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Minority Stock Positions Stock Portfolio

Panama Has Big Plans for BYD’s e-Taxis

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Chinese battery and vehicle maker BYD has taken the first steps on what will be a major fleet of e-taxis in Colón, Panama.

BYD has delivered the first seven e-taxis for a planned fleet of 1,500 e-taxis in Colón, with 90 more to be on the road by the end of 2019.

The seven BYD e6 sedans provide service to tourists and locals visiting the Atlantic entrance to the Panama Canal.

For More on BYD, read the Special Report: BYD, Berkshire’s Tesla.

© 2019 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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Berkadia

Berkadia Secures JV Equity Financing for TRIBECA Condo Development in D.C.

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkadia, Berkshire Hathaway’s joint venture with Jefferies Financial Group, has arranged the JV equity financing for The TRIBECA, a new condo development by Urban Investment Partners (UIP) in the rapidly growing NoMa submarket of Washington D.C.

The team, consisting of Noam Franklin, Chinmay Bhatt and Cody Kirkpatrick, leading Berkadia’s new JV Equity & Structured Capital, arranged the equity partner, a private capital group, for UIP while they were with Central Park Capital Partners (CPCP), which was sold to Berkadia in March 2019.

“Ground up condo projects in today’s market are tough to get capitalized, but we were able to quickly find UIP a partner for this opportunity due to the developer’s expertise in the DC area and lack of new supply in the emerging neighborhood of NoMa,” said Franklin. “We are always impressed with UIP’s vision for their projects and investing across multiple cycles with success.”

The TRIBECA, a transit-oriented development, will feature 99 market-rate condominium units in the highly desirable NoMa submarket, a neighborhood with a limited upcoming condo supply. The 13-story building will include a mix of one- and two-bedroom homes, as well as a fitness center, bike storage, garage parking and a rooftop deck.

The site is located at 39-41 New York Ave., just one block from the NoMa-Gallaudet University Metro station. Construction has commenced with an expected completion in late 2020.

About Berkadia

Founded in 2009 as a 50/50 joint venture between Berkshire Hathaway and Leucadia National Corporation (now known as Jefferies Financial Group), Berkadia is a third-party commercial mortgage servicer, as well as an approved lender for Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and HUD/FHA.

The company is among the top Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae multifamily lenders.

Berkadia owes its origins to GMAC Commercial Mortgage Corporation, which was acquired in 2009 by Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co., Five Mile Capital Partners LLC, and Goldman Sachs Capital Partners. Christened Capmark Financial, the company had $10 billion of originations in 2008 and a servicing portfolio of more than $360 billion before running into bankruptcy in October 2009.

In a deal approved by the bankruptcy court, Capmark sold its mortgage loan and servicing to the newly formed Berkadia in a deal worth $515 million.

The deal brought Berkshire into the heart of the commercial loan serving business, and the company has one of the largest commercial real estate servicing portfolios.

© 2019 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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Lubrizol

Lubrizol Announces Global Collaboration with Corbion

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

The Lubrizol Corporation has created an exclusive global partnership with Corbion Biotech, Inc, bringing AlgaPur(TM) high stability high oleic algae oil to the personal care and cosmetics markets.

Based in the Netherlands, Corbion is a global market leader in algae ingredients. This collaboration combines Lubrizol’s formulation experience and knowledge of the personal care market with Corbion’s innovative bio-based solutions and sustainable practices.

AlgaPur(TM) High Stability High Oleic Algae Oil is a unique algae oil with formulation and performance benefits for a diverse range of personal care applications. Key benefits include:

• Elegant sensory experience: Silky, non-greasy feel providing excellent hydration and ease of spreadability
• Stable for formulating: Superior oxidative stability with over 90% Omega-9 oleic acid, allowing for extended shelf life
• Mild formulations: Free from known allergens, low odor and neutral color
• Sustainable production: Palm-free, and produced with a low carbon, land and water footprint

Bio-based ingredients and sustainable solutions are a developing trend in the personal care industry, experiencing significant global growth. “This new collaboration allows our innovation teams to expand our formulation expertise, bringing innovative bio-based solutions with excellent performance attributes,” states Jean Claude Deneuville, global director agile businesses at Lubrizol.

