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Jazwares

Jazwares and Pretty Ugly Announce New UGLYDOLL Partnership

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway’s Jazwares and Pretty Ugly, LLC, owner of the beloved UGLYDOLL® brand, have announced a long-term strategic partnership to bring the iconic characters to a new generation of fans.

The partnership will see Jazwares design, manufacture, and distribute a new global collection inspired by UGLYDOLL’s original artwork and distinctive mix of humor, individuality, and charm. The lineup is expected to include plush, figures and accessories, collectible vinyls, role-play toys and costumes, construction sets, novelties, and more. The first products are slated to arrive at retailers worldwide in Fall 2027.

Since its launch in 2001, UGLYDOLL has grown from an independent designer plush brand into a global franchise known for celebrating imperfections, self-expression, and the idea that being different is something to embrace. Characters including Wage, Ox, Babo, Ice-Bat, Moxy, and Tray have become fan favorites among multiple generations.

“UGLYDOLL is one of those rare brands that has built a passionate, multigenerational fan community,” said Judd Karofsky, Chief Business Development Officer at Jazwares. He added that the partnership will honor the brand’s legacy while introducing its characters to a new generation.

Drew Matilsky, co-founder and managing partner of Pretty Ugly, said the brand has always focused on creating characters that fans can connect with personally. He noted that seeing longtime fans share UGLYDOLL with their children has made the brand’s legacy especially meaningful.

The collaboration expands Jazwares’ portfolio of globally recognized properties while giving UGLYDOLL a new platform across toys and collectibles. Drawing from the brand’s classic artwork, the upcoming collection aims to preserve the personality and spirit that have made UGLYDOLL a fan favorite for more than two decades.

©2026 David Mazor

Disclosure: David Mazor is a freelance writer focusing on Berkshire Hathaway. The author is long in Berkshire Hathaway, and this article is not a recommendation on whether to buy or sell the stock. The information contained in this article should not be construed as personalized or individualized investment advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

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Forest River

Forest River Marine Launches Interactive 3D Boat Builder

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Forest River Marine, a Berkshire Hathaway company, is making boat shopping more interactive with the launch of its new 3D Boat Builder. Available across its Berkshire, Dockside, South Bay, and Trifecta pontoon brands, the digital platform lets customers design and explore their boats in real time.

The tool allows shoppers to customize layouts, colors, furniture, flooring, engines, and premium features, with every selection displayed in interactive 3D. Customers can also use augmented reality (AR) on mobile devices to virtually place their configured boat in real-world settings such as a driveway, garage, or dock.

The new platform gives buyers a more realistic way to visualize their choices before visiting a dealership. Customers can see how their selections work together, review MSRP pricing, save their builds, and share them with participating dealers.

“Buying a boat should be just as exciting as owning one,” said Philip Podgorny, General Manager of Forest River Marine. “We wanted to give people the ability to build their dream pontoon, see every choice they make in real time, and have fun with the process.”

Once a build is complete, a detailed summary is emailed to both the customer and their nearest Forest River Marine dealer. This allows dealers to review the customer’s preferences in advance and creates a more informed and efficient buying process.

The launch is part of Forest River Marine’s broader investment in digital technology and customer-focused innovation.

“The goal is for people to feel good about the boat they’re buying,” said Joel Hemze, Sales Manager for Forest River Marine. “If they can walk into the dealership excited and confident about what they’ve built, we’ve done our job.”

The interactive 3D Boat Builder is now available across Forest River Marine’s pontoon brands.

©2026 David Mazor

Disclosure: David Mazor is a freelance writer focusing on Berkshire Hathaway. The author is long in Berkshire Hathaway, and this article is not a recommendation on whether to buy or sell the stock. The information contained in this article should not be construed as personalized or individualized investment advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

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Lessons From Warren Buffett

Lessons From Warren Buffett: Why Every Deal Doesn’t Need to Be a Grand Slam

Warren Buffett often likens investing to baseball — but with a unique twist. Unlike real batters who risk a strike if they don’t swing, investors, he says, can wait indefinitely for the perfect pitch. This analogy highlights one of Buffett’s core investment principles: patience and discipline are crucial to long-term success.

