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BNSF

BNSF Collaboration Slashes Transit Time on PNW-Chicago Route

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

BNSF Railway, in partnership with Norfolk Southern (NS) and the Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA), has launched a redesigned intermodal rail service that reduces transit time by three days for freight moving from the Pacific Northwest (PNW) to Chicago and beyond.

The new Inland Point Intermodal (IPI) service features a more efficient process at the NWSA ports of Seattle and Tacoma, where trains will now be built in under two days. This accelerated turnaround enables seamless transfer via BNSF’s Northern Transcon route, improving speed and consistency for shippers.

“This collaboration is the result of listening to our customers, who want to shift more freight to rail while lowering inventory and transportation costs,” said Jon Gabriel, BNSF Group Vice President, Consumer Products.

Thanks to operational enhancements, NWSA now reports the lowest rail dwell time in the U.S. so far this year. The updated service delivers cargo from ship to Chicago in just six days—the fastest transit time from any PNW port.

Norfolk Southern and BNSF will streamline the journey further by consolidating handoffs at a single Chicago location (NS-Ashland), facilitating quick crew swaps before cargo continues to inland destinations such as Ohio and Pennsylvania.

“This partnership is a great example of how we can innovate to meet the evolving needs of shippers,” added NWSA CEO John Wolfe.

The new service is effective immediately.

© 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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Insurance

GEICO Expands in Florida with 1,000 New Jobs at New Tampa Campus

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

GEICO is strengthening its presence in Florida with a new campus in Tampa, bringing over 1,000 new jobs to the region. This expansion supports the company’s commitment to modernizing operations and driving long-term growth while reinforcing its reputation as a customer-focused insurance provider.

“As Florida’s second-largest auto insurer and the third largest in the United States, we are thrilled to expand our footprint in the Sunshine State,” said GEICO Senior Vice President Angela Rinella. “Tampa’s robust talent pool and dynamic business environment make it the ideal location for our newest office, allowing us to better serve our growing customer base while creating significant employment opportunities.”

The new Tampa campus will add to GEICO’s existing Florida workforce of nearly 3,800 employees, primarily based in Jacksonville and Lakeland, with additional legal offices throughout the state. The company will occupy 190,000 square feet across a three-building campus near Tampa International Airport, beginning this summer.

This investment highlights GEICO’s commitment to transforming how it delivers a wide range of insurance products, ensuring a seamless experience from initial quotes to claims settlement. Career opportunities at the new location will include roles in insurance sales, service, and claims, along with leadership development programs for those pursuing management careers.

© 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: Adversity as a Test of Business Strength

Warren Buffett believes that how a company navigates challenges reveals critical insights about its true resilience and competitive advantage. A business that endures hardship and emerges stronger demonstrates not only its durability but also the strength of its economic moat—the protective advantage that keeps competitors at bay.

At the 2000 Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting, Buffett explained, “If you see a business take a lot of adversity and still do well, that tells you something about the underlying strength of the business.” He cited Coca-Cola as an example, noting how the company overcame setbacks such as the New Coke failure and issues in Europe, only to rebound stronger each time.

For investors, these moments of adversity serve as valuable tests. Companies that can weather difficulties and maintain their competitive edge often have the resilience and structural advantages necessary for long-term success.

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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Lubrizol

Lubrizol Launching Cutting-Edge Technology and Innovation Center in India

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Lubrizol, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, has announced it will establish a state-of-the-art Technology and Innovation Center in Maharashtra, India. This facility, the first of its kind for Lubrizol globally, aims to drive breakthrough innovations, enhance collaboration, and accelerate market delivery for its customers and industries worldwide.

The new center will integrate various lab capabilities, reinforcing Lubrizol’s in-region Centers of Excellence (COE). It will also house a Customer Experience Center, fostering co-development with customers and partners. Equipped with advanced analytical tools, automation, and digital solutions, the center will apply decision science to fast-track next-generation innovations.

Bhavana Bindra, Lubrizol’s Managing Director for India, the Middle East, and Africa, emphasized the company’s legacy of nearly a century in innovation. She highlighted that the new center underscores Lubrizol’s commitment to technological advancement and collaboration in the region. Dr. Rahul Misra, Senior Director of Technology, further noted that the facility’s location in Maharashtra will enhance efficiency and facilitate cutting-edge research and development.

Lubrizol’s President and CEO, Rebecca Liebert, stated that this center will serve as a model for future global innovation hubs, reinforcing the company’s interconnected research strategy. The Indian innovation teams have already garnered global recognition, and this facility is expected to further amplify their impact.

Lubrizol’s commitment to India spans decades, with notable contributions such as introducing CPVC piping 25 years ago, revolutionizing clean water access. The company’s India-based Bar Soap COE has also driven sustainable improvements in soap formulation. Additionally, Lubrizol continues to develop next-generation additive solutions in response to evolving transportation regulations.

This announcement is part of Lubrizol’s broader investment in India, totaling over $350 million in the past 18 months. The company is constructing its second-largest global manufacturing facility, collaborating on the world’s largest CPVC resin plant, and expanding its operations in Pune and Gujarat. The new Technology and Innovation Center marks another milestone in Lubrizol’s growth and commitment to the Indian market.

© 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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Appointments

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Promotes Anthony Tatulli to Expanded Leadership Role

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI) has elevated Anthony Tatulli to the newly expanded position of Head of Liability, Executive & Professional Lines. In addition to continuing his leadership of BHSI’s Executive & Professional (E&P) Lines business, Tatulli will now oversee the company’s Casualty and Healthcare divisions, as well as Customer & Broker Engagement in North America.

