Edgar Filing: BROWN FORMAN CORP

Document

United States

Securities and Exchange Commission

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)



þ	QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended January 31, 2017



o	TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from _______________ to _______________

Commission File No. 001-00123

Brown-Forman Corporation

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its Charter)



Delaware	61-0143150
(State or other jurisdiction of	(IRS Employer
incorporation or organization)	Identification No.)

850 Dixie Highway
Louisville, Kentucky	40210
(Address of principal executive offices)	(Zip Code)

(502) 585-1100

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

N/A

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes þ No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.



Large accelerated filer þ	Accelerated filer o
Non-accelerated filer o (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)	Smaller reporting company o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes o No þ

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date: February 28, 2017



Class A Common Stock ($.15 par value, voting)	169,051,360
Class B Common Stock ($.15 par value, nonvoting)	214,849,206



BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
Index to Quarterly Report Form 10-Q

		Page
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION		3

Item 1.	Financial Statements (Unaudited)	3

Item 2.	Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	20

Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk	33

Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	33

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION		34

Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	34

Item 1A.	Risk Factors	34

Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	34

Item 3.	Defaults Upon Senior Securities	34

Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	34

Item 5.	Other Information	34

Item 6.	Exhibits	35

SIGNATURES		36

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements (Unaudited)

BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Unaudited)

(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)



	Three Months Ended					Nine Months Ended
	January 31,					January 31,
	2016		2017			2016		2017
Sales	$	1,083	$	1,059		$	3,078	$	2,969
Excise taxes	274		251			718		670
Net sales	809		808			2,360		2,299
Cost of sales	254		272			729		758
Gross profit	555		536			1,631		1,541
Advertising expenses	107		102			317		291
Selling, general, and administrative expenses	167		162			507		488
Other expense (income), net	3		(1		)	—		(16		)
Operating income	278		273			807		778
Interest income	—		1			1		2
Interest expense	12		16			34		44
Income before income taxes	266		258			774		736
Income taxes	76		76			229		212
Net income	$	190	$	182		$	545	$	524
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	0.47	$	0.47		$	1.33	$	1.35
Diluted	$	0.47	$	0.47		$	1.33	$	1.34
Cash dividends per common share:
Declared	$	0.3400	$	0.3650		$	0.6550	$	0.7050
Paid	$	0.1700	$	0.1825		$	0.4850	$	0.5225

See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(Unaudited)

(Dollars in millions)



	Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	January 31,						January 31,
	2016			2017			2016			2017
Net income	$	190		$	182		$	545		$	524
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Currency translation adjustments	(30		)	(25		)	(58		)	(110		)
Cash flow hedge adjustments	8			(7		)	20			14
Postretirement benefits adjustments	5			6			15			13
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	(17		)	(26		)	(23		)	(83		)
Comprehensive income	$	173		$	156		$	522		$	441

See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited)

(Dollars in millions)



	April 30, 2016			January 31, 2017
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$	263		$	197
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $9 and $9 at April 30 and January 31, respectively	559			611
Inventories:
Barreled whiskey	666			858
Finished goods	187			175
Work in process	116			116
Raw materials and supplies	85			89
Total inventories	1,054			1,238
Other current assets	357			331
Total current assets	2,233			2,377
Property, plant and equipment, net	629			669
Goodwill	590			746
Other intangible assets	595			636
Deferred tax assets	17			16
Other assets	119			156
Total assets	$	4,183		$	4,600
Liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	$	501		$	478
Dividends payable	—			70
Accrued income taxes	19			25
Short-term borrowings	271			308
Current portion of long-term debt	—			249
Total current liabilities	791			1,130
Long-term debt	1,230			1,669
Deferred tax liabilities	101			150
Accrued pension and other postretirement benefits	353			336
Other liabilities	146			131
Total liabilities	2,621			3,416
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders’ Equity
Common stock:
Class A, voting, $0.15 par value	13			25
Class B, nonvoting, $0.15 par value	21			43
Additional paid-in capital	114			74
Retained earnings	4,065			4,326
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(350		)	(433		)
Treasury stock, at cost (59,143,000 and 70,749,000 shares at April 30 and January 31, respectively)	(2,301		)	(2,851		)
Total stockholders’ equity	1,562			1,184
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	4,183		$	4,600

See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

(Dollars in millions)



	Nine Months Ended
	January 31,
	2016			2017
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	545		$	524
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operations:
Depreciation and amortization	40			42
Stock-based compensation expense	12			10
Deferred income taxes	12			(11		)
Changes in assets and liabilities, excluding the effects of acquisition of business	(161		)	(120		)
Cash provided by operating activities	448			445
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired	—			(307		)
Additions to property, plant, and equipment	(88		)	(71		)
Computer software expenditures	(2		)	(2		)
Cash used for investing activities	(90		)	(380		)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net change in short-term borrowings	319			(24		)
Repayment of long-term debt	(250		)	—
Proceeds from long-term debt	490			717
Debt issuance costs	(5		)	(5		)
Net payments related to exercise of stock-based awards	(8		)	(5		)
Excess tax benefits from stock-based awards	15			—
Acquisition of treasury stock	(762		)	(561		)
Dividends paid	(199		)	(203		)
Repayment of short-term obligation associated with acquisition of business (Note 14)	—			(30		)
Cash used for financing activities	(400		)	(111		)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(11		)	(20		)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents	(53		)	(66		)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	370			263
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	317		$	197

See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION

NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

In these notes, “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to Brown-Forman Corporation.

1. Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

We prepared the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements pursuant to the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for interim financial information. In accordance with those rules and regulations, we condensed or omitted certain information and disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). We suggest that you read these condensed financial statements together with the financial statements and footnotes included in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2016 (2016 Form 10-K).

In our opinion, the accompanying financial statements include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments (unless otherwise indicated), necessary for a fair statement of our financial results for the periods covered by this report.

We prepared the accompanying financial statements on a basis that is substantially consistent with the accounting principles applied in our 2016 Form 10-K, but made the following changes during fiscal 2017:

•

Effective beginning May 1, 2016, we changed our presentation of excise taxes from the gross method (included in sales and costs) to the net method (excluded from sales). As a result, the amounts presented as “net sales” in our financial statements now exclude excise taxes. We believe the change in presentation to the net method is preferable because it is more representative of the internal financial information reviewed by management in assessing our performance and more consistent with the presentation used by our major competitors in their external financial statements. Prior period financial statements have been recast to conform to the new presentation.

•

We adopted new guidance related to certain aspects of the accounting for stock-based compensation, including the income tax consequences. Under the new guidance, we recognize all tax benefits related to stock-based compensation as an income tax benefit in our statement of operations, and include all income tax cash flows within operating activities in our statement of cash flows. Under the previous accounting guidance, we recognized some of those tax benefits (excess tax benefits) as additional paid-in capital and classified that amount as a financing activity in our statement of cash flows. We adopted these provisions of the new guidance on a prospective basis as of May 1, 2016. As a result, our net income and operating cash flows for the nine months ended January 31, 2017, include excess tax benefits of $4 million. Prior period financial statements have not been adjusted.

Also, under the new guidance, we recognize the excess tax benefits during the period in which the related awards vest or are exercised. Under the previous accounting guidance, we recognized those benefits during the period in which they reduced taxes payable. We adopted this provision of the new guidance on a modified retrospective basis with a cumulative-effect adjustment of $10 million to retained earnings as of May 1, 2016.

Also, as discussed in Note 12, our Class A and Class B common shares were split on a two-for-one basis during August 2016. As a result, all share and per share amounts reported in the accompanying financial statements and related notes are presented on a split-adjusted basis.

New accounting pronouncements to be adopted. The Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) has issued new accounting guidance on various topics that may impact our financial statements upon our adoption of the new guidance. The following table shows the date by which we must adopt the new guidance for each topic and the permitted method(s) of adoption:



Topic	Date	Method(s)

Revenue from contracts with customers	May 1, 2018	Retrospective or modified retrospective
Classification of certain cash receipts and cash payments on statement of cash flows	May 1, 2018	Retrospective
Income tax consequences of intra-entity transfers of assets other than inventory	May 1, 2018	Modified retrospective
Leases	May 1, 2019	Modified retrospective
Credit losses	May 1, 2020	Modified retrospective

We are currently evaluating the potential impact of the new guidance on our financial statements. While we have not yet determined our plans for adoption, we do not currently expect to adopt any of the new guidance prior to the required adoption date.

2. Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Some of our consolidated inventories are valued using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method, which we use for the majority of our U.S. inventories. If the LIFO method had not been used, inventories at current cost would have been $248 million higher than reported as of April 30, 2016, and $264 million higher than reported as of January 31, 2017. Changes in the LIFO valuation reserve for interim periods are based on a proportionate allocation of the estimated change for the entire fiscal year.

3. Income Taxes

Our consolidated interim effective tax rate is based upon our expected annual operating income, statutory tax rates, and income tax laws in the various jurisdictions in which we operate. Significant or unusual items, including adjustments to accruals for tax uncertainties, are recognized in the quarter in which the related event occurs. The effective tax rate of 28.7% for the nine months ended January 31, 2017, is based on an expected tax rate of 31.0% on ordinary income for the full fiscal year, as adjusted for the recognition of a net tax benefit related to discrete items arising during the period and interest on previously provided tax contingencies. Our expected tax rate includes current fiscal year additions for existing tax contingency items.

