BFB-01.31.2013-10Q
Table of Contents

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, 2013
OR
  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. 002-26821

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, 2013
Class A Common Stock ($.15 par value, voting)
84,445,591

Class B Common Stock ($.15 par value, nonvoting)
129,170,198


Table of Contents

BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
Index to Quarterly Report Form 10-Q
 
 
 
 
 
Page
 
 
 
Item 1.
 
 
 
Item 2.
 
 
 
Item 3.
 
 
 
Item 4.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 6.
 
 
 
 
 
 



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Table of Contents

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,
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
Net sales
$
959.0

 
$
1,026.9

 
$
2,813.1

 
$
2,918.8

Excise taxes
257.4

 
280.0

 
692.5

 
729.4

Cost of sales
250.7

 
240.2

 
747.4

 
694.1

Gross profit
450.9

 
506.7

 
1,373.2

 
1,495.3

Advertising expenses
98.8

 
110.5

 
296.3

 
309.1

Selling, general, and administrative expenses
148.0

 
162.4

 
433.9

 
469.9

Amortization expense
0.8

 
—

 
3.4

 
—

Other (income) expense, net
(2.9
)
 
(3.2
)
 
1.3

 
(4.8
)
Operating income
206.2

 
237.0

 
638.3

 
721.1

Interest income
0.6

 
0.7

 
2.1

 
1.9

Interest expense
7.9

 
8.3

 
23.6

 
19.0

Income before income taxes
198.9

 
229.4

 
616.8

 
704.0

Income taxes
65.8

 
71.8

 
208.1

 
226.0

Net income
$
133.1

 
$
157.6

 
$
408.7

 
$
478.0

Earnings per share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
$
0.63

 
$
0.74

 
$
1.90

 
$
2.24

Diluted
$
0.62

 
$
0.73

 
$
1.89

 
$
2.22

Cash dividends per common share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Declared
$
0.467

 
$
4.510

 
$
0.893

 
$
4.977

Paid
$
0.233

 
$
4.255

 
$
0.660

 
$
4.722

See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

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Table of Contents

BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Unaudited)
(Dollars in millions)
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
January 31,
 
January 31,
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
Net income
$
133.1

 
$
157.6

 
$
408.7

 
$
478.0

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustment
(10.4
)
 
14.0

 
(54.0
)
 
13.2

Postretirement benefits adjustment
3.3

 
4.5

 
9.9

 
13.8

Net gain (loss) on cash flow hedges
4.6

 
(1.9
)
 
13.2

 
(3.2
)
Net other comprehensive (loss) income
(2.5
)
 
16.6

 
(30.9
)
 
23.8

Comprehensive income
$
130.6

 
$
174.2

 
$
377.8

 
$
501.8

See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

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Table of Contents

BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited)
(Dollars in millions)
 
April 30,
2012
 
January 31,
2013
Assets
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
338.3

 
$
386.8

Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $9.1 and $10.7 at April 30 and January 31, respectively
475.3

 
633.8

Inventories:
 
 
 
Barreled whiskey
387.9

 
421.3

Finished goods
159.4

 
194.8

Work in process
114.5

 
131.1

Raw materials and supplies
50.3

 
54.7

Total inventories
712.1

 
801.9

Current deferred tax assets
36.3

 
35.8

Other current assets
187.3

 
188.1

Total current assets
1,749.3

 
2,046.4

Property, plant and equipment, net
398.7

 
426.6

Goodwill
617.2

 
618.9

Other intangible assets
668.3

 
669.9

Deferred tax assets
5.6

 
11.7

Other assets
38.3

 
58.8

Total assets
$
3,477.4

 
$
3,832.3

Liabilities
 
 
 
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
$
385.7

 
$
466.4

Dividends payable
—

 
54.5

Accrued income taxes
9.9

 
15.0

Current deferred tax liabilities
0.8

 
7.1

Short-term borrowings
4.3

 
10.6

Current portion of long-term debt
2.7

 
253.7

Total current liabilities
403.4

 
807.3

Long-term debt
502.8

 
996.6

Deferred tax liabilities
157.9

 
193.2

Accrued pension and other postretirement benefits
278.1

 
246.5

Other liabilities
65.8

 
69.9

Total liabilities
1,408.0

 
2,313.5

Commitments and contingencies

 

Stockholders’ Equity
 
 
 
Common stock (see Note 11):
 
 
 
Class A, voting
8.5

 
12.8

Class B, nonvoting
14.9

 
21.3

Additional paid-in capital
49.3

 
70.9

Retained earnings
3,031.5

 
2,391.9

Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:
 
 
 
Cumulative translation adjustment
(6.9
)
 
6.3

Postretirement benefits adjustment
(219.9
)
 
(206.1
)
Unrealized loss on cash flow hedges
(3.4
)
 
(6.6
)
Treasury stock, at cost (14,253,000 and 13,703,000 shares at April 30 and January 31, respectively)
(804.6
)
 
(771.7
)
Total stockholders’ equity
2,069.4

 
1,518.8

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
$
3,477.4

 
$
3,832.3

 See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

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Table of Contents

BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
(Dollars in millions)
 
Nine Months Ended
 
January 31,
 
2012
 
2013
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
Net income
$
408.7

 
$
478.0

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operations:
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
37.7

 
36.1

Stock-based compensation expense
6.5

 
7.4

Deferred income taxes
36.0

 
28.8

Changes in assets and liabilities
(147.2
)
 
(183.1
)
Cash provided by operating activities
341.7

 
367.2

Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
Additions to property, plant, and equipment
(31.1
)
 
(59.1
)
Acquisition of brand names and trademarks
(7.2
)
 
—

Computer software expenditures
(2.6
)
 
(0.3
)
Cash used for investing activities
(40.9
)
 
(59.4
)
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
Net increase in short-term borrowings
5.0

 
6.1

Repayment of long-term debt
(2.1
)
 
(2.6
)
Proceeds from long-term debt
—

 
747.5

Debt issuance costs
—

 
(6.6
)
Net payments related to exercise of stock-based awards
(7.1
)
 
(14.8
)
Excess tax benefits from stock-based awards
7.9

 
17.5

Acquisition of treasury stock
(219.1
)
 
—

Dividends paid
(142.0
)
 
(1,008.0
)
Cash used for financing activities
(357.4
)
 
(260.9
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
(15.6
)
 
1.6

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
(72.2
)
 
48.5

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
567.1

 
338.3

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
$
494.9

 
$
386.8

See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

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Table of Contents

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, 2012 (the “2012 Form 10-K”).

