5  

Results of surveys 
measuring customer 
satisfaction 

100 

Aspect:  
Marketing Communications – 
Management Approach 

101-102, 107, 
111 

G4-
PR6  

Sale of banned or 
disputed products 

113 

7 

7 

Incidents of 
noncompliance with 
regulations and 
voluntary codes 
concerning marketing 
communications 

G4-
PR7  

Aspect: Compliance –  
Management Approach 

291 

54, 169, 175, 
184-186 

Significant fines 
concerning the 
provision and use of 
products and services 

G4-
PR9  

223, 273, 291-
293 

Further G4 Standard Disclosures 

8 

8 

8 

2 

1 

Aspect: Biodiversity – 
Management Approach 

96, 107-108 

G4-
EN11 

Operational sites  
in protected areas 

96 

G4-
EN12 

G4-HR1 

Impacts on protected 
areas or areas of high 
biodiversity value 

Significant investment 
agreements and 
contracts that include 
human rights clauses 
or screening 

107-108 

96 

G4-HR2 

Employee training on 
human rights issues 

87,  94 

Aspect: Customer Privacy – 
Management Approach 

175, 185 

Substantiated 
complaints regarding 
breaches of customer 
privacy 

175 

G4-PR8  

 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
334 

C Further Information 

 Augmented Version 

Glossary 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Glossary 

A 

APM is the abbreviation for 
alternative performance measure; 
see A 2.4 for more information. 

B 

Biocides are substances and 
products that control pests such 
as insects, mice and rats, as well 
as algae, fungi and bacteria. 

C 

CDP is a nonprofit organization 
that works on behalf of institu-
tional investors to compile annual 
rankings of detailed environmen-
tal data, especially in respect of 
greenhouse gas emissions (CDP-
Climate) and water management 
(CDP-Water), from the top 500 
publicly listed companies in the 
world. According to CDP, more 
than 800 investors representing 
fund assets of around US$100 
trillion currently draw on this 
information for their investment 
decisions.  

Conflict minerals are those 
mined in conflict regions. They 
include tin, tungsten and tanta-
lum ores, gold or their deriva-
tives. Armed conflicts over the 
control of these resources occur 
particularly in the eastern part of 
the Democratic Republic of 
Congo and neighboring coun-
tries. 

Continuing operations Sales 
and earnings reporting for  
continuing operations pertains 
only to business operations that 
are expected to remain in the 
company’s portfolio for the fore-
seeable future; opposite of dis-
continued operations. 

(Corporate) compliance com-
prises the observance of statu-
tory and company regulations on 
lawful and responsible conduct. 

Corporate governance com-
prises the long-term manage-
ment and oversight of the com-
pany in accordance with the 
principles of responsibility and 
transparency. The German Cor-
porate Governance Code sets 
out basic principles for the man-
agement and oversight of public-
ly listed companies. 

Corruption Perceptions Index 
(CPI) Since 1995, NGO Trans-
parency International has pro-
duced an annual index of coun-
tries – 176 in 2016 – by the 
perceived level of public-sector 
corruption. The CPI ranks coun-
tries according to the extent to 
which public servants and politi-
cians are believed to engage in 
bribery and to grant or accept 
undue advantage. 

Credit default swaps (CDS) are 
tradable insurance contracts 
used to hedge against the default 
of a borrower. 

D 

Debt Issuance Program (DIP) 
Formerly the multi-currency 
European Medium Term Notes 
(EMTN) program, DIP is a docu-
mentation platform that enables 
Bayer to flexibly issue notes in 
various currencies and with 
different maturities. 

Diversity designates the varia-
tion within the workforce in terms 
of gender, origin, nationality, age, 
religion, sexual orientation and 
physical capability. 

