Month: September 2025

Categories
Lubrizol

Lubrizol Launches Lithium-Free HybriCal™ Grease Thickener for Modern Industrial Demands

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway’s Lubrizol has introduced HybriCal™, a new lithium-free grease thickener formulation designed to meet the evolving needs of industrial applications. Built on an anhydrous calcium base, HybriCal™ offers a high-performance alternative to traditional lithium-based greases.

The formulation complies with the High-Performance Multiuse (HPM) Grease Specification set by the National Lubricating Grease Institute (NLGI), ensuring it meets rigorous industry standards. It delivers multiple manufacturing benefits, including lower processing temperatures and reduced dehydration times, enabling faster production and lower energy consumption.

HybriCal™ is suited for diverse applications such as bearings, mining equipment, and general manufacturing, making it a versatile choice across industries. Crucially, it offers a stable alternative to lithium-based greases amid rising regulatory concerns and price volatility. Being lithium-free, HybriCal™ avoids the recent provisional classification of lithium hydroxide as a Category 1A reproductive toxin by the European Chemicals Agency.

“With HybriCal™, Lubrizol provides a future-ready solution that combines performance, safety, and environmental responsibility, bringing manufacturers stability in a disrupted lithium market,” said Tim Saari, Grease Product Manager at Lubrizol.

© 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.

Categories
Lessons From Warren Buffett

Lessons From Warren Buffett: The Power of Scuttlebutt

Famed investor Phil Fisher, author of Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits, believed that successful investing requires much more than analyzing financial reports. He emphasized the importance of “scuttlebutt” — gathering informal information from people connected to a company, such as competitors, customers, and employees.

Warren Buffett strongly agrees. At the 1998 Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting, he said, “I followed [Fisher’s] scuttlebutt method.” Buffett explained that while reading is essential, nothing beats firsthand research: talking directly to those who interact with the business every day.

Buffett’s advice highlights a key investing lesson — real-world insights can offer an edge that numbers alone often miss.

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.

Categories
BNSF

BNSF and COFC Logistics Expand Intermodal Network Into Eastern U.S. and Mexico

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

BNSF Railway and COFC Logistics announced a major expansion of COFC’s intermodal service network, extending coverage into the eastern United States and Monterrey, Mexico, through a partnership with GMXT.

The move will provide Intermodal Marketing Companies (IMCs)—particularly asset-light operators—with broader container availability, new market access, and scalable solutions across North America. The expansion includes entry into key Northeast and Southeast U.S. markets, along with seven new ramp pairs and enhanced service schedules tailored to IMCs.

“This expansion is about empowering IMCs with the tools they need to compete and grow,” said Jonathan Mulch, COFC Logistics Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “Our asset-light partners can now tap into a broader ecosystem with confidence in our service reliability.”

BNSF Group Vice President of Consumer Products Jon Gabriel added, “By opening and connecting a network across more of North America, we’re not just adding lanes—we’re adding opportunity to the supply chain.”

Luis Hernandez, GMXT Vice President of Intermodal, noted that the partnership strengthens capacity and service quality for cross-border trade.

With expanded container access, optimized schedules, and new market reach, the initiative aims to give IMCs greater flexibility, efficiency, and growth opportunities in the competitive intermodal logistics sector.

© 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.

Categories
HomeServices of America

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Appoints New Leadership: Sam Guillen and Alec Bruice Step into Key Roles

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties has announced the promotion of Sam Guillen to Broker of Record and Alec Bruice to Manager of Broker Administration, marking an exciting new phase for the company. Both leaders bring extensive knowledge of the company’s internal operations, strengths, and growth potential.

With 32 years in the industry, Sam Guillen has been an integral part of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties since 2013. His experience spans various roles, including sales associate, Branch Manager, Director of Education and Training, and Vice President, providing him with a well-rounded perspective on every aspect of the business.

