Early Access

10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2012

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY INC Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2012

Filed November 2, 2012For Securities:BRK-BBRK-A

Summary

Berkshire Hathaway Inc. reported strong financial performance for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. Net earnings attributable to shareholders significantly increased to $10.3 billion, up from $7.2 billion in the same period last year, driven by robust operating results across its diverse businesses. The company demonstrated substantial growth in its insurance, railroad, utilities, and manufacturing segments, reflecting effective operational management and strategic acquisitions. Total revenues also saw a healthy increase, underscoring the breadth and depth of Berkshire's business portfolio. The balance sheet remains exceptionally strong, with shareholders' equity growing to $184.6 billion. The company maintained a substantial cash and investments position, providing ample liquidity and financial flexibility. Berkshire Hathaway continues to benefit from its decentralized business model, allowing subsidiaries to operate autonomously while contributing to the overall financial strength and profitability of the conglomerate. The company's focus on long-term value creation and prudent capital allocation remains evident throughout its operations.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$41.05B
Operating Expenses$35.11B
Operating Income$5.44B
Net Income$3.92B
EPS (Basic)$2373.00
Shares Outstanding (Basic)1.65M

Key Highlights

  • 1Net earnings attributable to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders increased by 44.7% to $10.3 billion for the first nine months of 2012, compared to $7.2 billion in the prior year.
  • 2Total revenues across all segments grew to $117.7 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2012, up from $105.7 billion in the same period of 2011.
  • 3Shareholders' equity rose to $184.6 billion as of September 30, 2012, from $164.9 billion at the end of 2011, reflecting strong retained earnings and gains in other comprehensive income.
  • 4The insurance group reported a strong underwriting gain of $1.1 billion for the first nine months of 2012, a significant improvement from $261 million in the prior year, driven by reduced catastrophe losses and favorable retroactive reinsurance adjustments.
  • 5BNSF Railway (Railroad, Utilities and Energy segment) demonstrated robust performance with revenues increasing to $15.4 billion and net earnings to $2.4 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.
  • 6The company's cash and cash equivalents position remained strong, with total cash and equivalents at $47.8 billion as of September 30, 2012.
  • 7Manufacturing, service, and retailing segments, notably including the acquired Lubrizol, showed significant revenue and earnings growth, contributing substantially to overall company performance.

Frequently Asked Questions