1240 GMT - Bayer's consumer-health sales were held back by weakness in the U.S. and China last year and the German company expects challenges in the unit's two biggest markets to continue for now, division head Julio Triana says in a call with reporters. "In the near term, we expect continued volatility in China and the U.S., with performance likely to contract," Triana says. "Slowing growth and market volatility there could heavily influence our results." Bayer forecasts sales at its consumer-health division to be flat or grow by up to 4% this year when adjusted for currency and portfolio changes. A pick-up in consumer spending in the U.S. and China could leave the higher end of the guidance range within reach, Triana says. Shares fall 3.7%. (adria.calatayud@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

March 04, 2026 07:41 ET (12:41 GMT)

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