Berkshire Hathaway Has Paid Exactly 1 Dividend Since 1965. Here's Where the Cash Goes Instead.
Even after this year's leadership change, Berkshire's approach to dividends, buybacks, and new investments remains largely the same.
Overview
Warren Buffett gained control of Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE: BRKA) (NYSE: BRKB) in 1965 and ran it as his main investment vehicle until his retirement in 2025. During his 60-year tenure as CEO, Berkshire's shares gained in value by an average of 19.9% annually, an incredible compounding track record.
But during this time frame, Berkshire Hathaway has paid a dividend just once: a $0.10-per-share cash distribution in 1967. The holding company's reluctance to pay out dividends is key to its success story. Although Berkshire, particularly in more recent years, has repurchased its own shares, since Buffett's 1965 takeover, its focus has been on reinvesting its earnings and investment gains into new investments and acquisitions.
Details
While Greg Abel took over as CEO in January 2026, ushering in a new era for Berkshire, don't assume these capital priorities are about to change.
Source
Originally published at www.fool.com.