BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY INC

Previous wording

Net earnings attributable to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders for the second quarter and first six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023 are disaggregated in the table that follows. Amounts are after deducting income taxes and exclude earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests (in millions).

Current wording

Net earnings (loss) attributable to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders for the third quarter and first nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 are disaggregated in the table that follows. Amounts are after deducting income taxes and exclude earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests (in millions).

Previous wording

Insurance underwriting after-tax earnings increased $1.0 billion in the second quarter and $2.7 billion in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023. Earnings in 2024 benefited from improved operating results at GEICO. We also experienced no significant catastrophe events in the first six months of 2024, while after-tax losses from significant catastrophe events during the first six months of 2023 were approximately $450 million. After-tax earnings from insurance investment income increased $951 million in the second quarter and $1.6 billion in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023, driven by higher interest income from our short-term investments in U.S. Treasury Bills.

Current wording

Insurance underwriting after-tax earnings decreased $1.7 billion in the third quarter and increased $1.0 billion in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023. Earnings in the third quarter of 2024 were negatively impacted by estimated losses from Hurricane Helene ($565 million), increases in liabilities for prior accident years’ claims, unrealized foreign currency exchange losses and accruals in connection with a bankruptcy settlement agreement related to a non-insurance affiliate. Earnings in the first nine months of 2024 benefited from improved operating results at GEICO. In the first nine months of 2023, after-tax losses from significant catastrophe events were approximately $465 million. After-tax earnings from insurance investment income increased $1.2 billion in the third quarter and $2.8 billion in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023, driven by higher interest income from investments in U.S. Treasury Bills.

Previous wording

As disclosed in Note 3 to the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements, we increased our ownership in Pilot from 38.6% to 80% on January 31, 2023, and further increased our ownership in Pilot to 100% on January 16, 2024. We began consolidating Pilot’s results of operations on February 1, 2023. For the month ended January 31, 2023, earnings from Pilot on our 38.6% interest were determined under the equity method and were included in earnings from non-controlled businesses in the preceding table.

Current wording

As disclosed in Note 3 to the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements, we increased our ownership in Pilot from 38.6% to 80% on January 31, 2023, and further increased our ownership to 100% on January 16, 2024. We began consolidating Pilot’s results of operations on February 1, 2023. For the month ended January 31, 2023, earnings from Pilot on our 38.6% interest were determined under the equity method and were included in earnings from non-controlled businesses in the preceding table.

Previous wording

After-tax earnings from our manufacturing, service and retailing businesses decreased 5.3% in the second quarter and 2.2% in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023. Earnings in 2024 reflected increases at several of our manufacturing businesses, which were more than offset by lower earnings from our service and retailing businesses.

Current wording

After-tax earnings from our manufacturing, service and retailing businesses decreased 5.9% in the third quarter and 3.5% in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023. Earnings in 2024 reflected lower earnings from our service and retailing businesses, partially offset by earnings increases at several of our manufacturing businesses.

Previous wording

Investment gains predominantly derive from our investments in equity securities and include significant net unrealized gains and losses from market price changes. We believe that investment gains and losses on these investments, whether realized from dispositions or unrealized from changes in market prices, are generally meaningless in understanding our reported periodic results or evaluating the economic performance of our operating businesses. These gains and losses have caused and will continue to cause significant volatility in our periodic earnings. Investment gains in the first six months of 2023 also included an after-tax non-cash remeasurement gain of approximately $2.4 billion related to our previously held 38.6% interest in Pilot through the application of the acquisition accounting method.

Current wording

Investment gains (losses) predominantly derive from our investments in equity securities and include significant unrealized gains and losses from changes in market prices and foreign currency exchange rates applicable to certain of our investments. We believe that investment gains and losses, whether realized from dispositions or unrealized from changes in market prices, are generally meaningless in understanding our reported periodic results or evaluating the economic performance of our operating businesses. These gains and losses have caused and will continue to cause significant volatility in our periodic earnings. Investment gains in the first nine months of 2023 also included an after-tax non-cash remeasurement gain of approximately $2.4 billion related to our previously held 38.6% interest in Pilot through the application of the acquisition accounting method.

Previous wording

Other earnings included after-tax foreign currency exchange rate gains of $446 million in the second quarter and $1.0 billion in the first six months of 2024 and $465 million in the second quarter and $448 million in the first six months of 2023 related to the non-U.S. Dollar denominated debt issued by Berkshire and Berkshire Hathaway Finance Corporation (“BHFC”). The gains reflected strengthening of the U.S. Dollar.

