Key Takeaways:
- Monsanto has proposed a U.S. nationwide class settlement to resolve current and future Roundup™ claims alleging Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).
- The settlement includes capped annual payments totaling up to $7.25 billion over 21 years, subject to court approval.
- Bayer expects a negative free cash flow in 2026 due to estimated litigation-related payouts.
- The proposal is linked to a pending U.S. Supreme Court review in the Durnell case.
- The settlement does not include any admission of liability or wrongdoing.
Monsanto Proposes Long-Term Class Settlement for Roundup™ Claims
Monsanto has announced a proposed U.S. nationwide class settlement aimed at resolving current and future claims alleging that exposure to Roundup™ caused Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Leading plaintiff law firms representing the class filed a motion seeking preliminary approval in the Circuit Court of the City of St. Louis, Missouri.
Under the proposed agreement, Monsanto would fund the settlement through declining capped annual payments over up to 21 years, totaling up to $7.25 billion, subject to court approval. The long-term structure is intended to provide predictability regarding litigation costs for both existing and future claims.
“The proposed class settlement agreement, together with the Supreme Court case, provides an essential path out of the litigation uncertainty,” said Bill Anderson, CEO of Bayer. “This litigation and the resulting cost underscore the need for guidance from the Supreme Court on clear regulation in American agriculture.”