In our opinion, the accompanying financial statements include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, 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 2012 Form 10-K, although during the first quarter of fiscal 2013 we adopted new accounting guidance for the presentation of comprehensive income and for testing goodwill for impairment.  Our adoption of the new accounting guidance had no material impact on our financial statements.

2.         Inventories 
We use the last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) method to determine the cost of most of our inventories.  If the LIFO method had not been used, inventories at current cost would have been $213.0 million higher than reported as of April 30, 2012, and $213.2 million higher than reported as of January 31, 2013.  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 32.1% for the nine months ended January 31, 2013, is based on an expected tax rate of 32.6% on ordinary income for the full fiscal year, as adjusted for the recognition of net tax benefits 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.

We believe there will be no material change in our gross unrecognized tax benefits in the next twelve months.

We file income tax returns in the United States, including several state and local jurisdictions, as well as in several other countries in which we conduct business. The major jurisdictions and their earliest fiscal years that are currently open for tax examinations are 2006 in the United States, 2009 in Ireland and Italy, 2008 in Australia, 2007 in Poland, 2006 in Finland, 2003 in the U.K., and 2001 in Mexico. The audit of our fiscal 2011 U.S. federal tax return was concluded during the current fiscal year.  In addition, we are participating in the Internal Revenue Service’s Compliance Assurance Program for our fiscal 2012 and 2013 tax years.

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, including stock options, stock-settled stock appreciation rights, restricted stock units, deferred stock units, and shares of restricted stock.  We calculate that dilutive effect using the “treasury stock method” (as defined by GAAP).

Some restricted shares have non-forfeitable rights to dividends declared on common stock.  As a result, these restricted shares are considered participating securities in the calculation of earnings per share.


7
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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)
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
Net income
$
133.1

 
$
157.6

 
$
408.7

 
$
478.0

Income allocated to participating securities
—

 
(0.1
)
 
(0.1
)
 
(0.2
)
Net income available to common stockholders
$
133.1

 
$
157.5

 
$
408.6

 
$
477.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Share data (in thousands):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic average common shares outstanding
212,891

 
213,459

 
214,976

 
213,301

Dilutive effect of stock-based awards
1,608

 
1,592

 
1,543

 
1,612

Diluted average common shares outstanding
214,499

 
215,051

 
216,519

 
214,913

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic earnings per share
$
0.63

 
$
0.74

 
$
1.90

 
$
2.24

Diluted earnings per share
$
0.62

 
$
0.73

 
$
1.89

 
$
2.22


We excluded common stock-based awards for approximately 581,000 shares and 524,000 shares from the calculation of diluted earnings per share for the three months ended January 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively. We excluded common stock-based awards for approximately 581,000 shares and 531,000 shares from the calculation of diluted earnings per share for the nine months ended January 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively. We excluded those awards because they were not dilutive for those periods under the treasury stock method.

As discussed in Note 11, previously reported share and per share amounts have been restated in the accompanying financial statements and related notes to reflect the stock split.

5.         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 these 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, 2013.

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6.         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 during the periods covered by this report. Information about similar international plans is not presented due to immateriality.
 
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
January 31,
 
January 31,
(Dollars in millions)
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
Pension Benefits:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service cost
$
4.0

 
$
4.9

 
$
12.0

 
$
14.7

Interest cost
8.5

 
8.8

 
25.5

 
26.3

Expected return on plan assets
(10.0
)
 
(10.2
)
 
(30.3
)
 
(30.5
)
Amortization of:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prior service cost
0.2

 
0.2

 
0.7

 
0.7

Net actuarial loss
4.8

 
7.0

 
14.5

 
21.0

Net cost
$
7.5

 
$
10.7

 
$
22.4

 
$
32.2

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other Postretirement Benefits:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service cost
$
0.4

 
$
0.4

 
$
1.1

 
$
1.3

Interest cost
0.7

 
0.7

 
2.3

 
2.2

Amortization of prior service cost
0.2

 
0.2

 
0.4

 
0.5

Net cost
$
1.3

 
$
1.3

 
$
3.8

 
$
4.0


7.           Debt 
Our long-term debt consisted of the following:
 
April 30,
 
January 31,
(Dollars in millions)
2012
 
2013
5.00% notes, due in fiscal 2014
$
251.4

 
$
251.1

2.50% notes, due in fiscal 2016
248.8

 
249.1

1.00% notes, due in fiscal 2018
—

 
249.2

2.25% notes, due in fiscal 2023
—

 
248.4

3.75% notes, due in fiscal 2043
—

 
249.9

Other
5.3

 
2.6

 
505.5

 
1,250.3

Less current portion
2.7

 
253.7

 
$
502.8

 
$
996.6


In January 2013, we provided the trustee of our 5.00% notes due in fiscal 2014 with our irrevocable commitment to redeem those notes in fiscal 2013 by exercising a "make-whole" call provision of the notes. Accordingly, the carrying amount of those notes is classified as current at January 31, 2013. We redeemed the notes on February 25, 2013.

