10-Q

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 October 31, 2014

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   Noo

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   Noo

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 filero
Non-accelerated filer  o  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)	Smaller reporting companyo

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

Yeso     No  þ

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date:  November 30, 2014

Class A Common Stock ($.15 par value, voting)	84,505,212
Class B Common Stock ($.15 par value, nonvoting)	126,920,334

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	16
Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk	27
Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	27
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION		28
Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	28
Item 1A.	Risk Factors	28
Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	28
Item 3.	Defaults Upon Senior Securities	28
Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	28
Item 5.	Other Information	28
Item 6.	Exhibits	29
SIGNATURES		30

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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					Six Months Ended
	October 31,					October 31,
	2013			2014		2013			2014
Net sales	$	1,079		$	1,135	$	1,975		$	2,056
Excise taxes	246			258		455			474
Cost of sales	257			268		467			478
Gross profit	576			609		1,053			1,104
Advertising expenses	111			123		214			223
Selling, general, and administrative expenses	162			178		318			348
Other expense (income), net	(8		)	5		(7		)	10
Operating income	311			303		528			523
Interest income	1			—		1			1
Interest expense	7			7		13			14
Income before income taxes	305			296		516			510
Income taxes	99			88		167			152
Net income	$	206		$	208	$	349		$	358
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	0.97		$	0.98	$	1.63		$	1.68
Diluted	$	0.96		$	0.97	$	1.62		$	1.67
Cash dividends per common share:
Declared	$	—		$	—	$	0.510		$	0.580
Paid	$	0.255		$	0.290	$	0.510		$	0.580

See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

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BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(Unaudited)

(Dollars in millions)

	Three Months Ended						Six Months Ended
	October 31,						October 31,
	2013			2014			2013			2014
Net income	$	206		$	208		$	349		$	358
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Currency translation adjustments	7			(30		)	(5		)	(46		)
Cash flow hedge adjustments	(10		)	22			(4		)	27
Postretirement benefits adjustments	14			12			19			16
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	11			4			10			(3		)
Comprehensive income	$	217		$	212		$	359		$	355

See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

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BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited)

(Dollars in millions)

	April 30, 2014			October 31, 2014
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$	437		$	235
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $9 and $8 at April 30 and October 31, respectively	569			761
Inventories:
Barreled whiskey	504			530
Finished goods	187			232
Work in process	144			150
Raw materials and supplies	47			59
Total inventories	882			971
Current deferred tax assets	33			25
Other current assets	256			307
Total current assets	2,177			2,299
Property, plant and equipment, net	526			556
Goodwill	620			614
Other intangible assets	677			651
Deferred tax assets	18			17
Other assets	85			106
Total assets	$	4,103		$	4,243
Liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	$	474		$	535
Accrued income taxes	71			12
Current deferred tax liabilities	8			7
Short-term borrowings	8			124
Total current liabilities	561			678
Long-term debt	997			998
Deferred tax liabilities	102			113
Accrued pension and other postretirement benefits	244			226
Other liabilities	167			153
Total liabilities	2,071			2,168
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders’ Equity
Common stock:
Class A, voting (85,000,000 shares authorized; 85,000,000 shares issued)	13			13
Class B, nonvoting (400,000,000 shares authorized; 142,313,000 shares issued)	21			21
Additional paid-in capital	81			99
Retained earnings	2,894			3,114
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(188		)	(191		)
Treasury stock, at cost (13,858,000 and 15,899,000 shares at April 30 and October 31, respectively)	(789		)	(981		)
Total stockholders’ equity	2,032			2,075
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	4,103		$	4,243

See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

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BROWN-FORMAN CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

(Dollars in millions)

	Six Months Ended
	October 31,
	2013			2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	349		$	358
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operations:
Depreciation and amortization	24			25
Stock-based compensation expense	6			6
Deferred income taxes	(6		)	(18		)
Changes in assets and liabilities	(172		)	(301		)
Cash provided by operating activities	201			70
Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions to property, plant, and equipment	(60		)	(59		)
Acquisition of brand names and trademarks	—			(3		)
Computer software expenditures	—			(1		)
Cash used for investing activities	(60		)	(63		)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net increase in short-term borrowings	3			117
Repayment of long-term debt	(1		)	—
Net payments related to exercise of stock-based awards	(6		)	(6		)
Excess tax benefits from stock-based awards	9			17
Acquisition of treasury stock	(49		)	(205		)
Dividends paid	(109		)	(124		)
Cash used for financing activities	(153		)	(201		)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	—			(8		)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(12		)	(202		)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	204			437
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	192		$	235

See notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

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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, 2014 (the 2014 Form 10-K). We prepared the accompanying financial statements on a basis that is substantially consistent with the accounting principles applied in our 2014 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.

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued new guidance on the recognition of revenue from contracts with customers. We are currently evaluating the potential impact on our financial statements of the new guidance, which will become effective for us beginning in fiscal 2018.

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 $216 million higher than reported as of April 30, 2014, and $222 million higher than reported as of October 31, 2014. 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 29.9% for the six months endedOctober 31, 2014, is based on an expected tax rate of 29.7% on ordinary income for the full fiscal year, as adjusted for the recognition of net tax expense 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.

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).

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

	Three Months Ended				Six Months Ended
	October 31,				October 31,
(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)	2013		2014		2013		2014
Net income available to common stockholders	$	206	$	208	$	349	$	358
Share data (in thousands):
Basic average common shares outstanding	213,587		212,087		213,634		212,674
Dilutive effect of stock-based awards	1,617		1,482		1,614		1,528
Diluted average common shares outstanding	215,204		213,569		215,248		214,202
Basic earnings per share	$	0.97	$	0.98	$	1.63	$	1.68
Diluted earnings per share	$	0.96	$	0.97	$	1.62	$	1.67

We excluded common stock-based awards for approximately 410,000 shares and 363,000 shares from the calculation of diluted earnings per share for the three months ended October 31, 2013 and 2014, respectively. We excluded common stock-based awards for approximately 412,000 shares and 365,000 shares from the calculation of diluted earnings per share for the six months endedOctober 31, 2013 and 2014, 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 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 October 31, 2014.

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 $45 million (subject to changes in foreign currency exchange rates). Both the fair value and carrying amount of the guaranty are insignificant.

As of October 31, 2014, our actual exposure under the guaranty of the importer's obligation is approximately $11 million. We also have accounts receivable from that importer of approximately $31 million at that date, which we expect to collect in full and according to agreed-upon terms.

Based on the financial support we provide to it, we believe the importer 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.

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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						Six Months Ended
	October 31,						October 31,
(Dollars in millions)	2013			2014			2013			2014
Pension Benefits:
Service cost	$	5		$	5		$	11		$	11
Interest cost	8			8			15			17
Expected return on plan assets	(10		)	(10		)	(20		)	(21		)
Amortization of:
Prior service cost	—			—			—			1
Net actuarial loss	8			6			16			11
Net cost	$	11		$	9		$	22		$	19
Other Postretirement Benefits:
Service cost	$	—		$	—		$	1		$	1
Interest cost	1			1			2			2
Amortization of prior service cost	—			—			—			(1		)
Net cost	$	1		$	1		$	3		$	2

7.    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 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.

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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, 2014:
Assets:
Currency derivatives	$	—	$	7	$	—	$	7
Liabilities:
Currency derivatives	—		7		—		7
Short-term borrowings	—		8		—		8
Long-term debt	—		963		—		963
October 31, 2014:
Assets:
Currency derivatives	—		51		—		51
Liabilities:
Short-term borrowings	—		124		—		124
Long-term debt	—		975		—		975

We determine the fair values of our currency derivatives (forwards and options) 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. 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 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.

8.    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 7. 

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

	April 30, 2014				October 31, 2014
	Carrying		Fair		Carrying		Fair
(Dollars in millions)	Amount		Value		Amount		Value
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	437	$	437	$	235	$	235
Currency derivatives	7		7		51		51
Liabilities:
Currency derivatives	7		7		—		—
Short-term borrowings	8		8		124		124
Long-term debt	997		963		998		975

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9.    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 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 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.

We had outstanding currency derivatives, related primarily to our euro, British pound, Russian ruble, and Australian dollar exposures, with total notional amounts totaling $1,152 million at April 30, 2014 and $1,063 million at October 31, 2014.

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.

From time to time, we manage our interest rate risk with swap contracts. However, no such swaps were outstanding at

April 30, 2014 or October 31, 2014.

The following tables present the amounts affecting our consolidated statements of operations for the periods covered by this report:

		Three Months Ended
		October 31,
(Dollars in millions)	Classification	2013			2014
Currency derivatives designated as cash flow hedge:
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI	n/a	$	(15	)	$	42
Net gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI into income	Net sales	—			6
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Currency derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income	Net sales	(5		)	11
Currency derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income	Other income	—			3
		Six Months Ended
		October 31,
(Dollars in millions)	Classification	2013			2014
Currency derivatives designated as cash flow hedge:
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI	n/a	$	(5	)	$	47
Net gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI into income	Net sales	1			4
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Currency derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income	Net sales	(1		)	8
Currency derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income	Other income	2			(6		)

We expect to reclassify $25 million of deferred net gains recorded in AOCI as of October 31, 2014, 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

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transactions occur. The maximum term of our outstanding derivative contracts was 27 months at April 30, 2014 and 27 months at October 31, 2014.

The following table presents the fair values of our derivative instruments as of April 30, 2014 and October 31, 2014.

