5 Takeover Rumors Targeted By Short Sellers

4. Brown-Forman Corporation (NYSE:BF.B)

Short Percentage of Float: 15%

Brown-Forman Corporation (NYSE:BF.B) is one of the takeover rumors targeted by short sellers. The latest development came on April 16, when Pernod Ricard CFO Helene de Tissot said talks with Brown-Forman were still “ongoing,” just a day after Reuters reported that Sazerac had offered about $15 billion, or $32 per share, for the Jack Daniel’s maker.

That keeps Brown-Forman in genuinely active deal territory rather than loose market chatter. It also leaves the company caught between two different transaction paths: Sazerac’s more traditional bid and a possible Pernod combination that Reuters said could involve a significant stock component, potentially allowing the Brown family to keep some influence over the business.

The market still looks cautious about how cleanly any deal could happen. Reuters said Brown-Forman shares closed at $29.57 on April 15, below Sazerac’s indicated offer price, suggesting investors were still weighing hurdles, including the Brown family’s controlling stake. Reuters had also reported on March 26 that Brown-Forman and Pernod were in discussions about a possible merger and said a tie-up could bring significant operational synergies at a time when spirits companies are dealing with softer demand and tariff pressure.

Brown-Forman Corporation (NYSE:BF.B) is a global spirits company whose portfolio includes the Jack Daniel’s Family of Brands, Woodford Reserve, Old Forester, el Jimador, Herradura, Diplomático Rum, Chambord, and Gin Mare.