Berkshire Hathaway Takes $2.6 Billion Stake in Delta Air Lines
Berkshire Hathaway built a $2.6 billion position in Delta Air Lines, making it the company’s 14th-largest holding at the end of March and marking its re-entry into the airline sector. Since 2000, Berkshire Hathaway has outperformed the S&P 500 in every down year, highlighting its defensive strength given current valuation pressures.
1. Return to Airline Sector
Berkshire Hathaway re-established its airline exposure by acquiring shares in Delta Air Lines valued at $2.6 billion as of March 31. This position emerged after a period without any U.S. carrier investments, signaling renewed confidence in air travel demand and sector recovery.
2. Position Rankings and Portfolio Impact
The Delta stake ranks as Berkshire’s 14th-largest holding based on market value at quarter-end. This sizable allocation shifts sector weights in the conglomerate’s portfolio and diversifies its exposure beyond its traditional insurance, utility and industrial businesses.
3. Defensive Track Record in Downturns
Since 2000, Berkshire Hathaway has outpaced the S&P 500 in every calendar year when the broader index fell. This consistent outperformance underscores the holding company’s reputation for defensive resilience and long-term capital preservation during market corrections.
4. Buffett’s Annual Charity Lunch
Warren Buffett’s latest charity lunch drew a winning bid of $9 million, extending a tradition that has raised over $50 million for GLIDE and Eat. Learn. Play. The event on June 24 in Omaha will host the winning bidder, seven guests, Stephen and Ayesha Curry alongside Buffett, reinforcing his philanthropic influence.