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BYD

Twice the Power of Tesla: BYD’s Supercharger Set to Disrupt the Market

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway-backed BYD is about to upend the electric vehicle (EV) charging game. On March 17, the Chinese automaker will unveil its Super e-Platform, featuring a 1,000-kW supercharging system—twice as powerful as Tesla’s V4 Supercharger.

The announcement, made on Weibo, suggests BYD’s new technology will slash charging times to rival traditional gas refueling. A leaked poster teases the breakthrough: “1,000-kW flash charging that allows refueling and charging to have the same speed.” If true, this could mean a full charge in just 5-8 minutes for a 100-kWh battery.

Currently, most superchargers operate between 200 kW and 400 kW, with only a few reaching 500 kW. Tesla’s V4 Supercharger, at 500 kW, was its fastest yet—but BYD aims to double that benchmark.

Alongside the tech reveal, BYD will open pre-sales for its Han L sedan and Tang L SUV at the Shenzhen event. This move signals a major push in the high-performance EV market, challenging industry giants with both cutting-edge innovation and aggressive expansion.

Tesla plans to bring its V4 Superchargers to China in 2025—but, BYD will have already lapped them in that race.

© 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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Nebraska Furniture Mart

Nebraska Furniture Mart Partners on New Marriott Hotel & Convention Center in Cedar Park

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway’s Nebraska Furniture Mart (NFM), in partnership with Indiana-based Great Lakes Capital (GLC) and the City of Cedar Park, have announced landmark agreement for a full-service Marriott hotel and convention center at Berkshire Hathaway’s CedarView, a premier mixed-use development in Cedar Park, Texas.

This state-of-the-art project will feature approximately 300 guest rooms, 30,000 square feet of event and meeting space, a full-service restaurant, a breakfast café, and an expansive pool area. Designed to elevate the hospitality experience in Cedar Park, the hotel will serve as a key destination for both business and leisure travelers.

“This hotel and event space will be a game-changer for Cedar Park and the greater Austin area,” said Ryan Blumkin, Executive Vice President of NFM. “Our collaboration with Great Lakes Capital and the City of Cedar Park underscores our commitment to creating dynamic, community-focused developments.”

As an anchor for the CedarView development, the project aligns with NFM’s strategy of expanding its footprint and enhancing local economies. The hotel and convention center will complement NFM’s upcoming Cedar Park retail location, which is currently under construction, further solidifying the area as a hub for commerce and entertainment.

Construction is set to begin in May 2025, with an expected opening in early 2027.

Berkshire’s Nebraska-based home retailer NFM (Nebraska Furniture Mart) will open its fifth store in the city of Cedar Park, Texas, approximately 16 miles northwest of downtown Austin.

© 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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Lessons From Warren Buffett

Lessons From Warren Buffett: Choosing the Right Businesses for the Long Term

New businesses are constantly emerging as entrepreneurs launch new ventures in various industries. However, legendary investor Warren Buffett emphasizes the importance of investing in businesses with high barriers to entry—factors that deter competitors from flooding the market.

At the 2012 Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting, Buffett explained that industries without significant barriers to entry face intense competition. “In those industries, you better be running very fast,” he said, noting that competitors will quickly analyze and exploit weaknesses or strive to outperform existing players.

For long-term success, Buffett seeks businesses that are protected by factors like brand loyalty, patents, or operational advantages, shielding them from being overwhelmed by new entrants. His advice highlights the value of competitive resilience in sustaining business growth.

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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Announcements

Women in Leadership: Intero Announces Major Executive Advancements

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Intero, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate and subsidiary of HomeServices of America, has announced the promotions of Heather Victoria, Alexandria (“Alex”) Kavalaris, and Mia Park. These leadership advancements reinforce Intero’s commitment to fostering strong female leaders and driving company growth.

