Omaha, Nebraska — May 3, 2026 — Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE: BRK.A, BRK.B) released its first-quarter 2026 financial results Saturday, delivering a solid performance that marks the official debut of the post-Warren Buffett era under new CEO Greg Abel.
Operating earnings — Berkshire’s preferred metric that strips out volatile investment gains and losses — climbed 18% year-over-year to $11.35 billion. Net income more than doubled to roughly $10.1 billion. The results beat Wall Street expectations in several key segments and underscored the conglomerate’s resilience despite uneven consumer spending and elevated interest rates.
Most notably, Berkshire’s cash and short-term investment reserves ballooned to a record $397 billion, the highest level in the company’s history. The mountain of dry powder reflects Abel’s continued emphasis on capital discipline and patience in a market environment where acquisition targets remain expensive. The company was a net seller of equities during the quarter, trimming holdings by approximately $8 billion more than it added.
Buybacks resumed after a nearly two-year hiatus, signaling management’s view that Berkshire shares offered attractive value at current levels. Abel, who officially took the reins earlier this year after decades as Buffett’s designated successor, addressed shareholders directly at the annual meeting in Omaha last weekend. “Our operating businesses remain the core engine of long-term value creation,” he said, echoing the disciplined philosophy that has defined Berkshire for decades.
Insurance operations — the crown jewel of Berkshire’s portfolio — showed particular strength with improved underwriting margins at GEICO and Berkshire Hathaway Reinsurance. The railroad, utilities, and energy businesses also contributed steady gains, while manufacturing and consumer-facing units navigated softer demand in certain categories.
Analysts say the results validate the seamless leadership transition and Abel’s steady-hand approach. With nearly $400 billion in cash, Berkshire is well-positioned for major deals when the right opportunity arises — though Abel has made clear the bar remains extremely high.
JbizNews- Desk