G 

GHG protocol The Greenhouse 
Gas Protocol is an internationally 
recognized tool for recording, 
quantifying and reporting green-
house gas emissions. Its stand-
ards cover all emissions within a 
company’s value chain. Bayer 
aligns itself to the Corporate 
Standard for direct (Scope 1) and 
indirect (Scope 2) greenhouse 
gas emissions and also to the 
Corporate Value Chain (Scope 3) 
Accounting and Reporting 
Standard, which covers further 
indirect emissions along the 
value chain. Dual reporting was 
introduced in 2015 with the 
updating of the GHG guidelines 
for Scope 2. Indirect emissions 
have now to be reported using 
both the location-based and the 
market-based methods. The 
location-based method uses 
regional or national average 
emissions factors, while the 
market-based method applies 
provider- or product-specific 
emissions factors based on 
contractual instruments. 

Global commercial paper 
program Commercial paper (CP) 
issued under Bayer’s program is 
a short-term, unsecured debt 
instrument normally issued at a 
discount and redeemed at nomi-
nal value. It is a flexible way of 
obtaining short-term funding on 
the capital market. Bayer’s com-
mercial paper program allows the 
company to issue commercial 
paper on both the U.S. and 
European markets. 

F 

Foreign exchange Claims for 
payments in foreign currencies 
traded on foreign exchanges, 
usually in the form of balances 
with foreign banks or bills of 
exchange or checks payable 
abroad; banknotes and coins 
denominated in foreign curren-
cies are not considered to be 
foreign exchange. 

GRI (Global Reporting Initia-
tive) is a nonprofit organization 
that works to promote the dis-
semination and optimization of 
sustainability reporting. The GRI 
guidelines are considered the 
most frequently used and inter-
nationally most recognized 
standard for sustainability report-
ing. These guidelines are evolved 
in a multi-stakeholder process. 
GRI was established in 1997 by 
Ceres (Coalition for Environ-
mentally Responsible Econo-
mies) and UNEP (United Nations 
Environment Programme). 

GxP is a collective term for all 
guidelines that govern “good 
working practice” and are partic-
ularly relevant for the fields of 
medicine, pharmacy and phar-
maceutical chemistry. The “G” 
stands for “Good” and the “P” for 
“Practice,” while the “x” in the 
middle is replaced by the respec-
tive abbreviation for the specific 
area of application – such as 
Good Manufacturing Practice 
(GMP), Good Laboratory Practice 
(GLP), Good Clinical Practice 
(GCP) or Good Agricultural Prac-
tice (GAP). These guidelines are 
established by institutions such 
as the European Medicines 
Agency or the U.S. Food and 
Drug Administration. 

H 

HSEQ stands for health, safety, 
environment and quality. 

Hybrid bond A hybrid bond is  
a corporate bond with equity-
equivalent properties, usually 
with either no maturity date or  
a very long maturity. Due to its 
subordination, it has a lower 
likelihood of repayment than a 
normal bond in the event of 
issuer bankruptcy. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Bayer Annual Report 2016 

C Further Information

335

Glossary

Augmented Version

I 

N 

R 

U 

ILO core labor standards  
The eight core labor standards 
of the ILO (International Labour 
Organization) that define the 
minimum requirements for hu-
mane working conditions are 
internationally recognized “quali-
tative social standards.” They 
represent universal human rights 
that are deemed valid in all 
countries regardless of their 
economic development status. 

Innovative Medicine Initiative 
(IMI) is a public-private partner-
ship developed by the European 
Commission and the European 
Federation of Pharmaceutical 
Industries and Associations 
(EFPIA) with the goal of promot-
ing biomedical research in  
Europe. IMI finances research 
projects aimed at overcoming 
the major bottlenecks in the 
research and development of 
new pharmaceuticals. The part-
nership provides funding to 
project participants from aca-
demic institutes, small and 
medium-sized businesses, 
patient organizations and other 
institutions. The pharmaceutical 
industry contributes to these 
projects by donating capacities 
and resources. 