Heather Victoria, Intero’s longtime Controller, has been promoted to Vice President. With over 30 years of financial experience, she now oversees strategic partnerships alongside company president Scott Chase. She also holds a key finance role within HomeServices of America’s Shared Success Center.

Alex Kavalaris, previously Corporate Counsel, steps into the role of Vice President and General Counsel. A seasoned legal expert, she will continue guiding the company’s legal strategy and providing counsel to Intero’s 1,500 agents. An active contributor to real estate law discussions, she frequently lectures at industry associations.

Mia Park has taken on the position of Broker of Record for Intero and is now an officer of HomeServices of America. Since joining Intero in 2003, Park has led major offices, managed relocation services, and overseen agent training. She now plays a crucial role in daily brokerage operations and compliance.

“These three leaders have been integral to Intero’s success for many years,” said Terry Meyer, Co-Founder and President of Intero. “We look forward to their continued impact as they help shape the future of our brokerage.”

For over two decades, Intero has built a culture of collaboration and excellence. Under its dynamic leadership team, the company remains dedicated to innovation and industry growth.

© 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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CORT

CORT Business Services Promotes J.T. Marcum to Executive Vice President

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CORT Business Services, a Berkshire Hathaway company and the nation’s leading provider of furniture rental and transition services, has announced the promotion of Joseph (J.T.) Marcum to Executive Vice President, Corporate Operations and Supply Chain.

Since joining CORT in 2019 as Vice President of Business Strategy, Marcum has played a key role in advancing strategic initiatives in transportation, logistics, and supply chain management. His promotion to Corporate Vice President in 2021 expanded his responsibilities to housewares, product development, freight, logistics, real estate, and contract management. His leadership has significantly improved efficiency, consistency, and profitability across these areas.

“I’m honored to step into this role and continue working alongside such a talented team,” said Marcum. “CORT’s strength lies in its ability to adapt and improve, and I look forward to further optimizing our supply chain and logistics to better serve our clients.”

A dedicated LEAN Manufacturing practitioner, Marcum emphasizes efficiency-driven strategies while maintaining a strong customer focus. In 2023, he earned his Certificate in Production and Inventory Planning (CPIM) from the Association of Supply Chain Management Professionals, further solidifying his expertise.

“J.T. has an exceptional ability to tackle complex challenges and drive meaningful improvements,” said Paula Newell, Chief Operating Officer. “His leadership has already made a measurable impact, and I’m excited to see how he continues to shape CORT’s future.”

A graduate of Ball State University, Marcum is also an active alumni volunteer for Sigma Phi Epsilon. He resides in Brambleton, VA, with his wife, Kristin, and their dog, Brodie. In his free time, he enjoys golfing, traveling, and exploring Northern Virginia’s wine country.

With this promotion, Marcum will report directly to Newell, guiding CORT’s operational and supply chain strategy to ensure continued innovation and customer-focused solutions.

© 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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Value Investing

Lessons From Warren Buffett: Steer Clear of Fading Businesses

Investors are often tempted by the seemingly low prices of shares in declining businesses, especially when these companies pay attractive dividends. However, Warren Buffett strongly advises against this approach, despite starting his career by investing in what he called “cigar butt” businesses—companies offering just a few remaining puffs of profitability.

Buffett emphasizes that focusing on healthier, growing businesses yields better long-term results. “The same amount of energy and intelligence brought to other types of businesses is just going to work out better,” he said during the 2012 Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting.

He warned that declining businesses often come with unrealistic projections and limited future potential. “If you really think a business is declining, most of the time you should avoid it,” Buffett noted. Instead, he highlighted that the greatest returns come from investing in companies with solid growth prospects, urging investors to prioritize such opportunities over short-lived bargains.

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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Johns Manville

Berkshire’s Johns Manville to Add Over 350 Jobs with New Insulation Production Line in Georgia

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Johns Manville (JM), a global building and specialty products manufacturer and a Berkshire Hathaway company, has announced plans to build a new Climate Pro blowing wool production line in Winder, GA.

