Bayer Roundup Mediator Is ‘Optimistic’ With Talks Heating Up (1)

Bayer AG’s settlement talks over tens of thousands of lawsuits alleging its Roundup herbicide causes cancer are heating up as the company’s lawyers meet with individual attorneys representing consumers across the U.S., according to people familiar with the negotiations.

The sessions are focused on resolving separate groups of Roundup claims rather than creating a formal global-resolution program, according to the people, who asked not to be identified because they aren’t authorized to comment publicly about the discussions. A law professor said that approach may help the company avoid an astronomical payout.

Washington-based attorney Ken Feinberg, appointed by a ...