Current wording

Other earnings included after-tax foreign currency exchange rate losses of $1.1 billion in the third quarter and $98 million in the first nine months of 2024 and gains of $447 million in the third quarter and $895 million in the first nine months of 2023 related to the non-U.S. Dollar denominated debt issued by Berkshire and Berkshire Hathaway Finance Corporation (“BHFC”).

Previous wording

The timing and magnitude of catastrophe losses can produce significant volatility in our periodic underwriting results, particularly with respect to our property and casualty reinsurance businesses. We currently consider pre-tax incurred losses exceeding $150 million from a current year catastrophic event to be significant. We experienced no significant catastrophe events during the first six months of 2024, while significant events in 2023 derived from a cyclone and floods in New Zealand.

Current wording

The timing and magnitude of catastrophe losses can produce significant volatility in our periodic underwriting results, particularly with respect to our property and casualty reinsurance businesses. We currently consider pre-tax incurred losses exceeding $150 million from a current year catastrophic event to be significant. Significant catastrophe events in the first nine months of 2024 included Hurricane Helene in the third quarter, while significant events in 2023 included a cyclone and floods in New Zealand in the first quarter. In October 2024, Hurricane Milton struck Florida and caused significant damage. We currently estimate that pre-tax incurred losses from Hurricane Milton could be between $1.3 billion and $1.5 billion. Losses from this event will be reflected in our fourth quarter earnings based on information available at that time.

Previous wording

Changes in estimates for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses, including amounts established for occurrences in prior years, can also significantly affect our periodic underwriting results. Our periodic underwriting earnings may also be impacted by foreign currency transaction gains and losses arising from the changes in the valuation of non-U.S. Dollar denominated liabilities of our U.S.-based subsidiaries due to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations.

Current wording

Changes in estimates for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses, including amounts established for occurrences in prior years, and foreign currency transaction gains and losses arising from the changes in the valuation of non-U.S. Dollar denominated assets and liabilities can also significantly affect our periodic underwriting results.

Previous wording

We provide primary insurance and reinsurance products covering property and casualty risks, as well as life and health risks. Our insurance and reinsurance businesses are GEICO, Berkshire Hathaway Primary Group (“BH Primary”) and Berkshire Hathaway Reinsurance Group (“BHRG”). We strive to produce pre-tax underwriting earnings (defined as premiums earned less insurance losses/benefits incurred and underwriting expenses) over the long term in all business categories, except in our retroactive reinsurance and periodic payment annuity businesses. Time-value-of-money is an important element in establishing prices for retroactive reinsurance and periodic payment annuity policies. We normally receive premiums at the contract inception date, which are then available for investment. Ultimate claim payments can extend for decades and are expected to exceed premiums, producing underwriting losses over the claim settlement periods through deferred charge asset amortization and liability discount accretion charges.

Current wording

We provide primary insurance and reinsurance products covering property and casualty risks, as well as life and health risks. Our insurance and reinsurance businesses are GEICO, Berkshire Hathaway Primary Group (“BH Primary”) and Berkshire Hathaway Reinsurance Group (“BHRG”). We strive to produce pre-tax underwriting earnings (defined as premiums earned less insurance losses/benefits incurred and underwriting expenses) over the long term in all business categories, except in our retroactive reinsurance and periodic payment annuity businesses. Time-value-of-money is an important element in establishing prices for retroactive reinsurance and periodic payment annuity policies. We normally receive premiums at the contract inception date, which are then available for investment. Ultimate claim payments can extend for decades and are expected to exceed premiums, producing underwriting losses over the claim settlement periods through deferred charge asset amortization and accretion of discounted liabilities.

Previous wording

GEICO’s pre-tax underwriting earnings in the first six months of 2024 reflected higher average premiums per auto policy, lower claims frequencies and improved operating efficiencies compared to 2023, partially offset by a rise in average claims severities and less favorable development of prior accident years’ claims estimates.

Current wording

GEICO’s pre-tax underwriting earnings in the first nine months of 2024 reflected higher average premiums per auto policy, lower claims frequencies and improved operating efficiencies compared to 2023, partially offset by less favorable development of prior accident years’ claims estimates, a rise in average claims severities and an increase in catastrophe losses.