“This new production line in Winder will help JM meet our customers’ growing demand for blowing wool,” said Bob Wamboldt, President and CEO of Johns Manville.

Construction is set to begin early next year, with operations expected to start by mid-2027. Upon completion, JM will employ over 350 people in Winder.

Greg Clarke, President of JM’s Insulation Systems business, emphasized the strategic location, noting that increased capacity in the Southeast will enhance service to East Coast and Central U.S. markets.

Climate Pro blown-in fiberglass insulation provides consistent coverage, filling hard-to-reach spaces for better energy efficiency and comfort in homes. It is widely used in attics and net-and-blow systems, offering quick and efficient installation by professionals.

© 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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BYD

BYD Energy Storage and Saudi Electricity Company Sign Landmark Energy Storage Deal

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

BYD Energy Storage, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway-backed BYD, has signed the world’s largest grid-scale energy storage project contract with Saudi Electricity Company. The agreement covers a capacity of 12.5GWh, bringing their total cooperation to 15.1GWh, including a previously delivered 2.6GWh project. This milestone significantly advances Saudi Arabia’s renewable energy goals under Vision 2030.

The partnership highlights Saudi Electricity Company’s commitment to integrating advanced energy storage technologies to optimize energy efficiency. The new Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) will be installed across five sites, utilizing BYD’s cutting-edge MC Cube-T ESS equipped with CTS (Cell-to-System) technology. With a Vcts index exceeding 33%, the systems will bolster grid stability, support peak energy demands, and facilitate the transition to renewable energy.

With 17 years of expertise in energy storage, BYD has delivered over 75GWh of BESS equipment across 350 projects in more than 110 countries. This latest collaboration marks a new milestone, reinforcing BYD’s leadership in the global energy storage industry.

© 2025 David Mazor

Disclosure: David Mazor is a freelance writer focusing on Berkshire Hathaway. The author is long in Berkshire Hathaway and BYD, and this article is not a recommendation on whether to buy or sell a 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: Growth Is a Key Component of Value

Amid debates about growth versus value stocks, Warren Buffett emphasizes that growth itself is a form of value. Using GEICO as an example, he explains that projected growth can enhance a company’s assets and, in the case of insurers, its float—provided the growth is predictable.

Speaking at the 2012 Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting, Buffett highlighted GEICO’s potential: “I think it’s quite rational to assume a significant underwriting profit at GEICO over the next decade or two, and I think it’s likely that it will have significant growth. Both of those are items of enormous value.”

By adding projected growth to the current float value, Buffett underscores how future expansion can contribute meaningfully to a company’s overall valuation.

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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Acquisitions

Berkshire’s Marmon Aerospace & Defense Acquires Marine Tech Wire & Cable

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Marmon Aerospace & Defense Group, a division of Marmon Holdings, Inc. and a Berkshire Hathaway company, has successfully acquired Marine Tech Wire & Cable, Inc., a specialized manufacturer of circuit integrity cables used in U.S. Navy ships.

Founded in 2000 and based in York, PA, Marine Tech enhances Marmon A&D’s portfolio with its expertise in power, specialty, lightweight, low smoke, silicone, and watertight cabling for mission-critical shipboard applications. The acquisition strengthens Marmon’s ability to provide high-performance solutions with increased capacity and reduced lead times.

Charles Clement, President of Marmon A&D Group, highlighted the benefits of the acquisition, stating that it complements their newly opened Hooksett, NH marine power cable facility. Senior Vice President Robert Canny emphasized that Marine Tech’s expertise aligns perfectly with Marmon’s shipboard product line, enhancing support for Navy ship contracts.

Marine Tech owners Mark Lindsay and Kostanis Contanious expressed enthusiasm for joining Marmon, noting that the partnership will add value for customers. Both will remain with the business to support its ongoing growth.

© 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.