Warren Buffett’s Firm Trims Investment in China’s Largest Electric Vehicle Maker

  • Berkshire Hathaway reduces stake in BYD to below 5%
  • Sold 1.4 million H shares at an average of US$31.64 each
  • No longer required to disclose sales on Hong Kong stock exchange
  • BYD shares down 3.9% in Hong Kong and Shenzhen
  • Berkshire has been trimming stake since August 2022
  • U.S.-China tensions and intense competition in EV market cited as reasons

Berkshire Hathaway, led by Warren Buffett, has reduced its stake in BYD to below 5%, selling 1.4 million H shares at an average price of US$31.64 each. This move no longer requires the company to disclose sales on the Hong Kong stock exchange. BYD’s shares have experienced a 10% increase this year, while China-listed shares have gained nearly 30%. Analysts suggest that geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China, as well as intense competition in the EV market, are contributing factors to Berkshire’s decision.

Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate information about Berkshire Hathaway’s stake reduction in BYD and includes expert opinions on the reasons behind the decision. It also mentions the historical context of Berkshire’s investment in BYD and its focus on U.S. markets.
Noise Level: 6
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information about Berkshire Hathaway’s stake reduction in BYD but lacks a comprehensive analysis of the reasons behind the decision and its potential impact on both companies. It also does not offer any actionable insights or new knowledge for readers.
Public Companies: Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.B), BYD (null), Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (null)
Key People: Warren Buffett (CEO of Berkshire Hathaway), Angus Chan (Auto sector analyst at Bocom International), Joel Ying (Analyst at Nomura), Charlie Munger (Late business partner of Warren Buffett)


Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: BYD shares in Hong Kong and Shenzhen stock exchanges
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses Berkshire Hathaway’s reduction of its stake in BYD, which impacts the financial markets by affecting the share prices of BYD in both Hong Kong and Shenzhen stock exchanges. It also mentions Berkshire’s focus on U.S. investments and the influence of geopolitical tensions between China and Taiwan.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: No extreme event mentioned in the article. The text discusses Berkshire Hathaway’s reduction of its stake in BYD, a Chinese electric-vehicle maker.

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