Despite strong earnings and record cash levels, Berkshire Hathaway's stock prices experienced a downturn. Class A shares fell 2.2% and class B shares closed at $409.14. Analysts speculate that the optimistic earnings outlook is already reflected in the current share price. In his annual letter, Warren Buffett anticipates that Berkshire's performance will exceed the average company but will be influenced by its growing size. The company aims to acquire businesses that contribute significantly and avoid substantial capital losses.
Vladimir Artamonov, a Harvard Business School graduate, used his connections to swindle $2.9 million from fellow alumni and associates through a Ponzi scheme promising huge returns based on Berkshire Hathaway investments. Despite risky trading practices and personal fund misuse, the scheme thrived until the tragic suicide of a victim who lost $100,000. The Attorney General's office swiftly intervened, highlighting that even experienced investors can fall prey to fraudsters leveraging personal connections for trust.