Previous wording

Premiums written increased $1.0 billion (10.7%) in the second quarter and $1.7 billion (8.9%) in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023, reflecting an increase in average written premiums per auto policy of 11.3%, primarily attributable to rate increases, partially offset by a 4.3% decrease in policies-in-force over the past year. The rate of decline in policies-in-force slowed in the first half of 2024, driven by increased new business and higher retention rates. Premiums earned increased $755 million (7.8%) in the second quarter and $1.4 billion (7.0%) in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023.

Current wording

Premiums written increased $761 million (7.3%) in the third quarter and $2.5 billion (8.4%) in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023, reflecting an increase in average written premiums per auto policy of 10.1%, primarily attributable to rate increases, partially offset by a 2.5% decrease in policies-in-force over the past year. The rate of decline in policies-in-force slowed in the first half of 2024, with growth experienced in the third quarter driven by increased new business and stable retention rates. Premiums earned increased $855 million (8.7%) in the third quarter and $2.2 billion (7.6%) in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023.

Previous wording

Losses and loss adjustment expenses declined $437 million (5.3%) in the second quarter and $1.0 billion (6.3%) in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023. GEICO’s loss ratio (losses and loss adjustment expenses to premiums earned) was 74.1% in the second quarter and 73.3% in the first six months of 2024, decreases of 10.2 percentage points and 10.4 percentage points, respectively, compared to 2023. The loss ratio declines reflected the impact of higher average earned premium per auto policy and lower claims frequencies, partially offset by increases in average claims severities and less favorable development of prior accident years’ claims estimates.

Current wording

Losses and loss adjustment expenses declined $245 million (3.1%) in the third quarter and $1.3 billion (5.2%) in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023. GEICO’s loss ratio (losses and loss adjustment expenses to premiums earned) was 71.4% in the third quarter and 72.6% in the first nine months of 2024, decreases of 8.6 percentage points and 9.9 percentage points, respectively, compared to 2023. The loss ratio declines reflected the impact of higher average earned premiums per auto policy and lower claims frequencies, partially offset by increases in average claims severities and less favorable development of prior accident years’ claims estimates.

Previous wording

Claims frequencies in 2024 declined for property damage (two to three percent range) and collision (six to seven percent range) coverages versus 2023, with bodily injury coverage down slightly. Average claims severities in 2024 increased for property damage (eight to ten percent range), collision (six to eight percent range) and bodily injury (seven to nine percent range) coverages compared to 2023. Losses and loss adjustment expenses in the first six months included reductions in the ultimate loss estimates for prior accident years’ claims of $205 million in 2024 and $888 million in 2023.

Current wording

Claims frequencies in 2024 declined for property damage (two to three percent range) and collision coverages (eight to nine percent range) versus 2023, with bodily injury coverage down slightly. Average claims severities in 2024 increased for property damage (five to seven percent range), collision (four to six percent range) and bodily injury (eight to ten percent range) coverages compared to 2023. Losses and loss adjustment expenses in the first nine months included reductions in the ultimate loss estimates for prior accident years’ claims of $339 million in 2024 and $1.2 billion in 2023. Losses and loss adjustment expenses incurred in the third quarter of 2024 from Hurricane Helene were approximately $260 million.

Previous wording

Underwriting expenses declined $80 million (7.9%) in the second quarter and $119 million (6.1%) in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023. GEICO’s expense ratio (underwriting expenses to premiums earned) in the first six months of 2024 was 8.8%, a decrease of 1.2 percentage points compared to 2023. The decline was attributable to improved operating efficiencies and increased operating leverage, partially offset by increased advertising expenses. The earnings from GEICO’s insurance agency (third-party commissions, net of operating expenses) are included as a reduction of underwriting expenses.

Current wording

Underwriting expenses were relatively flat in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023. GEICO’s expense ratio (underwriting expense to premiums earned) in the first nine months of 2024 was 9.1%, a decrease of 0.6 percentage points compared to 2023, attributable to improved operating efficiencies and increased operating leverage, partially offset by increased advertising expenses. The earnings from GEICO’s insurance agency (third-party commissions, net of operating expenses) are included as a reduction of underwriting expenses.

