JBS: Batista Brothers Lead Again as Meat Giant Grows and Faces Scrutiny

Brazil’s JBS S.A., the world’s largest meat producer, has put Wesley Batista back as chairman and his brother Joesley as vice-chairman of its board.

This decision came after a shareholder vote where most supported the brothers, who control the company through their family business, J&F Investimentos.

Both brothers returned to leadership after serving prison sentences in 2017 for their roles in a major bribery scandal. Their comeback has drawn attention, especially as JBS pushes to expand its business in the United States by listing shares on the New York Stock Exchange.

Many investors and governance experts in the U.S. have raised concerns about the family’s control and the company’s history. JBS’s financial results show why this leadership matters.

In the first quarter of 2025, JBS reported $19.5 billion in sales, up 8.5% from the previous year. Net profit reached $500 million, a 50% increase. The company’s earnings before interest, taxes, and other costs stood at $1.5 billion, with a margin of 7.8%.

In Brazilian currency, JBS reported R$114.1 billion in revenue and R$2.9 billion in profit, both much higher than last year. JBS continues to grow worldwide, especially in the U.S. and Brazil, where its chicken and pork businesses set new records for profit margins.

The company employs over 260,000 people and reported $78.7 billion in annual revenue for the year ending March 2025. JBS is changing its structure to list shares in both Brazil and the U.S. This move aims to attract more investors and lower borrowing costs.

However, the plan gives the Batista family up to 85% of voting power, making some minority investors worry about their influence. The company’s board now has nine members, including the two Batistas and seven independent directors.

While the Batistas’ leadership has helped JBS grow, their past and the company’s governance remain under close watch. This story matters because JBS is a key player in the global food market.

Its decisions affect food prices, supply chains, and jobs in many countries. The way it is run, and who controls it, has a real impact on people and businesses around the world.

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