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:

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•
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 markets that are not active; 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 at fair value on a recurring basis as of January 31, 2013:
(Dollars in millions)
 
Level 1

 
Level 2

 
Level 3

 
Total

Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Currency derivatives
 
$
—

 
$
1.9

 
$
—

 
$
1.9

Interest rate swaps
 
—

 
1.8

 
—

 
1.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Currency derivatives
 
—

 
13.3

 
—

 
13.3

Short-term borrowings
 
—

 
10.6

 
—

 
10.6

Current portion of long-term debt
 
—

 
261.6

 
—

 
261.6

Long-term debt
 
—

 
994.0

 
—

 
994.0


We determine the fair values of our currency derivatives (forwards and options) and interest rate swaps using standard valuation models.  The significant inputs used in these models are readily available in public markets or can be derived from observable market transactions.  Inputs used in these standard valuation models include the applicable exchange rate, forward rates and discount rates for the currency derivatives, and include interest rate yield curves for the interest rate swaps.  The standard valuation model for foreign currency options also uses implied volatility as an additional input.  The discount rates are based on the historical U.S. Treasury rates, and the implied volatility specific to individual foreign currency options is based on quoted rates from financial institutions.

The fair value of short-term borrowings approximates the carrying amount.  We determine the fair value of long-term debt based on the prices at which similar debt has recently traded in the market and 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).  The fair values of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis during the periods presented in these financial statements were not material as of January 31, 2013.

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 derivative financial instruments and long-term debt as discussed in Note 8.  As of January 31, 2013, the fair values and carrying amounts of these instruments were as follows:
 
Carrying
 
Fair
(Dollars in millions)
Amount
 
Value
Assets:
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
386.8

 
$
386.8

Currency derivatives
1.9

 
1.9

Interest rate swaps
1.8

 
1.8

 
 
 
 
Liabilities:
 
 
 
Currency derivatives
13.3

 
13.3

Short-term borrowings
10.6

 
10.6

Current portion of long-term debt
253.7

 
261.6

Long-term debt
996.6

 
994.0


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10.           Derivative Financial Instruments 
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 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 do not designate some of our currency derivatives 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 contracts in earnings.

As of January 31, 2013, we had outstanding currency derivatives with a total notional amount of $721.7 million, related primarily to our euro, British pound, and Australian dollar exposures.

Prior to July 31, 2012, we utilized exchange-traded futures and options contracts to mitigate our exposure to corn price volatility.  Because we did not designate these contracts as hedges for accounting purposes, we immediately recognized changes in their fair value in earnings. Effective July 31, 2012, we instead 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.

We manage our interest rate risk with swap contracts.  As of January 31, 2013, we had fixed-to-floating interest rate swaps outstanding with a total notional value of $125.0 million, with maturities matching those of our bonds.  These swaps are designated as fair value hedges.  The change in fair value of the swaps not related to accrued interest is offset by a corresponding adjustment to the carrying amounts of the bonds.

The following table presents the fair values of our derivative instruments as of January 31, 2013.  The fair values are presented below on a gross basis, while the fair values of those instruments that are subject to master settlement arrangements are presented on a net basis in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet, in conformity with GAAP.

(Dollars in millions)


Classification
 
Fair value of derivatives in a gain position
 
Fair value of derivatives in a
loss position
Designated as cash flow hedges:

 
 
 
 
Currency derivatives
Other current assets
 
$
1.9

 
$
(0.4
)
Currency derivatives
Other assets
 
0.4

 
(0.3
)
Currency derivatives
Accrued expenses
 
3.4

 
(13.9
)
Currency derivatives
Other liabilities
 
0.9

 
(3.8
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Designated as fair value hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swaps
Other current assets
 
1.8

 
—

 
 
 
 
 
 
Not designated as hedges:
 
 
 
 
 
Currency derivatives
Other current assets
 
0.4

 
—

Currency derivatives
Accrued expenses
 
0.4

 
(0.2
)


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The following tables present the amounts affecting our consolidated statements of operations for the periods covered by this report:
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
January 31,
(Dollars in millions)
Classification
2012
 
2013
Currency derivatives designated as cash flow hedge:
 
 
 
 
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI
n/a
$
7.9

 
$
(4.4
)
Net gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI into income
Net sales
0.5

 
(1.4
)
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges:
 
 
 
 
Net gain (loss) recognized in income
Interest expense
0.7

 
0.3

Net gain (loss) recognized in income*
Other income
(0.6
)
 
(0.3
)
*The effect on the hedged item was an equal but offsetting amount for the periods presented.
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
 
 
 
 
Currency derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income
Net sales
5.4

 
(0.6
)
Currency derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income
Other income
—

 
0.9

Commodity derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income
Cost of sales
(0.8
)
 
—


 
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
January 31,
(Dollars in millions)
Classification
2012
 
2013
Currency derivatives designated as cash flow hedge:
 
 

 
 

Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI
n/a
$
13.7

 
$
(5.8
)
Net gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI into income
Net sales
(7.7
)
 
(0.7
)
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges:
 
 
 
 
Net gain (loss) recognized in income
Interest expense
2.5

 
0.8

Net gain (loss) recognized in income*
Other income
(0.1
)
 
(0.5
)
*The effect on the hedged item was an equal but offsetting amount for the periods presented.
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
 
 

 
 

Currency derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income
Net sales
8.9

 
(1.6
)
Currency derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income
Other income
(1.6
)
 
(0.7
)
Commodity derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income
Cost of sales
(2.8
)
 
3.9


We expect to reclassify $8.3 million of deferred net losses recorded in AOCI as of January 31, 2013, 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.  The maximum term of our contracts outstanding at January 31, 2013 is 24 months.

We are exposed to credit-related losses if the other parties to our derivative contracts breach them.  This credit risk is limited to the fair value of the contracts.  To manage this risk, we enter into contracts only with major financial institutions that have earned investment-grade credit ratings, we have established counterparty credit guidelines that are regularly monitored and that provide for reports to senior management according to prescribed guidelines, and we monetize contracts when we believe it is warranted.  Because of these safeguards, we believe the risk of loss from counterparty default to be immaterial.

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

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payment or collateralization for derivative instruments in net liability positions. As of January 31, 2013, the aggregate fair value of all derivatives with creditworthiness requirements that were in a net liability position was $11.7 million.

11.         Stock Split 
On June 14, 2012, our Board of Directors authorized a 3-for-2 stock split for outstanding shares of the Company’s Class A and Class B common stock, subject to stockholder approval of an amendment to the Company’s Restated Certificate of Incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of Class A and Class B common stock. The amendment, which was approved by stockholders on July 26, 2012, increased the authorized number of Class A Common Stock to 85,000,000 from 57,000,000 and the authorized number of Class B Common Stock to 400,000,000 from 100,000,000.

