What are the most significant cases or transactions that your legal team has recently been involved in?

Concerning mergers and acquisitions, in November 2020, Bioceres has entered into definitive agreements for the acquisition of the remaining 50% ownership interest in Verdeca, as well as strategic IPassets related to soybean and wheat from Arcadia Biosciences. Having assumed full control, Bioceres plans to further accelerate the commercialisation of its products, by increasing the number of related breeding collaborations and go-to-market partnerships in current and new regions. Full ownership also enables the company to capture significantly more economic value, since more revenue is generated. As part of the transaction, Bioceres has also gained full access and control of Verdeca´s vetted soybean library of gene-edited materials used to develop new quality and productivity, as well as exclusive rights to all Arcadia technologies that are applicable to soybean.

Additionally, in March 2022, Bioceres and Marrone Bio Innovations entered into a definitive agreement to combine the companies in an all-stock transaction. This transaction will combine Bioceres’ expertise in bionutrition and seed care products with Marrone’s leadership in the development of biological crop protection and plant health solutions, creating a global leader in the development and commercialization of sustainable agricultural solutions. The companies together operate in 46 countries with approximately 640 employees. The transaction is subject to the approval of MBI shareholders, regulatory clearance and other customary closing conditions.

Do you use any “legal tech” products and do you find them a helpful management device?

Yes, we use an online legal database to upload corporate, contracts, mergers and acquisitions, intellectual property; insurance, auditors, and working in progress folder for each of the companies within Bioceres Group, 28 in total.

We also use PatSnap, a connected innovation intelligence platform to conduct freedom to operate searches, filter data, identify market opportunities and conduct patent assessments. This platform connects billions of data points via AI-powered technology and machine learning, such as tech news, scientific research, investment data, litigation, licensing, and patent data.

How much influence do you, as a general counsel, have on the diversity and inclusions policies of your organisation?

In accordance with its code of conduct and ethics, Bioceres offers equal opportunities to all its employees and to all qualified applicants for employment, without regard to their race, caste, religion, color, ancestry, marital status, sex, age, nationality, disability, sexual orientation nor veteran status. The company is committed to take advantage of said diversity and recognises that such a heterogeneous work force offers numerous benefits, including creativity, a variety of problem resolution methods and the ability to work effectively as a global company.