However, Buffett also warns against a common trap — the tendency to compare every new opportunity to the best deal one has ever made. Speaking at the 2011 Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting, he cautioned that holding all potential investments to that gold standard can be self-defeating.

“One of the errors people make in business is that they try and measure every deal against the best deal they’ve ever made,” Buffett said. This mindset, he explained, can lead investors to reject good opportunities simply because they don’t measure up to past home runs.

The key takeaway? Not every investment needs to be extraordinary. Buffett advises focusing on making solid, well-reasoned decisions based on current conditions rather than chasing past glories. In his view, success comes from consistently making good choices — not from endlessly waiting for the next once-in-a-lifetime deal.

Hear Buffett’s full explanation


See the complete Lessons From Warren Buffett series

© 2025 David Mazor

Disclosure: David Mazor is a freelance writer focusing on Berkshire Hathaway. The author is long in Berkshire Hathaway, and this article is not a recommendation on whether to buy or sell the stock. The information contained in this article should not be construed as personalized or individualized investment advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

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Pilot Flying J

Pilot, GM and EVgo Expand EV Fast-Charging Network to 300 Locations

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Berkshire Hathaway’s Pilot Company, General Motors and EVgo have reached a major milestone in their collaborative effort to expand electric vehicle infrastructure, announcing that their fast-charging network now includes more than 300 locations with approximately 1,300 fast-charging stalls across 40 states.

The network now covers roughly 75% of the contiguous United States, spanning more than 2.2 million square miles and providing EV drivers with greater access to reliable charging for long-distance travel.

“Pilot is making the most of all drivers’ miles by making long-distance EV travel more accessible and reliable than ever,” said Scott Hundley, director of light-duty EV and infrastructure at Pilot. “Reaching more than 300 locations reflects our commitment to building a coast-to-coast charging network and delivering an exceptional travel experience.”

Since launching the network in 2022, Pilot’s charging stations have earned strong reviews from EV drivers, receiving a PlugShare score of 9.41 out of 10 as of July 2026.

“Crossing 300 Pilot and EVgo fast-charging locations is an important milestone because it gives EV drivers more of what they need most on the road: simple, convenient and dependable charging,” said William Hotchkiss, head of public charging at GM. “We’re helping build a charging ecosystem that gives customers more confidence to take longer trips and enjoy the journey.”

©2026 David Mazor

Disclosure: David Mazor is a freelance writer focusing on Berkshire Hathaway. The author is long in Berkshire Hathaway, and this article is not a recommendation on whether to buy or sell the stock. The information contained in this article should not be construed as personalized or individualized investment advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

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Dairy Queen

International Dairy Queen Recognized Among Fastest-Growing Franchises

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International Dairy Queen (IDQ), a Berkshire Hathaway company and leader in the quick-service restaurant industry, has been recognized by Entrepreneur magazine as one of the fastest-growing franchises for international growth.

IDQ ranked No. 6 on Entrepreneur’s 2026 Fastest-Growing Franchises list, which recognizes franchise brands with the greatest growth in international franchise units between July 2024 and July 2025.

“Being recognized by Entrepreneur as a fastest-growing international franchise is an honor that reflects the strength of our global business,” said Nicolas Boudet, chief operating officer, international at International Dairy Queen. “We are grateful for achieving this recognition together, from our DQ corporate teams to DQ franchise owners and their teams who bring the DQ brand to life for our fans by creating positive memories that last a lifetime.”

The annual ranking is based on information submitted to Entrepreneur for its Franchise 500® and evaluates net international franchise unit growth from July 31, 2024, through July 31, 2025. In the event of a tie, brands are ranked according to their percentage growth.

“Those fastest-growing brands have cracked the code on expansion, proving they have the systems and market appeal that savvy entrepreneurs should pay attention to,” said Jason Feifer, editor in chief of Entrepreneur magazine. “They’re able to continue growing despite economic uncertainty, market shifts, and industry changes—and that’s worth a close look.”

