Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.B 4.96%) reported strong Q4 operating earnings of $14.5 billion, a 71% increase from Q4 2023, driven by a surge in insurance underwriting income and investment income. Full-year 2024 operating earnings reached $47.4 billion, a 27% year-over-year growth. The insurance business saw underwriting income rise by $2.6 billion year over year. Berkshire’s cash stockpile grew to $334.2 billion by year-end 2024, mostly in short-term U.S. Treasuries. Despite being a net seller of stocks, including $5 billion worth of Bank of America shares, Berkshire did not repurchase any shares in Q4. Warren Buffett’s annual letter discussed past investing mistakes, company performance, investments in Japan, and details about the upcoming annual meeting. Buffett’s Q&A session will be shorter this year. Future stock portfolio and buyback activities may indicate Buffett’s view on the U.S. stock market. — news from The Motley Fool
