Berkshire Hathaway reported strong second quarter 2026 results, characterized by a double-digit increase in operating earnings and significant capital return through share buybacks. While net earnings were significantly higher due to over $12.6 billion in investment gains, the company emphasized operating results as the primary indicator of performance.
Key Highlights
- Operating earnings reached $12.98 billion, a 16.3% increase compared to $11.16 billion in the prior-year quarter.
- Profits from the Manufacturing, Service, and Retailing segment surged 24% to $4.47 billion, offsetting a slight decline in insurance-related income.
- The company repurchased approximately $4.5 billion of its own shares during the quarter, bringing the six-month total to $4.8 billion.
- Insurance float increased to approximately $177.5 billion, reflecting a $1.1 billion growth since the end of 2025.