(Dollars in millions)	Classification	Fair value of derivatives in a gain position		Fair value of derivatives in a loss position
April 30, 2014:
Designated as cash flow hedges:
Currency derivatives	Other current assets	$	6	$	(6	)
Currency derivatives	Other assets	2		—
Currency derivatives	Accrued expenses	2		(6		)
Currency derivatives	Other liabilities	—		(4		)
Not designated as hedges:
Currency derivatives	Other current assets	5		—
Currency derivatives	Accrued expenses	1		—
October 31, 2014:
Designated as cash flow hedges:
Currency derivatives	Other current assets	33		(2		)
Currency derivatives	Other assets	16		(1		)
Not designated as hedges:
Currency derivatives	Other current assets	6		(1		)

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 on a net basis in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

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 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 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 $6 million at April 30, 2014 and $0 at October 31, 2014.

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.

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(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, 2014:
Derivative assets	$	17		$	(10	)	$	7		$	(2	)	$	5
Derivative liabilities	(17		)	10			(7		)	2			(5		)
October 31, 2014:
Derivative assets	55			(4		)	51			—			51
Derivative liabilities	(4		)	4			—			—			—

No cash collateral was received or pledged related to our derivative contracts as of April 30, 2014 and October 31, 2014.

10.    Short-Term Borrowings

As of October 31, 2014, our short-term borrowings include $119 million of commercial paper, with an average maturity of 6 days and a weighted-average interest rate of 0.15%. No commercial paper was outstanding at April 30, 2014.

11.    Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

The following table summarizes the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI), net of tax, during the three months ended October 31, 2013 and 2014:

	Currency Translation Adjustments			Cash Flow Hedge Adjustments			Postretirement Benefits Adjustments			Total AOCI
Balance at July 31, 2013	$	(2	)	$	6		$	(216	)	$	(212	)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	7			(10		)	14			11
Balance at October 31, 2013	$	5		$	(4	)	$	(202	)	$	(201	)
Balance at July 31, 2014	$	(10	)	$	1		$	(186	)	$	(195	)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	(30		)	22			12			4
Balance at October 31, 2014	$	(40	)	$	23		$	(174	)	$	(191	)

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The following table presents the components of net other comprehensive income (loss) during the three months ended October 31, 2013 and 2014:

	Pre-Tax			Tax			Net
Three Months Ended October 31, 2013
Currency translation adjustments	$	9		$	(2	)	$	7
Cash flow hedge adjustments:
Net gain (loss) on hedging instruments	(15		)	5			(10		)
Reclassification to earnings1	—			—			—
Postretirement benefits adjustments:
Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost	14			(5		)	9
Reclassification to earnings2	8			(3		)	5
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	$	16		$	(5	)	$	11
Three Months Ended October 31, 2014
Currency translation adjustments	$	(32	)	$	2		$	(30	)
Cash flow hedge adjustments:
Net gain (loss) on hedging instruments	42			(16		)	26
Reclassification to earnings1	(6		)	2			(4		)
Postretirement benefits adjustments:
Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost	14			(5		)	9
Reclassification to earnings2	6			(3		)	3
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	$	24		$	(20	)	$	4

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 6).

The following table summarizes the changes in each component of AOCI, net of tax, during the six months endedOctober 31, 2013 and 2014:

	Currency Translation Adjustments			Cash Flow Hedge Adjustments			Postretirement Benefits Adjustments			Total AOCI
Balance at April 30, 2013	$	10		$	—		$	(221	)	$	(211	)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	(5		)	(4		)	19			10
Balance at October 31, 2013	$	5		$	(4	)	$	(202	)	$	(201	)
Balance at April 30, 2014	$	6		$	(4	)	$	(190	)	$	(188	)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	(46		)	27			16			(3		)
Balance at October 31, 2014	$	(40	)	$	23		$	(174	)	$	(191	)

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The following table presents the components of net other comprehensive income (loss) during the six months endedOctober 31, 2013 and 2014:

	Pre-Tax			Tax			Net
Six Months Ended October 31, 2013
Currency translation adjustments	$	(3	)	$	(2	)	$	(5	)
Cash flow hedge adjustments:
Net gain (loss) on hedging instruments	(5		)	2			(3		)
Reclassification to earnings1	(1		)	—			(1		)
Postretirement benefits adjustments:
Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost	14			(5		)	9
Reclassification to earnings2	16			(6		)	10
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	$	21		$	(11	)	$	10
Six Months Ended October 31, 2014
Currency translation adjustments	$	(48	)	$	2		$	(46	)
Cash flow hedge adjustments:
Net gain (loss) on hedging instruments	47			(17		)	30
Reclassification to earnings1	(4		)	1			(3		)
Postretirement benefits adjustments:
Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost	14			(5		)	9
Reclassification to earnings2	12			(5		)	7
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	$	21		$	(24	)	$	(3	)

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 6).

12.    Subsequent Event

As announced on November 20, 2014, our Board of Directors increased our quarterly cash dividend on our Class A and Class B common stock from $0.29 per share to $0.315 per share. Stockholders of record on December 4, 2014, will receive the cash dividend on December 30, 2014.

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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 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 2014 Form 10-K. Note that the results of operations for the six months endedOctober 31, 2014, 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.

Volume and Depletions

When discussing volume, unless otherwise specified, we refer to “depletions,” a term commonly used in the beverage alcohol industry. We define “depletions” as either (a) our shipments directly to retailers or wholesalers or (b) shipments from our third-party distributor customers to retailers and wholesalers. Because we generally record revenues when we ship our products to our customers, 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 third-party 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 assist 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 excise taxes, (d) underlying gross profit, (e) underlying advertising expenses, (f) underlying selling, general and administrative expenses and (g) underlying operating income. To calculate each of these measures, we adjust for (a) foreign currency exchange and (b) if applicable, estimated net changes in distributor inventories. These adjustments are defined 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 clearly denoted 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” 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 to understand better our underlying results and trend.

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 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.

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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,” “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 those described in Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors of our 2014 Form 10-K and those described from time to time in our future reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to:

• Unfavorable global or regional economic conditions, and related low consumer confidence, high unemployment, weak credit or capital markets, sovereign debt defaults, sequestrations, austerity measures, higher interest rates, 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

• Changes in laws, regulations, or policies - especially those that affect the production, importation, marketing, 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 (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

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

• Changes in consumer preferences, consumption, or purchase patterns - particularly away from brown spirits, our premium products, or spirits generally, and our ability to anticipate and react to them; bar, restaurant, travel, or other on-premise declines; 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, input materials, 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

• Insufficient protection of our intellectual property rights

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

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

• Business disruption, decline, or costs related to organizational changes, reductions in workforce, or other cost-cutting measures, or our failure to attract or retain key executive or employee talent

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Summary of Operating Performance
	Three months ended October 31,										Six months ended October 31,
	2013			2014			Reported Change		Underlying Change1		2013			2014			Reported Change		Underlying Change1
Net sales	$	1,079		$	1,135		5	%	7	%	$	1,975		$	2,056		4	%	5	%
Excise taxes	246			258			5	%	5	%	455			474			4	%	4	%
Cost of sales	257			268			4	%	6	%	467			478			3	%	3	%
Gross profit	576			609			6	%	9	%	1,053			1,104			5	%	7	%
Advertising	111			123			11	%	14	%	214			223			4	%	5	%
SG&A	162			178			10	%	12	%	318			348			10	%	10	%
Operating income	$	311		$	303		(3	)%	5	%	$	528		$	523		(1	)%	6	%
Gross margin	53.4		%	53.6		%	0.2pp				53.3		%	53.7		%	0.4pp
Operating margin	28.8		%	26.6		%	(2.2)pp				26.7		%	25.4		%	(1.3)pp
Interest expense, net	$	6		$	7		(14	)%			$	12		$	13		(10	)%
Effective tax rate	32.4		%	29.9		%	(2.5)pp				32.4		%	29.9		%	(2.5)pp
Diluted earnings per share	$	0.96		$	0.97		1	%			$	1.62		$	1.67		3	%

¹See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” above for details on our use of “underlying changes” for net sales, cost of sales, gross profit, advertising expenses, and SG&A expenses, including how these measures are calculated and the reasons why we think this information is useful to readers.

Overview

For the three months ended October 31, 2014, compared to same period last year, we grew underlying net sales 7% (5% reported), increased underlying operating income 5% (reported declined 3%), and delivered a 1% increase in diluted earnings per share.

For the six months ended October 31, 2014, compared to same period last year, we grew underlying net sales 5% (4% reported), increased underlying operating income 6% (reported declined 1%), and delivered a 3% increase in diluted earnings per share. These operating results for the three and six month periods were driven by the continued global net sales growth of our American whiskey portfolio, led by the Jack Daniel's family of brands, partially offset by higher advertising and SG&A expenses, and, in reported operating income, unfavorable foreign exchange.

We maintained our strong financial condition while continuing to invest in our capacity expansion projects and returning $329 million to shareholders during the six months ended October 31, 2014, through dividends and share repurchases ($255 million of which was returned in the second quarter).

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – FISCAL 2015 YEAR-TO-DATE HIGHLIGHTS

Brand Highlights

The following table highlights the worldwide results of our largest brands for the six months ended October 31, 2014, 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 six months ended October 31, 2014 compared to the same period last year.