The recognition underscores Dairy Queen’s continued international expansion and the strength of its franchise network worldwide.

©2026 David Mazor

Disclosure: David Mazor is a freelance writer focusing on Berkshire Hathaway. The author is long in Berkshire Hathaway, and this article is not a recommendation on whether to buy or sell the stock. The information contained in this article should not be construed as personalized or individualized investment advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

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Lessons From Warren Buffett

Lessons From Warren Buffett: Success Doesn’t Require a Master Plan

Warren Buffett’s journey with Berkshire Hathaway may look like a masterclass in long-term strategy, but according to Buffett himself, there was no grand plan behind it. In fact, much of Berkshire’s growth evolved organically over time.

Speaking at the 1997 Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting, Buffett reflected on the early days: “We didn’t know, twenty-five, thirty years ago, we didn’t know we would be in the insurance business.” He added, “Berkshire, we have no master plan. And Charlie and I did not sit down in 1960, early ’65, and say, ‘We’re going to do this and that,’ and all that.”

Instead of following a rigid blueprint, Buffett and his longtime partner Charlie Munger focused on staying flexible, making rational decisions, and seizing opportunities as they came. Their success wasn’t built on predicting the future—but on adapting to it.

For investors and entrepreneurs, it’s a powerful reminder: you don’t need to know exactly where you’re going from the start. What matters more is clear thinking, patience, and the ability to pivot when the right opportunities appear.

Hear Buffett’s full explanation

See the complete Lessons From Warren Buffett series

©2026 David Mazor

Disclosure: David Mazor is a freelance writer focusing on Berkshire Hathaway. The author is long in Berkshire Hathaway, and this article is not a recommendation on whether to buy or sell the stock. The information contained in this article should not be construed as personalized or individualized investment advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

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Brooks

Brooks Running Delivers Record Q2 as Global Growth Accelerates

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Brooks Running continued its strong global momentum in the first half of 2026, posting record second-quarter results and 14% year-to-date revenue growth. The Berkshire Hathaway-owned performance running brand saw strong demand for footwear, apparel, and accessories across regions and sales channels.

The Americas grew 9% year over year, while international markets accelerated, with revenue up 39% in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and 10% in Asia-Pacific (APAC).

“Running continues to play an increasingly important role for people prioritizing health and wellness,” said Dan Sheridan, CEO of Brooks Running. “Our first-half results reflect that focus and the incredible work of our teams globally.”

Brooks’ performance comes as the global running market continues to expand, reaching $43 billion in 2025, up 10% from the previous year. The brand strengthened its position in key markets, including France and Germany, while maintaining the No. 1 position in U.S. specialty running footwear for the sixth consecutive month.

Proof of Brooks’ elite performance status was spotlighted when World Champion middle-distance runner and Brooks Beast Josh Kerr broke a 27-year-old world record in the mile – one of running’s most storied barriers – at the London Diamond League running 3:42.66.

Product innovation drives growth

Brooks’ core franchises remained major growth drivers. The Adrenaline GTS posted 19% year-over-year growth in the second quarter, while the newly launched Ghost 18 added momentum to the brand’s road-running lineup.

Trail running was an especially strong category, with sales up 71% in Q2. Growth was led by Ghost Trail and the Cascadia franchise, which increased 58% during the quarter. Accessories also expanded rapidly, growing 29% year over year.

The brand continued to build its apparel business with its Movement and PR Elite collections, alongside established lines such as Luxe and Chaser. Brooks also strengthened its position in sports bras, with five of Fleet Feet’s top 10 styles during the quarter.

Beyond performance running, Brooks is expanding into lifestyle footwear. At Paris Fashion Week, the company showcased its RE: Innovation Studio and highlighted products including the Glycerin 12 and new Brooks Vanguard. The lifestyle category posted near-triple-digit growth in Q2, signaling growing demand for Brooks products beyond the run.

