Berkshire Hathaway Reports Record $381 Billion Cash Pile Amid Strong Q3 Earnings

Berkshire Hathaway's operating profits surged 33% to $13.5 billion in the third quarter, fueled by robust insurance underwriting results. The conglomerate's cash reserves ballooned to a historic $381.7 billion, up from $344.1 billion in Q2, as Warren Buffett's company remained cautious on equity valuations.

The insurance segment drove performance with underwriting profits tripling to $2.4 billion after taxes. Geico maintained steady results while reinsurance operations swung to a $900 million profit from last year's loss, benefiting from a quiet hurricane season. Notably, Berkshire was a net seller of $6 billion in stocks during the quarter, continuing its apparent trimming of Apple shares.

For the second consecutive quarter, Berkshire abstained from share repurchases—a clear signal the Oracle of Omaha sees limited value in current prices. The earnings beat analyst estimates by 9% as Buffett prepares to step down as CEO while retaining the chairman role.