As discussed in Note 1, we adopted new accounting guidance for stock-based compensation, including the income tax consequences. As a result, our effective tax rate for the nine months ended January 31, 2017, reflects the impact of $4 million of tax benefits related to stock-based compensation that we recognized as discrete items during the period.

4. Earnings Per Share

We calculate basic earnings per share by dividing net income available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share further includes the dilutive effect of stock-based compensation awards. We calculate that dilutive effect using the “treasury stock method” (as defined by GAAP).

The following table presents information concerning basic and diluted earnings per share:



	Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
	January 31,				January 31,
(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)	2016		2017		2016		2017
Net income available to common stockholders	$	190	$	182	$	545	$	524
Share data (in thousands):
Basic average common shares outstanding	402,365		384,520		408,483		388,884
Dilutive effect of stock-based awards	2,416		2,646		2,668		2,812
Diluted average common shares outstanding	404,781		387,166		411,151		391,696

Basic earnings per share	$	0.47	$	0.47	$	1.33	$	1.35
Diluted earnings per share	$	0.47	$	0.47	$	1.33	$	1.34

We excluded common stock-based awards for approximately 750,000 shares and 2,231,000 shares from the calculation of diluted earnings per share for the three months ended January 31, 2016 and 2017, respectively. We excluded common stock-based awards for approximately 956,000 shares and 1,780,000 shares from the calculation of diluted earnings per share for the nine months ended January 31, 2016 and 2017, respectively. We excluded those awards because they were not dilutive for those periods under the treasury stock method.

5. Commitments and Contingencies

We operate in a litigious environment, and we are sued in the normal course of business. Sometimes plaintiffs seek substantial damages. Significant judgment is required in predicting the outcome of these suits and claims, many of which take years to adjudicate. We accrue estimated costs for a contingency when we believe that a loss is probable and we can make a reasonable estimate of the loss, and then adjust the accrual as appropriate to reflect changes in facts and circumstances. We do not believe it is reasonably possible that these existing loss contingencies, individually or in the aggregate, would have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, or liquidity. No material accrued loss contingencies are recorded as of January 31, 2017.

We have guaranteed the repayment by a third-party importer of its obligation under a bank credit facility that it uses in connection with its importation of our products in Russia. If the importer were to default on that obligation, which we believe is unlikely, our maximum possible exposure under the existing terms of the guaranty would be approximately $23 million (subject to changes in foreign currency exchange rates). Both the fair value and carrying amount of the guaranty are insignificant.

As of January 31, 2017, our actual exposure under the guaranty of the importer’s obligation is approximately $8 million. We also have accounts receivable from that importer of approximately $10 million at January 31, 2017, which we expect to collect in full.

Based on the financial support we provide to the importer, we believe it meets the definition of a variable interest entity. However, because we do not control this entity, it is not included in our consolidated financial statements.

6. Debt

Our long-term debt (net of unamortized discount and issuance costs) consists of:



(Principal and carrying amounts in millions)	April 30, 2016		January 31, 2017
1.00% notes, $250 principal amount, due January 15, 2018	$	249	$	249
2.25% notes, $250 principal amount, due January 15, 2023	248		248
1.20% notes, €300 principal amount, due July 7, 2026	—		318
2.60% notes, £300 principal amount, due July 7, 2028	—		369
3.75% notes, $250 principal amount, due January 15, 2043	248		248
4.50% notes, $500 principal amount, due July 15, 2045	485		486
	1,230		1,918
Less current portion	—		249
	$	1,230	$	1,669

We issued senior, unsecured notes with an aggregate principal amount of 300 million euros in July 2016. Interest on these notes will accrue at a rate of 1.20% and be paid annually. As of January 31, 2017, the carrying amount of these notes was $318 million ($321 million principal, less unamortized discounts and issuance costs). These notes are due on July 7, 2026.

In addition, we issued senior, unsecured notes with an aggregate principal amount of 300 million British pounds in July 2016. Interest on these notes will accrue at a rate of 2.60% and be paid annually. As of January 31, 2017, the carrying amount of these notes was $369 million ($375 million principal, less unamortized discounts and issuance costs). These notes are due on July 7, 2028.

As of April 30, 2016, our short-term borrowings of $271 million included $269 million of commercial paper, with an average interest rate of 0.53% and a remaining maturity of 26 days. As of January 31, 2017, our short-term borrowings of $308 million included $307 million of commercial paper, with an average interest rate of 0.89% and a remaining maturity of 12 days.

7. Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits

The following table shows the components of the pension and other postretirement benefit cost recognized for our U.S. benefit plans. Information about similar international plans is not presented due to immateriality.



	Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	January 31,						January 31,
(Dollars in millions)	2016			2017			2016			2017
Pension Benefits:
Service cost	$	6		$	6		$	19		$	19
Interest cost	9			9			26			26
Expected return on plan assets	(10		)	(10		)	(30		)	(31		)
Amortization of:
Prior service cost (credit)	—			—			1			1
Net actuarial loss	7			6			21			19
Settlement loss	$	—		$	1		$	—		$	1
Net cost	$	12		$	12		$	37		$	35

Other Postretirement Benefits:
Service cost	$	—		$	—		$	1		$	1
Interest cost	1			1			2			2
Amortization of:
Prior service cost (credit)	(1		)	(1		)	(2		)	(2		)
Net actuarial loss	—			—			1			—
Net cost	$	—		$	—		$	2		$	1

8. Fair Value Measurements

Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. We categorize the fair values of assets and liabilities into three levels based upon the assumptions (inputs) used to determine those values. Level 1 provides the most reliable measure of fair value, while Level 3 generally requires significant management judgment. The three levels are:


•	Level 1 – Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.


•	Level 2 – Observable inputs other than those included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in inactive markets; or other inputs that are observable or can be derived from or corroborated by observable market data.


•	Level 3 – Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity.

The following table summarizes the assets and liabilities measured or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis:



(Dollars in millions)	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
April 30, 2016:
Assets:
Currency derivatives	$	—	$	19	$	—	$	19
Liabilities:
Currency derivatives	—		10		—		10
Short-term borrowings	—		271		—		271
Long-term debt	—		1,293		—		1,293
January 31, 2017:
Assets:
Currency derivatives	—		42		—		42
Liabilities:
Currency derivatives	—		11		—		11
Short-term borrowings	—		308		—		308
Current portion of long-term debt	—		249		—		249
Long-term debt	—		1,686		—		1,686

We determine the fair values of our currency derivatives (forward contracts) using standard valuation models. The significant inputs used in these models, which are readily available in public markets or can be derived from observable market transactions, include the applicable exchange rates, forward rates, and discount rates. The discount rates are based on the historical U.S. Treasury rates.

The fair value of short-term borrowings approximates their carrying amount. We determine the fair value of long-term debt primarily based on the prices at which similar debt has recently traded in the market and also considering the overall market conditions on the date of valuation.

We measure some assets and liabilities at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. That is, we do not measure them at fair value on an ongoing basis, but we do adjust them to fair value in some circumstances (for example, when we determine that an asset is impaired). No material nonrecurring fair value measurements were required during the periods presented in these financial statements.

9. Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The fair value of cash, cash equivalents, and short-term borrowings approximate the carrying amounts due to the short maturities of these instruments. We determine the fair value of currency derivatives and long-term debt as discussed in Note 8.

Below is a comparison of the fair values and carrying amounts of these instruments:



	April 30, 2016				January 31, 2017
	Carrying		Fair		Carrying		Fair
(Dollars in millions)	Amount		Value		Amount		Value
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	263	$	263	$	197	$	197
Currency derivatives	19		19		42		42
Liabilities:
Currency derivatives	10		10		11		11
Short-term borrowings	271		271		308		308
Current portion of long-term debt	—		—		249		249
Long-term debt	1,230		1,293		1,669		1,686

10. Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities

Our multinational business exposes us to global market risks, including the effect of fluctuations in currency exchange rates, commodity prices, and interest rates. We use derivatives to help manage financial exposures that occur in the normal course of business. We formally document the purpose of each derivative contract, which includes linking the contract to the financial exposure it is designed to mitigate. We do not hold or issue derivatives for trading or speculative purposes.

We use currency derivative contracts to limit our exposure to the currency exchange risk that we cannot mitigate internally by using netting strategies. We designate most of these contracts as cash flow hedges of forecasted transactions (expected to occur within three years). We record all changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges (except any ineffective portion) in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) until the underlying hedged transaction occurs, at which time we reclassify that amount into earnings. We assess the effectiveness of these hedges based on changes in forward exchange rates. The ineffective portion of the changes in fair value of our hedges (recognized immediately in earnings) during the periods presented in this report was not material.

We had outstanding currency derivatives, related primarily to our euro, British pound, and Australian dollar exposures, with notional amounts totaling $1,265 million at April 30, 2016 and $1,122 million at January 31, 2017.

During the nine months ended January 31, 2017, we used some currency derivative forward contracts and foreign currency-denominated long-term debt as after-tax net investment hedges of our investments in certain foreign subsidiaries. Any change in value of the designated portion of the hedging instruments is recorded in AOCI, offsetting the foreign currency translation adjustment of the related net investments that is also recorded in AOCI. As of January 31, 2017, $520 million of our foreign currency-denominated debt was designated as a net investment hedge. Our net investment hedges are intended to mitigate foreign exchange exposure related to non-U.S. dollar net investments in certain foreign subsidiaries against changes in foreign exchange rates. There was no ineffectiveness related to our net investment hedges during the periods presented in this report.