Major Brands Worldwide Results
	Percentage change versus prior year
Six months ended October 31			Net Sales1
Brand family / brand	Volumes		Reported		Foreign Exchange		Net Chg in Est. Distributor Inventories		Underlying *
Jack Daniel’s Family	5	%	5	%	1	%	—	%	7	%
Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey	2	%	2	%	1	%	1	%	4	%
Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey	32	%	39	%	(1	%)	(6	%)	32	%
Other Jack Daniel’s whiskey brands2	18	%	23	%	1	%	(5	%)	18	%
Jack Daniel’s RTDs/RTP3	5	%	2	%	1	%	—	%	3	%
Southern Comfort	(4	%)	(4	%)	—	%	—	%	(4	%)
Finlandia	(7	%)	(7	%)	3	%	(2	%)	(6	%)
El Jimador	(1	%)	9	%	1	%	(6	%)	4	%
New Mix RTDs	13	%	9	%	3	%	—	%	12	%
Herradura	12	%	20	%	2	%	(3	%)	19	%
Woodford Reserve	30	%	34	%	—	%	(1	%)	33	%
Canadian Mist	(5	%)	(6	%)	—	%	—	%	(6	%)
* 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, 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 RTP products include all RTD line extensions of Jack Daniel’s, such as Jack Daniel’s & Cola, Jack & Ginger, Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails, and the seasonal Jack Daniel’s Winter Jack RTP.

• Jack Daniel’s family of brands grew underlying net sales 7% (reported 5%) and was the most significant contributor to our underlying net sales growth for the six months ended October 31, 2014. Here are details about the performance of the Jack Daniel’s family of brands in the six month period:

◦ Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey (JDTW) grew volumes in emerging markets and the United States, as well as in important developed international markets including France and the United Kingdom, partially offset by declines in Germany and Australia. Improved price/mix for JDTW in the United States and the improved net sales price due to owned distribution in France were important contributors to sales growth in the period.

◦ The continued global expansion of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey (JDTH) contributed significantly to our underlying net sales growth as several recently-launched international markets added volume while existing markets continued to grow, although, in the United States, at a slower rate than in fiscal 2014.

◦ Among our Other Jack Daniel’s whiskey brands, the most significant contributors to underlying net sales growth included Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire, launched earlier this year in three, and then expanded to five, test markets in the United States. After a favorable consumer and trade response to Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire, we plan to roll-out the line extension to the rest of the United States in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015. We believe Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire represents a good opportunity for us to participate further in flavored whiskeys, particularly in cinnamon flavors, which has become the largest flavored whiskey category. Also contributing to net sales growth were Jack Daniel’s Sinatra Select, which benefited from a favorable comparison to a low sales base in the same period last year in the United States, as well as Gentleman Jack and Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel.

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◦ Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Mexico led the growth of Jack Daniel’s RTDs/RTP. Net sales growth in Mexico benefited from volumes of Jack Daniel’s Apple; net sales growth in Canada benefited from volumes on Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails.

• Underlying net sales for Southern Comfort declined 4% (reported declined 4%). Net sales declined in Australia and the United States, partially offset by growth in the United Kingdom and South Africa. In the United States, the brand continued to be affected negatively by competitive pressure from other flavored whiskeys, particularly in the on-premise channel.

• Underlying net sales for Finlandia declined 6% (reported declined 7%) driven predominately by lower volumes in Poland and the United Kingdom. In Poland, volume declined due to high retail and wholesale trade inventories and weaker consumer demand following an excise tax hike and our related price increases in fiscal 2014. In the United Kingdom, volume declined due to weaker consumer demand.

• Underlying net sales of Herradura increased 19% (reported 20%) driven primarily by gains in Mexico and the United States. Net sales growth in Mexico benefited from volumes of a recent ultra-premium line extension, Herradura Ultra.

• Woodford Reserve led the growth of our super- and ultra-premium American whiskeys with underlying net sales growth of 33% (reported 34%). In the United States, Woodford gained share of the super-premium bourbon category and sustained double-digit volume growth. The brand continued its international expansion and increased sales most notably in both France and the United Kingdom.

Market Highlights

The following table provides supplemental information for our largest markets for the six months ended October 31, 2014, 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 six months ended October 31, 2014 compared to the same period last year.

Top 10 Markets1 - Fiscal 2015 Net Sales Growth by Geographic Area
	Percentage change versus prior year period
Six months ended October 31, 2014	Net Sales2
Geographic area	Reported		Foreign Exchange		Net Chg in Est. Distributor Inventories		Underlying *
United States	6	%	—	%	(1	%)	5	%
Europe:
United Kingdom	8	%	—	%	—	%	8	%
Germany	(5	%)	(1	%)	—	%	(6	%)
Poland	(14	%)	2	%	—	%	(12	%)
Russia	(7	%)	5	%	6	%	5	%
France	39	%	(1	%)	14	%	52	%
Turkey	26	%	15	%	—	%	41	%
Rest of Europe	5	%	2	%	(2	%)	5	%
Europe	4	%	2	%	1	%	7	%
Australia	(3	%)	2	%	—	%	(1	%)
Other:
Mexico	(1	%)	3	%	—	%	2	%
Canada	5	%	5	%	1	%	11	%
Rest of Other	7	%	2	%	5	%	14	%
Other	4	%	3	%	2	%	9	%
TOTAL	4	%	1	%	—	%	5	%
* Totals may differ due to rounding

¹Top 10 markets as ranked based on percentage of total Fiscal 2014 Net Sales. See 2014 Form 10-K “Results of Operations - Fiscal 2014 Market Highlights” and “Note 13. 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.

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• United States. Underlying net sales in the United States accelerated in the second quarter, lifting year-to-date underlying net sales growth to 5% (reported 6%). Underlying net sales growth for the six month period was driven by JDTW pricing and volume, and volume growth for Woodford Reserve, JDTH, Korbel Champagne, and el Jimador as well as new line extension Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire and agency brand Korbel Brandy, but was offset slightly by lower volumes for Canadian Mist and Southern Comfort.

• Europe. Underlying net sales growth in the United Kingdom, France, Turkey, and Russia was partially offset by declines in Germany and Poland.

◦ In the United Kingdom, underlying net sales growth, primarily from volume, was driven by JDTW and JDTH partially offset by declines in Finlandia.

◦ In France, net sales growth from pricing was driven by our comparatively higher direct-to-trade prices, which resulted from our fiscal 2014 route-to-consumer change. In addition, net sales growth from volume was driven by JDTW and JDTH, the latter of which was introduced in the second half of our fiscal 2014.

◦ In Turkey, underlying net sales growth, from both volume and price, was driven by JDTW.

◦ In Russia, while underlying net sales grew 5% in the first half, reported net sales decreased 7% due to the negative effect of a much weaker Russian ruble compared to the same period last year and an estimated net reduction in distributor inventories. We believe that there is increasing risk to consumer sentiment and spending in Russia given the deteriorating economic situation there, including slowing GDP growth, inflationary pressure and a weaker currency. In addition, our business faces risks related to uncertainty about how local laws may be interpreted and enforced in Russia.

◦ In Germany, variability in buying patterns contributed to the declines, which were driven primarily by declines in JDTW.

◦ In Poland, the decline in underlying net sales was driven largely by weaker consumer demand for Finlandia following an excise tax increase and our related price increases in fiscal 2014. We believe that higher pricing has weakened consumer demand generally for vodkas, including Finlandia.

• Australia. In Australia, a modest decline in underlying net sales was driven by lower volumes for JDTW as a result of deteriorating consumer demand and increasing competition, nearly offset by volume growth of an agency brand that we began distributing in July 2013.

• Other. Higher consumer demand was the primary driver of growth for our brands in Brazil, Canada, and for our travel retail customers.

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – YEAR-OVER-YEAR PERIOD COMPARISONS

NET SALES
Percentage change versus the prior year period ended October 31	3 Months		6 Months
Change in reported net sales	5	%	4	%
Foreign exchange	3	%	1	%
Estimated net change in distributor inventories	(1	)%	—	%
Change in underlying net sales	7	%	5	%
Change in underlying net sales attributed to:*
Volume	4	%	2	%
Net price/mix	4	%	3	%
* Totals may differ due to rounding

For the three months ended October 31, 2014, net sales were $1,135 million, an increase of 5% or $56 million compared to the same period last year. After adjusting reported results for the negative effect of foreign exchange and the partially offsetting positive effect of an estimated net increase in trade inventories, underlying net sales grew 7%.The negative effect of foreign exchange, after taking into consideration our hedging activities, was driven primarily by weaker European currencies. The most significant factor driving the positive effect on reported results of estimated changes in distributor inventories was an estimated net increase in our U.S. distributors’ inventories.

The primary factors contributing to the 7% growth in underlying net sales for the three months ended October 31, 2014 were:

• Higher sales of JDTW driven by volume growth in the United States, the United Kingdom, and France, as well as across most emerging markets, and by improved price/mix in the United States and improved net sales price due to owned distribution in France.

• Higher volumes for JDTH in the United States, the United Kingdom, and across many markets where the brand was recently introduced, including France and Brazil.

• Higher sales of super- and ultra-premium products, including Woodford Reserve globally, driven by both higher volumes and improved price/mix in the United States, and higher volumes for Herradura tequila in its two largest markets, the United States and Mexico, the latter of which benefited from the launch of Herradura Ultra.

The primary factors partially offsetting underlying net sales growth for the three months ended October 31, 2014 were:

• Lower volumes for the Jack Daniel’s family of brands in Australia, where consumer demand declined.

• Lower volumes for el Jimador and New Mix RTDs in Mexico, due to reduced promotional activity and, for el Jimador, increased prices.

For the six months ended October 31, 2014, net sales were $2,056 million, an increase of 4% or $81 million compared to the same period last year. Underlying net sales grew 5% after adjusting reported results for the negative effect of foreign exchange.The negative effect of foreign exchange, after taking into considering our hedging activities, was driven primarily by weaker European currencies.

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The primary factors contributing to the 5% growth in underlying net sales for the six months ended October 31, 2014 were:

• Higher sales of JDTW driven by volume growth across most emerging markets and the United States, as well as in important developed international markets, including France and the United Kingdom, and by higher pricing in the United States and France.

