1998 Shareholder Letter
Buffett's 1998 letter discusses the General Re acquisition, explains why 48.3% book value gain 'is not as good as it looks,' and announces the need to earn $58 billion in five years for 15% growth.
1998 Shareholder Letter
Date: March 1, 1999 Author: Warren Buffett Company: Berkshire Hathaway
Overview
1998 net worth increased $25.9 billion or 48.3%, with per-share book value reaching $37,801 — a 24.7% compound annual return over 34 years.
Key Points
Not As Good As It Looks
"Remember Wagner, whose music has been described as better than it sounds? Well, Berkshire's progress in 1998 -- though more than satisfactory -- was not as good as it looks."
The 48.3% gain came mostly from issuing shares in acquisitions at premium prices, which boosts per-share book value without immediately increasing intrinsic value.
General Re and Executive Jet Acquisitions
Two major 1998 acquisitions:
- General Re — major reinsurance company
- Executive Jet — corporate aviation services
Both described as "first-class in every way."
GEICO's Continued Excellence
"GEICO, once again, simply shot the lights out."
The $58 Billion Challenge
With net worth at $57.4 billion, to earn 15% average annual gain over 5 years would require adding $58 billion.
"Popcorn stands just won't do. Today's markets are not friendly to our search for 'elephants,' but you can be sure that we will stay focused on the hunt."
Personal Commitment
"I'll keep at least 99% of my net worth in Berkshire for as long as I am around."
Famous Quotes
"There are really only three kinds of people in the world: those who can count and those who can't."
Related
- letter-1997 — Previous year
- letter-1999 — Following year
- warren-buffett
- compounding