Warren Buffett, known as the Oracle of Omaha, recently made headlines in his final quarter as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, which concluded on December 31, 2025. The latest Form 13F filings reveal significant stock movements that highlight Buffett’s investment strategies and market outlook.
During this quarter, Buffett oversaw a notable selling spree, offloading shares of major companies such as Amazon (AMZN), Apple (AAPL), and Bank of America (BAC). This marks a continuing trend, as Buffett had been a net seller of stocks for 13 consecutive quarters leading to his retirement.
Significant Stock Sales
Here’s a closer look at the shares Buffett sold during the fourth quarter:
- 7,724,000 shares of Amazon, reducing Berkshire’s stake by 77%.
- 10,294,956 shares of Apple, which represented a 75% decrease since September 2023.
- 50,774,078 shares of Bank of America, cutting the stake by 50% from earlier holdings.
The substantial reductions in these stocks reflect a strategic shift and signal Buffett’s concern over current valuations in the market. For instance, Apple shares now trade at a trailing 12-month price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 33, a stark contrast to the low-to-mid teens P/E ratio during Buffett’s initial investment. Similarly, Bank of America shares have transitioned from a substantial discount to their book value to a premium valuation.
New Investment: The New York Times Co.
Despite his notable divestments, Buffett made waves by acquiring a significant position in The New York Times Co. (NYSE: NYT). In his final quarter, he purchased 5,065,744 shares worth nearly $352 million. This investment aligns with Buffett’s historical preference for strong brands backed by consumer trust.
The New York Times has shown resilience with a growing digital subscription base, climbing to 12.78 million as of December 31, and demonstrating robust pricing power and double-digit growth in digital advertising. Nevertheless, the stock’s forward P/E ratio of 24 raises questions about its valuation amidst the market landscape.
Market Implications
Buffett’s actions offer critical insights into the current stock market environment. His significant sell-offs indicate a cautious stance towards high valuations and potential market corrections. As investors monitor these developments, understanding the implications of Buffett’s strategies can aid in making informed decisions.
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