“Anthony has had tremendous success profitably growing our E&P Lines business and bringing BHSI’s stellar value proposition to the marketplace,” said Sanjay Godhwani, President of BHSI’s North America Region. “This new role will broaden his impact as he works closely with our Casualty, Healthcare, and Customer & Broker Engagement leaders to further strengthen and expand BHSI’s relationships throughout our liability lines.”

Tatulli joined BHSI in 2021 as Head of E&P Lines, bringing with him more than 30 years of industry experience across underwriting, claims, and legal. Before transitioning to the insurance sector, he spent eight years as an attorney. His expanded leadership role underscores BHSI’s commitment to strengthening its liability offerings and deepening industry relationships.

© 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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Insurance

GEICO Expands in North Texas with 1,500 New Jobs

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

GEICO, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, is bringing over 1,500 new jobs to North Texas as part of a major expansion. The company announced today the addition of more than 1,000 positions and the opening of a second building in Richardson, just three months after revealing plans to hire 500 new employees.

Fueled by the region’s strong talent pool, GEICO’s growth spans multiple business lines. The new 165,000-square-foot facility, set to open in fall 2025, will support sales, service, and claims operations.

“The outstanding talent pool in North Texas has been instrumental in driving GEICO’s success,” said Senior Vice President Melissa Gallaro. “We are thrilled to expand our presence in Richardson while creating valuable career opportunities.”

This investment highlights GEICO’s commitment to enhancing customer experience and expanding its insurance offerings. With the new facility, the company will occupy nearly 400,000 square feet of office space in Richardson, reinforcing North Texas as a key hub for its continued 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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Lessons From Warren Buffett

Lessons From Warren Buffett: Why Liquidity Matters as Much as Value

Warren Buffett, known for his keen eye for undervalued stocks and businesses, emphasizes the importance of maintaining liquidity. While he actively seeks investment opportunities, he ensures that Berkshire Hathaway always has sufficient reserves.

At the 2012 Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting, Buffett highlighted this principle, stating, “We know we don’t want to go broke. I mean, we start with that. And we know you can’t go broke if you’ve got a fair amount of liquid reserves around and you don’t have any near-term debts and so on.”

This strategy underscores the value of financial stability. By keeping adequate cash reserves and avoiding excessive short-term debt, Buffett ensures his company remains financially secure, even in uncertain times. His approach serves as a reminder that long-term success in investing isn’t just about making the right purchases—it’s also about maintaining the flexibility to weather economic downturns.

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

Buffett’s March Madness Contest Ends with $1 Million Winner and $100,000 Runners-Up!

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

After a decade of trying, Warren Buffett has finally given away his March Madness prize money. The winner of Berkshire Hathaway’s 2025 Bracket Contest, an employee of FlightSafety International Inc., correctly predicted the outcome of 31 out of 32 games in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. As a result, the lucky winner will receive the grand prize of $1,000,000.

The contest saw 12 employees from Berkshire’s subsidiaries, including the winner, correctly pick 31 of the 32 games. The winner’s impressive streak included correctly predicting the first 29 games before missing the outcome of game 30 (Xavier vs. Illinois). Eleven runners-up, who also made notable picks, will each walk away with $100,000.

The winner’s success didn’t stop there. Over the weekend, they predicted 13 straight winners, boosting their overall record to 44 correct picks out of 45 games.

© 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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Dairy Queen

Art D’Elia Joins Dairy Queen as COO for U.S. and Canada

(BRK.A), (BRK.B)

International Dairy Queen, Inc. (IDQ), a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, has appointed Art D’Elia as chief operating officer for the U.S. and Canada. Reporting directly to the company’s president and CEO, D’Elia will oversee nearly 275 employees across operations, training, and marketing to drive financial growth and franchisee success.

“Art’s expertise in brand strategy, marketing, and operations will be instrumental in strengthening the DQ system,” said Troy Bader, president and CEO of IDQ. “His leadership will help us achieve our vision of becoming the world’s favorite quick-service restaurant.”

D’Elia expressed enthusiasm for his new role, stating, “It’s an honor to join the DQ team. I look forward to expanding the brand, supporting franchisees, and introducing more consumers to the DQ experience.”

Before joining IDQ, D’Elia spent seven years at Domino’s Pizza, where he led international operations and served as chief marketing officer. He has also held leadership positions at Danone Dairy and PepsiCo.

Based at IDQ’s Minneapolis headquarters, D’Elia brings a wealth of experience to one of the world’s most iconic quick-service brands, which operates over 7,700 restaurants in more than 20 countries.

© 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: On Bubbles and Opportunities

Warren Buffett, the legendary investor, understands that stock market prices often disconnect from underlying fundamentals. This creates both risks and opportunities for disciplined investors.

At the 1997 Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting, Buffett warned about the dangers of speculative enthusiasm. “People get captivated simply by the notion of rising prices without going back to the underlying rationale. That’s when you get very dangerous conditions in terms of possible bubbles,” he explained.

Buffett emphasized that this behavior isn’t limited to market highs. Extreme reactions—whether euphoric or fearful—can lead to mispriced assets. “It’s just people behave in extreme ways in markets,” he noted. “And over time, that’s very good for people that keep their heads.”

For Buffett, staying rational amid market volatility is key to long-term success.

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.