L 

Life Sciences This term de-
scribes Bayer’s activities in health 
care and agriculture and com-
prises the Bayer Group excluding 
its legally independent subsidiary 
Covestro. It refers to the busi-
nesses of the Pharmaceuticals, 
Consumer Health and Crop 
Science divisions and the Animal 
Health business unit. 

Local procurement means that 
the procuring (Bayer) company is 
located in the same country as 
the supplier. 

Neonicotinoids are a chemical 
class of systemic insecticides. 

O 

OTC (over-the-counter) desig-
nates the business with nonpre-
scription medicines. 

P 

Pharmacovigilance is defined 
as the science of, and activities 
related to, the identification, 
assessment, comprehension and 
prevention of side effects or 
other problems associated with 
pharmaceutical products. 

Phase I-IV studies are clinical 
phases in the development of a 
drug product. The active ingredi-
ent candidate is generally tested 
in healthy subjects in Phase I, 
and in patients in Phases II and 
III. The studies test the therapeu-
tic tolerability and efficacy of 
active ingredients in a specific 
indication. Phase IV studies are 
conducted following the approval 
of a new drug product to monitor 
its safety and efficacy over an 
extended period of time. The 
studies are subject to strict legal 
requirements and documentation 
procedures. 

Price / cash flow ratio The  
price / cash flow ratio is the ratio 
of the share price to gross cash 
flow per share. It shows how 
long it would take for the com-
pany’s cash flow to cover the 
share price. 

Price / earnings ratio This is the 
ratio of the current share price to 
earnings per share (EPS). A high 
price/earnings ratio indicates that 
the market assigns a high value 
to the stock in the expectation of 
future earnings growth. 

3RS principle (replace, re-
duce, refine) Replace: prior to 
each project, Bayer checks 
whether an approved method is 
available that does not rely on 
animal studies and then applies 
it. Reduce: if no alternative 
method exists, only as many 
animals are used as are needed 
to achieve scientifically meaning-
ful results based on statutory 
requirements. Refine: Bayer 
ensures that animal studies are 
performed in a way that mini-
mizes any suffering. 

Reconciliation The reconciliation 
records, on the one hand, those 
business activities not assigned 
to any other segment (“All Other 
Segments”), including particularly 
the services provided by Busi-
ness Services, Technology  
Services and Currenta. It also 
includes “Corporate Functions 
and Consolidation,” which largely 
comprises Bayer holding compa-
nies and the Bayer Lifescience 
Center. 

S 

Short-Term Incentive program 
(STI program) is a variable 
income component for all mana-
gerial staff. 

Significant locations of oper-
ation A selection of countries 
that accounted for more than 
80% of total Bayer Group sales 
in 2016 (United States, Germany, 
China, Brazil, Japan, France, 
Canada, Italy, Mexico, U.K., 
India, Spain, Australia, Russia, 
Switzerland, Poland, Turkey, 
Argentina and Belgium) 

Syndicated credit facility  
Credit line agreed with a group of 
banks; generally used for exten-
sive financing requirements, such 
as when making an acquisition, 
to increase available liquidity  
or as security for the issuance  
of debt instruments. The credit 
facility can be utilized and  
repaid flexibly, either in full or in 
portions, during its term. 

United Nations Global 
Compact (UNGC) The United 
Nations Global Compact is the 
most far-reaching and important 
responsible corporate govern-
ance initiative in the world. 
Based on ten universal principles 
in the areas of human rights, 
labor, environment and anticor-
ruption, the UNGC pursues the 
vision of an inclusive and sus-
tainable global economy that 
benefits people, communities 
and markets everywhere. By 
committing to the UNGC, com-
panies agree to document each 
year their efforts to uphold the 
ten principles.  

V 

Vector control describes meth-
ods for the avoidance or targeted 
control of organisms that trans-
mit pathogens triggering infec-
tious diseases. Vectors include 
blood-sucking insects such as 
the Anopheles mosquito, which 
can transfer malaria parasites, for 
example. 