The stock split, which was effected as a stock dividend, resulted in the Company issuing one new share of Class A common stock for each two shares of Class A common stock outstanding and one new share of Class B common stock for each two shares of Class B common stock outstanding.  The stock split was paid on August 10, 2012, to stockholders of record as of August 3, 2012.  The stock split was not applied to the Company’s treasury shares.

As a result of the stock split, we reclassified approximately $10.7 million from the Company’s retained earnings account to its common stock accounts during the period ended July 31, 2012.  The $10.7 million represents the $0.15 par value per share of the shares issued in the stock split.

The following table shows the change in the Company’s outstanding common shares shares during the nine months ended January 31, 2013:
(Shares in thousands)
Class A (voting)
 
Class B (nonvoting)
Balance at April 30, 2012
56,251

 
85,823

Stock split (3-for-2)
28,149

 
42,951

Stock issued under compensation plans
46

 
391

Balance at January 31, 2013
84,446

 
129,165


Previously reported share and per share amounts have been restated in the accompanying financial statements and related notes to reflect the stock split.

12.    Cash Dividends
Cash dividends declared and paid on Class A and Class B common stock during the nine months ended January 31, 2013 include a special cash dividend of $4.00 per share in addition to regular cash dividends.


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Item 2.  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of  Operations
 
You should read the following discussion and analysis along with our 2012 Form 10-K. Note that the results of operations for the nine months ended January 31, 2013, 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.
 
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,” “envision,” “estimate,” “expect,” “expectation,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “project,” “pursue,” “see,” “will,” “will continue,” 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 other factors include, but are not limited to:

•
declining or depressed global or regional economic conditions, particularly in the Euro zone; political, financial, or credit or capital market instability; supplier, customer or consumer credit or other financial problems; bank failures or governmental debt defaults
•
failure to develop or implement effective business, portfolio and brand strategies, including the increased U.S. penetration and international expansion of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey, innovation, marketing and promotional activity, and route-to-consumer
•
unfavorable trade or consumer reaction to our new products, product line extensions, price changes, marketing, or changes in formulation, flavor or packaging
•
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, entry or expansion in our geographic markets
•
declines in consumer confidence or spending, whether related to the economy (such as austerity measures, tax increases, high fuel costs, or higher unemployment), wars, natural or other disasters, weather, pandemics, security concerns, terrorist attacks or other factors
•
changes in tax rates (including excise, sales, VAT, tariffs, duties, corporate, individual income, dividends, capital gains) or in related reserves, changes in tax rules (e.g., LIFO, foreign income deferral, U.S. manufacturing and other deductions) or accounting standards, and the unpredictability and suddenness with which they can occur
•
governmental or other restrictions on our ability to produce, import, sell, price, or market our products, including advertising and promotion in either traditional or new media; regulatory compliance costs
•
business disruption, decline or costs related to organizational changes, reductions in workforce or other cost-cutting measures
•
lower returns or discount rates related to pension assets, interest rate fluctuations, inflation or deflation
•
fluctuations in the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies, especially the euro, British pound, Australian dollar, Polish zloty or Mexican peso
•
changes in consumer behavior or preferences and our ability to anticipate and respond to them, including societal attitudes or cultural trends that result in reduced consumption of our products; reduction of bar, restaurant, hotel or other on-premise business or travel
•
consumer shifts away from brown spirits, premium-priced spirits, or spirits products generally; shifts to discount store purchases or other price-sensitive consumer behavior
•
distribution and other route-to-consumer decisions or changes that affect the timing of our sales, temporarily disrupt the marketing or sale of our products, or result in implementation-related or higher fixed costs
•
effects of acquisitions, dispositions, joint ventures, business partnerships or investments, or their termination, including acquisition, integration or termination costs, disruption or other difficulties, or impairment in the recorded value of assets (e.g. receivables, inventory, fixed assets, goodwill, trademarks and other intangibles)
•
lower profits, due to factors such as fewer or less profitable used barrel sales, lower production volumes, decreased demand or inability to meet consumer demand for products we sell, sales mix shift toward lower priced or lower margin SKUs, or cost increases in energy or raw materials, such as grain, agave, wood, glass, plastic, or closures

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•
natural disasters, climate change, agricultural uncertainties, environmental or other catastrophes, or other factors that affect the availability, price, or quality of agave, grain, glass, energy, closures, plastic, water, or wood, or that cause supply chain disruption or disruption at our production facilities or aging warehouses
•
negative publicity related to our company, brands, marketing, personnel, operations, business performance or prospects
•
product counterfeiting, tampering, contamination, or recalls and resulting negative effects on our sales, brand equity, or corporate reputation
•
significant costs or other adverse developments stemming from class action, intellectual property, governmental, or other major litigation; or governmental investigations of beverage alcohol industry business, trade, or marketing practices by us, our importers, distributors, or retailers

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Results of Operations:
Third Quarter Fiscal 2013 Compared to Third Quarter Fiscal 2012
 
A summary of our operating performance (dollars expressed in millions, except per share amounts) is presented below.
 
Three Months Ended
 
 
January 31,
 
 
2012
2013
Change

Net sales
$
959.0

$
1,026.9

7
%
Excise taxes
257.4

280.0

9
%
Cost of sales
250.7

240.2

(4
%)
Gross profit
450.9

506.7

12
%
Advertising expenses
98.8

110.5

12
%
Selling, general, and administrative expenses
148.0

162.4

10
%
Amortization expense
0.8

—

 
Other (income) expense, net
(2.9
)
(3.2
)
 
Operating income
206.2

237.0

15
%
Interest expense, net
7.3

7.6

 
Income before income taxes
198.9

229.4

15
%
Income taxes
65.8

71.8

 
Net income
133.1

157.6

18
%
 
 
 
 
Gross margin
47.0
%
49.3
%
 
Operating margin
21.5
%
23.1
%
 
 
 
 
 
Effective tax rate
33.1
%
31.3
%
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings per share:
 
 
 
Basic
$
0.63

$
0.74

18
%
Diluted
0.62

0.73

18
%

On a reported basis, net sales for the three months ended January 31, 2013 were $1,026.9 million, up 7% compared to the same prior year period. An increase in underlying net sales and a weaker U.S. dollar were partially offset by the absence of net sales related to the Hopland-based wine business (which we sold to Vina Concha y Toro S.A. in April 2011, but whose brands we retained in our portfolio as agency brands through December 31, 2011), and a decrease in net trade inventories.