We do not designate some of our currency derivatives and foreign currency-denominated debt as hedges because we use them to at least partially offset the immediate earnings impact of changes in foreign exchange rates on existing assets or liabilities. We immediately recognize the change in fair value of these instruments in earnings.

We use forward purchase contracts with suppliers to protect against corn price volatility. We expect to physically take delivery of the corn underlying each contract and use it for production over a reasonable period of time. Accordingly, we account for these contracts as normal purchases rather than derivative instruments.

During May 2015, we entered into interest rate derivative contracts (U.S. Treasury lock agreements) to manage the interest rate risk related to the anticipated issuance of fixed-rate senior, unsecured notes. We designated the contracts as cash flow hedges of the future interest payments associated with the anticipated notes. Upon issuance in June 2015 of an aggregate principal amount of $500 million of the 4.50% notes, due July 15, 2045, we settled the contracts for a gain of $8 million. The entire gain was recorded to AOCI and will be amortized as a reduction of interest expense over the life of the notes.

The following tables present the pre-tax impact that changes in the fair value of our derivative instruments and non-derivative hedging instruments had on AOCI and earnings:



		Three Months Ended
		January 31,
(Dollars in millions)	Classification	2016			2017
Derivative Instruments
Currency derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI	n/a	$	29		$	5
Net gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI into income	Net sales	17			15
Interest rate derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI	n/a	—			—
Currency derivatives designated as net investment hedge:
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI	n/a	—			—
Currency derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Net gain (loss) recognized in income	Net sales	5			—
Net gain (loss) recognized in income	Other income	(2		)	(5		)
Non-Derivative Hedging Instruments
Foreign currency-denominated debt designated as net investment hedge:
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI	n/a	—			(5		)
Foreign currency-denominated debt not designated as hedging instrument:
Net gain (loss) recognized in income	Other income	—			4

		Nine Months Ended
		January 31,
(Dollars in millions)	Classification	2016			2017
Derivative Instruments
Currency derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI	n/a	$	66		$	57
Net gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI into income	Net sales	46			34
Interest rate derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI	n/a	8			—
Currency derivatives designated as net investment hedge:
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI	n/a	—			8
Currency derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Net gain (loss) recognized in income	Net sales	9			3
Net gain (loss) recognized in income	Other income	2			(13		)
Non-Derivative Hedging Instruments
Foreign currency-denominated debt designated as net investment hedge:
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI	n/a	—			19
Foreign currency-denominated debt not designated as hedging instrument:
Net gain (loss) recognized in income	Other income	—			6

We expect to reclassify $23 million of deferred net gains on cash flow hedges recorded in AOCI as of January 31, 2017, to earnings during the next 12 months. This reclassification would offset the anticipated earnings impact of the underlying hedged exposures. The actual amounts that we ultimately reclassify to earnings will depend on the exchange rates in effect when the underlying hedged transactions occur. As of January 31, 2017, the maximum term of our outstanding derivative contracts was 36 months.

The following table presents the fair values of our derivative instruments:



(Dollars in millions)	Classification	Fair value of derivatives in a gain position		Fair value of derivatives in a loss position
April 30, 2016:
Designated as cash flow hedges:
Currency derivatives	Other current assets	$	23	$	(2	)
Currency derivatives	Other assets	3		(2		)
Currency derivatives	Accrued expenses	4		(8		)
Currency derivatives	Other liabilities	3		(9		)
Not designated as hedges:
Currency derivatives	Other current assets	1		(4		)
January 31, 2017:
Designated as cash flow hedges:
Currency derivatives	Other current assets	30		(3		)
Currency derivatives	Other assets	19		(4		)
Currency derivatives	Accrued expenses	2		(6		)
Currency derivatives	Other liabilities	1		(2		)
Not designated as hedges:
Currency derivatives	Accrued expenses	—		(6		)

The fair values reflected in the above table are presented on a gross basis. However, as discussed further below, the fair values of those instruments that are subject to net settlement agreements are presented in our balance sheets on a net basis.

In our statement of cash flows, we classify cash flows related to cash flow hedges in the same category as the cash flows from the hedged items.

Credit risk. We are exposed to credit-related losses if the counterparties to our derivative contracts default. This credit risk is limited to the fair value of the contracts. To manage this risk, we contract only with major financial institutions that have earned investment-grade credit ratings and with whom we have standard International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) agreements that allow for net settlement of the derivative contracts. Also, we have established counterparty credit guidelines that are regularly monitored and we monetize contracts when we believe it is warranted. Because of these safeguards, we believe we have no derivative positions that warrant credit valuation adjustments.

Some of our derivative instruments require us to maintain a specific level of creditworthiness, which we have maintained. If our creditworthiness were to fall below that level, then the counterparties to our derivative instruments could request immediate payment or collateralization for derivative instruments in net liability positions. The aggregate fair value of all derivatives with creditworthiness requirements that were in a net liability position was $8 million at April 30, 2016 and $10 million at January 31, 2017.

Offsetting. As noted above, our derivative contracts are governed by ISDA agreements that allow for net settlement of derivative contracts with the same counterparty. It is our policy to present the fair values of current derivatives (i.e., those with a remaining term of 12 months or less) with the same counterparty on a net basis in the balance sheet. Similarly, we present the fair values of noncurrent derivatives with the same counterparty on a net basis. Current derivatives are not netted with noncurrent derivatives in the balance sheet. The following table summarizes the gross and net amounts of our derivative contracts:



(Dollars in millions)	Gross Amounts of Recognized Assets (Liabilities)			Gross Amounts Offset in Balance Sheet			Net Amounts Presented in Balance Sheet			Gross Amounts Not Offset in Balance Sheet			Net Amounts
April 30, 2016:
Derivative assets	$	34		$	(15	)	$	19		$	(6	)	$	13
Derivative liabilities	(25		)	15			(10		)	6			(4		)
January 31, 2017:
Derivative assets	52			(10		)	42			(1		)	41
Derivative liabilities	(21		)	10			(11		)	1			(10		)

No cash collateral was received or pledged related to our derivative contracts as of April 30, 2016 and January 31, 2017.

11. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

The following table summarizes the changes in goodwill and other intangible assets during the nine months ended January 31, 2017:



(Dollars in millions)	Goodwill			Other Intangible Assets
Balance at April 30, 2016	$	590		$	595
Acquisitions (Note 14)	182			65
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(26		)	(24		)
Balance at January 31, 2017	$	746		$	636

Our other intangible assets consist of trademarks and brand names, all with indefinite useful lives.

12. Stockholders’ Equity

The following table summarizes the changes in stockholders’ equity during the nine months ended January 31, 2017:



(Dollars in millions)	Class A Common Stock		Class B Common Stock		Additional Paid-in Capital			Retained Earnings			AOCI			Treasury Stock			Total
Balance at April 30, 2016	$	13	$	21	$	114		$	4,065		$	(350	)	$	(2,301	)	$	1,562
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle (Note 1)								10									10
Net income								524									524
Net other comprehensive income (loss)											(83		)				(83		)
Cash dividends								(273		)							(273		)
Acquisition of treasury stock														(561		)	(561		)
Stock-based compensation expense					10												10
Stock issued under compensation plans														11			11
Loss on issuance of treasury stock issued under compensation plans					(16		)										(16		)
Stock split	12		22		(34		)										—
Balance at January 31, 2017	$	25	$	43	$	74		$	4,326		$	(433	)	$	(2,851	)	$	1,184

Stock split. On May 26, 2016, our Board of Directors approved a two-for-one stock split for our Class A and Class B common stock, subject to stockholder approval of an amendment to our Restated Certificate of Incorporation. The amendment, which was approved by stockholders on July 28, 2016, increased the number of authorized shares of Class A common stock from 85,000,000 to 170,000,000. The amendment did not change the number of authorized Class B common shares, which remains at 400,000,000.

The stock split, which was effected as a stock dividend, resulted in the issuance of one new share of Class A common stock for each share of Class A common stock outstanding and one new share of Class B common stock for each share of Class B common stock outstanding. The stock split was also applied to our treasury shares. Thus, the stock split increased the number of Class A shares issued from 85,000,000 to 170,000,000, and increased the number of Class B shares issued from 142,313,000 to 284,626,000. The new shares were distributed on August 18, 2016, to shareholders of record as of August 8, 2016.

As a result of the stock split, we reclassified approximately $34 million from additional paid-in capital to common stock during the quarter ended July 31, 2016. The $34 million represents the $0.15 par value per share of the new shares issued in the stock split.

All share and per share amounts reported in the accompanying financial statements and related notes are presented on a split-adjusted basis.

