Stocks

Berkshire Hathaway Stock: FY24 Letter Shows Cash And Ownership Strategy

Published March 4, 2025

Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE:BRK.A) (NYSE:BRK.B) has experienced a notable surge over the past year, outperforming the S&P 500 (SPY) by approximately 9% in total return. The company’s growth can largely be attributed to its strategic focus on private equity investments, a solid cash position, and the exceptional leadership of Warren Buffett, which together drive intrinsic value.

One key takeaway from the FY24 letter is that despite a reduction in marketable equity, Berkshire Hathaway's operating earnings reached an impressive $47.4 billion. This figure highlights the firm's reliance on private equity and retained earnings. Instead of focusing on dividend payouts, Berkshire emphasizes long-term capital compounding, which aligns with Buffett's investment philosophy of nurturing growth over immediate returns.

However, it's important to note that shares of BRK.A and BRK.B are currently estimated to be roughly 20% overvalued in the market. Despite this overvaluation, Berkshire Hathaway maintains a consistent price-to-book ratio, and Buffett's disciplined approach to capital allocation continues to make it a reliable long-term investment option.

In conclusion, Berkshire Hathaway's strategies in managing cash flow and its ownership approach are critical factors that contribute to its ongoing success. With strong operating income and a commitment to growth rather than short-term gains, investors can view this company as a promising addition to their portfolios.

Berkshire, Stock, Strategy