“Working with Lubrizol provides the opportunity to expand access and adoption of AlgaPur(TM) High Stability High Oleic Algae Oil in the personal care market,” says Marc den Hartog, executive vice president of Innovation Platforms at Corbion. “Corbion’s unique algae oil ingredient is a versatile, new ingredient for formulators to help meet consumers demands for sustainable, traceable and high-performance products.”

Corbion is the global market leader in lactic acid, lactic acid derivatives, and a leading company in emulsifiers, functional enzyme blends, minerals, vitamins and algae ingredients. Corbion is a global player in personal care, offering natural, safe and cost-effective ingredients, widely known for its their emulsification, moisturizing, pH adjustment and antimicrobial functions.

In 2018, Corbion generated annual sales of € 897.2 million and had a workforce of 2,040 FTE.

© 2019 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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Minority Stock Positions Stock Portfolio

BYD is the Latest Way to Get to Disneyland

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Chinese battery and vehicle maker BYD will soon be giving you a lift to Disneyland.

Anaheim Resort Transportation (ART) has announced that it would add 40 of BYD’s all-electric buses to its fleet serving the renowned tourist destination.

In 2013, BYD opened its U.S. electric bus manufacturing plant in nearby Lancaster, California, and in April 2019 delivered its 300th bus for the U.S. market.

For More on BYD, read the Special Report: BYD, Berkshire’s Tesla.

© 2019 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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NetJets

NetJets Threatens to Move Out of Ohio if Tax Breaks Repealed

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway’s NetJets is threatening to move its business out of Ohio if proposed tax changes included in Ohio’s state budget become law.

The repeal proposal included in the House budget package removes the cap on sales taxes of fractionally owned aircraft. The cap was enacted in 2003 and is currently set at $800.

Also to be repealed would be a tax exemption for sales of property and services to maintain and repair fractionally owned aircraft.

“NetJets would either have to pass this tax obligation through to its customers which would adversely affect NetJets competitiveness by increasing the price of its products or alternatively, it would have to incur the tax impact itself thereby negatively affecting its profitability,” Bradley Ferrell, Executive Vice President of Net, says. “Neither of these options would be palatable to NetJets long term. Instead, NetJets would be forced to consider other states with more favorable sales tax environments. And there are plenty.”

The tax breaks also benefits NetJets’s Cleveland-based competitor, Flexjets.

© 2019 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

Johns Manville Picks Kansas for New Climate Pro Production Line

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Johns Manville (JM), a global building and specialty products manufacturer and a Berkshire Hathaway Company, announced today a new Climate Pro® blowing wool production line will be built in McPherson, Kansas.

“Climate Pro insulation is a preferred solution for many contractors and distributors,” said Mary Rhinehart, President and CEO of Johns Manville. “The production expansion at our plant in McPherson will help us meet current and future market demand for blowing wool.”

JM will begin construction on the expansion project later this year, pending various governmental approvals, and anticipates the completion in early 2021. When complete, JM will employ more than 330 people in McPherson.

“Our central location in McPherson gives us easy access to many markets and positions Johns Manville to offer more of this premium product to our customers,” said Bob Wamboldt, President of JM’s Insulation Systems business.

Climate Pro® blow-in fiberglass insulation fills those hard-to-reach cavities and corners while offering more consistent coverage – resulting in a more comfortable, energy-efficient home. It offers a range of R-values and is quick for professionals to install.

“Johns Manville is proud to be part of this community and we are eager to add people to our team,” said Mindy Lanning, Plant Manager in McPherson. “We will be hiring operators, maintenance technicians and warehouse employees. As part of our team, employees enjoy the stability of an established company and a strong family-like environment. We offer competitive hourly rates and training opportunities to learn new roles and develop new skills.”

Local and state officials applauded JM’s decision to expand in McPherson:

“Advanced manufacturing is a staple of McPherson,” Kansas Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The community houses a significant number of innovative, progressive manufacturing companies pushing the envelope in their industry. It is clear that Johns Manville has chosen the right location for its expansion.”

“This project is an important step forward in the McPherson manufacturing market. Johns Manville is an important corporate citizen in our community,” said McPherson Mayor Tom Brown.

“What an exciting win for McPherson, Kansas! We are grateful to our partners at the Kansas Department of Commerce for coming along side us to get this deal done. We are honored to have JM continue to invest and grow in our community,” said Kasi Morales, Executive Director of the McPherson Industrial Development Company.