Previous wording

The Berkshire Hathaway Primary Group consists of several independently managed businesses that provide a variety of primarily commercial insurance solutions, including healthcare professional liability, workers’ compensation, automobile, general liability, property and specialty coverages for small, medium and large clients. BH Primary’s insurers include Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (“BHSI”), RSUI Group Inc. and CapSpecialty, Inc. (“RSUI and CapSpecialty”), Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies (“BHHC”), MedPro Group, Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies (“GUARD”), National Indemnity Company (“NICO Primary”), Berkshire Hathaway Direct Insurance Company (“BH Direct”) and U.S. Liability Insurance Company (“USLI”).

Current wording

BH Primary consists of several independently managed businesses that provide a variety of primarily commercial insurance solutions, including healthcare professional liability, workers’ compensation, automobile, general liability, property and specialty coverages for small, medium and large clients. BH Primary’s insurers include Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (“BHSI”), RSUI Group Inc. and CapSpecialty, Inc. (“RSUI and CapSpecialty”), Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies (“BHHC”), MedPro Group, GUARD Insurance Companies (“GUARD”), National Indemnity Company (“NICO Primary”), Berkshire Hathaway Direct Insurance Company (“BH Direct”) and U.S. Liability Insurance Company (“USLI”).

Previous wording

BH Primary insurers write significant levels of workers’ compensation, commercial and professional liability insurance and the related claim costs may be subject to high severity and long claim-tails. Ultimate claim liabilities could be greater than anticipated due to a variety of factors, including adverse legal and judicial rulings.

Current wording

Losses and loss adjustment expenses increased $1.3 billion (48.8%) in the third quarter and $1.7 billion (20.9%) in the first nine months of 2024 and the loss ratio increased 25.4 percentage points in the third quarter and 6.5 percentage points in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023. Estimated ultimate claim liabilities attributable to pre-2024 accident years increased $789 million in the third quarter and $561 million in the first nine months of 2024. In 2023, estimated ultimate claim liabilities for prior accident years were reduced $219 million in the third quarter and $396 million in the first nine months. A significant portion of the increases in 2024 were related to GUARD. As a result of deteriorating loss experience, new management performed a comprehensive review of claims and, as a result, increased estimated ultimate claim liabilities. Excluding GUARD, development of estimated ultimate claim liabilities for prior accident years in the first nine months were less favorable or were unfavorable in 2024 across several of our businesses that write medical professional liability and commercial liability coverages, attributable to unfavorable social inflation trends, including the impacts of increased jury awards and litigation costs. Incurred losses from Hurricane Helene in the third quarter of 2024 were approximately $80 million, while losses from significant catastrophe events were approximately $35 million in the first nine months of 2023. BH Primary insurers write significant levels of workers’ compensation, commercial and professional liability insurance and the related claim costs may be subject to high severity and long claim-tails. Ultimate claim liabilities could be greater than anticipated due to a variety of factors, including adverse legal and judicial rulings.

Previous wording

Underwriting expenses increased $184 million (16.7%) in the second quarter and $390 million (18.2%) in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023, reflecting the increases in premiums earned. The underwriting expense ratio increased 1.6 percentage points in the second quarter and 1.4 percentage points in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023.

Current wording

Underwriting expenses increased $102 million (8.5%) in the third quarter and $492 million (14.7%) in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023, reflecting the increases in premiums earned. The underwriting expense ratio increased 0.8 percentage points in the third quarter and 1.3 percentage points in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023.

Previous wording

The Berkshire Hathaway Reinsurance Group offers excess-of-loss and quota-share reinsurance coverages on property and casualty risks to insurers and reinsurers worldwide through several subsidiaries, led by National Indemnity Company (“NICO”), General Reinsurance Corporation, General Reinsurance AG and Transatlantic Reinsurance Company. We also write life and health reinsurance coverages through General Re Life Corporation, General Reinsurance AG and Berkshire Hathaway Life Insurance Company of Nebraska (“BHLN”). We assume property and casualty risks under retroactive reinsurance contracts written through NICO and we write periodic payment annuity contracts through BHLN.

Current wording

The Berkshire Hathaway Reinsurance Group offers excess-of-loss and quota-share reinsurance coverages on property and casualty risks to insurers and reinsurers worldwide through several subsidiaries, led by National Indemnity Company (“NICO”), General Reinsurance Corporation, General Reinsurance AG and Transatlantic Reinsurance Company. We also write life and health reinsurance coverages through General Re Life Corporation, General Reinsurance AG and Berkshire Hathaway Life Insurance Company of Nebraska (“BHLN”). We assume property and casualty risks under retroactive reinsurance contracts written through NICO and we write periodic payment annuity contracts through BHLN. A summary of BHRG’s pre-tax underwriting results follows (in millions).