Dividends. The following table summarizes the cash dividends declared per share on our Class A and Class B common stock during the nine months ended January 31, 2017:



Declaration Date	Record Date	Payable Date	Amount per Share
May 26, 2016	June 6, 2016	July 1, 2016	$0.1700
July 28, 2016	September 1, 2016	October 3, 2016	$0.1700
November 17, 2016	December 2, 2016	January 3, 2017	$0.1825
January 24, 2017	March 6, 2017	April 3, 2017	$0.1825

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. The following table summarizes the changes in each component of AOCI, net of tax, during the nine months ended January 31, 2017:



(Dollars in millions)	Currency Translation Adjustments			Cash Flow Hedge Adjustments		Postretirement Benefits Adjustments			Total AOCI
Balance at April 30, 2016	$	(131	)	$	11	$	(230	)	$	(350	)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	(110		)	14		13			(83		)
Balance at January 31, 2017	$	(241	)	$	25	$	(217	)	$	(433	)

13. Other Comprehensive Income

The following tables present the components of net other comprehensive income (loss):



	Three Months Ended									Three Months Ended
	January 31, 2016									January 31, 2017
(Dollars in millions)	Pre-Tax			Tax			Net			Pre-Tax			Tax			Net
Currency translation adjustments:
Net gain (loss) on currency translation	$	(30	)	$	—		$	(30	)	$	(27	)	$	2		$	(25	)
Reclassification to earnings	—			—			—			—			—			—
Other comprehensive income (loss), net	(30		)	—			(30		)	(27		)	2			(25		)
Cash flow hedge adjustments:
Net gain (loss) on hedging instruments	29			(11		)	18			5			(3		)	2
Reclassification to earnings¹	(17		)	7			(10		)	(15		)	6			(9		)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net	12			(4		)	8			(10		)	3			(7		)
Postretirement benefits adjustments:
Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost	—			—			—			2			(1		)	1
Reclassification to earnings²	7			(2		)	5			7			(2		)	5
Other comprehensive income (loss), net	7			(2		)	5			9			(3		)	6

Total other comprehensive income (loss), net	$	(11	)	$	(6	)	$	(17	)	$	(28	)	$	2		$	(26	)


	Nine Months Ended									Nine Months Ended
	January 31, 2016									January 31, 2017
(Dollars in millions)	Pre-Tax			Tax			Net			Pre-Tax			Tax			Net
Currency translation adjustments:
Net gain (loss) on currency translation	(57		)	(1		)	(58		)	(99		)	(11		)	(110		)
Reclassification to earnings	—			—			—			—			—			—
Other comprehensive income (loss), net	(57		)	(1		)	(58		)	(99		)	(11		)	(110		)
Cash flow hedge adjustments:
Net gain (loss) on hedging instruments	74			(26		)	48			57			(23		)	34
Reclassification to earnings¹	(46		)	18			(28		)	(34		)	14			(20		)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net	28			(8		)	20			23			(9		)	14
Postretirement benefits adjustments:
Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost	—			—			—			2			(1		)	1
Reclassification to earnings²	23			(8		)	15			19			(7		)	12
Other comprehensive income (loss), net	23			(8		)	15			21			(8		)	13

Total other comprehensive income (loss), net	$	(6	)	$	(17	)	$	(23	)	$	(55	)	$	(28	)	$	(83	)

¹Pre-tax amount is classified as net sales in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

²Pre-tax amount is a component of pension and other postretirement benefit expense (as shown in Note 7, except for amounts related to non-U.S. benefit plans, about which no information is presented in Note 7 due to immateriality).

14. Acquisition of Business

On June 1, 2016, we acquired The BenRiach Distillery Company Limited (BenRiach) for aggregate consideration of $407 million, consisting of a purchase price of $341 million and $66 million in assumed debt and transaction-related obligations that we have since paid. The acquisition, which brought three single malt Scotch whisky brands into our portfolio, included brand trademarks, inventories, three malt distilleries, a bottling plant, and BenRiach’s headquarters in Edinburgh, Scotland.

The purchase price of $341 million included cash of $307 million paid at the acquisition date for 90% of the voting interests in BenRiach and a liability of $34 million related to a put and call option agreement for the remaining 10% equity shares. Under that agreement, we could choose (or be required) to purchase the remaining 10% for 24 million British pounds ($34 million at the exchange rate on June 1, 2016) during the one-year period ending November 14, 2017.

The purchase price of $341 million was preliminarily allocated based on management’s estimates and independent appraisals as follows:



(Dollars in millions)	June 1, 2016
Accounts receivable	$	11
Inventories	159
Other current assets	1
Property, plant, and equipment	19
Goodwill	182
Trademarks and brand names	65
Total assets	437

Accounts payable and accrued expenses	12
Short-term borrowings	59
Deferred tax liabilities	25
Total liabilities	96

Net assets acquired	$	341

Goodwill is calculated as the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net identifiable assets acquired. The goodwill resulting from this acquisition is primarily attributable to the following: (a) the value of leveraging our distribution network and brand-building expertise to grow global sales of the existing single malt Scotch whisky brands acquired, (b) the valuable opportunity provided by the combination of the rather scarce identifiable assets to develop new products and line extensions in the especially attractive premium Scotch whisky category, and (c) the accumulated knowledge and expertise of the organized workforce employed by the acquired business. None of the preliminary goodwill amount of $182 million is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.

The initial allocation of the purchase price was based on preliminary estimates and may be revised as asset valuations are finalized and further information is obtained on the fair value of liabilities.

BenRiach’s results of operations, which have been included in our financial statements since the acquisition date, were not material for the three-month or nine-month periods ended January 31, 2017. Pro forma results are not presented due to immateriality.

On November 17, 2016, we purchased the remaining 10% interest in BenRiach for cash of 24 million British pounds ($30 million at the exchange rate on that date) by exercising the call option described above. That cash payment is classified as a financing activity in the accompanying statement of cash flows.

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

You should read the following discussion and analysis in conjunction with both our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes included in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report and our 2016 Form 10-K. Note that the results of operations for the nine months ended January 31, 2017 do not necessarily indicate what our operating results for the full fiscal year will be. In this Item, “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to Brown-Forman Corporation.

As discussed in Note 12 to the accompanying financial statements, our Class A and Class B common shares were split on a two-for-one basis during August 2016. As a result, all share and per share amounts reported in the following discussion and analysis are presented on a split-adjusted basis.

Volume and Depletions

When discussing volume, unless otherwise specified, we refer to “depletions,” a term commonly used in the beverage alcohol industry. Depending on the context, “depletions” means either (a) our shipments directly to retailers or wholesalers, or (b) shipments from our distributor customers to retailers and wholesalers. We generally record revenues when we ship our products to our customers, so our reported sales for a period do not necessarily reflect actual consumer purchases during that period. We believe that our depletions measure volume in a way that more closely reflects consumer demand than our shipments to distributor customers do.

Volume is discussed on a nine-liter equivalent unit basis (nine-liter cases) unless otherwise specified. At times, we use a “drinks-equivalent” measure for volume when comparing single-serve ready-to-drink (RTD) or ready-to-pour (RTP) brands to a parent spirits brand. “Drinks-equivalent” depletions are RTD and RTP nine-liter cases converted to nine-liter cases of a parent brand on the basis of the number of drinks in one nine-liter case of the parent brand. To convert RTD volumes from a nine-liter case basis to a drinks-equivalent nine-liter case basis, RTD nine-liter case volumes are divided by 10, while RTP nine-liter case volumes are divided by 5.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

We use certain financial measures in this report that are not measures of financial performance under GAAP. These non-GAAP measures, which are defined below, should be viewed as supplements to (not substitutes for) our results of operations and other measures reported under GAAP. The non-GAAP measures we use in this report may not be defined and calculated by other companies in the same manner.

We present changes in certain income statement line items that are adjusted to an “underlying” basis, which we believe assists in understanding both our performance from period to period on a consistent basis, and the trends of our business. Non-GAAP “underlying” measures include changes in (a) underlying net sales, (b) underlying cost of sales, (c) underlying gross profit, (d) underlying advertising expenses, (e) underlying selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses, and (f) underlying operating income. To calculate these measures, we adjust, as applicable, for (a) foreign currency exchange; (b) estimated net changes in distributor inventories, and (c) the impact of acquisition and divestiture activity. We explain these adjustments below:

•

“Foreign exchange.” We calculate the percentage change in our income statement line items in accordance with GAAP and adjust to exclude the cost or benefit of currency fluctuations. Adjusting for foreign exchange allows us to understand our business on a constant dollar basis, as fluctuations in exchange rates can distort the underlying trend both positively and negatively. (In this report, “dollar” always means the U.S. dollar unless stated otherwise.) To eliminate the effect of foreign exchange fluctuations when comparing across periods, we translate current-period results at prior-period rates.

•

“Estimated net change in distributor inventories.” This measure refers to the estimated net effect of changes in distributor inventories on changes in our measures. For each period being compared, we estimate the effect of distributor inventory changes on our results using depletion information provided to us by our distributors. We believe that this adjustment reduces the effect of varying levels of distributor inventories on changes in our measures and allows us to understand better our underlying results and trends.

•

“Acquisitions and divestitures.” On January 14, 2016, we reached an agreement to sell our Southern Comfort and Tuaca brands and related assets to Sazerac Company, Inc. The transaction closed March 1, 2016, for $543 million in cash, which resulted in a gain of $485 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2016. On June 1, 2016, we acquired The BenRiach Distillery Company Limited (BenRiach) for aggregate consideration of $407 million, consisting of a purchase price of $341 million and $66 million in assumed debt and transaction-related obligations that we have since paid. The acquisition, which brought three single malt Scotch whisky brands into our portfolio, included brand trademarks, inventories, three malt distilleries, a bottling plant, and BenRiach’s headquarters in Edinburgh, Scotland. See Note 14 to the accompanying financial statements for additional information. This adjustment removes (a)

transaction-related costs for the acquisition and divestiture and (b) operating activity for the acquisition and divestiture for the non-comparable period, which is fiscal 2016 activity for Southern Comfort and Tuaca and fiscal 2017 activity for Southern Comfort, Tuaca, and BenRiach. We believe that these adjustments allow us to understand better our underlying results on a comparable basis.

