罕见遭遇“滑铁卢”？巴菲特保持谨慎，连续11个季度抛售股票

Core Viewpoint - Berkshire Hathaway's recent quarterly earnings report reveals a decline in net profit and raises concerns about the impact of tariffs and trade policies on its operations and investments [2][3][4]. Financial Performance - In Q2, Berkshire achieved revenue of $92.515 billion, down from $93.653 billion year-over-year, but above market expectations of $91.963 billion [2]. - Operating profit was $11.16 billion, a 3.8% decrease year-over-year, attributed to lower underwriting profits from its insurance segment, despite growth in profits from railroads, energy, manufacturing, services, and retail [2]. - Net profit fell to $12.37 billion, significantly down 59% from $30.348 billion in the same quarter last year, exceeding market expectations of $10.703 billion [3]. Earnings Per Share - Earnings per share were reported at $8,601, surpassing market expectations of $7,443, but down from $21,122 in the previous year [4]. Cash Reserves and Stock Sales - Cash reserves decreased by 1% to $344 billion, marking the first decline in three years, down from $347 billion in the previous quarter [5]. - Berkshire continued a cautious approach to the stock market, net selling approximately $3 billion in stocks during the quarter, marking the 11th consecutive quarter of net stock sales [6]. Investment Strategy - The top five holdings of Berkshire, including American Express, Apple, Bank of America, Coca-Cola, and Chevron, accounted for 67% of the fair value of its portfolio [6]. - Stock investment income for the quarter was $6.4 billion, but there was a net loss of $710 million for the first half of the year [7]. Stock Buybacks - The company has been cautious with stock buybacks, not repurchasing any shares in the first half of the year, maintaining a standstill for the fourth consecutive quarter [8]. Impairment and Future Outlook - Berkshire recorded a $3.8 billion impairment on its investment in Kraft Heinz, reducing its book value from over $17 billion at the end of 2017 to $8.4 billion [12]. - Analysts suggest that Berkshire may be preparing to exit its investment in Kraft Heinz, as the company has faced significant stock price declines and is considering business divestitures [13]. - Concerns have been raised about Berkshire's performance amid management transition and market conditions, with some analysts rating the company as "hold" [13].