“I’m excited about the chance to reinforce our standing as one of the most professional, respected brokerages in the nation,” said Guillen. He also shared his pride in being the first Latino American to hold a senior executive role within the company. Guillen, a native of Downey, California, and a San Diego resident for the past 25 years, is committed to enhancing the client experience by strengthening the company’s training and communication platforms.

Known for his innovative leadership, Guillen launched Go Live, a live-streamed broadcast during the pandemic, which has since evolved into a weekly podcast. This platform continues to keep agents informed, offering valuable market insights and dynamic strategies. Guillen also co-produces a nationwide podcast with Jimmy Burgess, Chief Coaching Officer of HomeServices of America, providing industry insights from top producers.

Guillen emphasizes the importance of ongoing education and technology in the evolving real estate landscape. “Learning is essential to success because it allows us to identify new growth opportunities,” he said. “The key is to embrace the latest technology and leverage it for the maximum possible benefit.”

Alec Bruice: Leveraging Legal Expertise for Real Estate Success

Alec Bruice brings a unique blend of legal and real estate experience to his new role as Manager of Broker Administration. A former litigation attorney, Bruice transitioned to residential sales in 2010, earning his real estate license in 2006. His leadership experience in both fields positions him to bridge the gap between agents and legal matters, ensuring swift and effective solutions for clients.

“My legal background has been invaluable in helping agents navigate complex transactions,” said Bruice. “Time is of the essence in real estate, and I’m committed to expediting solutions and ensuring our clients receive the best possible outcome.”

Guillen and Bruice are focused on empowering agents at every stage of their careers, providing them with the tools, training, and guidance needed to succeed. Alongside Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties President Brent Consedine, they are setting the tone for the next generation of real estate leadership through authenticity, innovation, and inclusion.

With enhanced mentorship programs, streamlined transactions, and improved client services on the horizon, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties is positioning itself for continued success in the ever-evolving real estate market. To learn more or join the team, visit www.bhhscalifornia.com/careers
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Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties supports more than 2,200 sales associates across 42 offices from San Luis Obispo to San Diego. In 2024, the company facilitated over 6,700 transactions, totaling $11.4 billion in sales volume. A wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway’s HomeServices of America, Inc., the company continues to lead the way in innovation, client service, and real estate excellence.

© 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.

Categories
Lessons From Warren Buffett

Lessons From Warren Buffett: What the Efficient Market Theory Gets Wrong

The Efficient Market Theory suggests that a stock’s price always reflects all available information about a company, making it impossible to consistently outperform the market. However, Warren Buffett firmly disagrees.

Speaking at the 2012 Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting, Buffett stated, “It’s built into the system that stocks get mispriced.” He explained that while Berkshire Hathaway’s stock has historically fluctuated less than many other large companies, it still moves away from its intrinsic value over time. Buffett predicted that over the next 20 years, Berkshire — along with companies like Coca-Cola, Wells Fargo, and IBM — would sometimes be significantly overvalued and at other times significantly undervalued. He emphasized that while the timing and sequence are unpredictable, mispricing is inevitable.

Buffett’s view highlights a fundamental belief: markets are not always perfectly efficient — and opportunities for careful investors still exist.

Buffett’s full explanation on mispriced stocks

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.

Categories
Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Launches Group Personal Accident and Business Travel Insurance in the UK

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI) has expanded its global Accident & Health (A&H) offerings with the launch of Group Personal Accident and Business Travel Insurance in the UK. This new initiative strengthens BHSI’s commitment to employee safety and risk management, aligning with the growing global emphasis on workforce wellbeing.

“Employee safety and wellbeing are strategic priorities for companies worldwide, and BHSI is pleased to bring our robust A&H solutions to organizations across the UK,” said Nick Major, Country Manager for BHSI in the UK. “Today’s complex travel landscape demands a holistic and agile approach to risk management – precisely what BHSI delivers.”

The new coverage is designed to address both everyday and emerging risks associated with business travel, offering tailored protection for companies of all sizes in the UK. Key features include real-time risk alerts, traveler tracking, and emergency services through Healix International. Employees covered under the Group Personal Accident policy also gain access to Teladoc Health UK’s virtual services, including 24/7 GP consultations, expert second medical opinions, and mental health support.

