2001 Shareholder Letter
Buffett's 2001 letter is the first negative year since 1990, discusses the post-9/11 world, explains the 'two inflationary surpluses' concept, and reviews theGen Re scandal.
2001 Shareholder Letter
Date: February 28, 2002 Author: Warren Buffett Company: Berkshire Hathaway
Overview
2001 net worth decreased $3.77 billion or 6.2% (S&P fell 11.9%) — Buffett's first losing year since 1990. Per-share book value reached $37,920 — a 22.6% compound annual return over 37 years.
Key Points
First Losing Year
"Berkshire's loss in net worth during 2001 was $3.77 billion."
Despite the loss, Berkshire beat the S&P by 5.7 percentage points. Over 37 years: 22.6% annual gain vs. S&P's 11.0%.
Post-9/11 World
The September 11 attacks changed the landscape:
"The world was different after 9/11 — changed in ways that will be with us a long time, in ways we could not have imagined before that Tuesday morning."
Two Inflationary Surpluses
Buffett explained why low inflation was key to the great wealth-building period:
"In an era of stable wages and prices, compound interest works its magic... But inflation is the arch-enemy of the investor."
General Re Scandal
A trading scandal at General Re was revealed, though Buffett had already been reducing ties with the company.
Famous Quotes
"The insurance business has taught me that 'float' can be dangerous if managed by people who have either evil intentions or poor judgment."
Related
- letter-2000 — Previous year
- letter-2002 — Following year
- warren-buffett
- compounding