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Berkshire Hathaway, led by CEO Warren Buffett, has achieved an annual return of nearly 20% since 1965, outpacing the S&P 500. As of today, the company manages a stock investment portfolio worth $271 billion and generated $21 billion in free cash flow over the past 12 months. Berkshire is the second-largest property and casualty insurer in the U.S. and maintains $288 billion in short-term treasuries for market downturns.
Progressive, another key player in the insurance industry, has returned 18.4% annually to investors over the last three decades, significantly exceeding the S&P 500’s 10% return. Their investment portfolio is valued at $79 billion, earning $2 billion in net investment income this year alone, a 47% increase from the previous year.
American Express, a staple in consumer spending, has seen its investment by Berkshire Hathaway grow from $1.3 billion to $41.1 billion over 30 years, benefiting from a robust customer base and strong brand association with luxury. The company continues to thrive due to its resilience during economic downturns and inflation.
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