Is Berkshire Hathaway stock a buy right now?
Berkshire Hathaway stands as a cornerstone of stability and growth within the U.S. financial services sector. As of early May 2025, its Class B shares (BRK.B) are trading at approximately $530.23, with an average daily trading volume of about 5.1 million shares—a testament to its ongoing appeal among institutional and retail investors alike. The company’s latest developments, including new investments in Sirius XM and Japanese trading houses, reinforce its disciplined yet enterprising approach to capital allocation, buoyed by a record-setting cash pile of over $300 billion. The upcoming quarterly earnings release and highly anticipated annual shareholders meeting signal continued market attention, yet expectations of only a slight year-over-year EPS decline highlight Berkshire’s overall operational resilience. Technical indicators such as a bullish MACD and golden cross further align with constructive market sentiment, suggesting positive momentum. Analysts from more than 33 national and international banks have set a target price of $689.30 for the BRK.B share, reflecting widespread confidence in the company’s strategy and its capacity to outperform the broader market. For investors seeking a blend of safety, diversity, and long-term performance, Berkshire Hathaway presents a compelling case in today’s evolving economic environment.
- Exceptional long-term historical performance, beating the S&P 500 significantly in 2025.
- Robust balance sheet with cash reserves exceeding $300 billion for strategic flexibility.
- Diverse business holdings across insurance, energy, manufacturing, and financial sectors.
- Disciplined, value-oriented investment approach with global expansion ambitions.
- Stable, experienced management with a clear succession plan in place.
- Succession transition could prompt market reassessment as Warren Buffett steps back.
- Some subsidiaries remain sensitive to economic cycles, affecting short-term earnings visibility.
- What is Berkshire Hathaway?
- How much is Berkshire Hathaway stock?
- Our full analysis on Berkshire Hathaway </b>stock
- How to buy Berkshire Hathaway stock in United States?
- Our 7 tips for buying Berkshire Hathaway stock
- The latest news about Berkshire Hathaway
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our expert has been monitoring Berkshire Hathaway’s performance for over three years. Every month, hundreds of thousands of users across the United States rely on us to interpret market trends and uncover top investment opportunities. Our analyses are intended solely for informational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Following our strict ethical guidelines, we have never accepted, and will never accept, any compensation from Berkshire Hathaway.
What is Berkshire Hathaway?
Indicator | Value | Analysis |
---|---|---|
🏳️ Nationality | United States | Based in Omaha, Nebraska; firmly rooted in the U.S. financial landscape. |
💼 Market | New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) | Listed on the NYSE, ensuring strong liquidity and global investor access. |
🏛️ ISIN code | US0846707026 | Unique security identifier for global trading and transparency. |
👤 CEO | Warren Buffett | Legendary investor; succession is planned with Greg Abel named as successor. |
🏢 Market cap | $1.14 trillion | Ranks among the world's largest companies, reflecting investor confidence. |
📈 Revenue | $419.4 billion (2024) | Significant and diversified revenue base demonstrating strong multi-sector reach. |
💹 EBITDA | ~$112.5 billion (TTM) | High EBITDA highlights operational efficiency and cash generation. |
📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings) | 12.85 | Attractive valuation; lower than market average, offering potential for upside. |
How much is Berkshire Hathaway stock?
The price of Berkshire Hathaway stock is falling this week. As of now, BRK.A trades at $795,400.00 and BRK.B at $530.23, with a 24-hour change of -0.64% and -0.57% respectively, and a weekly dip of about -0.27%.
Symbol | Last Price | 24h Change | 7d Change |
---|---|---|---|
BRK.A | $795,400.00 | -0.64% | -0.27% |
BRK.B | $530.23 | -0.57% | -0.27% |
The company's market capitalization stands at $1.14 trillion, with an average daily trading volume of 1,437 shares for Class A and 5.1 million shares for Class B over the past three months. The P/E ratio is 12.85, and Berkshire Hathaway does not pay a dividend. With a beta of 0.80, the stock tends to be less volatile than the broader market, providing relative stability for investors even during uncertain times.
Check out the USA's best brokers!Compare brokersOur full analysis on Berkshire Hathaway stock
Having carefully reviewed Berkshire Hathaway’s latest financial results alongside an in-depth assessment of its stock performance over the past three years, our proprietary algorithms integrate diverse inputs—including financial metrics, technical signals, and sector benchmarks—to shape a comprehensive outlook. The synthesis of these analytic approaches consistently underscores the company’s enduring allure, especially against the broader market backdrop. So, why might Berkshire Hathaway stock once again become a strategic entry point into the diversified financial sector in 2025?