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The following table shows the major factors influencing the change in net sales for the quarter:
 
Change vs.
Prior Period
 
· Underlying change1 in net sales
8%
 
· Foreign exchange2
2%
 
· Estimated net change in trade inventories3
(1%)
 
· Absence of Hopland brands4
(2%)
 
Reported change in net sales
7%
 

The primary factors contributing to our underlying growth in net sales for the three month period were the expansion of Jack Daniel's Tennessee Honey in select markets outside the U.S., solid growth for the brand in the U.S., higher pricing for Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey, and gains for several other brands in our portfolio including Jack Daniel's RTDs/RTPs, New Mix, Woodford Reserve, Gentleman Jack, used barrel sales, and Herradura. The Southern Comfort Family of Brands increased underlying net sales for the three month period, driven by the continuing roll-out of Southern Comfort Lime in the U.K., and a slight increase in the parent brand in the U.K. and the U.S. On a geographic basis, we experienced broad based growth in underlying net sales for the quarter, including gains in such countries as the U.K., Germany, U.S., Australia, Mexico, and Turkey. A few countries, including Poland, France, and Spain registered lower net sales for the quarter.

Cost of sales for the three months ended January 31, 2013 was $240.2 million, a decrease of $10.5 million, or 4%, compared to the same period a year ago. Cost of sales was helped by the absence of the Hopland-based wine business, a shift in portfolio mix, and reduced levels of gift and value-added packages (VAP). These factors were only partially offset by volumetric gains and foreign exchange.
 
Change vs.
Prior Period
 
· Volumetric growth
4%
 
· Foreign exchange
1%
 
· Portfolio mix and reduced VAP
(4%)
 
· Absence of Hopland brands
(5%)
 
Reported change in cost of sales
(4%)
 






 
 

1 Underlying change represents the percentage increase or decrease in reported financial results in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) in the United States, exclusive of other items impacting period-over-period results.  We believe presenting the underlying change helps provide transparency to our comparable business performance.
2 Refers to net gains and losses incurred by the company relating to sales and purchases in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. We use the measure to understand the growth of the business on a constant dollar basis, as fluctuations in exchange rates can distort the underlying growth of our business (both positively and negatively). To neutralize the effect of foreign exchange fluctuations, we have translated current year results at prior year rates. We believe it is important to separately identify the impact that foreign exchange has on each major line item of our consolidated statement of operations.
3 Refers to the estimated financial impact of changes in wholesale trade inventories for our brands. We compute this effect by using our estimated depletion trends and separately identifying trade inventory changes in the variance analysis for our key measures. Based on the estimated depletions and the fluctuations in trade inventory levels, we then adjust the percentage variances from prior to current periods for our key measures. We believe it is important to separately identify the impact of this item in order for management and investors to understand the effect that varying levels of wholesale inventories can have on our business results.
4 Refers to the April 2011 sale of our Hopland, California-based wine business to Vina Concha y Toro S.A. Included in this sale were the Fetzer winery, bottling facility, and vineyards, as well as the Fetzer brand and other Hopland, California-based wines, including Bonterra, Little Black Dress, Jekel, Five Rivers, Bel Arbor, Coldwater Creek, and Sanctuary. Although we sold these brands in April 2011, we retained them in our portfolio as agency brands through December 31, 2011. We believe that excluding their effect on operating results from fiscal 2012 versus fiscal 2013 provides helpful information in forecasting and planning the growth expectations of the company.

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Gross profit for the three months ended January 31, 2013 was $506.7 million, an increase of $55.8 million, or 12%, compared to the same three month period last year. Gross profit was helped by underlying growth in the business and a weaker dollar but was hurt by the absence of gross profit associated with the Hopland-based wine business. In addition to the same factors that drove the increase in underlying net sales, the reduction in costs associated with value added packages contributed to the underlying growth in gross profit for the same period. The absence of the lower margin Hopland-based wine business, which improved the overall margin 0.6 percentage points, combined with higher pricing, favorable brand/market mix, and a reduction in costs associated with value added packaging were the primary factors driving the 2.3 percentage points improvement in gross margin to 49.3% for the quarter compared to the same prior year period.

The following table shows the major factors influencing the change in gross profit for the quarter:
 
Change vs.
Prior Period
 
· Underlying change in gross profit
11%
 
· Foreign exchange
2%
 
· Estimated net change in trade inventories
(0%)
 
· Absence of Hopland brands
(1%)
 
Reported change in gross profit
12%
 

Reported advertising expenses increased 12% for the three months ended January 31, 2013 compared to the same prior year period. Excluding foreign exchange, advertising expense rose 9%, reflecting incremental investments behind Southern Comfort in the U.S., Jack Daniel's Tennessee Honey in select markets, our tequila business in the U.S. and Mexico, and Finlandia in Poland and Russia.

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $14.4 million, or 10%, for the quarter, reflecting inflation on salary and benefit related expenses, higher pension expense driven primarily by a reduction in the assumed discount rate, the effect of investments made in our organizational capabilities in various markets, and timing of spending.

