Warren Buffett knocks down reports that Berkshire's BNSF taps Goldman for a railroad takeover

Core Viewpoint - Warren Buffett denied reports that Berkshire Hathaway-owned BNSF was collaborating with Goldman Sachs on a potential takeover of a rival railroad company [1][2] Group 1: Company Actions and Statements - Buffett stated that neither he nor Greg Abel, the incoming CEO, had discussions with Goldman Sachs regarding any deals [1] - The billionaire investor emphasized that he would not seek advice from external bankers for transactions, criticizing the high costs associated with intermediaries [2] Group 2: Market Context - Reports from Semafor and Reuters indicated that Berkshire Hathaway had engaged Goldman Sachs for a potential acquisition after Union Pacific showed interest in Norfolk Southern [2] - Berkshire Hathaway previously acquired BNSF in 2011 for $26.5 billion, purchasing 77% of the company it did not already own [3]