• Higher volumes for JDTH in the United States and across many markets where the brand was recently introduced, including France, although volumes grew in the United States at a slower rate than in fiscal 2014.

• Higher volumes for New Mix RTDs and Herradura tequila in Mexico, both of which benefited from comparison to the prior-year first quarter when net sales were negatively affected by higher customer inventories.

• Higher sales of Woodford Reserve globally, driven primarily by higher volumes in the United States.

The primary factors partially offsetting underlying net sales growth for the six months ended October 31, 2014 were:

• Lower volumes for JDTW in Germany, due to variability in trade buying patterns, and Australia, due to trade buying patterns and lower consumer demand.

• Lower volumes for Southern Comfort in Australia and the United States, driven by lower consumer demand, particularly in the on-premise channel.

• Lower volumes for Finlandia Vodka driven primarily by declines in Poland, where we believe that higher pricing has weakened consumer demand generally for vodkas following an excise tax increase last fiscal year.

COST OF SALES
Percentage change versus the prior year period ended October 31	3 Months		6 Months
Change in reported cost of sales	4	%	3	%
Foreign exchange	4	%	—	%
Estimated net change in distributor inventories	(2	)%	—	%
Change in underlying cost of sales	6	%	3	%
Change in underlying cost of sales attributed to:*
Volume	4	%	2	%
Cost/mix	3	%	1	%
* Totals may differ due to rounding

Cost of sales for the three months ended October 31, 2014 was $268 million, an increase of $11 million compared to the same period last year. Underlying cost of sales increased 6% after adjusting reported costs for the positive effect of foreign exchange, which more than offset the negative effect of an estimated net reduction in distributor inventories. The increase in underlying cost of sales was driven by higher volume and a shift in product mix into higher cost brands and increased value added packs for the upcoming holiday season.

Cost of sales for the six months ended October 31, 2014 was $478 million, an increase of $11 million compared to the same period last year. Underlying and reported cost of sales increased 3%. The increase in cost of sales was driven primarily by higher volume and a shift in product mix into higher cost brands and increased value added packs for the upcoming holiday season.

GROSS PROFIT
Percentage change versus the prior year period ended October 31	3 Months		6 Months
Change in reported gross profit	6	%	5	%
Foreign exchange	3	%	2	%
Estimated net change in distributor inventories	—	%	—	%
Change in underlying gross profit	9	%	7	%

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Gross profit of $609 million increased $33 million, or 6%, for the three months ended October 31, 2014. Underlying change in gross profit was higher at 9% after adjusting reported results for the negative effect of foreign exchange. The increase resulted from the same factors that contributed to both the increase in underlying net sales partially offset by the smaller increase in underlying cost of sales for quarter.

Gross margin improved to 53.6% for the three months ended October 31, 2014, up approximately 20 basis points from 53.4% in the same period last year. The increase in gross margin was largely due to increased prices and a favorable mix shift.

For the six months ended October 31, 2014, gross profit of $1,104 million increased $51 million, or 5%. Underlying change in gross profit was higher at 7% after adjusting reported results for the negative effect of foreign exchange. The increase resulted from the same factors that contributed to both the increase in underlying net sales partially offset by the smaller increase in underlying cost of sales for six month period.

Gross margin improved to 53.7% for the six months ended October 31, 2014, up approximately 40 basis points from 53.3% in the same period last year. The increase in gross margin was largely due to higher pricing, including the change to owned distribution in France, and a favorable mix shift.

ADVERTISING
Percentage change versus the prior year period ended October 31	3 Months		6 Months
Change in reported advertising	11	%	4	%
Foreign exchange	3	%	1	%
Change in underlying advertising	14	%	5	%

Advertising expenses of $123 million increased $12 million, or 11%, for the three months ended October 31, 2014 compared to the same period last year. Underlying advertising expenses increased 14% after adjusting reported results for favorable foreign exchange. The increase in advertising expenses was driven by higher advertising primarily in the United States, including for JDTW and JDTH, Gentleman Jack, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire in select states, our tequila brands, and our super-premium American whiskeys, particularly Woodford Reserve. JDTW and JDTH globally also contributed to the growth in underlying advertising expenses.

These increases were partially offset by lower spending for Jack Daniel’s RTDs in Australia and Southern Comfort in the United States.

For the six months ended October 31, 2014, advertising expenses of $223 million increased $9 million, or 4%, compared to the same period last year. The underlying change in advertising expenses increased 5% after adjusting reported results for favorable foreign exchange. The increase in advertising expenses was driven by (a) JDTW globally, but particularly in the United States, (b) JDTH in the United States and markets where the brand was launched recently, (c) Gentleman Jack in the United States, (d) Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire in select markets in the United States, (e) our tequila brands in the United States and in Mexico, and (f) our super-premium American whiskeys, particularly Woodford Reserve in the United States.

These increases were partially offset by lower spending for (a) Jack Daniel’s family of brands in Australia, (b) Southern Comfort in the United States, and (c) Finlandia Vodka in many markets.

SELLING, GENERAL, AND ADMINISTRATIVE (SG&A) EXPENSES
Percentage change versus the prior year period ended October 31	3 Months		6 Months
Change in reported SG&A	10	%	10	%
Foreign exchange	2	%	—	%
Change in underlying SG&A	12	%	10	%

SG&A expenses of $178 million increased $16 million, or 10% on a reported basis in the three months ended October 31, 2014, while underlying SG&A growth was 12% after adjusting reported results for the favorable effect of foreign exchange.

In the six months ended October 31, 2014, SG&Aexpenses of $348 million increased $30 million, or 10% on both a reported and underlying basis. For both the three and six months ended October 31, 2014, the most significant contributors to the increase in SG&A compared to the same period last year were (a) inflation on compensation and related expenses and (b)

24

additional consulting and other contract services, both of which include costs related to setting up our distribution company in France and our new employees there.

OPERATING INCOME
Percentage change versus the prior year period ended October 31	3 Months		6 Months
Change in reported operating income	(3	)%	(1	)%
Foreign exchange	10	%	7	%
Estimated net change in distributor inventories	(2	)%	—	%
Change in underlying operating income	5	%	6	%

Operating income of $303 million decreased $8 million, or 3% for the three months ended October 31, 2014 compared to the same period last year. The decrease in operating income included a $13 million deterioration in Other expense (income), net, essentially all of which was due to unfavorable foreign exchange. Underlying operating income growth was 5% after adjusting for the increase in estimated net distributor inventories and the negative effect of foreign exchange, driven primarily by weaker European currencies. The same factors that contributed to the growth in underlying gross profit also contributed to the growth in underlying operating income but were partially offset by the factors that contributed to the growth in Advertising and SG&A expenses.

Operating margin fell about 2 percentage points to 26.6% for the three months ended October 31, 2014 from 28.8% in the same period last year. The same factors that drove the increase in our gross margin benefited our operating margin, offset by higher operating expense growth compared to gross profit growth. Additionally, the revaluation of certain largely euro-denominated net assets further reduced operating income.

For the six months ended October 31, 2014, operating income of $523 million decreased $5 million, or 1% compared to the same period last year. The decrease in operating income included a $17 million deterioration in Other expense (income), net, essentially all of which was due to unfavorable foreign exchange. Underlying operating income growth was 6% after adjusting for the negative effect of foreign exchange, driven primarily by weaker European currencies. The same factors that contributed to the growth in underlying gross profit also contributed to the growth in underlying operating income, but were partially offset by the factors that contributed to the growth in SG&A expenses.

Operating margin fell about 1.3 percentage points to 25.4% for the six months ended October 31, 2014 from 26.7% in the same period last year. The same factors that drove the increase in our gross margin benefited our operating margin, offset by higher operating expense growth compared to gross profit growth. Additionally, the revaluation of certain euro-denominated net assets further reduced operating income.

The effective tax rate in the second quarter of fiscal 2015 was 29.9% compared to 32.4% for the second quarter last year. The second quarter fiscal 2015 effective tax rate includes the amortization ($4 million) of a deferred tax benefit that resulted from the release of certain deferred tax liabilities in connection with an intercompany transfer of assets in 2014. This benefit, along with a reduction in income tax expense related to discrete items, was primarily responsible for the decrease in our effective tax rate.

The effective tax rate for the six months ended October 31, 2014 was 29.9% compared to 32.4% in the same period last year. The effective tax rate for the six months ended October 31, 2014 includes the amortization ($8 million) of a deferred tax benefit that resulted from the release of certain deferred tax liabilities in connection with an intercompany transfer of assets in 2014. This benefit, along with the favorable effect of higher U.S. tax benefits related to domestic manufacturing activities and a reduction in income tax expense related to discrete items, was primarily responsible for the decrease in our effective tax rate.

Diluted earnings per share of $0.97 in the second quarter of fiscal 2015 increased 1% from the $0.96 reported for the same period last year. Diluted earnings per share of $1.67 in the six months ending October 31, 2014 increased 3% from the $1.62 reported for the same period last year. The increases in the three and six month periods resulted from the reduction in the effective tax rate and share repurchases, offset by the same factors that contributed to the decrease in operating income.

Liquidity and Financial Condition

Cash and cash equivalents declined $202 million during the six months ended October 31, 2014, compared to a decline of $12 million during the same period last year. Cash provided by operations during the current period was $70 million, compared to $201 million for the prior year period. The $131 million decline largely reflects a $111 million increase in income tax payments, as well as the timing of normal fluctuations in working capital items. The increase in income tax payments was also

25

largely timing-related, and reflects the effect of an intercompany transfer of assets that occurred during the third quarter of fiscal 2014. The intercompany transaction resulted in the payment of $64 million in taxes during the first half of fiscal 2015. However, the transaction reduced taxes paid in the second half of fiscal 2014 by $38 million and is expected to result in a tax refund of $13 million in fiscal 2016.