Operating income of $237.0 million increased $30.8 million, or 15%, for the three months ended January 31, 2013 compared to the same period last year. Operating income benefited from the underlying growth in our business and foreign exchange. Operating income was reduced by a decrease in estimated net trade inventory levels and the reduction in profits associated with the Hopland-based wine business. The underlying growth in operating income was driven by higher volumes and pricing and a reduction in value added packaging costs. An increase in operating expenses (advertising and selling general and administrative) partially offset these gains. The following table highlights the major factors influencing the change in operating income for the quarter:
 
Change vs.
Prior Period
 
· Underlying change in operating income
14%
 
· Foreign exchange
2%
 
· Estimated net change in trade inventories
(0%)
 
· Absence of Hopland brands
(1%)
 
Reported change in operating income
15%
 

The effective tax rate in the quarter was 31.3% compared to 33.1% reported in the third quarter of fiscal 2012. The decrease in our effective tax rate was primarily driven by an increase in the mix of foreign earnings at lower tax rates.

Reported diluted earnings per share of $0.73 for the quarter increased 18% from the $0.62 earned in the same prior year period. This improvement resulted from the same factors that contributed to the increase in operating income and a lower effective tax rate as discussed above.

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Results of Operations:
Nine Months Fiscal 2013 Compared to Nine Months Fiscal 2012
 
A summary of our operating performance (dollars expressed in millions, except per share amounts) is presented below.
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
January 31,
 
 
2012
2013
Change

Net sales
$
2,813.1

$
2,918.8

4
%
Excise taxes
692.5

729.4

5
%
Cost of sales
747.4

694.1

(7
%)
Gross profit
1,373.2

1,495.3

9
%
Advertising expenses
296.3

309.1

4
%
Selling, general, and administrative expenses
433.9

469.9

8
%
Amortization expense
3.4

—

 
Other expense (income), net
1.3

(4.8
)
 
Operating income
638.3

721.1

13
%
Interest expense, net
21.5

17.1

 
Income before income taxes
616.8

704.0

14
%
Income taxes
208.1

226.0

 
Net income
408.7

478.0

17
%
 
 
 
 
Gross margin
48.8
%
51.2
%
 
Operating margin
22.7
%
24.7
%
 
 
 
 
 
Effective tax rate
33.7
%
32.1
%
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings per share:
 
 
 
Basic
$
1.90

$
2.24

18
%
Diluted
1.89

2.22

18
%

On a reported basis, net sales for the nine months ended January 31, 2013 were $2,918.8, up $105.7 million, or 4%, compared to the same prior year period. Net sales benefited from underlying growth in the business, including higher volumes across most brands and increased pricing. These factors were partially offset by a stronger U.S. dollar and the absence of net sales associated with the Hopland-based wine business, which we sold in April 2011, but whose brands we retained in our portfolio as agency brands through December 31, 2011.
 
Change vs.
Prior Period
 
· Underlying change in net sales
8%
 
· Foreign exchange
(1%)
 
· Absence of Hopland brands
(3%)
 
Reported change in net sales
4%
 

The primary factor contributing to our underlying growth in net sales for the nine months was increased consumer demand for several of our brands, most notably Jack Daniel's in the U.S. Jack Daniel's also experienced strong growth in numerous markets outside the U.S., including Germany, Turkey, Japan, Poland, Central Europe, Australia, Russia, and Latin America. The geographic expansion of Jack Daniel's Tennessee Honey outside the U.S. (primarily Australia and the U.K.) and the continued growth of this brand in the U.S. also contributed to the growth in underlying net sales. Several other brands in our portfolio also contributed to the net sales growth registered through the nine month period including Jack Daniel's RTDs/RTPs, Woodford Reserve, Gentleman Jack, Finlandia, Herradura, New Mix, agency brands, used barrels, and Sonoma-Cutrer. Only a few brands in our portfolio experienced a decline in underlying net sales through January, including the Southern Comfort parent brand. On a geographic basis, several markets including the U.S., Australia, Germany, Mexico, Russia, Turkey, the U.K., and

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Poland registered growth in underlying net sales for the period, more than offsetting declines registered in a few markets including Spain and Italy. Of the 8% underlying change in net sales, 3% was due to price/mix, while the remaining change reflects higher volumes.

The following discussion highlights net sales and depletion5 results in the first nine months for several brands compared to the same prior period:
•
Jack Daniel's Family of Brands depletions grew mid-single digits for the first nine months. Net sales increased ahead of volume growth because of higher pricing, growing high-single digits on a reported basis and low double-digits on a constant currency6 basis for the same period. This growth was driven by a combination of broad-based volumetric and pricing growth of Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey around the world and the growth of Jack Daniel's Tennessee Honey in the U.S. and expansion of the brand to select markets outside the U.S. Gentleman Jack and Jack Daniel's Single Barrel benefited from gains in the U.S. and continued expansion in markets outside the U.S. Jack Daniel's ready-to-drink / ready-to-pour (RTD/RTP) brands net sales on a reported and constant currency basis grew mid-single digits for the first nine months, as gains in some markets were only partially offset by declines in Japan where we launched a line extension a year ago. Volumetric gains continued in several markets, most notably Mexico, Germany, the U.K., and Australia.
•
Finlandia net sales grew low-single digits on a reported basis, while depletions and net sales on a constant currency basis improved in the mid-single digits. The brand's growth was driven largely by volume gains in Russia where it continues to gain market share of the premium vodka category per Nielsen data.
•
Southern Comfort Family of Brands global net sales declined in the mid single-digits during the nine months on both a reported basis and constant currency basis, driven largely by depletion declines for the parent brand internationally. However, overall depletion trends continue to improve for the parent brand in the U.S., the brand's largest market, on the heels of a stronger and more consistent media presence, more effective promotional efforts with the trade, and continued flavor innovation. The positive momentum on the parent brand in the U.S. was offset by lower sales of Southern Comfort Fiery Pepper, which was discontinued, and disappointing declines in some of the brand's key international markets, notably Australia and the U.K.
•
Our super and ultra-premium brands, which include Herradura, Woodford Reserve, Tuaca, Sonoma-Cutrer and Chambord, collectively grew depletions high-single digits and net sales on a both a reported and constant currency basis in the mid-teens.