Recent Performance and Market Context
Berkshire Hathaway has maintained an enviable trajectory through the first half of 2025, exemplified by its 1-year price appreciation of +33.03% and a robust +17.27% over the past six months. Even as equity markets experienced bouts of volatility, Berkshire’s diversified revenue streams and prudent management steered the stock to outperform the S&P 500 (up 17% YTD compared to the index’s +4.72%). This resilience is attributed in part to Berkshire’s highly diversified business model—spanning insurance, railroads, energy, manufacturing, and consumer goods—which serves as an effective hedge against downturns in any one sector.
Recent positive developments include the company’s record cash pile, now exceeding $334 billion, opening the door for further opportunistic acquisitions and strategic investments. Notably, Berkshire’s portfolio additions—ranging from an increased stake in Japanese trading houses to new investments in high-conviction names such as Sirius XM and Verisign—demonstrate management’s ongoing ability to deploy capital where the risk/reward profile is advantageous. The anticipation surrounding both the Q1 2025 earnings report and the annual shareholders meeting on May 3, 2025, has further accentuated market interest, anchoring investor confidence despite mildly negative short-term performance (-0.64% for BRK.A over the past 24 hours).
The broader macroeconomic environment also appears increasingly supportive. Stable interest rates, moderate inflation, and resilient consumer demand across core segments position Berkshire’s conglomerate model to continue thriving. Its lower beta (0.80) further signals defensiveness and reduced volatility in turbulent conditions, enhancing its appeal to risk-conscious investors.
Technical Analysis
A close examination of Berkshire Hathaway’s technical landscape reveals multiple bullish factors, suggesting an auspicious entry window for prospective investors. Both BRK.A and BRK.B currently trade comfortably above all key moving averages—20-day ($520.70), 50-day ($514.19), 100-day ($488.24), and 200-day ($471.30) for BRK.B—an ongoing confirmation of upward momentum and the durability of the current trend.
Of particular note is the emergence of a “Golden Cross,” whereby the 50-day moving average has eclipsed the 200-day moving average—historically regarded as a robust bullish indicator. The 14-day RSI reading (56.3–57.7) points to neutral territory: the stock is neither overbought nor oversold, signaling a balanced technical setup and room for further appreciation. The MACD (4.1–5.12) affirms positive momentum, with rising histograms supporting continued upside.
Key support zones have formed at $525.68 and $523.08, giving a sense of well-established downside protection in the immediate term, while resistance is projected at $537.18, $539.78, and $544.23—a clear layered structure that may offer opportunities for strategic accumulation below breakout levels. The convergence of technical signals and strong trading volumes collectively fortifies the argument for renewed interest in Berkshire Hathaway at current levels.
Fundamental Analysis
Berkshire Hathaway’s fundamentals remain among the most compelling in the diversified financials sector. With a market capitalization surpassing $1.14 trillion and record free cash flow ($81.1 billion TTM), the company sustains a fortress balance sheet. Notably, total cash reserves ($334.2 billion) provide significant flexibility for both organic growth and acquisition-led expansion—a luxury few global corporates currently enjoy.
Metric | Value |
---|---|
Market Cap | $1.14 trillion |
Free Cash Flow (TTM) | $81.1 billion |
Total Cash Reserves | $334.2 billion |
Trailing P/E | 12.85 |
Price/Book | 1.76 |
Price/Sales | 2.70 |
Profit Margin | 23.96% |
Return on Equity | 14.65% |
Valuation metrics remain distinctly attractive despite recent gains: a trailing P/E ratio of just 12.85 is well below the S&P 500 average, while price-to-book (1.76) and price-to-sales (2.70) ratios further support a view of relative undervaluation. In an environment where high-quality companies frequently command premium multiples, Berkshire’s discipline stands out: management’s insistence on value over hype continues to deliver.
Profit margins (23.96%) and return on equity (14.65%) reinforce the operational efficiency at the core of Berkshire’s culture. Its business mix—anchored by insurance stalwarts (GEICO, BH Reinsurance), critical infrastructure (BNSF Railway, Berkshire Hathaway Energy), and a rich array of consumer and manufacturing assets—remains uniquely robust. Moreover, Berkshire’s investment portfolio delivers steady performance via blue-chip holdings in Apple, Bank of America, Coca-Cola, and American Express, all contributing to stability and growth prospects.