Cash used for investing activities increased to $63 million for the six months ended October 31, 2014, little changed from $60 million for the prior year period. Cash used for financing activities was $201 million during the six months ended October 31, 2014, compared to $153 million for the same period last year. The $48 million increase largely reflects a $156 million increase in share repurchases and a $15 million increase in dividends, partially offset by a $114 million increase in short-term borrowings (including the commercial paper discussed below). The impact on cash and cash equivalents as a result of exchange rate changes was a decline of $8 million for the six months ended October 31, 2014, compared to no impact for the same period last year.

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 billion commercial paper program that we regularly use to fund our short-term credit needs and to maintain our access to the capital markets. During the quarter ended October 31, 2014, our commercial paper borrowings averaged $342 million, with an average maturity of 17 days and an average interest rate of 0.16%. During the six months ended October 31, 2014, our commercial paper borrowings averaged $252 million, with an average maturity of 15 days and an average interest rate of 0.16%. No commercial paper was outstanding at April 30, 2014, and $119 million was outstanding at October 31, 2014.

Our commercial paper program is supported by cash and cash equivalent balances and available commitments under our currently undrawn $800 million bank credit facility that matures on November 20, 2018, which also serves as a source of liquidity. Although unlikely, under extreme market conditions, one or more participating banks may not be able to fully fund our credit facility. Further, we believe that the markets for investment-grade bonds and private placements are very accessible sources 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 expect either to liquidate exposures or require the counterparty to post appropriate collateral.

As of October 31, 2014, we had total cash and cash equivalents of $235 million. Of this amount, $191 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 of September 30, 2014, we repurchased 2,909,089 shares for $250 million under the repurchase program that was announced on September 25, 2013. The repurchase program was therefore completed in September 2014. Further information about shares repurchased under this program is presented 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)
October 1, 2013 – April 30, 2014	24,800	661,472	$	68.03	$	69.04	$	47
May 1, 2014 – July 31, 2014	1,601	111,000	$	89.56	$	90.87	$	10
August 1, 2014 – September 30, 2014	21,062	2,089,154	$	90.68	$	91.22	$	193
	47,463	2,861,626	$	78.81	$	86.08	$	250

As announced on October 15, 2014, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $250 million of our outstanding Class A and Class B common shares from October 15, 2014, through October 14, 2015, subject to market and other conditions. Under this program, we may repurchase shares from time to time for cash in open market purchases, block transactions, and 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 October 31, 2014, we have repurchased a total of 2,550 shares under this program for approximately $0.2 million, leaving approximately $249.8 million available for additional repurchases through October 14, 2015.

As announced on November 20, 2014, our Board of Directors increased our quarterly cash dividend on our Class A and Class B common stock from $0.29 per share to $0.315 per share. Stockholders of record on December 4, 2014, will receive the cash dividend on December 30, 2014.

26

We believe our current liquidity position is strong and sufficient to meet all of our future financial commitments. Our $800 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 October 31, 2014, with a ratio of 36 to 1, we were well within the covenant’s parameters.

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, 2014, there have been no material changes to the disclosure on this matter made in our 2014 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 (the “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.

27

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 2014 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 2014 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 October 31, 2014:

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
August 1, 2014 - August 31, 2014	1,143,612	$90.95	1,143,612	$88,400,000
September 1, 2014 - September 30, 2014	966,604	$91.52	966,604	—
October 1, 2014 - October 31, 2014	2,550	$87.94	2,550	$249,800,000
Total	2,112,766	$91.21	2,112,766	—

The 2,112,766 shares purchased during the quarter include 2,110,216 shares acquired as part of the $250 million repurchase program that was announced on September 25, 2013. That repurchase program was completed in September 2014.

The additional 2,550 shares purchased during the quarter were acquired as part of a separate repurchase program that was announced on October 15, 2014. Under this repurchase program, we may repurchase up to $250 million of our outstanding Class A and Class B common shares from October 15, 2014, through October 14, 2015, subject to market and other conditions.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

Item 5. Other Information

None.

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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 October 31, 2014, 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.

29

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:	December 3, 2014	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)

30

EX-31.1

Exhibit 31.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Paul C. Varga, certify that:

1.   I have reviewed this Quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Brown-Forman Corporation;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a)   Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b)   Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c)   Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d)   Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a)   All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b)   Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Dated:	December 3, 2014	By:	/s/ Paul C. Varga
			Paul C. Varga
			Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Company

EX-31.2

Exhibit 31.2

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Jane C. Morreau, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this Quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Brown-Forman Corporation;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b)   Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c)   Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d)   Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a)   All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b)   Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Dated:	December 3, 2014	By:	/s/ Jane C. Morreau
			Jane C. Morreau
			Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

EX-32

Exhibit 32

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Quarterly Report of Brown-Forman Corporation (“the Company”) on Form 10-Q for the period ended October 31, 2014, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), each of the undersigned hereby certifies, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, in the capacity as an officer of the Company, that:

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

Dated:	December 3, 2014
		By:	/s/ Paul C. Varga
			Paul C. Varga
			Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Company
		By:	/s/ Jane C. Morreau
			Jane C. Morreau
			Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to the Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.

This certificate is being furnished solely for purposes of Section 906 and is not being filed as part of the Report.

XML

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014 Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]	Jul. 31, 2014 Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]	Apr. 30, 2014 Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]	Oct. 31, 2013 Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]	Jul. 31, 2013 Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]	Apr. 30, 2013 Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]	Oct. 31, 2014 Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]	Jul. 31, 2014 Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]	Apr. 30, 2014 Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]	Oct. 31, 2013 Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]	Jul. 31, 2013 Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]	Apr. 30, 2013 Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]	Oct. 31, 2014 Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]	Jul. 31, 2014 Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]	Apr. 30, 2014 Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]	Oct. 31, 2013 Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]	Jul. 31, 2013 Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]	Apr. 30, 2013 Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ (195)	$ (212)	$ (188)	$ (211)	$ 23	$ 1	$ (4)	$ (4)	$ 6	$ 0	$ (40)	$ (10)	$ 6	$ 5	$ (2)	$ 10	$ (174)	$ (186)	$ (190)	$ (202)	$ (216)	$ (221)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	(30)	7	(46)	(5)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent	22	(10)	27	(4)
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent	12	14	16	19
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent	4	11	(3)	10
Ending balance	$ (191)	$ (201)	$ (191)	$ (201)	$ 23	$ 1	$ (4)	$ (4)	$ 6	$ 0	$ (40)	$ (10)	$ 6	$ 5	$ (2)	$ 10	$ (174)	$ (186)	$ (190)	$ (202)	$ (216)	$ (221)

XML

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Apr. 30, 2013
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents, Carrying Amount	$ 235	$ 437	$ 192	$ 204
Cash and cash equivalents, Fair Value	235	437
Liabilities:
Short-term borrowings, Carrying Amount	124	8
Short-term borrowings, Fair Value	124	8
Long-term debt, Carrying Amount	998	997
Long-term debt, Fair Value	975	963
Currency derivatives [Member]
Assets:
Currency derivatives, Fair Value	51	7
Liabilities:
Currency derivatives, Fair Value	0	7
Reported Value Measurement [Member]
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents, Carrying Amount	235	437
Liabilities:
Short-term borrowings, Carrying Amount	124	8
Long-term debt, Carrying Amount	998	997
Reported Value Measurement [Member] | Currency derivatives [Member]
Assets:
Currency derivatives, Carrying Amount	51	7
Liabilities:
Currency derivatives, Carrying Amount	$ 0	$ 7

XML

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]

Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]

The following table summarizes the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI), net of tax, during the three months ended October 31, 2013 and 2014:

	Currency Translation Adjustments			Cash Flow Hedge Adjustments			Postretirement Benefits Adjustments			Total AOCI
Balance at July 31, 2013	$	(2	)	$	6		$	(216	)	$	(212	)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	7			(10		)	14			11
Balance at October 31, 2013	$	5		$	(4	)	$	(202	)	$	(201	)
Balance at July 31, 2014	$	(10	)	$	1		$	(186	)	$	(195	)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	(30		)	22			12			4
Balance at October 31, 2014	$	(40	)	$	23		$	(174	)	$	(191	)

The following table summarizes the changes in each component of AOCI, net of tax, during the six months endedOctober 31, 2013 and 2014:

	Currency Translation Adjustments			Cash Flow Hedge Adjustments			Postretirement Benefits Adjustments			Total AOCI
Balance at April 30, 2013	$	10		$	—		$	(221	)	$	(211	)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	(5		)	(4		)	19			10
Balance at October 31, 2013	$	5		$	(4	)	$	(202	)	$	(201	)
Balance at April 30, 2014	$	6		$	(4	)	$	(190	)	$	(188	)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	(46		)	27			16			(3		)
Balance at October 31, 2014	$	(40	)	$	23		$	(174	)	$	(191	)

Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]

The following table presents the components of net other comprehensive income (loss) during the three months ended October 31, 2013 and 2014:

	Pre-Tax			Tax			Net
Three Months Ended October 31, 2013
Currency translation adjustments	$	9		$	(2	)	$	7
Cash flow hedge adjustments:
Net gain (loss) on hedging instruments	(15		)	5			(10		)
Reclassification to earnings1	—			—			—
Postretirement benefits adjustments:
Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost	14			(5		)	9
Reclassification to earnings2	8			(3		)	5
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	$	16		$	(5	)	$	11
Three Months Ended October 31, 2014
Currency translation adjustments	$	(32	)	$	2		$	(30	)
Cash flow hedge adjustments:
Net gain (loss) on hedging instruments	42			(16		)	26
Reclassification to earnings1	(6		)	2			(4		)
Postretirement benefits adjustments:
Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost	14			(5		)	9
Reclassification to earnings2	6			(3		)	3
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	$	24		$	(20	)	$	4

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 6).

