OXY(US:OXY) Zhong Guo Ji Jin Bao·2025-10-02 13:48Core Viewpoint - Berkshire Hathaway, led by Warren Buffett, has announced a $9.7 billion cash acquisition of Occidental Petroleum's chemical business, OxyChem, marking its largest deal since acquiring Alleghany for $11.6 billion in 2022. This transaction indicates a potential shift in Buffett's strategy towards more aggressive acquisitions after a period of divestment from major holdings like Apple [1][4]. Group 1: Transaction Details - The acquisition is valued at $9.7 billion and is expected to close in the fourth quarter [5]. - Berkshire Hathaway currently holds a 28.2% stake in Occidental Petroleum as of June [4]. - Occidental plans to use $6.5 billion from the sale to pay down debt, which will enable the company to restart its stock buyback program [4]. Group 2: Company Insights - OxyChem produces essential chemicals, including chlorine and caustic soda [4]. - Occidental's CEO, Vicki Hollub, emphasized that the debt reduction from this transaction will enhance shareholder confidence and attract new investors [4]. - The last major acquisition by Berkshire in the chemical sector was in 2011 when it purchased Lubrizol for approximately $10 billion [4]. Group 3: Market Reaction - Following the announcement, Occidental Petroleum's stock price rose by 1.4% in pre-market trading [3].