©2026 David Mazor

Disclosure: David Mazor is a freelance writer focusing on Berkshire Hathaway. The author is long in Berkshire Hathaway, and this article is not a recommendation on whether to buy or sell the stock. The information contained in this article should not be construed as personalized or individualized investment advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

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Precision Castparts

Precision Castparts Benefits from AI-Driven Surge in Turbine Demand

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Berkshire Hathaway’s Precision Castparts is among four manufacturers benefiting from rising demand for turbine blades and vanes as artificial intelligence fuels rapid growth in data center construction. Other key suppliers include Howmet Aerospace, Consolidated Precision Products and Doncasters Group.

The surge is being driven by the enormous electricity requirements of generative AI. U.S. data center power demand is projected to more than double to 66 gigawatts by 2027, prompting many technology companies to invest in natural gas turbines to generate on-site power rather than wait for grid connections.

Industry forecasts estimate AI data centers could account for 6.7% to 12% of total U.S. electricity consumption by 2028, creating strong demand for gas turbines and the high-performance components used in their production..

©2026 David Mazor

Disclosure: David Mazor is a freelance writer focusing on Berkshire Hathaway. The author is long in Berkshire Hathaway, and this article is not a recommendation on whether to buy or sell the stock. The information contained in this article should not be construed as personalized or individualized investment advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

Categories
Financial Reports

Berkshire Hathaway Reports Strong Second-Quarter Operating Earnings

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Berkshire Hathaway reported a strong second quarter, with operating earnings rising 16% to $12.98 billion, up from $11.16 billion in the same period a year earlier.

The company’s results were supported by solid performances across several of its major businesses. Manufacturing, service and retailing generated $4.47 billion in operating earnings, compared with $3.60 billion a year ago. BNSF also improved, with earnings increasing to $1.56 billion from $1.47 billion, while Berkshire Hathaway Energy’s earnings climbed to $891 million from $702 million.

Insurance investment income declined to $3.06 billion from $3.37 billion, while insurance underwriting earnings fell to $1.73 billion from $1.99 billion. Meanwhile, earnings from Berkshire’s “Other” businesses surged to $1.27 billion, compared with just $32 million a year earlier.

For the first six months of 2026, Berkshire reported operating earnings of $24.33 billion, up from $20.80 billion in the first half of 2025.

CEO Greg Abel also significantly increased Berkshire’s share repurchases during the quarter, buying back approximately $4.5 billion of Berkshire stock. The increased buybacks signal management’s willingness to return capital to shareholders while continuing to assess opportunities for investing Berkshire’s substantial resources.

Net stock purchases were almost $20 billion.

©2026 David Mazor

Disclosure: David Mazor is a freelance writer focusing on Berkshire Hathaway. The author is long in Berkshire Hathaway, and this article is not a recommendation on whether to buy or sell the stock. The information contained in this article should not be construed as personalized or individualized investment advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

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Dairy Queen

Phil Crawford Named Chief Technology Officer at International Dairy Queen

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International Dairy Queen (IDQ), a Berkshire Hathaway company, has appointed Phil Crawford as executive vice president and chief technology officer. Reporting to President and CEO Troy Bader, Crawford will oversee IT and retail technology for the company’s more than 7,800 Dairy Queen restaurants worldwide.

Bader said Crawford’s extensive experience in restaurant technology will help advance the company’s digital strategy and support continued growth. Crawford said he looks forward to building a unified, scalable commerce ecosystem that enhances customer experiences across drive-thru, delivery, in-store and digital channels.

Before joining IDQ, Crawford led global food, beverage and hospitality operations at Adyen and previously held CIO and CTO leadership roles at CKE Restaurants, Godiva Chocolatier, Shake Shack and Yard House Restaurants.

Crawford holds business degrees from Northern Arizona University and the University of Phoenix and completed the Harvard Business Analytics Program at Harvard University. He will be based at IDQ’s global franchisee support center in Minneapolis and succeeds Kevin Baartman, who is retiring later this year.

©2026 David Mazor

Disclosure: David Mazor is a freelance writer focusing on Berkshire Hathaway. The author is long in Berkshire Hathaway, and this article is not a recommendation on whether to buy or sell the stock. The information contained in this article should not be construed as personalized or individualized investment advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.