Management uses “underlying” measures of performance to assist it in comparing and measuring our performance from period to period on a consistent basis, and in comparing our performance to that of our competitors. We also use underlying measures as metrics in connection with management incentive compensation calculations. Management also uses underlying measures in its planning and forecasting and in communications with the board of directors, stockholders, analysts, and investors concerning our financial performance. We have provided reconciliations of the non-GAAP measures adjusted to an “underlying” basis to their nearest GAAP measures in the tables below under “Results of Operations – Year-Over-Year Period Comparisons” and have consistently applied the adjustments within our reconciliations in arriving at each non-GAAP measure.

Important Information on Forward-Looking Statements:

This report contains statements, estimates, and projections that are “forward-looking statements” as defined under U.S. federal securities laws. Words such as “aim,” “anticipate,” “aspire,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “envision,” “estimate,” “expect,” “expectation,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “project,” “pursue,” “see,” “seek,” “should,” “will,” and similar words identify forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date we make them. Except as required by law, we do not intend to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors (many beyond our control) that could cause our actual results to differ materially from our historical experience or from our current expectations or projections. These risks and uncertainties include those described in Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors of our 2016 Form 10-K and those described from time to time in our future reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including:


•	Unfavorable global or regional economic conditions, and related low consumer confidence, high unemployment, weak credit or capital markets, budget deficits, burdensome government debt, austerity measures, higher interest rates, higher taxes, political instability, higher inflation, deflation, lower returns on pension assets, or lower discount rates for pension obligations


•	Risks associated with being a U.S.-based company with global operations, including commercial, political, and financial risks; local labor policies and conditions; protectionist trade policies or economic or trade sanctions; compliance with local trade practices and other regulations, including anti-corruption laws; terrorism; and health pandemics


•	Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, particularly a stronger U.S. dollar


•	Changes in laws, regulations, or policies – especially those that affect the production, importation, marketing, labeling, pricing, distribution, sale, or consumption of our beverage alcohol products


•	Tax rate changes (including excise, sales, VAT, tariffs, duties, corporate, individual income, dividends, capital gains) or changes in related reserves, changes in tax rules (for example, LIFO, foreign income deferral, U.S. manufacturing, and other deductions) or accounting standards, and the unpredictability and suddenness with which they can occur


•	Dependence upon the continued growth of the Jack Daniel’s family of brands

•

Changes in consumer preferences, consumption, or purchase patterns – particularly away from larger producers in favor of smaller distilleries or local producers, or away from brown spirits, our premium products, or spirits generally, and our ability to anticipate or react to them; bar, restaurant, travel, or other on-premise declines; shifts in demographic trends; or unfavorable consumer reaction to new products, line extensions, package changes, product reformulations, or other product innovation


•	Decline in the social acceptability of beverage alcohol products in significant markets


•	Production facility, aging warehouse, or supply chain disruption


•	Imprecision in supply/demand forecasting


•	Higher costs, lower quality, or unavailability of energy, water, raw materials, product ingredients, labor, or finished goods


•	Route-to-consumer changes that affect the timing of our sales, temporarily disrupt the marketing or sale of our products, or result in higher implementation-related or fixed costs


•	Inventory fluctuations in our products by distributors, wholesalers, or retailers


•	Competitors’ consolidation or other competitive activities, such as pricing actions (including price reductions, promotions, discounting, couponing, or free goods), marketing, category expansion, product introductions, or entry or expansion in our geographic markets or distribution networks


•	Risks associated with acquisitions, dispositions, business partnerships or investments – such as acquisition integration, or termination difficulties or costs, or impairment in recorded value


•	Inadequate protection of our intellectual property rights


•	Product recalls or other product liability claims; product counterfeiting, tampering, contamination, or product quality issues


•	Significant legal disputes and proceedings; government investigations (particularly of industry or company business, trade or marketing practices)


•	Failure or breach of key information technology systems


•	Negative publicity related to our company, brands, marketing, personnel, operations, business performance, or prospects


•	Failure to attract or retain key executive or employee talent


•	Our status as a family “controlled company” under New York Stock Exchange rules

Summary of Operating Performance

	Three months ended January 31										Nine months ended January 31
	2016			2017			Reported Change		Underlying Change¹		2016			2017			Reported Change		Underlying Change¹

Net sales	$	809		$	808		—	%	4	%	$	2,360		$	2,299		(3	%)	3	%
Cost of sales	254			272			7	%	5	%	729			758			4	%	4	%
Gross profit	555			536			(3	%)	3	%	1,631			1,541			(6	%)	2	%
Advertising	107			102			(4	%)	10	%	317			291			(8	%)	4	%
SG&A	167			162			(3	%)	(2	%)	507			488			(4	%)	(2	%)
Operating income	$	278		$	273		(2	%)	3	%	$	807		$	778		(4	%)	5	%

Gross margin	68.7		%	66.4		%	(2.3)pp				69.1		%	67.0		%	(2.1)pp
Operating margin	34.4		%	33.8		%	(0.6)pp				34.2		%	33.8		%	(0.4)pp
Interest expense, net	$	12		15			22	%			$	33		42			27	%
Effective tax rate	28.8		%	29.4		%	0.6pp				29.5		%	28.7		%	(0.8)pp
Diluted earnings per share	$	0.47		$	0.47		1	%			$	1.33		$	1.34		1	%
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding

¹See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” above for details on our use of “underlying changes”, including how these measures are calculated and the reasons why we think this information is useful to readers.

Overview

For the nine months ended January 31, 2017, compared to the same period last year, reported net sales declined 3% and reported operating income declined 4%, while diluted earnings per share increased 1%. Excluding the impact of acquisitions and divestitures, reported net sales increased 1% and reported operating income increased 3%. After also adjusting for the negative effect of foreign exchange, we grew underlying net sales 3% and underlying operating income 5%. Our underlying operating results were driven by the Jack Daniel's family of brands, our tequila brands, and Woodford Reserve. In addition, our underlying operating results benefited from the reduction of underlying SG&A expenses.

Our financial condition remained strong. We received proceeds of $717 million from the issuance of long-term debt in July 2016, purchased BenRiach in June for aggregate consideration of $407 million (see Note 14 to the accompanying financial statements for additional information), continued to invest in our capacity expansion projects, and returned $764 million to shareholders during the nine months ended January 31, 2017 through ordinary dividends and share repurchases.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – FISCAL 2017 YEAR-TO-DATE HIGHLIGHTS

Market Highlights

The following table provides supplemental information of our largest markets for the nine months ended January 31, 2017, compared to the same period last year. We discuss results for the markets most affecting our performance below the table. Unless otherwise indicated, all related commentary is for the nine months ended January 31, 2017, compared to the same period last year.

Top 10 Markets¹- Fiscal 2017 Net Sales Growth by Geographic Area

	Percentage change versus prior year period
Nine months ended January 31, 2017	Net Sales²
Geographic area	Reported		Acquisitions & Divestitures		Foreign Exchange		Net Chg in Est. Distributor Inventories		Underlying
United States	(1	%)	6	%	—	%	—	%	4	%
Europe	(8	%)	3	%	5	%	3	%	2	%
United Kingdom	(12	%)	11	%	5	%	—	%	4	%
Germany	(2	%)	2	%	5	%	—	%	4	%
Poland	5	%	(1	%)	4	%	—	%	8	%
France	6	%	(1	%)	4	%	—	%	9	%
Turkey	(28	%)	—	%	18	%	—	%	(11	%)
Russia	(50	%)	—	%	2	%	45	%	(4	%)
Rest of Europe	(5	%)	—	%	3	%	—	%	(2	%)
Australia	(1	%)	5	%	(4	%)	—	%	—	%
Other geographies	—	%	—	%	5	%	(2	%)	3	%
Mexico	(2	%)	—	%	16	%	—	%	14	%
Canada	(10	%)	4	%	2	%	5	%	1	%
Remaining geographies³	2	%	(1	%)	(1	%)	(4	%)	(4	%)
Travel Retail⁴	1	%	3	%	1	%	2	%	7	%
Other non-branded⁵	16	%	(37	%)	—	%	—	%	(22	%)
Total	(3	%)	3	%	2	%	—	%	3	%
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding

¹Top 10 markets are ranked based on percentage of total Fiscal 2016 Net Sales. See 2016 Form 10-K “Results of Operations - Fiscal 2016 Market Highlights” and “Note 14. Supplemental Information.”

²See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” above for details on our use of “underlying change” in net sales, including how this measure is calculated and the reasons why we think this information is useful to readers.

³Remaining geographies represents over 110 countries with the largest being Japan, Brazil, and South Africa.

⁴Travel Retail represents our sales to global duty free and travel retail customers.

⁵Other non-branded includes used barrel, bulk whiskey and wine, and contract bottling sales.

•

United States. Reported net sales declined 1%, while underlying net sales increased 4% after adjusting for the absence of revenues associated with Southern Comfort and Tuaca, which were sold last March. Underlying net sales gains were driven primarily by (a) the growth of our American whiskey portfolio, led by Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey (JDTW), Woodford Reserve, and Old Forester; (b) our tequila brands, led by Herradura and el Jimador; (c) Sonoma-Cutrer; and (d) Korbel Champagne. This growth was partially offset by declines in Canadian Mist.