The following table presents the components of net other comprehensive income (loss) during the six months endedOctober 31, 2013 and 2014:

	Pre-Tax			Tax			Net
Six Months Ended October 31, 2013
Currency translation adjustments	$	(3	)	$	(2	)	$	(5	)
Cash flow hedge adjustments:
Net gain (loss) on hedging instruments	(5		)	2			(3		)
Reclassification to earnings1	(1		)	—			(1		)
Postretirement benefits adjustments:
Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost	14			(5		)	9
Reclassification to earnings2	16			(6		)	10
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	$	21		$	(11	)	$	10
Six Months Ended October 31, 2014
Currency translation adjustments	$	(48	)	$	2		$	(46	)
Cash flow hedge adjustments:
Net gain (loss) on hedging instruments	47			(17		)	30
Reclassification to earnings1	(4		)	1			(3		)
Postretirement benefits adjustments:
Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost	14			(5		)	9
Reclassification to earnings2	12			(5		)	7
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	$	21		$	(24	)	$	(3	)

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 6).

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Derivative Financial Instruments Offsetting Derivative Assets and Liabilities (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014
Offsetting Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]
Gross Amount of Derivative Assets	$ 55	$ 17
Gross Amount of Derivative Liabilities Offset Against Derivative Assets in Balance Sheet	(4)	(10)
Net Amount of Derivative Assets Presented in Balance Sheet	51	7
Gross Amount of Derivative Liabilities Not Offset Against Derivative Assets in Balance Sheet	0	(2)
Net Amount of Derivative Assets	51	5
Gross Amount of Derivative Liabilities	(4)	(17)
Gross Amount of Derivative Assets Offset Against Derivative Liabilities in Balance Sheet	4	10
Net Amount of Derivative Liabilities Presented in Balance Sheet	0	7
Gross Amount of Derivative Assets Not Offset Against Derivative Liabilities in Balance Sheet	0	2
Net Amount of Derivative Liabilities	$ 0	$ 5

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Income Taxes

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Taxes

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 29.9% for the six months endedOctober 31, 2014, is based on an expected tax rate of 29.7% on ordinary income for the full fiscal year, as adjusted for the recognition of net tax expense 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.

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Earnings Per Share (Details Textual) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share (Textual) [Abstract]
Common stock-based awards excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share	363	410	365	412

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Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $) In Millions, except Share data in Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Basic and diluted earnings per share
Net income available to common stockholders	$ 208	$ 206	$ 358	$ 349
Share data (in thousands):
Basic average common shares outstanding	212,087	213,587	212,674	213,634
Dilutive effect of stock-based awards	1,482	1,617	1,528	1,614
Diluted average common shares outstanding	213,569	215,204	214,202	215,248
Basic earnings per share (dollars per share)	$ 0.98	$ 0.97	$ 1.68	$ 1.63
Diluted earnings per share (dollars per share)	$ 0.97	$ 0.96	$ 1.67	$ 1.62

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Guarantee (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Accounts receivable	$ 761	$ 569
Credit Concentration Risk [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Guaranty exposure, maximum	45
Guaranty exposure, current	11
Accounts receivable	$ 31

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Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Service cost	$ 5	$ 5	$ 11	$ 11
Interest cost	8	8	17	15
Expected return on plan assets	(10)	(10)	(21)	(20)
Amortization of:
Prior service cost	0	0	1	0
Net actuarial loss	6	8	11	16
Net cost	9	11	19	22
Other Postretirement Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Service cost	0	0	1	1
Interest cost	1	1	2	2
Amortization of:
Prior service cost	0	0	(1)	0
Net cost	$ 1	$ 1	$ 2	$ 3

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Inventories

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]

Inventories

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 $216 million higher than reported as of April 30, 2014, and $222 million higher than reported as of October 31, 2014. Changes in the LIFO valuation reserve for interim periods are based on a proportionate allocation of the estimated change for the entire fiscal year.

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Fair Value Measurements (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract]
Short-term borrowings	$ 124	$ 8
Long-term debt	975	963
Currency derivatives [Member]
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract]
Currency derivatives	0	7
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract]
Short-term borrowings	124	8
Long-term debt	975	963
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Currency derivatives [Member]
Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract]
Currency derivatives	51	7
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract]
Currency derivatives		7
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract]
Short-term borrowings	0	0
Long-term debt	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Currency derivatives [Member]
Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract]
Currency derivatives	0	0
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract]
Currency derivatives		0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract]
Short-term borrowings	124	8
Long-term debt	975	963
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Currency derivatives [Member]
Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract]
Currency derivatives	51	7
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract]
Currency derivatives		7
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract]
Short-term borrowings	0	0
Long-term debt	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Currency derivatives [Member]
Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract]
Currency derivatives	0	0
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract]
Currency derivatives		$ 0

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Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Schedule of Other Comprehensive Income (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended				6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013		Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax	$ (32)		$ 9		$ (48)		$ (3)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax	2		(2)		2		(2)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	(30)		7		(46)		(5)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax	42		(15)		47		(5)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Tax	(16)		5		(17)		2
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax	26		(10)		30		(3)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, before Tax	(6)	[1]	0	[1]	(4)	[1]	(1)	[1]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Tax	2	[1]	0	[1]	1	[1]	0	[1]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax	(4)	[1]	0	[1]	(3)	[1]	(1)	[1]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) and Net Prior Service Credit (Cost) Arising During Period, before Tax	14		14		14		14
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) and Net Prior Service Credit (Cost) Arising During Period, Tax	(5)		(5)		(5)		(5)
Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plan Actuarial Gain Loss And Net Prior Service Costs Credit Arising During Period Net Of Tax	9		9		9		9
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Gain (Loss) and Net Prior Service Credit (Cost), before Tax	6	[2]	8	[2]	12	[2]	16	[2]
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net (Gain) Loss and Prior Service (Credit) Cost, Tax	(3)	[2]	(3)	[2]	(5)	[2]	(6)	[2]
Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification Of Actuarial Gain Loss And Prior Service Cost Net Of Tax	3	[2]	5	[2]	7	[2]	10	[2]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent	24		16		21		21
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent	(20)		(5)		(24)		(11)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	$ 4		$ 11		$ (3)		$ 10

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

[2] 2Pre-tax amount is a component of pension and other postretirement benefit expense (as shown in Note 6).

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Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) (USD $) In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 1,135	$ 1,079	$ 2,056	$ 1,975
Excise taxes	258	246	474	455
Cost of sales	268	257	478	467
Gross profit	609	576	1,104	1,053
Advertising expenses	123	111	223	214
Selling, general, and administrative expenses	178	162	348	318
Other expense (income), net	5	(8)	10	(7)
Operating income	303	311	523	528
Interest income	0	1	1	1
Interest expense	7	7	14	13
Income before income taxes	296	305	510	516
Income taxes	88	99	152	167
Net income	$ 208	$ 206	$ 358	$ 349
Earnings per share:
Basic (dollars per share)	$ 0.98	$ 0.97	$ 1.68	$ 1.63
Diluted (dollars per share)	$ 0.97	$ 0.96	$ 1.67	$ 1.62
Cash dividends per common share:
Declared (dollars per share)	$ 0.000	$ 0.000	$ 0.580	$ 0.510
Paid (dollars per share)	$ 0.290	$ 0.255	$ 0.580	$ 0.510

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Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$ 358	$ 349
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operations:
Depreciation and amortization	25	24
Stock-based compensation expense	6	6
Deferred income taxes	(18)	(6)
Changes in assets and liabilities	(301)	(172)
Cash provided by operating activities	70	201
Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions to property, plant, and equipment	(59)	(60)
Acquisition of brand names and trademarks	(3)	0
Computer software expenditures	(1)	0
Cash used for investing activities	(63)	(60)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net increase in short-term borrowings	117	3
Repayment of long-term debt	0	(1)
Net payments related to exercise of stock-based awards	(6)	(6)
Excess tax benefits from stock-based awards	17	9
Acquisition of treasury stock	(205)	(49)
Dividends paid	(124)	(109)
Cash used for financing activities	(201)	(153)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(8)	0
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(202)	(12)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	437	204
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$ 235	$ 192

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Details 1) (Currency derivatives [Member], USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014
Fair value of derivatives in a gain position [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Other Current Assets [Member]
Fair values of derivative instruments
Fair value of derivatives in a gain (loss) position	$ 33	$ 6
Fair value of derivatives in a gain position [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Other Assets [Member]
Fair values of derivative instruments
Fair value of derivatives in a gain (loss) position	16	2
Fair value of derivatives in a gain position [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Accrued Expenses [Member]
Fair values of derivative instruments
Fair value of derivatives in a gain (loss) position		2
Fair value of derivatives in a gain position [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Other Liabilities [Member]
Fair values of derivative instruments
Fair value of derivatives in a gain (loss) position		0
Fair value of derivatives in a gain position [Member] | Not designated as hedges [Member] | Other Current Assets [Member]
Fair values of derivative instruments
Fair value of derivatives in a gain (loss) position	6	5
Fair value of derivatives in a gain position [Member] | Not designated as hedges [Member] | Accrued Expenses [Member]
Fair values of derivative instruments
Fair value of derivatives in a gain (loss) position		1
Fair value of derivatives in a loss position [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Other Current Assets [Member]
Fair values of derivative instruments
Fair value of derivatives in a gain (loss) position	(2)	(6)
Fair value of derivatives in a loss position [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Other Assets [Member]
Fair values of derivative instruments
Fair value of derivatives in a gain (loss) position	(1)	0
Fair value of derivatives in a loss position [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Accrued Expenses [Member]
Fair values of derivative instruments
Fair value of derivatives in a gain (loss) position		(6)
Fair value of derivatives in a loss position [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Other Liabilities [Member]
Fair values of derivative instruments
Fair value of derivatives in a gain (loss) position		(4)
Fair value of derivatives in a loss position [Member] | Not designated as hedges [Member] | Other Current Assets [Member]
Fair values of derivative instruments
Fair value of derivatives in a gain (loss) position	(1)	0
Fair value of derivatives in a loss position [Member] | Not designated as hedges [Member] | Accrued Expenses [Member]
Fair values of derivative instruments
Fair value of derivatives in a gain (loss) position		$ 0

