Core Viewpoint - Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway has made a significant investment in Google, acquiring $4.3 billion worth of shares, while continuing to reduce its stake in Apple, indicating a shift in investment strategy as Buffett prepares for retirement [3][5]. Group 1: Investment Strategy - Berkshire Hathaway's latest holdings report shows that Alphabet (Google's parent company) has become the company's 10th largest holding, while Apple remains the largest [5]. - Buffett's investment in Google contrasts with his traditional value investing approach, as he typically avoids high-growth companies [5]. - The investment in Google is seen as a response to the changing landscape of technology and reflects a strategic adaptation to current market trends [5]. Group 2: Performance Metrics - Following the announcement of Berkshire's investment, Google's stock price surged over 4% in after-hours trading, contributing to a year-to-date increase of over 46%, outpacing Nvidia's 42% rise and Apple's less than 9% increase [5]. - Google's recent quarterly revenue reached a record $100 billion, highlighting its strong position in the artificial intelligence market [5]. Group 3: Apple Holdings - In the third quarter, Buffett sold approximately $11 billion worth of Apple shares, marking the second consecutive quarter of reduction, with Berkshire's remaining stake valued at about $61 billion [6]. - Since 2023, Buffett has sold more than two-thirds of his Apple shares, locking in substantial profits from his initial investment in 2016 [6]. - Buffett perceives Apple more as a consumer goods company rather than a technology firm, which may influence his decision to reduce holdings [6]. Group 4: Leadership Changes - Buffett plans to step back from public life and will retire as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway by the end of the year, with Greg Abel set to take over [6]. - Apple is also preparing for a leadership transition, with Tim Cook potentially stepping down next year after over 14 years at the helm [7].