Core Insights - Warren Buffett has stepped down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, marking a significant transition for the company, although he will remain as chairman of the board [1][4] - Greg Abel, a long-time Berkshire veteran, has been appointed as the new CEO, raising questions about the future performance of Class B shares [2][10] Company Position - Berkshire Hathaway is in a strong position, with a diverse portfolio of large businesses, including significant insurance operations that generated $22.6 billion in earnings in 2024 [5] - The company has a market capitalization of $1.1 trillion and a fortress-like balance sheet with over $377 billion in cash and cash equivalents as of Q3 2025 [7] Stock Valuation - Class B shares of Berkshire Hathaway are currently trading around $497, which is approximately 185% of its tangible book value (TBV), slightly below the 10-year average of 196% [9] - The stock is considered more accessible to retail investors, especially with the introduction of fractional shares, although the need for Class B shares has diminished somewhat [2] Leadership Transition - The departure of Buffett and other senior leaders, such as Todd Combs, may initially make the stock less desirable for investors [4] - Despite the leadership changes, there is confidence in Greg Abel and the senior management team to maintain the company's strong performance, as they have learned extensively from Buffett [10] Long-term Outlook - Berkshire Hathaway is expected to continue generating strong long-term returns, although it is unlikely to be a high-growth stock due to its mature status [11] - The company's stock has historically served as a safe haven during market turbulence, making it a valuable addition to diversified portfolios [11]
Should You Buy Class B Shares of Berkshire Hathaway While They're Below $500?