W 

Working capital is the difference 
between short-term current 
assets and short-term liabilities; 
it is calculated by deducting 
short-term liabilities from current 
assets (excluding cash and cash 
equivalents). In the statement of 
cash flows, the change in work-
ing capital is one of the variables 
used to assess a company’s 
financial health. The objective of 
working capital management is 
to reduce working capital by 
minimizing the “financing gap” 
caused by the time lapse be-
tween the disbursement of funds 
(= payment for necessary raw 
materials) and the receipt of 
funds for the finished product. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
336 

C Further Information 

Five-Year Summary 

Bayer Annual Report 2016

Five-Year Summary 

€ million 

Bayer Group 

Sales 

EBITDA  

1 

EBITDA before special items 

1 

EBITDA margin before special items 

1 

EBIT 

1 

EBIT before special items 

1 

Income before income taxes 

Net income (from continuing and discontinued operations)  

Earnings per share (from continuing and discontinued operations) (€) 

1 

Core earnings per share (from continuing operations) (€) 

1 

Net cash provided by operating activities  
(from continuing and discontinued operations)  

Net financial debt 

Capital expenditures as per segment table 

Bayer AG 

Total dividend payment 

Dividend per share (€) 

Innovation 

Research and development expenses 

Ratio of R&D expenses to sales – Pharmaceuticals (%) 

Ratio of R&D expenses to sales – Crop Science (%) 

Employees in research and development 

Employees 

Number of employees2 (Dec. 31) 

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

39,741

40,157

41,339

6,916

8,280

20.8%

3,928

5,639

3,176

2,403

2.91

5.30

4,530

7,022

2,012

7,830

8,401

20.9%

4,934

5,773

4,207

3,189

3.86

5.61

5,171

6,731

2,155

8,315

8,685

21.0%

5,395

5,833

4,414

3,426

4.14

5.89

5,810

19,612

2,484

46,085

9,573

10,256

22.3%

6,241

7,060

5,236

4,110

4.97

6.82

6,890

17,449

2,511

46,769

10,785

11,302

24.2%

7,042

8,130

5,887

4,531

5.44

7.32

9,089

11,778

2,578

1,571

1.90

1,737

2.10

1,861

2.25

2,067

2.50

2,233

2.70

3,013

14.5

9.3

3,406

15.8

9.8

3,537

15.6

10.3

4,274

16.0

10.7

4,666

17.0

11.7

12,900

13,509

13,900

14,753

15,229

110,000

112,400

117,400

116,600

115,200

Personnel expenses (including pension expenses) (€ million) 

9,194

9,430

9,693

11,176

11,357

Proportion of women in senior management (%) 

Proportion of employees with health insurance (%) 

Fluctuation (voluntary / total) (%) 

23

94

25

95

26

96

28

96

29

98

– / 14.1

5.5 / 14.0

4.8 / 11.4

5.0 / 13.9

4.6 / 12.3

Hours of vocational and ongoing training per employee 

–

17.8

18.0

20.0

22.1

Safety & Environmental Protection 

Recordable Incident Rate (RIR) for Bayer employees 

Loss of Primary Containment Incident Rate (LoPC-IR) 

3 

Total energy consumption (terajoules) 

Energy efficiency (MWh/t) 

4 

Total greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 equivalents in million t) 

5 

Specific greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 equivalents in t / manufactured  
sales volume in t), according to the market-based method 

6 

Hazardous waste generated (thousand t) 

Water use (million m³) 