© 2019 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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Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Insurance

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Establishes Adelaide Office

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI) has expanded its presence in Australia to South Australia, opening a new office in Adelaide and naming Monica Holland as Underwriting Manager.

“We are pleased to expand our team and geographic reach with our new Adelaide office, which will provide our suite of specialty products to customers and brokers. Monica has extensive experience in the South Australia insurance industry, and we are pleased to have her representing BHSI. Monica’s local expertise will allow us to partner more effectively with our brokers and customers in South Australia.” said Mark Lingafelter, President, Australasia, BHSI.

As Underwriting Manager for South Australia, Monica will work closely with BHSI’s team in Melbourne to deliver the company’s full range of product offerings. This includes property, liability, executive & professional lines, marine, accident & health and healthcare insurance solutions. She will also serve as Casualty Manager for South Australia.

Monica brings nearly 25 years of diverse industry experience to BHSI. She has most recently served as State Manager and Distribution Manager for a global insurer. Monica holds a University Certificate of Management, Business Management, from Deakin University and is a Senior Associate, Insurance, at ANZIIF.

© 2019 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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Minority Stock Positions Stock Portfolio

China’s BYD One of Toyota’s New Strategic Partners

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Chinese new energy company BYD will be one of Toyota’s strategic partners that also includes partnerships with Chinese battery manufacturer CATL, Toshiba, and Japanese battery manufacturer GS Yuasa.

Details of the strategic partnerships have yet to be released, but comes as Toyota is looking to increase its supply of batteries in order to produce 5.5 million electrified vehicles a year by 2025.

BYD and Berkshire Hathaway

In 2008, Berkshire Hathaway bet on BYD’s potential, purchasing 225 million shares. It’s an investment that has paid off handsomely. Berkshire’s original investment of $230 million has grown in value almost ten-fold, and is now worth roughly $1.96 billion.

For More on BYD, read the Special Report: BYD, Berkshire’s Tesla.

© 2018 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

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Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance HomeServices of America Insurance

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Opens Office in Paris

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI), in coordination with its affiliate, has received its insurance license in France, established a new office in Paris, and appointed François-Xavier d’Huart as Country Manager.

“We are pleased to continue our strategic expansion in Europe, with our new office in France and François-Xavier leading our efforts to bring BHSI’s underwriting and claims acumen, financial strength, and long-term focus to the French market,” said Chris Colahan, President, BHSI in Europe and the UK. “François-Xavier brings extensive experience to BHSI, and I am so pleased to have him at the helm as we build our product line and team in Paris.”

Beginning immediately, BHSI is underwriting property, casualty, and executive & professional lines in France. The company expects to launch several other products in France in the months ahead.

François-Xavier comes to BHSI with 15 years of industry experience. He was most recently Head of Client and Broker Management for France at AXA XL (previously XL Catlin). Before that he was Chief Executive Officer, Office Lyonnais d’Assurances and Interassur, at SATEC, and Head of Marine Cargo & Hull for Asia at AXA Asia.

François-Xavier holds a master’s degree in Engineering from SUPELEC and a master’s degree in Economics and Management from the IFP School. He received his actuarial degree from Centre d’Etudes Actuarielles.

BHSI’s Paris office is located at 88 & 92 Avenue Charles de Gaulle, 92200 Neuilly-sur-Seine.

© 2019 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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Mouser Electronics

Mouser Electronics Receives Top Digital Award from KEMET

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway’s Mouser Electronics, Inc. has received the Digital Marketing Partner of the Year award from KEMET for the second consecutive year.

The major award — presented last year for the first time — recognizes Mouser’s global distribution capabilities and digital marketing expertise.

The Digital Marketing Partner of the Year FY19 award acknowledges Mouser’s superior performance in a variety of areas, including e-marketing results, new product introductions, customer count growth and overall process excellence.

“This award recognizes the exceptional work Mouser Electronics has done for KEMET, and we proudly recognize them for the second year in a row,” said Johnny Boan, KEMET Vice President, Global Distribution. “This year, KEMET celebrates 100 years and Mouser has been an essential partner in our story, helping to build our brand and bring our products to their wide customer base. Mouser’s committed partnership ensured our mutual success in 2019.”

“Mouser is honored to be recognized with this important award,” said Tom Busher, Vice President of Supplier Management. “Our customers expect the latest technologies and components with superlative service; together with KEMET we strive to exceed these expectations.”

© 2019 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.