Cost of sales for the nine months ended January 31, 2013 decreased $53.3 million, or 7%, compared to the same period a year ago. While costs increased with the volumetric growth of our business, that increase was more than offset by cost reductions resulting from the absence of the Hopland-based wine business and foreign exchange. Slightly higher transportation and input costs, including corn and glass, and slightly higher costs related to portfolio sales mix were fully offset by lower VAP expenses. We expect low single-digit increases on transportation, corn and glass to contribute to higher cost of sales over the balance of the year.

The following table highlights the major increases in cost of sales through January:
 
Change vs.
Prior Period
 
· Volumetric growth
3%
 
· Cost increases and reduced VAP
0%
 
· Foreign exchange
(1%)
 
· Absence of Hopland brands
(9%)
 
Reported change in cost of sales
(7%)
 



 
 

5 Depletions are shipments direct to retail or from distributors to wholesale and retail customers, and are commonly regarded in the industry as an approximate measure of consumer demand.
6 Constant currency, a non-GAAP measure, represents reported net sales with the effect of currency movements removed. We calculate constant currency by translating current year results at prior year rates. We present our sales data on a constant dollar basis because exchange rate fluctuations can distort the underlying change in net sales, either positively or negatively.

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Gross profit increased $122.1 million, or 9% for the nine month period. Gross profit was helped by underlying growth in gross profit and an increase in estimated net trade inventory levels and was hurt by a stronger U.S. dollar and the absence of gross profit associated with the Hopland-based wine business. The same factors that drove the increase in underlying net sales for the nine months also contributed to the underlying growth in gross profit for the same period. The following table shows the major factors influencing the change in gross profit for the first nine months of the fiscal year:
 
Change vs.
Prior Period
 
· Underlying change in gross profit
10%
 
· Estimated net change in trade inventories
1%
 
· Absence of Hopland brands
(1%)
 
· Foreign exchange
(1%)
 
Reported change in gross profit
9%
 

The absence of the lower margin Hopland-based wine business, which improved the overall margin 1.2 percentage points, higher pricing, favorable brand/market mix, and a reduction in the costs associated with value added packaging were the primary factors driving gross margin of 51.2% up from 48.8% in the prior year period. No further margin expansion is expected during the fourth quarter, as the continued favorable impact of price increases taken earlier this fiscal year is expected to be offset by slightly higher cost of goods sold during the quarter and the lack of comparative benefit (after December 31, 2012) from the absence of the lower margin Hopland brands.

Advertising expenses increased $12.8 million, or 4%, for the nine month period on a reported basis. A stronger U.S. dollar decreased advertising expense by over $4 million, or 1%, while the absence of spending behind the Hopland-based wine business reduced spending by 2% for the nine month period. Excluding these factors, advertising expense rose 7%. Increased investments were reflected across nearly every brand in our portfolio, including Jack Daniel's, Southern Comfort, Finlandia and our tequila portfolio but most notably behind the introduction of Jack Daniel's Tennessee Honey in select international markets. We continue to strive to optimize our mix of total brand investment by reallocating resources among brands, geographies, and channels to reach consumers around the world effectively and efficiently. We expect to remain flexible in directing our advertising spend and resources to activities that support the business in the current environment while positioning our company for long-term growth.

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $36.0 million, or 8%, compared to the first nine months of last fiscal year. Higher pension expense driven primarily by a reduction in the assumed discount rate, inflation on salary and benefit related expenses, the effect of investments made later in last fiscal year in both our organizational capabilities in emerging markets such as China and the establishment of our own route-to-consumer structure in Turkey, and timing of various spending contributed to the year over year increase in selling, general, and administrative expenses.

Operating income of $721.1 million increased $82.8 million, or 13%, compared to the same period last year. Operating income benefited from the underlying growth in our business and an increase in estimated net trade inventory levels. Operating income was hurt by a reduction in profits associated with the Hopland-based wine business which was sold in April 2011, but whose brands we retained in our portfolio as agency brands through December 31, 2011. The underlying growth in operating income was driven by higher volumes, the benefit of price increases and the reduction in costs associated with value added packages. An increase in operating expenses (advertising expenses plus selling general and administrative expenses) only partially offset these gains. The following table highlights the major factors influencing the change in operating income for the first nine months of the fiscal year:
 
Change vs.
Prior Period
 
· Underlying change in operating income
13%
 
· Estimated net change in trade inventories
1%
 
· Absence of Hopland brands
(1%)
 
Reported change in operating income
13%
 

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Net interest expense decreased by $4.4 million compared to a year ago due principally to the maturing of $250 million 5.2%
5-year bonds, which were repaid with cash on April 1, 2012.

The effective tax rate for the first nine months of the year was 32.1% compared to 33.7% reported in the first nine months of fiscal 2012. The decrease in our effective tax rate was primarily driven by an increase in the mix of foreign earnings at lower tax rates and a reduction in tax expense related to discrete items.

Reported diluted earnings per share of $2.22 for the first nine months increased 18% from the $1.89 earned in the same prior year period. This growth resulted from the same factors that generated operating income growth for the nine month period and was also helped by a reduction of net interest expense, a reduction in the effective tax rate, and fewer shares outstanding.

Full-Year Outlook
 
We have updated our fiscal 2013 earnings outlook to a range of $2.60 to $2.68 from $2.58 to $2.70.  While uncertainty persists in the fragile global economy, we continue to expect high single-digit growth in underlying net sales and low double-digit growth in underlying operating income in fiscal 2013.

