0838 GMT - Bayer's prospects are improving, Berenberg analyst Sebastian Bray says in a note, citing a promising late-stage stroke prevention trial. Although the German pharmaceutical and agricultural conglomerate's late-stage trial for secondary stroke prevention is considered a long shot, there is a possibility of unexpected upside by the year end if the treatment proves significantly better than the placebo, the analyst says. "We believe there is an outside chance of a positive outcome for Bayer that may move the market's view of annual peak sales for the drug from very little to 1 billion euros or more," he says. In addition, if a Russia-Ukraine peace agreement doesn't cause a major drop in soft commodity prices, Bayer's earnings are unlikely to significantly decrease further, the analyst adds. Shares are up 1.7% at 23.65 euros. (helena.smolak@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

March 10, 2025 04:38 ET (08:38 GMT)

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