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Fair Value Measurements (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]

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, 2014:
Assets:
Currency derivatives	$	—	$	7	$	—	$	7
Liabilities:
Currency derivatives	—		7		—		7
Short-term borrowings	—		8		—		8
Long-term debt	—		963		—		963
October 31, 2014:
Assets:
Currency derivatives	—		51		—		51
Liabilities:
Short-term borrowings	—		124		—		124
Long-term debt	—		975		—		975

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Details Textual) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative, Notional Amount	$ 1,063	$ 1,152
Derivative Financial Instruments (Textual) [Abstract]
Net losses recorded in AOCI expected to reclassify to earnings during the next 12 months	(25)
Maximum term of outstanding derivative contracts	27 months	27 months
Aggregate fair value of derivatives with creditworthiness requirements that were in a net liability position	$ 0	$ 6

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block]

The following tables present the amounts affecting our consolidated statements of operations for the periods covered by this report:

		Three Months Ended
		October 31,
(Dollars in millions)	Classification	2013			2014
Currency derivatives designated as cash flow hedge:
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI	n/a	$	(15	)	$	42
Net gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI into income	Net sales	—			6
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Currency derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income	Net sales	(5		)	11
Currency derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income	Other income	—			3
		Six Months Ended
		October 31,
(Dollars in millions)	Classification	2013			2014
Currency derivatives designated as cash flow hedge:
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI	n/a	$	(5	)	$	47
Net gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI into income	Net sales	1			4
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Currency derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income	Net sales	(1		)	8
Currency derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income	Other income	2			(6		)

Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block]

The following table presents the fair values of our derivative instruments as of April 30, 2014 and October 31, 2014.

(Dollars in millions)	Classification	Fair value of derivatives in a gain position		Fair value of derivatives in a loss position
April 30, 2014:
Designated as cash flow hedges:
Currency derivatives	Other current assets	$	6	$	(6	)
Currency derivatives	Other assets	2		—
Currency derivatives	Accrued expenses	2		(6		)
Currency derivatives	Other liabilities	—		(4		)
Not designated as hedges:
Currency derivatives	Other current assets	5		—
Currency derivatives	Accrued expenses	1		—
October 31, 2014:
Designated as cash flow hedges:
Currency derivatives	Other current assets	33		(2		)
Currency derivatives	Other assets	16		(1		)
Not designated as hedges:
Currency derivatives	Other current assets	6		(1		)

Offsetting Derivative Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]

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, 2014:
Derivative assets	$	17		$	(10	)	$	7		$	(2	)	$	5
Derivative liabilities	(17		)	10			(7		)	2			(5		)
October 31, 2014:
Derivative assets	55			(4		)	51			—			51
Derivative liabilities	(4		)	4			—			—			—

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Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]

Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

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, 2014 (the 2014 Form 10-K). We prepared the accompanying financial statements on a basis that is substantially consistent with the accounting principles applied in our 2014 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.

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued new guidance on the recognition of revenue from contracts with customers. We are currently evaluating the potential impact on our financial statements of the new guidance, which will become effective for us beginning in fiscal 2018.

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Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 208	$ 206	$ 358	$ 349
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Currency translation adjustments	(30)	7	(46)	(5)
Cash flow hedge adjustments	22	(10)	27	(4)
Postretirement benefits adjustments	12	14	16	19
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	4	11	(3)	10
Comprehensive income	$ 212	$ 217	$ 355	$ 359

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Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

The following table summarizes the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI), net of tax, during the three months ended October 31, 2013 and 2014:

	Currency Translation Adjustments			Cash Flow Hedge Adjustments			Postretirement Benefits Adjustments			Total AOCI
Balance at July 31, 2013	$	(2	)	$	6		$	(216	)	$	(212	)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	7			(10		)	14			11
Balance at October 31, 2013	$	5		$	(4	)	$	(202	)	$	(201	)
Balance at July 31, 2014	$	(10	)	$	1		$	(186	)	$	(195	)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	(30		)	22			12			4
Balance at October 31, 2014	$	(40	)	$	23		$	(174	)	$	(191	)

The following table presents the components of net other comprehensive income (loss) during the three months ended October 31, 2013 and 2014:

	Pre-Tax			Tax			Net
Three Months Ended October 31, 2013
Currency translation adjustments	$	9		$	(2	)	$	7
Cash flow hedge adjustments:
Net gain (loss) on hedging instruments	(15		)	5			(10		)
Reclassification to earnings1	—			—			—
Postretirement benefits adjustments:
Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost	14			(5		)	9
Reclassification to earnings2	8			(3		)	5
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	$	16		$	(5	)	$	11
Three Months Ended October 31, 2014
Currency translation adjustments	$	(32	)	$	2		$	(30	)
Cash flow hedge adjustments:
Net gain (loss) on hedging instruments	42			(16		)	26
Reclassification to earnings1	(6		)	2			(4		)
Postretirement benefits adjustments:
Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost	14			(5		)	9
Reclassification to earnings2	6			(3		)	3
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	$	24		$	(20	)	$	4

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 6).

The following table summarizes the changes in each component of AOCI, net of tax, during the six months endedOctober 31, 2013 and 2014:

	Currency Translation Adjustments			Cash Flow Hedge Adjustments			Postretirement Benefits Adjustments			Total AOCI
Balance at April 30, 2013	$	10		$	—		$	(221	)	$	(211	)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	(5		)	(4		)	19			10
Balance at October 31, 2013	$	5		$	(4	)	$	(202	)	$	(201	)
Balance at April 30, 2014	$	6		$	(4	)	$	(190	)	$	(188	)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	(46		)	27			16			(3		)
Balance at October 31, 2014	$	(40	)	$	23		$	(174	)	$	(191	)

The following table presents the components of net other comprehensive income (loss) during the six months endedOctober 31, 2013 and 2014:

	Pre-Tax			Tax			Net
Six Months Ended October 31, 2013
Currency translation adjustments	$	(3	)	$	(2	)	$	(5	)
Cash flow hedge adjustments:
Net gain (loss) on hedging instruments	(5		)	2			(3		)
Reclassification to earnings1	(1		)	—			(1		)
Postretirement benefits adjustments:
Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost	14			(5		)	9
Reclassification to earnings2	16			(6		)	10
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	$	21		$	(11	)	$	10
Six Months Ended October 31, 2014
Currency translation adjustments	$	(48	)	$	2		$	(46	)
Cash flow hedge adjustments:
Net gain (loss) on hedging instruments	47			(17		)	30
Reclassification to earnings1	(4		)	1			(3		)
Postretirement benefits adjustments:
Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost	14			(5		)	9
Reclassification to earnings2	12			(5		)	7
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	$	21		$	(24	)	$	(3	)

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 6).

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Document and Entity Information	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Nov. 30, 2014 Common stock, Class A, voting [Member]	Nov. 30, 2014 Common stock, Class B, nonvoting [Member]
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	BROWN FORMAN CORP
Entity Central Index Key	0000014693
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Oct. 31, 2014
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q2
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--04-30
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		84,505,212	126,920,334

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Subsequent Event (Notes)

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Subsequent Event [Abstract]

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

As announced on November 20, 2014, our Board of Directors increased our quarterly cash dividend on our Class A and Class B common stock from $0.29 per share to $0.315 per share. Stockholders of record on December 4, 2014, will receive the cash dividend on December 30, 2014.

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Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 235	$ 437
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $9 and $8 at April 30 and October 31, respectively	761	569
Inventories:
Barreled whiskey	530	504
Finished goods	232	187
Work in process	150	144
Raw materials and supplies	59	47
Total inventories	971	882
Current deferred tax assets	25	33
Other current assets	307	256
Total current assets	2,299	2,177
Property, plant, and equipment, net	556	526
Goodwill	614	620
Other intangible assets	651	677
Deferred tax assets	17	18
Other assets	106	85
Total assets	4,243	4,103
Liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	535	474
Accrued income taxes	12	71
Current deferred tax liabilities	7	8
Short-term borrowings	124	8
Total current liabilities	678	561
Long-term debt	998	997
Deferred tax liabilities	113	102
Accrued pension and other postretirement benefits	226	244
Other liabilities	153	167
Total liabilities	2,168	2,071
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders' Equity
Additional paid-in capital	99	81
Retained earnings	3,114	2,894
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(191)	(188)
Treasury stock, at cost (13,858,000 and 15,899,000 shares at April 30 and October 31, respectively)	(981)	(789)
Total stockholders' equity	2,075	2,032
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	4,243	4,103
Common stock, Class A, voting [Member]
Stockholders' Equity
Common stock	13	13
Common stock, Class B, nonvoting [Member]
Stockholders' Equity
Common stock	$ 21	$ 21

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Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits

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						Six Months Ended
	October 31,						October 31,
(Dollars in millions)	2013			2014			2013			2014
Pension Benefits:
Service cost	$	5		$	5		$	11		$	11
Interest cost	8			8			15			17
Expected return on plan assets	(10		)	(10		)	(20		)	(21		)
Amortization of:
Prior service cost	—			—			—			1
Net actuarial loss	8			6			16			11
Net cost	$	11		$	9		$	22		$	19
Other Postretirement Benefits:
Service cost	$	—		$	—		$	1		$	1
Interest cost	1			1			2			2
Amortization of prior service cost	—			—			—			(1		)
Net cost	$	1		$	1		$	3		$	2

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Contingencies

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Commitments and Contingencies

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 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 October 31, 2014.