•

Europe. Reported net sales decreased 8%, while underlying net sales increased 2% after adjusting for (a) the net effect of acquired and divested brands, (b) the negative effect of foreign exchange driven by the strengthening of the dollar against the British pound, euro, and Turkish lira, and (c) an estimated net decrease in distributor inventories in Russia. Underlying net sales gains in France, Poland, the United Kingdom, and Germany were partially offset by declines in Turkey and Russia, which both suffered from geopolitical instability and weak economic conditions.


◦	In the United Kingdom, underlying net sales growth was driven by higher volumes of JDTW, Jack Daniel’s ready-to-drinks (JD RTDs), and Chambord and higher prices and favorable mix of JDTW.


◦	In Germany, underlying net sales growth was driven by higher volumes of JD RTDs and Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey (JDTH), and the introduction of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire (JDTF). JDTW volumes declined, although consumer takeaway trends remain solid.


◦	In Poland and France, underlying net sales growth was driven by higher volumes of JDTW. France also benefited from the expansion of JDTF.


◦	In Turkey, which has suffered from political and economic instability, the decline in underlying net sales was driven by lower volumes of JDTW.

◦

In Russia, underlying net sales declines were driven primarily by lower volumes of JDTW, partially offset by price increases on Finlandia and JDTW intended to mitigate the effect of the devaluation of the ruble. We believe that the declines in the Russian market are driven by weak economic conditions, consumer trends favoring local products, and the reduction in the purchasing power of consumers for premium imported brands given the significant currency devaluation. Russia returned to growth in the third quarter primarily driven by Finlandia, as the market began to improve.


◦	The decline in underlying net sales in the rest of Europe was driven by lower volumes of JDTW in Belgium, the absence of sales for lower-margin agency brands that we no longer distribute in Czech Republic, and lower volumes of JDTW in Austria. These declines were partially offset by growth in Ukraine, driven by JDTW and Finlandia.

•

Australia. Reported net sales decreased 1%, while underlying net sales were flat after adjusting for the negative effect of the absence of revenues resulting from the the sale of Southern Comfort and Tuaca and the positive effect of foreign exchange. Recently launched Jack Daniel’s RTD products and the expansion of JDTF were offset by declines in the rest of the Jack Daniel’s family of brands, including Jack Daniel’s & Cola.

•

Other geographies. Reported net sales for our other markets were flat, while underlying net sales collectively increased 3% after adjusting for the negative effect of foreign exchange driven by the strengthening of the dollar against the Mexican peso and the estimated net increase in distributor inventories. Underlying net sales growth was led by Mexico and Japan, the latter of which benefited from buy-ins ahead of price increases. These gains were partially offset by declines in China and Brazil.

•

Travel Retail. Reported net sales increased 1% and underlying net sales increased 7% after adjusting reported results for (a) the absence of revenues resulting from the sale of Southern Comfort and Tuaca, (b) the negative effect of foreign exchange, and (c) an estimated net decrease in distributor inventories. Following declines in the same period last year, underlying net sales growth was led by higher volumes of JDTW, distribution gains on Woodford Reserve, and the expansion of JDTF into Europe.

•

Other non-branded. Reported net sales increased 16%, while underlying net sales declined 22% after removing the net effect of acquired and divested businesses (primarily bulk whiskey and contract bottling sales). The reduction in underlying net sales was due primarily to declines in used barrel sales reflecting lower prices and volumes as a result of weaker demand from blended Scotch industry buyers and pricing pressures due to the increased supply of used barrels in the market.

Brand Highlights

The following table highlights the worldwide results of our largest brands for the nine months ended January 31, 2017, compared to the same period last year. We discuss results of the brands most affecting our performance below the table. Unless otherwise indicated, all related commentary is for the nine months ended January 31, 2017, compared to the same period last year.

Major Brands Worldwide Results

	Percentage change versus prior year period
Nine months ended January 31, 2017	Volumes		Net Sales¹
Brand family / brand	9L Depletions		Reported		Foreign Exchange		Net Chg in Est. Distributor Inventories		Underlying
Jack Daniel’s Family	4	%	1	%	2	%	—	%	3	%
Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey	1	%	—	%	2	%	—	%	2	%
Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey	5	%	1	%	2	%	—	%	3	%
Other Jack Daniel’s whiskey brands²	9	%	5	%	1	%	(2	%)	4	%
Jack Daniel’s RTDs/RTP³	7	%	2	%	4	%	—	%	5	%
New Mix RTDs	8	%	—	%	16	%	—	%	16	%
Finlandia	—	%	(10	%)	2	%	6	%	(1	%)
Canadian Mist	(8	%)	(11	%)	—	%	—	%	(12	%)
El Jimador	2	%	—	%	5	%	2	%	7	%
Woodford Reserve	19	%	15	%	1	%	4	%	20	%
Herradura	14	%	11	%	8	%	(1	%)	18	%
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding

¹See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” above for details on our use of “underlying change” in net sales, including how this measure is calculated and the reasons why we think this information is useful to readers.

²In addition to the brands separately listed here, the Jack Daniel’s family of brands includes Gentleman Jack, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Collection, Jack Daniel’s Sinatra Select, Jack Daniel’s No. 27 Gold Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s 1907 Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Rye Whiskeys, and Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire.

³Jack Daniel’s RTD and ready-to-pour (RTP) products include all RTD line extensions of Jack Daniel’s, such as Jack Daniel’s & Cola, Jack Daniel’s & Diet Cola, Jack & Ginger, Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails, Gentleman Jack & Cola, Jack Daniel’s Double Jack, Jack Daniel’s American Serve, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey RTD, and the seasonal Jack Daniel’s Winter Jack RTP.

•

Jack Daniel’s family of brands reported net sales increased 1% and underlying net sales grew 3%, and was the most significant contributor to our overall underlying net sales growth. Reported net sales were hurt by foreign exchange due to the strengthening of the dollar against the British pound, euro, Mexican peso, and Turkish lira. The following are details about the underlying performance of the Jack Daniel’s family of brands:


◦	JDTW grew underlying net sales in several markets including the United States, Poland, France, Japan, Travel Retail, the United Kingdom, and Mexico. These increases were partially offset by declines in various markets, including China, Belgium, Turkey, Southeast Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa.


◦	JDTH grew underlying net sales in the United States, its largest market, Travel Retail, Germany, and Mexico. These gains were partially offset by declines in Brazil and the United Kingdom.

◦

Among our Other Jack Daniel’s whiskey brands, the most significant contributor to underlying net sales growth was JDTF, which was led by the expansion in France, Germany, and Travel Retail. The year-to-date growth of JDTF from its international expansion was partially offset by declines for the brand in the United States, where prior year volumes were high due to the national introduction in late fiscal 2015. Gentleman Jack also contributed to underlying net sales growth, while Jack Daniel’s Sinatra declined.


◦	The increase in underlying net sales growth for Jack Daniel’s RTDs/RTP was driven by consumer-led volumetric gains, distribution expansion, and product innovation in Mexico, Germany, and the United Kingdom.


•	Reported net sales for New Mix RTDs in Mexico were flat while underlying net sales grew 16% driven by volume gains and higher pricing. Reported net sales were hurt by foreign exchange due to the strengthening of the dollar against the Mexican peso.


•	Reported net sales for Finlandia declined 10% and underlying net sales decreased 1% driven predominantly by lower volumes and unfavorable price/mix in the United States and Poland, the brand’s largest market. These declines were partially offset by price increases for the brand in Russia, which were intended to partially offset the devaluation of the ruble.


•	Reported net sales for Canadian Mist decreased 11% and underlying net sales decreased 12% driven by volume declines in the United States.


•	Reported net sales for el Jimador were flat, while underlying net sales increased 7% driven by volume gains in the United States. Reported net sales were hurt by foreign exchange due to the strengthening of the dollar against the Mexican peso.


•	Woodford Reserve led the growth of our super- and ultra-premium American whiskeys with reported net sales increasing 15% and underlying net sales growing 20%. This growth was driven by the United States, where the brand continued to grow volumetrically with strong consumer takeaway trends. Outside the United States, growth was helped by distribution expansion in Travel Retail.


•	Reported net sales of Herradura grew 11% and underlying net sales increased 18% driven primarily by increased volumes in the brand’s largest markets, the United States and Mexico. Reported net sales were hurt by foreign exchange due to the strengthening of the dollar against the Mexican peso.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – YEAR-OVER-YEAR PERIOD COMPARISONS

NET SALES

Percentage change versus the prior year period ended January 31	3 Months		9 Months
Change in reported net sales	—	%	(3	%)
Acquisitions and divestitures	4	%	3	%
Foreign exchange	1	%	2	%
Estimated net change in distributor inventories	(1	%)	—	%
Change in underlying net sales	4	%	3	%

Change in underlying net sales attributed to:
Volume	3	%	2	%
Net price/mix	1	%	1	%
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding

For the three months ended January 31, 2017, net sales were $808 million, a decrease of $1 million or essentially flat, compared to the same period last year. After adjusting reported results for (a) the net effect of acquisitions and divestitures, (b) the negative effect of foreign exchange, and (c) the estimated net increase in distributor inventories, underlying net sales grew 4%. The change in underlying net sales was driven by 3% volume growth and 1% of price/mix.