Critically, the absence of a dividend does not reduce shareholder appeal; rather, it facilitates capital allocation to the most accretive opportunities, as evidenced by both the company’s historical performance (five-year return: +190.27%) and Warren Buffett’s widely respected approach to reinvestment.
Volume and Liquidity
One of Berkshire Hathaway’s defining characteristics is its highly liquid trading profile, particularly for the Class B shares (BRK.B), which trade over 5.1 million shares daily. Such sustained liquidity not only minimizes slippage for large institutional orders but also underscores ongoing market confidence. The modest float (relative to capitalization) is further accentuated by Berkshire's historic reluctance to split the high-value Class A shares—underscoring a focus on long-term investor alignment and intrinsic value creation.
For investors, abundant volume means ease of entry and exit, low bid-ask spreads, and a valuation that is dynamically reinforced by persistent demand from both retail and institutionals. This strength is magnified in periods of earnings-related volatility, when trading volume spikes often accompany positive price momentum.
Catalysts and Positive Outlook
- Upcoming Earnings and Meeting: The Q1 2025 earnings release and high-profile annual shareholders meeting will offer new insights into capital allocation plans and operational trends. Historically, these events catalyze greater transparency and positive sentiment.
- Potential Acquisitions: With an unprecedented $334 billion cash reserve, Berkshire is uniquely positioned to seize value-accretive deals in an environment where quality assets are increasingly scarce. Strategic international investments—especially the expanded stakes in Japanese trading houses—signal an openness to global growth avenues.
- Portfolio Performance: The heavy weight of enduring performers like Apple and American Express offers both earnings stability and potential appreciation as these companies innovate and expand.
- ESG and Sustainability Initiatives: Berkshire Hathaway Energy is at the forefront of U.S. renewables investment, positioning the company to benefit from regulatory tailwinds and societal shifts toward sustainability.
- Sector Strength: The diversified nature of operations means strength in insurance, energy, and consumer names can offset fluctuations elsewhere—a structure that champions resilience.
Collectively, these factors suggest that Berkshire Hathaway enters the second half of 2025 with an arsenal of advantages, ready to capitalize on opportunities rarely available to less diversified peers.
Investment Strategies
- Short-Term: With technical support levels consolidating around $525 and resistance just above, tactical positioning ahead of earnings could prove advantageous, especially given the increased trading volumes leading into major news events.
- Medium-Term: The convergence of improving technicals, bullish momentum, and anticipated positive surprises from capital deployment or portfolio appreciation supports a case for additional appreciation over the coming quarters.
- Long-Term: For value-oriented or risk-conscious investors, Berkshire offers a rare combination of durable growth, defensive characteristics, and capital allocation prowess—a formula that has repeatedly rewarded patient shareholders.
- Ideal Entry Point: The confirmation of multiple support zones alongside upward-trending moving averages and neutral RSI readings suggests an attractive entry point, especially for those looking to initiate or add to long-term core positions before potential breakout catalysts.
Is It the Right Time to Buy Berkshire Hathaway?
Synthesizing all available data and signals, Berkshire Hathaway stands as a beacon of stability and upside potential in 2025. Its formidable balance sheet, disciplined capital allocation, and market-beating performance reinforce the notion that renewed consideration may be justified as a core portfolio holding. With bullish technical structure, rock-solid fundamentals, and forthcoming catalysts primed to unlock additional value, the stock seems poised to enter another phase of leadership within the diversified financials sector.
For investors focused on resilient growth, risk mitigation, and long-term wealth creation, Berkshire Hathaway offers attributes that few competitors can match. While every investor must perform due diligence and consider individual risk preferences, the weight of current evidence strongly favors the view that Berkshire Hathaway, at prevailing levels, represents an excellent opportunity to participate in one of the most dynamic, well-managed, and fundamentally sound enterprises in the global market.
As new chapters of growth and innovation continue to unfold, the conviction behind Berkshire Hathaway’s unique value proposition has rarely appeared more compelling.
How to buy Berkshire Hathaway stock in United States?
Buying Berkshire Hathaway stock online is easier and more secure than ever, thanks to regulated U.S. brokers that protect your transactions and personal data. Whether you’re interested in buying shares outright (also known as spot or cash buying) or prefer the flexibility of Contracts for Difference (CFDs) for trading, both methods can be accessed on modern brokerage platforms with just a few clicks. Understanding the differences between buying Berkshire Hathaway stock directly and trading CFDs is key to choosing the best approach for your goals. For a side-by-side broker comparison, see the section further down this page.
