Bayer posts strong Q2 earnings and raises outlook amid glyphosate lawsuit

Bayer AG reported a sharp rebound in its second‑quarter results, posting adjusted EBITDA of €2.14 billion and a net profit of €219 million, up from a loss a year earlier. Revenue reached €10.87 billion, a 2.2 % increase, driven by growth in its Crop Science division and higher sales of newer pharmaceuticals such as Nubeqa and Kerendia. The earnings beat expectations, sending Bayer shares up more than 4 % in early trading. Analysts highlighted cost‑cutting measures and a strong agribusiness, but noted the ongoing glyphosate litigation, with a U.S. hearing scheduled for 19 August that could result in a settlement of up to $7.25 billion. DZ BANK raised its fair‑value estimate for Bayer to €60 and kept a “Buy” rating. Separately, SAP SE announced a €344.3 million share‑buyback, repurchasing 2.18 million shares, while its cloud revenue grew 22 % to €6.28 billion and the current cloud backlog hit a record €22.9 billion. CEO Christian Klein also bought €325 k of SAP stock. Merck & Co increased its 2026 revenue target to $66.3‑$67.3 billion, but lowered its EPS outlook after acquiring Terns Pharmaceuticals. Merck’s Q2 revenue rose 5 % to $16.6 billion, with its flagship cancer drug Keytruda generating nearly $8.4 billion.