Buffett Exits Bank Stocks Amid Q1 Market Slump, No New Positions Added

Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway significantly reduced its exposure to financial stocks during the first quarter of 2025, regulatory filings show. The conglomerate sold $4.7 billion worth of equities while making only $3.2 billion in purchases, continuing a strategic retreat from banking institutions that began in late 2024.

Bank of America saw a 7.2% reduction in Berkshire’s stake, while positions in Capital One and Citigroup were trimmed by 4% and eliminated completely, respectively. The moves signal a prolonged withdrawal from traditional financial sectors as market conditions remain volatile.

Buffett maintained core holdings like Apple while doubling down on niche consumer plays. Constellation Brands and Pool Corp. received increased investments, reflecting a preference for recession-resistant businesses over cyclical financial services.