Company DescriptionBerkshire Hathaway Inc., through its subsidiaries, engages in the insurance, freight rail transportation, and utility businesses worldwide. It provides property, casualty, life, accident, and health insurance and reinsurance; and operates railroad systems in North America. The company also generates, transmits, stores, and distributes electricity from natural gas, coal, wind, solar, hydroelectric, nuclear, and geothermal sources; operates natural gas distribution and storage facilities, interstate pipelines, liquefied natural gas facilities, and compressor and meter stations; and holds interest in coal mining assets. In addition, the company manufactures boxed chocolates and other confectionery products; specialty chemicals, metal cutting tools, and components for aerospace and power generation applications; flooring products; insulation, roofing, and engineered products; building and engineered components; paints and coatings; and bricks and masonry products, as well as offers manufactured and site-built home construction, and related lending and financial services. Further, it provides recreational vehicles, apparel products, jewelry, and custom picture framing products, as well as alkaline batteries; castings, forgings, fasteners/fastener systems, and aerostructures; and seamless pipes, fittings, downhole casing and tubing, and mill forms. Additionally, the company distributes televisions and information; franchises and services quick service restaurants; distributes electronic components; and offers logistics services, grocery and foodservice distribution services, and professional aviation training and shared aircraft ownership programs. It also retails automobiles; furniture, bedding, and accessories; household appliances, electronics, and computers; jewelry, watches, crystal, china, stemware, flatware, gifts, and collectibles; kitchenware; and motorcycle apparel and equipment. The company was incorporated in 1998 and is headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska.
How the Company Makes MoneyBerkshire Hathaway makes money through a combination of wholly owned subsidiaries and significant equity investments. Its primary revenue streams include insurance premiums from its insurance operations such as GEICO and Berkshire Hathaway Reinsurance Group, which also provide the company with substantial 'float'—the funds available for investment before claims are paid. Additionally, the company earns income from its diverse range of subsidiaries in industries like energy, rail transportation, and manufacturing, which contribute to its operating profits. Investment income from its extensive portfolio of publicly traded stocks also plays a significant role in its revenue model. The conglomerate's performance is bolstered by strategic acquisitions and partnerships that enhance its competitive position across various sectors.