What's happened
Berkshire Hathaway increased its stake in The New York Times by acquiring about 5.07 million shares worth $351.7 million at the end of 2025. The move coincides with Warren Buffett's retirement as CEO, signaling ongoing strategic adjustments in its portfolio amid a record cash pile.
What's behind the headline?
Strategic Portfolio Rebalancing
Berkshire's recent acquisitions, including a significant stake in The New York Times, indicate a shift towards media assets that align with its long-term value approach. The timing suggests Buffett is leveraging his retirement to reposition the conglomerate's investments.
Market Implications
The increase in NYT shares, valued at over $350 million, underscores confidence in the media company's future prospects, especially as Buffett's team continues trimming stakes in other sectors. The sale of Amazon shares and reduction in Apple and Bank of America holdings reflect a broader strategy of reallocating capital to more promising or undervalued assets.
Leadership Transition
Buffett's stepping down as CEO and the appointment of Greg Abel mark a generational shift. The new leadership is expected to maintain Buffett's value-oriented philosophy while adapting to evolving market conditions.
Future Outlook
Berkshire's record cash reserves suggest readiness for further acquisitions or share buybacks. The firm’s focus on strategic investments like Chevron, Chubb, and Alphabet indicates a diversified approach aimed at balancing growth with risk management. The next few quarters will reveal how Buffett’s successor continues or diverges from his legacy.
What the papers say
The Japan Times reports Berkshire Hathaway's stake in NYT at $351.7 million, highlighting Buffett's ongoing strategic moves. The NY Post confirms the ownership of approximately 5.07 million NYT shares at the end of 2025, coinciding with Buffett's transition. Business Insider UK details the broader portfolio adjustments, including the sale of Amazon and reduced stakes in Apple and Bank of America, emphasizing Buffett's cautious stance amid a record cash pile and a challenging market environment. These sources collectively illustrate Berkshire's strategic repositioning and Buffett's legacy planning as he steps down from his role as CEO.
How we got here
Berkshire Hathaway has been building its investment portfolio for decades, with Warren Buffett leading the company since 1965. The firm has historically focused on value investing, gradually expanding into technology and media sectors. Buffett's recent moves reflect a cautious approach amid a challenging market environment, with record cash reserves and reduced stock holdings in key companies like Apple and Bank of America.
Go deeper
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Berkshire Hathaway is an American multinational conglomerate holding company headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, United States. The company wholly owns GEICO, Duracell, Dairy Queen, BNSF, Lubrizol, Fruit of the Loom, Helzberg Diamonds, Long & Foster, Fl
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Warren Edward Buffett is an American investor, business tycoon, and philanthropist, who is the chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway.
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Gregory Edward Abel is a Canadian businessman, chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway Energy, and vice-chairman of non-insurance operations of Berkshire Hathaway since January 2018.