Critical Accounting Estimates
 
Our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2012, includes a discussion of our critical accounting estimates, including those related to the valuation of our brand names and trademarks ("brand names").
We assess each of our brand names for impairment at least annually. A brand name is considered impaired if its book value exceeds its estimated fair value. We typically estimate that fair value using the "relief from royalty" method. We also consider market values for similar assets when available. Considerable management judgment is necessary to estimate fair value, including making assumptions about future cash flows, discount rates, and royalty rates.
We assessed several of our brand names for impairment during the quarter ended January 31, 2013. No impairment was indicated for any of the brand names reviewed.
With regard to the Chambord brand name however, as of January 31, 2013, its estimated fair value exceeded its book value of $116.5 million by approximately $9.8 million. While the brand is growing outside the U.S., and we have a number of initiatives that we anticipate will drive growth for the brand globally, we have lower expectations for the brand in the core U.S. market. Future events or even slight changes in the assumptions used to estimate the fair value of this brand name could significantly change its estimated fair value, which could result in a future impairment charge. For example, a 50-basis-point increase in our cost of capital, a key assumption in which a small change can have a significant effect, would decrease the fair value of the Chambord brand name by $13.4 million. This would result in a non-cash brand name impairment charge.
Liquidity and Financial Condition
 
Cash and cash equivalents increased $48.5 million during the nine months ended January 31, 2013, compared to a decline of $72.2 million during the same period last year. Cash provided by operations was $367.2 million, up from $341.7 million for the same period last year, reflecting significantly higher earnings (excluding non-cash items) offset partially by a larger increase in working capital. Cash used for investing activities increased from last year by $18.5 million, primarily reflecting this year's $28.0 million increase in capital expenditures due largely to investments to expand production capacity at Jack Daniel's Distillery and Sonoma-Cutrer, offset partially by last year's $7.2 million acquisition of the Maximus brand name. Cash used for financing activities was $260.9 million during the nine months ended January 31, 2013, down $96.5 million from $357.4 million for the prior year period. The current period amount of $260.9 consists largely of dividend payments of $1,008.0 million (including $854.1 million related to a $4.00 per share special dividend paid in December 2012) offset partially by $747.5 million in proceeds from bonds issued in December 2012 to fund the special dividend payment. The prior period amount of $357.4 million consisted largely of the acquisition of $219.1 million in treasury stock as part of a share repurchase program that expired in November 2011 and dividend payments of $142.0 million. The impact on cash and cash equivalents as a result of exchange rate changes was an increase of $1.6 million for the nine months ended January 31, 2013, compared to a decline of $15.6 million for the same period last year.

As discussed above, we received proceeds of $747.5 million ($750.0 million principal amount, less discounts) from bonds issued in December 2012. The $750.0 million consisted of: $250.0 million of 1.00% notes due in fiscal 2018; $250.0 million of 2.25% notes due in fiscal 2023; and $250.0 million of 3.75% notes due in fiscal 2043.


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We have access to several liquidity sources to supplement our cash flow from operations. Our commercial paper program continues to fund our short-term credit needs. This program is supported by our $800.0 million bank credit facility which was extended to November 20, 2017. We could also satisfy our liquidity needs by drawing on the facility. Under extreme market conditions, one or more participating banks may not be able to fully fund this credit facility. In addition to our cash flow from operations, we believe that the markets for investment-grade bonds and private placements are very accessible and provide a source of long-term financing that could provide for any additional liquidity needs.

We have high credit standards when initiating transactions with counterparties and 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 either liquidate exposures or require the counterparty to post appropriate collateral.

We believe our current liquidity position is strong and sufficient to meet all of our financial commitments for the foreseeable future. Our $800.0 million bank credit facility's quantitative covenant requires our ratio of consolidated EBITDA (as defined in the agreement) to consolidated interest expense to be at least 3 to 1. At January 31, 2013, with a ratio of 35 to 1, we were within the covenant's parameters.

As of January 31, 2013, we had total cash and cash equivalents of $386.8 million. Of this amount, $246.0 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. However, in the unforeseen event that we repatriate cash from those foreign subsidiaries, we would be required to provide for and pay U.S. taxes on permanently repatriated funds.

As announced on January 22, 2013, our Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.255 per share on our Class A and Class B common stock. Stockholders of record on March 8, 2013 will receive the cash dividend on April 1, 2013.

On February 25, 2013, we redeemed, in full, our $250 million 5% notes due in fiscal 2014 by exercising a "make-whole" call provision of the notes. We used a combination of cash and short-term borrowing to fund the redemption. As a result of the redemption, we expect to record in our fourth fiscal quarter approximately $9 million of pre-tax expenses associated with the redemption. We also expect the redemption to lower our pre-tax interest expense by approximately $2 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013 and $8 million in fiscal 2014.

Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

We hold debt obligations and associated fixed-to-floating interest rate swaps, and foreign currency forward and option contracts that are exposed to risk from changes in interest rates, and foreign currency exchange rates, respectively.  Established procedures and internal processes govern the management of these market risks.

Item 4.  Controls and Procedures

The Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and the Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) of Brown-Forman (its principal executive and principal financial officers) have evaluated the effectiveness of the  company's "disclosure controls and procedures" (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”)) as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based on that evaluation, the CEO and CFO concluded that the company's disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the company in the reports filed or submitted by it 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.  There has been no change in the company's internal control over financial reporting during the most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company's internal control over financial reporting.

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PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 6.  Exhibits 
4.1
 
Officers' Certificate dated December 12, 2012, pursuant to the indenture dated April 2, 2007, as supplemented by the supplemental indenture dated as of December 13, 2010 between Brown-Forman Corporation and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee setting forth the terms of the Notes, which is incorporated into this report by reference to Brown-Forman Corporation's Form 8-K filed December 12, 2012.
4.2
 
Form of 1.000% Note due 2018, which is incorporated into this report by reference to Brown-Forman Corporation's Form 8-K filed December 12, 2012.
4.3
 
Form of 2.250% Note due 2023, which is incorporated into this report by reference to Brown-Forman Corporation's Form 8-K filed December 12, 2012.
4.4
 
Form of 3.750% Note due 2043, which is incorporated into this report by reference to Brown-Forman Corporation's Form 8-K filed December 12, 2012.
10.1
 
Letter Agreement between Brown-Forman Corporation and John K. Sirchio dated December 20, 2012, which is incorporated into this report by reference to Brown-Forman Corporation's Form 8-K filed December 20, 2012.
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, 2013, 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, (c) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, and (d) Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.


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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 6, 2013
By:
/s/ Donald C. Berg 
 
 
 
Donald C. Berg
 
 
 
Executive Vice President
and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
(On behalf of the Registrant and
as Principal Financial Officer)

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