Berkshire Hathaway became the first American company outside the technology sector to surpass a $1 trillion market capitalization in August 2024. The insurance and investment conglomerate crossed the threshold as its Class A shares rose.
Berkshire is unusual among the world’s largest companies because its businesses span insurance, railroads, utilities, manufacturing, retail, and investments. Its insurance operations provide large pools of investable capital, while companies such as BNSF Railway and Berkshire Hathaway Energy add operating earnings.
Warren Buffett has led Berkshire for decades, but the milestone was not based solely on his personal ownership. It reflected the combined market value of all Berkshire shares. Market-cap rankings can change as share prices move.