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 $45 million (subject to changes in foreign currency exchange rates). Both the fair value and carrying amount of the guaranty are insignificant.

As of October 31, 2014, our actual exposure under the guaranty of the importer's obligation is approximately $11 million. We also have accounts receivable from that importer of approximately $31 million at that date, which we expect to collect in full and according to agreed-upon terms.

Based on the financial support we provide to it, we believe the importer 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.

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Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Abstract]

Comparison of the fair values and carrying amounts of financial instrument

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 7. 

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

	April 30, 2014				October 31, 2014
	Carrying		Fair		Carrying		Fair
(Dollars in millions)	Amount		Value		Amount		Value
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	437	$	437	$	235	$	235
Currency derivatives	7		7		51		51
Liabilities:
Currency derivatives	7		7		—		—
Short-term borrowings	8		8		124		124
Long-term debt	997		963		998		975

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Policies)

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Derivative Financial Instruments [Abstract]

Derivatives, Offsetting Fair Value Amounts, Policy [Policy Text Block]

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

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Derivative Financial Instruments

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]

Derivative Financial Instruments

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 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 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.

We had outstanding currency derivatives, related primarily to our euro, British pound, Russian ruble, and Australian dollar exposures, with total notional amounts totaling $1,152 million at April 30, 2014 and $1,063 million at October 31, 2014.

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.

From time to time, we manage our interest rate risk with swap contracts. However, no such swaps were outstanding at

April 30, 2014 or October 31, 2014.

The following tables present the amounts affecting our consolidated statements of operations for the periods covered by this report:

		Three Months Ended
		October 31,
(Dollars in millions)	Classification	2013			2014
Currency derivatives designated as cash flow hedge:
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI	n/a	$	(15	)	$	42
Net gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI into income	Net sales	—			6
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Currency derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income	Net sales	(5		)	11
Currency derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income	Other income	—			3
		Six Months Ended
		October 31,
(Dollars in millions)	Classification	2013			2014
Currency derivatives designated as cash flow hedge:
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI	n/a	$	(5	)	$	47
Net gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI into income	Net sales	1			4
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Currency derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income	Net sales	(1		)	8
Currency derivatives – net gain (loss) recognized in income	Other income	2			(6		)

We expect to reclassify $25 million of deferred net gains recorded in AOCI as of October 31, 2014, 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 outstanding derivative contracts was 27 months at April 30, 2014 and 27 months at October 31, 2014.

The following table presents the fair values of our derivative instruments as of April 30, 2014 and October 31, 2014.

(Dollars in millions)	Classification	Fair value of derivatives in a gain position		Fair value of derivatives in a loss position
April 30, 2014:
Designated as cash flow hedges:
Currency derivatives	Other current assets	$	6	$	(6	)
Currency derivatives	Other assets	2		—
Currency derivatives	Accrued expenses	2		(6		)
Currency derivatives	Other liabilities	—		(4		)
Not designated as hedges:
Currency derivatives	Other current assets	5		—
Currency derivatives	Accrued expenses	1		—
October 31, 2014:
Designated as cash flow hedges:
Currency derivatives	Other current assets	33		(2		)
Currency derivatives	Other assets	16		(1		)
Not designated as hedges:
Currency derivatives	Other current assets	6		(1		)

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 on a net basis in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

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 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 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 $6 million at April 30, 2014 and $0 at October 31, 2014.

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, 2014:
Derivative assets	$	17		$	(10	)	$	7		$	(2	)	$	5
Derivative liabilities	(17		)	10			(7		)	2			(5		)
October 31, 2014:
Derivative assets	55			(4		)	51			—			51
Derivative liabilities	(4		)	4			—			—			—

No cash collateral was received or pledged related to our derivative contracts as of April 30, 2014 and October 31, 2014.

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Fair Value Measurements

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value Measurements

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 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 or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis:

(Dollars in millions)	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
April 30, 2014:
Assets:
Currency derivatives	$	—	$	7	$	—	$	7
Liabilities:
Currency derivatives	—		7		—		7
Short-term borrowings	—		8		—		8
Long-term debt	—		963		—		963
October 31, 2014:
Assets:
Currency derivatives	—		51		—		51
Liabilities:
Short-term borrowings	—		124		—		124
Long-term debt	—		975		—		975

We determine the fair values of our currency derivatives (forwards and options) 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. 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 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.

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Fair Value of Financial Instruments

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Abstract]

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

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 7. 

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

	April 30, 2014				October 31, 2014
	Carrying		Fair		Carrying		Fair
(Dollars in millions)	Amount		Value		Amount		Value
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	437	$	437	$	235	$	235
Currency derivatives	7		7		51		51
Liabilities:
Currency derivatives	7		7		—		—
Short-term borrowings	8		8		124		124
Long-term debt	997		963		998		975

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Short-Term Borrowings (Notes)

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Short-term Debt [Abstract]

Short-term Debt [Text Block]

Short-Term Borrowings

As of October 31, 2014, our short-term borrowings include $119 million of commercial paper, with an average maturity of 6 days and a weighted-average interest rate of 0.15%. No commercial paper was outstanding at April 30, 2014.

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Details) (Currency derivatives [Member], USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivative instrument gains and losses affecting statements of operations
Net gain (loss) recognized in AOCI	$ 42	$ (15)	$ 47	$ (5)
Net Sales [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivative instrument gains and losses affecting statements of operations
Net gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI into income	6	0	4	1
Net Sales [Member] | Not designated as hedges [Member]
Derivative instrument gains and losses affecting statements of operations
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments recognized in income	11	(5)	8	(1)
Other Income [Member] | Not designated as hedges [Member]
Derivative instrument gains and losses affecting statements of operations
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments recognized in income	$ 3	$ 0	$ (6)	$ 2

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Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block]

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						Six Months Ended
	October 31,						October 31,
(Dollars in millions)	2013			2014			2013			2014
Pension Benefits:
Service cost	$	5		$	5		$	11		$	11
Interest cost	8			8			15			17
Expected return on plan assets	(10		)	(10		)	(20		)	(21		)
Amortization of:
Prior service cost	—			—			—			1
Net actuarial loss	8			6			16			11
Net cost	$	11		$	9		$	22		$	19
Other Postretirement Benefits:
Service cost	$	—		$	—		$	1		$	1
Interest cost	1			1			2			2
Amortization of prior service cost	—			—			—			(1		)
Net cost	$	1		$	1		$	3		$	2

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Inventories (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014
Inventories (Textual) [Abstract]
Excess of current costs over stated LIFO value	$ 222	$ 216

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Subsequent Event (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended		0 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Nov. 20, 2014 Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid	$ 0.290	$ 0.255	$ 0.580	$ 0.510	$ 0.315
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared	$ 0.000	$ 0.000	$ 0.580	$ 0.510

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Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (Unaudited) (USD $) In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014
Allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 8	$ 9
Treasury stock, shares	15,899,000	13,858,000
Common stock, Class A, voting [Member]
Common stock, shares authorized	85,000,000	85,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	85,000,000	85,000,000
Common stock, Class B, nonvoting [Member]
Common stock, shares authorized	400,000,000	400,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	142,313,000	142,313,000

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Earnings Per Share

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share

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).

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

	Three Months Ended				Six Months Ended
	October 31,				October 31,
(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)	2013		2014		2013		2014
Net income available to common stockholders	$	206	$	208	$	349	$	358
Share data (in thousands):
Basic average common shares outstanding	213,587		212,087		213,634		212,674
Dilutive effect of stock-based awards	1,617		1,482		1,614		1,528
Diluted average common shares outstanding	215,204		213,569		215,248		214,202
Basic earnings per share	$	0.97	$	0.98	$	1.63	$	1.68
Diluted earnings per share	$	0.96	$	0.97	$	1.62	$	1.67

We excluded common stock-based awards for approximately 410,000 shares and 363,000 shares from the calculation of diluted earnings per share for the three months ended October 31, 2013 and 2014, respectively. We excluded common stock-based awards for approximately 412,000 shares and 365,000 shares from the calculation of diluted earnings per share for the six months endedOctober 31, 2013 and 2014, respectively. We excluded those awards because they were not dilutive for those periods under the treasury stock method.

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Income Taxes (Details)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Income Taxes (Textual) [Abstract]
Effective tax rate	29.90%
Expected tax rate	29.70%

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Short-Term Borrowings (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014
Short-term Debt [Abstract]
Commercial Paper	$ 119	$ 0
Commercial Paper Borrowings, Average Remaining Maturity	6 days
Commercial Paper Borrowings, Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.15%

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Earnings Per Share (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2014

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]

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

	Three Months Ended				Six Months Ended
	October 31,				October 31,
(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts)	2013		2014		2013		2014
Net income available to common stockholders	$	206	$	208	$	349	$	358
Share data (in thousands):
Basic average common shares outstanding	213,587		212,087		213,634		212,674
Dilutive effect of stock-based awards	1,617		1,482		1,614		1,528
Diluted average common shares outstanding	215,204		213,569		215,248		214,202
Basic earnings per share	$	0.97	$	0.98	$	1.63	$	1.68
Diluted earnings per share	$	0.96	$	0.97	$	1.62	$	1.67