Leading the UK A&H product line is Toni LePine, Head of Accident & Health, UK, with Tom Keeble serving as Senior Underwriter, A&H. Both bring extensive experience and a commitment to building strong relationships with brokers and customers across the UK and Europe. The team is based in BHSI’s London office.

© 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.

Categories
Pilot Flying J

Pilot, GM, and EVgo Power Up EV Charging Across 40 States

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway’s Pilot Company, General Motors, and EVgo Inc. announced their joint charging network now spans more than 200 locations across nearly 40 states, with nearly 850 fast-charging stalls deployed in just over two years. The partnership is helping bridge charging gaps, particularly along interstate travel corridors, enabling 24/7 access to high-power chargers at Pilot and Flying J locations.

The network has grown rapidly, expanding from 25 states to almost 40 in less than a year, with recent additions including Colorado, the Dakotas, South Carolina, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Wyoming. Significant growth is also underway in Texas, Missouri, and Florida—regions where rural counties often lack sufficient charging access. Only 45% of rural counties had at least one fast charging stall available at the start of 2025.

Amenities such as free Wi-Fi, on-site dining, grocery items, overhead canopies, and pull-through stalls for larger vehicles enhance driver convenience. The chargers, capable of up to 350kW, support “Plug and Charge” technology, allowing compatible EVs to start and pay for sessions automatically.

The companies aim to install up to 2,000 fast-charging stalls across 500 locations nationwide. By the end of 2025, they expect to reach 1,000 stalls in 40 states, further supporting coast-to-coast EV travel.

© 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.

Categories
Lessons From Warren Buffett

Lessons From Warren Buffett: Stop Throwing Good Money After Bad

Trying to recover losses by pouring more money into a struggling stock is a common mistake—and one that Warren Buffett warns against.

At the 1995 Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting, Buffett emphasized a key investing principle: “You don’t have to make it back the way you lost it. And in fact, it’s usually a mistake to try and make it back the way that you lost it.”

In other words, there’s no need to stick with a losing investment in the hope it will rebound. The market offers countless other opportunities. Clinging to a poor performer can tie up capital that could be better used elsewhere.

Buffett’s advice is simple: let go of emotional attachments to past losses, and focus instead on smarter, more promising investments going forward.

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.

Categories
Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance

BHSI Appoints Anna Spink as Head of Marine, Australasia

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI) has named Anna Spink as Head of Marine, Australasia.

“Anna’s underwriting expertise, strong customer and broker relationships, and proven track record of service underpin our ambition to grow our Ocean and Inland Marine specialty portfolio,” said Mark Lingafelter, President of BHSI, Australasia.

Spink, who joined BHSI in 2018, previously served as National Manager, Corporate Property, in Australia. She brings nearly 35 years of insurance experience across the UK and Australian markets.

In her new role, she will oversee Marine Cargo, Marine Liability, Marine Hull, Pleasure Craft, Plant and Equipment, General Property, and Heavy Motor portfolios. Spink is based in Sydney.

© 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.

Categories
BNSF

BNSF to Open New Intermodal Facility in Oklahoma City

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

BNSF Railway will open a 42-acre intermodal facility in Oklahoma City this November, offering streamlined and cost-efficient transportation options for Hobby Lobby Stores, Inc.

The project stems from a partnership with the Oklahoma City-based retailer, which sought a simpler and more economical way to move containers from the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach to its local distribution network.

“This expansion shows how we listen to our customers’ needs and deliver solutions that create shared growth opportunities across the region,” said Jon Gabriel, BNSF Group Vice President of Consumer Products. He noted the facility could eventually eliminate up to 40,000 truck moves from highways each year.

Hobby Lobby CFO Jon Cargill said the partnership will help the company maintain efficiency while continuing to provide value to customers.

Looking ahead, the facility will also be available to Oklahoma farmers and other businesses for exports to the West Coast.

© 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.