The primary factors contributing to the growth in underlying net sales for the three months ended January 31, 2017 were the growth of:


•	our American whiskey portfolio in the United States, led by Woodford Reserve, JDTW, and Old Forester;


•	JDTW in several international markets, most notably, Poland, the United Kingdom, France, Travel Retail, Germany, and Mexico;


•	our tequila brands, led by (a) volume gains and higher prices of New Mix in Mexico; (b) higher volumes and prices of Herradura in the United States and Mexico; and (c) volume gains of el Jimador in the United States;


•	volume on JD RTDs, partially due to innovation, led by Germany, Mexico, Australia, and the United Kingdom;


•	volume and price increases of Finlandia in Russia;


•	JDTF driven by expansion in France, Germany, and Travel Retail; and


•	Sonoma-Cutrer in the United States.

The primary factors partially offsetting the growth in underlying net sales for the three months ended January 31, 2017 were declines of:


•	volumes on Korbel Champagne in the United States;


•	volumes on JDTW in certain markets, including Russia and Australia;


•	Jack Daniel’s Sinatra in the United States;


•	used barrel sales reflecting lower prices and volumes as a result of weaker demand from blended Scotch industry buyers and pricing pressures due to increased supply of used barrels in the market;


•	volumes on Finlandia in Poland;


•	volumes on el Jimador in Mexico; and


•	Canadian Mist in the United States.

For the nine months ended January 31, 2017, net sales were $2,299 million, a decrease of 3%, or $61 million, compared to the same period last year. After adjusting reported results for the net effect of acquisitions and divestitures and the negative effect of foreign exchange, underlying net sales grew 3%. The change in underlying net sales was driven by 2% volume growth and 1% of price/mix. Volume growth was led by the Jack Daniel’s family of brands, our tequila brands, and Woodford Reserve, partially offset by declines in Canadian Mist and lower margin agency brands that we no longer distribute. The improvement in price/mix was driven by higher average pricing on JDTW and our tequila brands and a shift in sales out of lower-priced brands, such as Canadian Mist, to higher-priced brands, most notably the Jack Daniel’s family of brands, partially offset by declines in used barrel sales.

The primary factors contributing to the growth in underlying net sales for the nine months ended January 31, 2017 were growth of:


•	our American whiskey portfolio in the United States, led by JDTW, Woodford Reserve, Old Forester, and JDTH;


•	our tequila brands, led by (a) volume gains and higher prices of New Mix in Mexico, (b) higher volumes of Herradura in the United States and Mexico, and (c) volume gains of el Jimador in the United States;


•	JDTW in several international markets, most notably, Poland, France, Japan, Travel Retail, the United Kingdom, and Mexico;


•	volume on JD RTDs, led by Mexico, Germany, and the United Kingdom;


•	Korbel Champagne and Sonoma-Cutrer in the United States; and


•	expansion of JDTF into additional markets, led by France.

The primary factors partially offsetting the growth in underlying net sales for the nine months ended January 31, 2017 were declines of:


•	used barrel sales reflecting lower prices and volumes as a result of weaker demand from blended Scotch industry buyers and pricing pressures due to increased supply of used barrels in the market;


•	JDTW in China, Belgium, and Turkey;


•	volume on Canadian Mist in the United States; and


•	the absence of sales for lower-margin agency brands that we no longer distribute.

COST OF SALES

Percentage change versus the prior year period ended January 31	3 Months		9 Months
Change in reported cost of sales	7	%	4	%
Acquisitions and divestitures	1	%	—	%
Foreign exchange	(4	%)	(1	%)
Estimated net change in distributor inventories	—	%	1	%
Change in underlying cost of sales	5	%	4	%

Change in underlying cost of sales attributed to:
Volume	3	%	2	%
Cost/mix	2	%	2	%
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding

Cost of sales for the three months ended January 31, 2017 increased $18 million, or 7%, to $272 million when compared to the same period last year. Underlying cost of sales increased 5% after adjusting reported costs for the net effect of acquisitions and divestitures and the negative effect of foreign exchange.

Cost of sales for the nine months ended January 31, 2017 increased $29 million, or 4%, to $758 million when compared to the same period last year. Underlying cost of sales increased 4% after adjusting reported costs for the negative effect of foreign exchange and the estimated net change in distributor inventories. The increase in underlying cost of sales for the three and nine months ended January 31, 2017 was driven by an increase in volumes and higher input costs for wood and grain. Looking ahead to the remainder of fiscal 2017, we expect that our input costs will increase mid-single digits.

GROSS PROFIT

Percentage change versus the prior year period ended January 31	3 Months		9 Months
Change in reported gross profit	(3	%)	(6	%)
Acquisitions and divestitures	5	%	5	%
Foreign exchange	3	%	3	%
Estimated net change in distributor inventories	(2	%)	—	%
Change in underlying gross profit	3	%	2	%
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding

Gross profit of $536 million decreased $19 million, or 3%, for the three months ended January 31, 2017. Underlying gross profit grew 3% after adjusting reported results for (a) the net effect of acquisitions and divestitures, (b) the negative effect of foreign exchange, and (c) the estimated net change in distributor inventories. The increase in underlying gross profit resulted from the same factors that contributed to the increase in underlying net sales and the increase in underlying cost of sales.

Gross margin decreased to 66.4% for the three months ended January 31, 2017, down approximately 230 basis points from 68.7% in the same period last year driven primarily by (a) the negative effect of foreign exchange, (b) the net effect of acquisitions and divestitures, and (c) an increase in underlying cost of sales, partially offset by favorable price and mix.

Gross profit of $1,541 million decreased $90 million, or 6%, for the nine months ended January 31, 2017. Underlying gross profit grew 2% after adjusting reported results for the net effect of acquisitions and divestitures and the negative effect of foreign exchange. The increase in underlying gross profit resulted from the same factors that contributed to the increase in underlying net sales and the increase in underlying cost of sales.

Gross margin decreased to 67.0% for the nine months ended January 31, 2017, down approximately 210 basis points from 69.1% in the same period last year driven primarily by (a) the net effect of acquisitions and divestitures, (b) the negative effect of foreign exchange, and (c) an increase in underlying cost of sales, partially offset by favorable price and mix.

ADVERTISING EXPENSES

Percentage change versus the prior year period ended January 31	3 Months		9 Months
Change in reported advertising	(4	%)	(8	%)
Acquisitions and divestitures	11	%	10	%
Foreign exchange	3	%	2	%
Change in underlying advertising	10	%	4	%
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding

Advertising expenses of $102 million decreased $5 million, or 4%, for the three months ended January 31, 2017 compared to the same period last year. Underlying advertising expenses increased 10% after adjusting reported results for the net effect of acquisitions and divestitures and the benefit of foreign exchange. The increase in underlying advertising expense was driven by higher spending on JDTW, due in part to the 150th anniversary of Jack Daniel’s Distillery, JDTF, and JD RTDs, partially due to new innovations.

Advertising expenses of $291 million decreased $26 million, or 8%, for the nine months ended January 31, 2017 compared to the same period last year. Underlying advertising expenses increased 4% after adjusting reported results for the net effect of acquisitions and divestitures and the benefit of foreign exchange. The net increase in underlying advertising expense was driven by higher spending on JDTW, JD RTDs, Herradura, Coopers’ Craft Bourbon, and JDTF. We reduced advertising expense behind Finlandia.

SELLING, GENERAL, AND ADMINISTRATIVE (SG&A) EXPENSES

Percentage change versus the prior year period ended January 31	3 Months		9 Months
Change in reported SG&A	(3	%)	(4	%)
Acquisitions and divestitures	—	%	—	%
Foreign exchange	1	%	1	%
Change in underlying SG&A	(2	%)	(2	%)
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding

SG&A expenses of $162 million decreased $5 million, or 3%, for the three months ended January 31, 2017, while underlying SG&A expenses declined 2% after adjusting reported results for the favorable effect of foreign exchange.

SG&A expenses of $488 million decreased $19 million, or 4%, for the nine months ended January 31, 2017, while underlying SG&A expenses declined 2% after adjusting reported results for the favorable effect of foreign exchange. The decrease in underlying SG&A for both the three and nine months ended January 31, 2017 was driven by lower compensation related expenses and tight management of discretionary spending. Looking ahead to the remainder of fiscal 2017, we expect that SG&A will increase in the low single digits.

OPERATING INCOME

Percentage change versus the prior year period ended January 31	3 Months		9 Months
Change in reported operating income	(2	%)	(4	%)
Acquisitions and divestitures	6	%	6	%
Foreign exchange	2	%	3	%
Estimated net change in distributor inventories	(3	%)	—	%
Change in underlying operating income	3	%	5	%
Note: Totals may differ due to rounding

Operating income of $273 million decreased $5 million, or 2%, for the three months ended January 31, 2017 compared to the same period last year. Underlying operating income grew 3% after adjusting for (a) the net effect of acquisitions and divestitures, (b) the negative effect of foreign exchange, and (c) the estimated net change in distributor inventories. The same factors that contributed to the growth in underlying gross profit also contributed to the growth in underlying operating income. In addition, a reduction in underlying SG&A expenses also contributed to the growth in underlying operating income, partially offset by an increase in underlying advertising expenses.

