Reverse stock splits allow companies to artificially increase their stock price and lower their outstanding share count without changing the market cap.A reverse stock split is a tool that publicly traded companies can use to manipulate their stock price and outstanding share count without changing their market caps.Companies typically use them to raise their stock price to make it more comparable to peers. They also come in handy if a company is at risk of breaching compliance rules set by the New York Sto ...

Core Insights - Berkshire Hathaway is preparing to exit its investment in Kraft Heinz while increasing its stake in Sirius XM, indicating a shift in investment strategy [1][10]. Group 1: Kraft Heinz Investment - Berkshire Hathaway's investment in Kraft Heinz has been problematic, marked by high debt and weak growth, leading to a nearly $5 billion writedown in Q2 [2][5][7]. - Berkshire owns 27.5% of Kraft Heinz's outstanding shares and has indicated a potential exit strategy, especially after its representatives left the board [6][9]. - The company is exploring strategic alternatives, including a possible breakup to focus on its faster-growing condiments division [6][9]. Group 2: Sirius XM Investment - Berkshire has recently invested over $100 million in Sirius XM, increasing its total position to $2.6 billion, which represents approximately 37% of outstanding shares [10]. - Despite a 65% decline in Sirius XM's stock over the past five years, the company is implementing strategies to rejuvenate subscriber growth, including exclusive podcast rights and technology updates [11][13]. - Sirius XM aims to grow its subscriber base to 50 million and increase free cash flow to $1.8 billion, with a current dividend yield exceeding 5% [13][14].

Market Overview - The stock market is experiencing volatility, with the S&P 500 index falling nearly 20% from February highs but recovering fully by May 22 [1] - Investors are concerned about high tariffs, a proposed major tax bill, and the potential for recession or rising inflation [1] Amgen - Amgen is a pharmaceutical company known for its diverse range of drugs, including Enbrel, Prolia, XGEVA, Otezla, and Repatha [3] - The company is developing a weight-loss drug, MariTide, and has initiated two phase 3 trials [4] - In Q1, Amgen reported adjusted earnings of $4.90 per share, surpassing Wall Street estimates of $4.26, with revenue growth of 9% year over year [6] - Amgen has consistently paid dividends since 2011, increasing them for 14 consecutive years, with a current dividend yield of approximately 3.5% [7] - Management expects free cash flow to rebound to $7.4 billion in 2023, covering the expected $5.2 billion in dividend payments [7] Sirius XM - Sirius XM is a leading digital audio company in the U.S., operating Sirius satellite radio and Pandora, reaching 160 million listeners monthly [8] - The company has faced significant challenges, with stock down about 57% over the last five years due to rising competition and declining subscribers [8] - Management is investing in technology, expanding its podcast network, and streamlining subscription offerings, aiming for a 25% increase in subscribers to 50 million and a 50% increase in free cash flow to $1.8 billion [9] - In Q1, Sirius XM's revenue fell 4.3% year over year, and total U.S. subscribers declined by 2% [10] - The company offers a 4.9% dividend yield, having regularly paid and increased its annual dividend since 2017, with a trailing free cash flow yield close to 10% [11]