Core Viewpoint - Berkshire Hathaway, led by Warren Buffett, has increased its voting rights stake in Mitsubishi Corporation from 9.74% to 10.23%, signaling confidence in Japanese trading companies and boosting their stock prices [1][2]. Group 1: Investment Actions - Berkshire Hathaway's stake in Mitsubishi Corporation has risen, reflecting a strategic investment approach in Japan's trading sector [1]. - The increase in stake is part of a broader investment strategy that began in August 2020, when Berkshire acquired 5% stakes in five major Japanese trading companies for approximately $30 billion [2]. - The investment aligns with Berkshire's long-term value investment philosophy and has yielded significant returns [2]. Group 2: Market Reactions - Following the news of Berkshire's increased stake, Mitsubishi Corporation's stock rose by 2.9%, marking its largest gain in three weeks, while Mitsui & Co. saw a 1.8% increase [1]. - Other Japanese trading companies, including Itochu Corporation, Marubeni, and Sumitomo Corporation, also experienced stock price increases, with Itochu's stock rising by 3.5% [1]. Group 3: Corporate Governance and Market Trends - Japan's corporate governance reforms have provided favorable conditions for foreign investors, with significant stock buybacks and high dividend payouts from major trading companies [2]. - The average dividend payout ratio for Japan's five major trading companies is 46%, compared to 31% for S&P 500 companies [2]. - The Japanese stock market has seen a strong rebound, with the TOPIX index rising over 30% since April 7, driven by foreign investment and improved investor confidence [4].