Operating margin declined 60 basis points to 33.8% for the three months ended January 31, 2017 from 34.4% in the same period last year. The decrease in our operating margin was driven by (a) the net effect of acquisitions and divestitures, (b) an increase in underlying advertising expenses, (c) the negative effect of foreign exchange, and (d) the decline in gross profit, partially offset by a reduction in underlying SG&A spend.

Operating income of $778 million decreased $29 million, or 4%, for the nine months ended January 31, 2017 compared to the same period last year. Underlying operating income grew 5% after adjusting for the net effect of acquisitions and divestitures and the negative effect of foreign exchange. The same factors that contributed to the growth in underlying gross profit also contributed to the growth in underlying operating income. A reduction in underlying SG&A expenses also contributed to the increase in underlying operating income. This was partially offset by an increase in underlying advertising expenses.

Operating margin declined 40 basis points to 33.8% for the nine months ended January 31, 2017 from 34.2% in the same period last year. The decrease in our operating margin was primarily due to (a) the net effect of acquisitions and divestitures, (b) the decline in gross profit, and (c) the negative effect of foreign exchange, partially offset by a reduction in SG&A spend.

The effective tax rate in the three months ended January 31, 2017 was 29.4% compared to 28.8% for the same period last year. The increase in our effective tax rate was primarily driven by an increase in foreign exchange gains in non-U.S. entities that are currently subject to U.S. tax and a decrease in the beneficial impact of foreign earnings at lower rates, partially offset by a decrease in tax expense related to discrete items.

The effective tax rate in the nine months ended January 31, 2017 was 28.7% compared to 29.5% for the same period last year. The decrease in our effective tax rate was primarily driven by a decrease in tax expense related to discrete items, partially offset by an increase in foreign exchange gains in non-U.S. entities that are currently subject to U.S. tax.

Diluted earnings per share of $0.47 in the three months ended January 31, 2017 increased 1% from the $0.47 reported for the same period last year. Diluted earnings per share of $1.34 in the nine months ended January 31, 2017 increased 1% from the $1.33 reported for the same period last year. The increase in diluted earnings per share for the nine-month period resulted from a reduction in shares outstanding due to share repurchases and the benefit of a lower tax rate, partially offset by lower reported operating income and higher interest expenses.

Liquidity and Financial Condition

Cash flows. Cash and cash equivalents decreased $66 million during the nine months ended January 31, 2017, compared to a decrease of $53 million during the same period last year. Cash provided by operations of $445 million was down $3 million from the same period last year, reflecting lower earnings offset partially by a smaller seasonal increase in working capital. Cash used for investing activities was $380 million during the nine months ended January 31, 2017, compared to $90 million for the same prior-year period. The $290 million increase largely reflects $307 million in cash paid to acquire BenRiach (see Note 14 to the accompanying financial statements), partially offset by a $17 million decline in capital spending.

Cash used for financing activities was $111 million during the nine months ended January 31, 2017, compared to $400 million during the same period last year. The $289 million decrease in cash used for financing activities largely reflects a $477 million increase in net proceeds from long-term debt and a $201 million decrease in share repurchases, partially offset by a $343 million decline in net proceeds from short-term borrowings and the payment of $30 million in November 2016 to settle an

obligation related to our acquisition of BenRiach. The impact on cash and cash equivalents as a result of exchange rate changes was a decline of $20 million for the nine months ended January 31, 2017, compared to a decline of $11 million for the same period last year.

Liquidity. We continue to maintain sufficient liquidity to meet current obligations, fund capital expenditures, pay dividends, and continue share repurchases while reserving adequate debt capacity for acquisition opportunities.

In addition to our cash and cash equivalent balances, we have access to several liquidity sources to supplement our cash flow from operations. One of those sources is our $1.2 billion commercial paper program that we regularly use to fund our short-term credit needs. During the three months ended January 31, 2017, our commercial paper borrowings averaged $566 million, with an average maturity of 27 days and an average interest rate of 0.73%. During the nine months ended January 31, 2017, our commercial paper borrowings averaged $601 million, with an average maturity of 33 days and an average interest rate of 0.64%. Commercial paper outstanding was $269 million at April 30, 2016, and $307 million at January 31, 2017.

Our commercial paper program is supported by available commitments under our currently undrawn $800 million bank credit facility that matures on November 20, 2018, and our currently undrawn $400 million 364-day credit facility that matures on May 5, 2017. Further, we believe that the markets for investment-grade bonds and private placements are accessible sources of long-term financing that could meet any additional liquidity needs. Although unlikely, under extreme market conditions, one or more participating banks may not be able to fully fund its commitments under our credit facility.

We closely monitor our counterparty risks with respect to our cash balances and derivative contracts. If a counterparty’s credit quality were to deteriorate below our credit standards, we would expect either to liquidate exposures or require the counterparty to post appropriate collateral.

As of January 31, 2017, we had total cash and cash equivalents of $197 million. Of this amount, $164 million was held by foreign subsidiaries whose earnings we expect to reinvest indefinitely outside of the United States. We do not expect to need the cash generated by those foreign subsidiaries to fund our domestic operations. In the unforeseen event that we were to repatriate cash from those foreign subsidiaries, we would be required to provide for and pay U.S. taxes on permanently repatriated earnings.

As announced on January 24, 2017, our Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend on our Class A and Class B common stock of $0.1825 per share. Stockholders of record on March 6, 2017, will receive the cash dividend on April 3, 2017.

We believe our current liquidity position is strong and sufficient to meet all of our future financial commitments. A quantitative covenant of our $800 million bank credit facility requires the ratio of consolidated EBITDA (as defined in the agreement) to consolidated interest expense to be at least 3 to 1. As of January 31, 2017, with a ratio of 19 to 1, we were well within the covenant’s parameters. The $400 million 364-day credit facility has no quantitative covenant requirement.

Share repurchases. As announced on January 28, 2016, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $1 billion of our outstanding Class A and Class B common shares from April 1, 2016, through March 31, 2017, subject to market and other conditions. We may repurchase those shares in open market purchases, block transactions, or privately negotiated transactions in accordance with applicable federal securities laws. We can modify, suspend, or terminate this repurchase program at any time without prior notice. As of January 31, 2017, we have repurchased a total of 14,159,578 shares under this program for approximately $670 million, leaving approximately $330 million available for additional repurchases through March 31, 2017. The results of this share repurchase program are summarized in the following table.



	Shares Purchased		Average Price Per Share, Including Brokerage Commissions				Total Cost of Shares
Period	Class A	Class B	Class A		Class B		(Millions)
April 1, 2016 – April 30, 2016	—	2,330,026	$	—	$	47.85	$	111
May 1, 2016 – July 31, 2016	—	4,107,440	$	—	$	48.36	$	199
August 1, 2016 – October 31, 2016	25,409	5,121,338	$	48.76	$	46.96	$	242
November 1, 2016 – January 31, 2017	4,903	2,570,462	$	46.90	$	45.76	$	118
	30,312	14,129,266	$	48.46	$	47.30	$	670

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

We are exposed to market risks arising from adverse changes in (a) foreign exchange rates, (b) commodity prices affecting the cost of our raw materials and energy, and (c) interest rates. We try to manage risk through a variety of strategies, including production initiatives and hedging strategies. Our foreign currency hedging contracts are subject to changes in exchange rates, our commodity forward purchase contracts are subject to changes in commodity prices, and some of our debt obligations are subject to changes in interest rates. Established procedures and internal processes govern the management of these market risks. Since April 30, 2016, there have been no material changes to the disclosure on this matter made in our 2016 Form 10-K.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures. Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) (our principal executive and principal financial officers), has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange Act)) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, our CEO and CFO concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures: are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the company in the reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms; and include controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the company in such reports is accumulated and communicated to the company’s management, including the CEO and the CFO, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting. There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting during the most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

We operate in a litigious environment and we are sued in the normal course of business. We do not anticipate that any currently pending suits will have, individually or in the aggregate, a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, or liquidity.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report, you should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties discussed in Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors in our 2016 Form 10-K, which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or future results. There have been no material changes to the risk factors disclosed in our 2016 Form 10-K.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

The following table provides information about shares of our common stock that we acquired during the quarter ended January 31, 2017:



Period	Total Number of Shares Purchased	Average Price Paid per Share		Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs	Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased under the Plans or Programs
November 1, 2016 – November 30, 2016	1,626,943	$	45.96	1,626,943	$	373,400,000
December 1, 2016 – December 31, 2016	948,422	$	45.43	948,422	$	330,300,000
January 1, 2017 – January 31, 2017	—	$	—	—	$	330,300,000
Total	2,575,365	$	45.76	2,575,365

Note: Our Class A and Class common shares were split on a two-for-one basis during August 2016. The share and per share amounts in this table are presented on a split-adjusted basis.

As announced on January 28, 2016, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $1 billion of our outstanding Class A and Class B common shares from April 1, 2016, through March 31, 2017, subject to market and other conditions. The shares presented in the above table were acquired as part of this repurchase program.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

Item 5. Other Information

None.

Item 6. Exhibits

The following documents are filed with this Report:



31.1		CEO Certification pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2		CFO Certification pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32		CEO and CFO Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (not considered to be filed).
101		The following materials from Brown-Forman Corporation's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 31, 2017, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (a) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations, (b) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (c) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, (d) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, and (e) Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.



		BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
		(Registrant)

Date:	March 7, 2017	By:	/s/ Jane C. Morreau
			Jane C. Morreau
			Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
			(On behalf of the Registrant and as Principal Financial Officer)