Why did Bayer sell a $3.4 billion stake in its contraceptives business, and how will the proceeds be used?

Bayer sold a minority stake in its contraceptives business to Apollo Global Management for €3 billion ($3.4 billion) specifically to help cover its ballooning litigation costs tied to the herbicide Roundup. The company stated it will use the funds raised as part of a broader plan to manage those costs, following its February 2024 increase of litigation provisions to €11.8 billion and its prior securing of an $8 billion bank-loan facility for immediate settlement funding.

What does Bayer retain after the sale, and which key products are included in the contraceptives business?

Bayer retains full operational control of the newly set up entity that sells long-acting reversible contraceptives, including Mirena (a hormonal intrauterine device providing up to eight years of contraception), Kyleena, and Jaydess — products that generated about €1.4 billion in sales in 2025.

Bayer Sells $3.4 Billion Contraceptives Stake to Apollo

Jul 9, 2026

Bayer AG sold a minority stake in its contraceptives business to Apollo Global Management for €3 billion to help cover Roundup litigation costs, while retaining operational control over key products like Mirena.

bloomberg

2026-07-09

Bayer Sells $3.4 Billion Contraceptives Stake to Apollo

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