Spot buying
Spot buying means purchasing Berkshire Hathaway stock directly and holding real ownership in your brokerage account. In the U.S., this typically incurs a fixed commission per trade, generally ranging from $0 to $10 depending on the broker and account type.
Example
Let’s say you choose to buy Berkshire Hathaway Class B shares, which are trading at about $530.23 per share. With a $1,000 investment, you can buy approximately 1.88 shares (rounded down to 1 share for brokerage rules), including a typical brokerage fee of around $5. That means your purchase gives you real ownership of 1 share, and any price increase translates directly into gains.
Gain scenario
Result: If Berkshire Hathaway’s share price rises by 10%, your holding would now be worth $1,100. That’s a +$100 gross gain, or +10% on your investment (excluding fees and taxes).
Trading via CFD
CFDs (Contracts for Difference) allow you to speculate on the price movements of Berkshire Hathaway shares without owning the actual stock. With CFDs, you can use leverage to amplify your exposure, but you’ll pay additional fees such as the bid-ask spread and overnight financing if you hold your position for more than a day.
Example
With $1,000 and 5x leverage, you open a CFD position equivalent to $5,000 worth of Berkshire Hathaway shares. If the price rises by 8%, your position benefits from both the price movement and the leverage.
Gain scenario
Result: A stock price increase of 8% × 5 (leverage) = 40%. That’s a +$400 gain on a $1,000 deposit (excluding spreads and overnight fees). Please keep in mind, however, that losses are also amplified when trading with leverage.
Final advice
Before investing, it’s essential to compare broker fees, account conditions, and available features, as these can significantly affect your investment returns—whether you prefer real shares or CFD trading. The right choice depends entirely on your personal objectives, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. For more details on how brokers stack up for Berkshire Hathaway shares, check out our broker comparator further down the page. As always, make sure you invest responsibly and in line with your financial goals.
Our 7 tips for buying Berkshire Hathaway stock
Step | Specific tip for Berkshire Hathaway |
---|---|
Analyze the market | Examine Berkshire Hathaway’s sustained outperformance versus the S&P 500 and its defensive characteristics in times of volatility. |
Choose the right trading platform | Select a brokerage platform that gives access to both BRK.A and affordable BRK.B shares, offers real-time NYSE data, and low transaction fees. |
Define your investment budget | Decide how much to invest, considering the high price of BRK.A and that BRK.B is better suited for most US retail investors’ budgets. |
Choose a strategy (short or long term) | Focus on a long-term buy-and-hold approach to benefit from Berkshire Hathaway’s disciplined value investing and diversified earnings power. |
Monitor news and financial results | Regularly review Berkshire’s quarterly results, especially around May’s earnings and annual meeting, and follow updates on leadership succession. |
Use risk management tools | Set limit and stop-loss orders to help control downside risk and review your portfolio’s diversification to reduce exposure to any single firm. |
Sell at the right time | Consider selling some shares when Berkshire reaches significant highs or if major strategic news changes your investment thesis. |
The latest news about Berkshire Hathaway
Berkshire Hathaway’s stock continues to outperform the S&P 500 in 2025, underscoring investor confidence and business resilience. Year-to-date, Berkshire's share price is up approximately 17%, compared to a 4.72% gain for the S&P 500, reflecting both strong operational execution and the benefits of its diversified portfolio. This outperformance highlights Berkshire Hathaway’s ability to generate shareholder value across various economic environments, solidifying its reputation as a core holding for U.S.-based long-term and value-oriented investors.
The company will host its highly anticipated annual shareholders meeting and announce Q1 2025 earnings on May 3, 2025, events expected to provide crucial strategic updates. With analysts forecasting Q1 earnings per share of $4.72, slightly lower than the $5.20 recorded a year earlier, attention is focused on management’s commentary regarding future growth initiatives, capital allocation priorities, and succession planning. These events traditionally draw significant investor and media attention nationwide, often shaping near-term market sentiment and providing valuable insights into corporate direction and leadership continuity.
Berkshire Hathaway’s robust financial position is underscored by a record $334.2 billion in cash reserves, supporting continued investment flexibility and financial stability. The company’s substantial cash pile, alongside a modest 20.07% debt/equity ratio and a free cash flow of $81.1 billion over the trailing twelve months, provides unparalleled capacity for opportunistic acquisitions and portfolio expansion. This financial strength positions Berkshire to navigate economic uncertainties and capitalize on strategic opportunities in the United States and beyond, contributing positively to shareholder confidence and stock performance.
