Core Viewpoint - Berkshire Hathaway disclosed its Q2 holdings report, revealing a reduction in Apple and Bank of America shares, while also unveiling new investments in healthcare, steel, and real estate sectors [2][5]. Group 1: New Investments - Berkshire initiated positions in six new stocks during Q2, including UnitedHealth (UNH), Nucor Steel (NUE), Lennar (LEN), D.R. Horton (DHI), Lamar Advertising (LAMR), and Allegion (ALLE) [2][6]. - The total market value of these new positions at the end of Q2 was approximately $3.65 billion [6]. Group 2: Reduction in Holdings - In Q2, Berkshire reduced its stake in Apple by 20 million shares, a decrease of about 6.67%, while still maintaining it as the largest holding [9]. - Additionally, Berkshire sold over 26.3 million shares of Bank of America, representing a reduction of approximately 4.17% [9]. Group 3: Market Reaction - Following the announcement of new positions, stocks like UnitedHealth and Nucor Steel saw significant after-hours gains, with increases exceeding 8% [3]. Group 4: Investment Strategy - The new investments are viewed as defensive positions with potential for valuation recovery, aligning with Buffett's investment philosophy of seeking companies with a "moat" [7].

Core Insights - Berkshire Hathaway disclosed its Q2 holdings report, revealing a reduction in its stake in Apple and the unveiling of a "mystery holding" [1] - The company reduced its Apple shares by 20 million, approximately 6.67%, while still maintaining it as its largest holding [1] - Additionally, Berkshire sold 26.3 million shares of Bank of America, a reduction of about 4.17% [1] New Investments - Berkshire initiated positions in six new stocks across various sectors, including healthcare, steel, and real estate, with a total market value of approximately $3.65 billion at the end of the quarter [2] - Notable new purchases include over 5 million shares of UnitedHealth (valued at about $1.57 billion), over 6.6 million shares of Nucor Steel (valued at about $860 million), and over 700,000 shares of Lennar (valued at about $780 million) [2] - The new investments are considered defensive plays with potential for valuation recovery, aligning with Buffett's "moat" investment philosophy [2] Increased Holdings - In Q2, Berkshire increased its stake in Chevron by approximately 3.45 million shares and added to its positions in Constellation Brands (about 1.39 million shares) and Pool Corporation (nearly 2 million shares) [2] - The company also made slight increases in its holdings in aerospace company Heico and Domino's Pizza [2] Financial Performance - Berkshire's Q2 net profit for 2025 was reported at $12.37 billion, reflecting a significant year-over-year decline of 59.24% [3]