0.49

0.38

0.47

0.35

0.43

0.23

0.42

0.22

0.39

0.32

83,184

80,848

85,317

83,182

84,494

8.86

8.96

1.88

603

384

8.54

9.00

1.83

467

361

7.62

9.55

1.72

487

350

6.34

9.71

1.69

541

346

6.77

9.87

1.54

547

330

2015 figures restated; figures for 2012-2014 as last reported 
1 For definitions of the indicators see Chapter 2.4. 
2 Employees calculated as full-time equivalents (FTEs) 
3 Number of incidents per 200,000 working hours in which chemicals leak from their primary container, such as pipelines, pumps, tanks or drums 
4 Quotient of total energy consumption and manufactured sales volume; Life Sciences only 
5 Direct emissions from power plants, waste incinerators and production plants and indirect emissions from external supplies of electricity, steam and refrigeration 

(according to the market-based method); portfolio-adjusted in accordance with the GHG Protocol 

6 Life Sciences without Currenta 

 
 
  
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
Financial Calendar

Q1 2017 Interim Report  
Annual Stockholders’ Meeting 2017  
Planned dividend payment date  
Q2 2017 Interim Report  
Q3 2017 Interim Report  
2017 Annual Report  
Q1 2018 Interim Report  
Annual Stockholders’ Meeting 2018  

Masthead

 April 27, 2017
 April 28, 2017
 May 4, 2017
 July 27, 2017
 October 26, 2017
 February 28, 2018
 May 3, 2018
 May 25, 2018

Publisher
Bayer AG, 51368 Leverkusen,
Germany

Editor
Jörg Schäfer, Tel. +49 214 30 39136
email: joerg.schaefer@bayer.com

Investor Relations
Peter Dahlhoff, Tel. +49 214 30 33022
email: peter.dahlhoff@bayer.com

Date of publication
Wednesday, February 22, 2017

Sustainability & Business Stewardship
Dagmar Jost, Tel. +49 214 30 75284
email: dagmar.jost@bayer.com

English edition
Currenta GmbH & Co. OHG
Language Service

ISSN 0343 / 1975

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Cautionary Statements Regarding  
Forward-Looking Information
Certain statements contained in this Annual Re-
port may constitute “forward-looking state-
ments.” Actual results could differ materially 
from those projected or forecast in the for-
ward-looking statements. The factors that could 
cause actual results to differ materially include 
the following: uncertainties as to the timing of 
the transaction; the possibility that the parties 
may be unable to achieve expected synergies 
and operating efficiencies in the merger within 
the expected time-frames or at all and to suc-
cessfully integrate Monsanto’s operations into 
those of Bayer; such integration may be more 
difficult, time-consuming or costly than expect-
ed; revenues following the transaction may be 
lower than expected; operating costs, customer 
loss and business disruption (including, without 
limitation, difficulties in maintaining relationships 

with employees, customers, clients or suppliers) 
may be greater than expected following the an-
nouncement of the transaction; the retention of 
certain key employees at Monsanto; risks asso-
ciated with the disruption of management’s at-
tention from ongoing business operations due to 
the transaction; the conditions to the completion 
of the transaction may not be satisfied, or the 
regulatory approvals required for the transaction 
may not be obtained on the terms expected or 
on the anticipated schedule; the parties’ ability 
to meet expectations regarding the timing, com-
pletion and accounting and tax treatments of 
the merger; the impact of indebtedness incurred 
by Bayer in connection with the transaction and 
the potential impact on the rating of indebted-
ness of Bayer; the effects of the business com-
bination of Bayer and Monsanto, including the 
combined company’s future financial condition, 
operating results, strategy and plans; other fac-

tors detailed in Monsanto’s Annual Report on 
Form 10-K filed with the SEC for the fiscal year 
ended August 31, 2016 and Monsanto’s other 
filings with the SEC, which are available at  
http://www.sec.gov and on Monsanto’s website 
at www.monsanto.com; and other factors dis-
cussed in Bayer’s public reports which are  
available on the Bayer website at www.bayer.
com. Bayer and Monsanto assume no obligation 
to update the information in this communication, 
except as otherwise required by law. Readers 
are cautioned not to place undue reliance on 
these forward-looking statements that speak 
only as of the date hereof.

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