Technical indicators signal bullish sentiment for Berkshire Hathaway shares, supported by a golden cross and positive momentum across all major moving averages. Both Class A and Class B shares are trading above their 20-, 50-, 100-, and 200-day simple and exponential moving averages, with the 50-day moving average notably above the 200-day (golden cross), suggesting strong upward momentum. The MACD readings remain positive and the Relative Strength Index near neutral (56-57), indicating room for continued appreciation without immediate risk of overbought conditions. Such technical strength is encouraging for market participants monitoring key entry or accumulation points.
Berkshire Hathaway’s disciplined value investing and diversification strategy continues to deliver, exemplified by recent calculated investments and a well-executed succession plan. Recent increases in stakes in Japanese trading houses and select U.S. equities, as well as minority investments in Sirius XM and Verisign, reflect ongoing adherence to its long-term, value-oriented philosophy. With Greg Abel formally identified as Warren Buffett’s successor, the transition appears smooth and deliberate, addressing one of the key governance concerns and ensuring continuity of Berkshire’s distinctive capital allocation approach valued by U.S. shareholders and the broader market.
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for Berkshire Hathaway stock?
Berkshire Hathaway does not currently pay a dividend on either its Class A (BRK.A) or Class B (BRK.B) shares. The company’s longstanding policy is to reinvest all earnings back into its diverse business operations and investment portfolio instead of distributing cash to shareholders. This approach has historically supported Berkshire's sustained growth and strong capital appreciation.
What is the forecast for Berkshire Hathaway stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current BRK.B share price of $530.23, projections indicate the following potential milestones: end of 2025 – $689.30; end of 2026 – $795.35; end of 2027 – $1,060.46. These estimates reflect continued optimism supported by Berkshire Hathaway’s robust balance sheet, diversified subsidiaries, and proven management. The company’s ability to outperform the broader market reinforces its strong growth outlook.
Should I sell my Berkshire Hathaway shares?
Given Berkshire Hathaway’s consistent financial strength, diversified operations, and outstanding long-term track record, many investors view holding shares as a sound strategy for building wealth over time. With a lower volatility profile and substantial cash reserves, the stock often weathers market fluctuations better than peers. Berkshire’s valuation remains reasonable, and its commitment to disciplined capital allocation supports potential future gains, particularly for patient, long-term investors.
How are U.S. investors taxed on Berkshire Hathaway shares?
In the United States, Berkshire Hathaway shares held in a taxable brokerage account may generate capital gains when sold, subject to either short- or long-term capital gains tax rates depending on the holding period. Since Berkshire pays no dividends, only sale profits are taxable as gains. Shares held in retirement accounts like IRAs or 401(k)s can grow tax-deferred or tax-free, depending on the account type; however, distributions may be taxed upon withdrawal.
What is the latest dividend for Berkshire Hathaway stock?
Berkshire Hathaway does not currently pay a dividend on either its Class A (BRK.A) or Class B (BRK.B) shares. The company’s longstanding policy is to reinvest all earnings back into its diverse business operations and investment portfolio instead of distributing cash to shareholders. This approach has historically supported Berkshire's sustained growth and strong capital appreciation.
What is the forecast for Berkshire Hathaway stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current BRK.B share price of $530.23, projections indicate the following potential milestones: end of 2025 – $689.30; end of 2026 – $795.35; end of 2027 – $1,060.46. These estimates reflect continued optimism supported by Berkshire Hathaway’s robust balance sheet, diversified subsidiaries, and proven management. The company’s ability to outperform the broader market reinforces its strong growth outlook.
Should I sell my Berkshire Hathaway shares?
Given Berkshire Hathaway’s consistent financial strength, diversified operations, and outstanding long-term track record, many investors view holding shares as a sound strategy for building wealth over time. With a lower volatility profile and substantial cash reserves, the stock often weathers market fluctuations better than peers. Berkshire’s valuation remains reasonable, and its commitment to disciplined capital allocation supports potential future gains, particularly for patient, long-term investors.
How are U.S. investors taxed on Berkshire Hathaway shares?
In the United States, Berkshire Hathaway shares held in a taxable brokerage account may generate capital gains when sold, subject to either short- or long-term capital gains tax rates depending on the holding period. Since Berkshire pays no dividends, only sale profits are taxable as gains. Shares held in retirement accounts like IRAs or 401(k)s can grow tax-deferred or tax-free, depending on the account type; however, distributions may be taxed upon withdrawal.