Bayer is facing multiple challenges that have increased the need for the pharmaceutical and agricultural group to explore strategic options, according to Jefferies analysts. The halt of a late-stage clinical trial for experimental cardiovascular drug asundexian has pushed financial risk to the edge, while falling share prices have heightened sensitivity to rising provisions and potential trial losses in a legal battle over its Roundup weedkiller. This suggests that Bayer may need to sell assets and scrap dividends to gain time. However, this approach may not be sufficient to enable large-scale investments required for its pharmaceutical business, Jefferies notes. As a result, Jefferies has lowered its recommendation on the stock from buy to hold. Despite Monday’s heavy losses, shares are trading 0.3% higher following the news. (adria.calatayud@dowjones.com) Copyright ©2023 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8.