Previous wording

Premiums written declined 5.4% in the second quarter and 1.1% in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023, primarily due to reductions of property volumes. We generally do not retrocede the risks we assume. Our periodic underwriting earnings may be subject to considerable volatility from the timing and magnitude of significant catastrophe loss events. Premiums earned increased 5.3% in the second quarter and 5.4% in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023.

Current wording

Premiums written were relatively unchanged in the third quarter and first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023. Premiums written in the first nine months of 2024 reflected net reductions in property volumes, substantially offset by generally higher rates, new business and increased participations in certain casualty lines. Premiums earned decreased 5.0% in the third quarter and 1.7% in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023. We generally do not retrocede the risks we assume. Our periodic underwriting earnings may be subject to considerable volatility from the timing and magnitude of significant catastrophe loss events.

Previous wording

Losses and loss adjustment expenses increased $331 million (11.9%) in the second quarter and decreased $63 million (1.0%) in the first six months of 2024 versus 2023. The loss ratio increased 3.2 percentage points in the second quarter and declined 3.6 percentage points in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023. We experienced no significant catastrophe loss events in the first six months of 2024. Catastrophe losses were approximately $130 million in the second quarter and $530 million in the first six months of 2023. Reductions in liabilities for losses and loss adjustment expenses attributable to prior accident years were $734 million in the first six months of 2024 compared to $883 million in 2023.

Current wording

Losses and loss adjustment expenses increased $364 million (12.5%) in the third quarter and $301 million (3.3%) in the first nine months of 2024 versus 2023. The loss ratio increased 9.4 percentage points in the third quarter and 0.9 percentage points in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023. In 2024, losses from significant catastrophe events (Hurricane Helene) were approximately $380 million. Losses from significant catastrophe events were approximately $550 million in the first nine months of 2023. Reductions in liabilities for losses and loss adjustment expenses attributable to prior accident years were $1.2 billion in the first nine months of 2024, mostly attributable to lower than expected property losses, compared to $1.5 billion in 2023 attributable to both property and casualty losses.

Previous wording

Underwriting expenses increased $54 million (3.8%) in the second quarter and $116 million (4.2%) in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023. Underwriting expenses included pre-tax foreign currency exchange gains from the remeasurement of certain non-U.S. Dollar denominated liabilities of $25 million in the second quarter and $51 million in the first six months of 2024 compared to losses of $118 million in the second quarter and $192 million in the first six months of 2023. Before the foreign currency exchange gains and losses, underwriting expenses increased $197 million in the second quarter and $359 million in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023, primarily due to the increases in premiums earned and changes in property business mix.

Current wording

Underwriting expenses increased $677 million (50.8%) in the third quarter and $793 million (19.3%) in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023. In September of 2024, NICO recorded a pre-tax charge in underwriting expenses of $490 million in connection with a settlement agreement reached concerning certain non-insurance affiliates that filed voluntary petitions under Chapter 11 of the bankruptcy code in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey in 2023. See Note 23 to the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements. Underwriting expenses also included pre-tax foreign currency exchange losses from the remeasurement of certain non-U.S. Dollar denominated liabilities of $171 million in the third quarter and $120 million in the first nine months of 2024 compared to gains of $114 million in the third quarter and losses of $78 million in the first nine months of 2023. Before these items, underwriting expenses decreased $98 million in the third quarter and increased $261 million in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023.

Previous wording

Pre-tax underwriting losses from retroactive reinsurance derive from deferred charge amortization, changes in the estimated timing and amounts of future claim payments and foreign currency exchange gains and losses attributable to non-U.S. Dollar denominated contracts. Pre-tax underwriting losses before foreign currency effects were $135 million in the second quarter and $327 million in the first six months of 2024 compared to $245 million in the second quarter and $434 million in the first six months of 2023. The declines in underwriting losses were primarily due to net reductions in estimated ultimate liabilities of $119 million in the second quarter of 2024.

Current wording

Pre-tax underwriting losses from retroactive reinsurance derive from deferred charge amortization, changes in the estimated timing and amounts of future claim payments and foreign currency exchange gains and losses attributable to non-U.S. Dollar denominated contracts. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates produced pre-tax losses of $75 million in the first nine months of 2024 and pre-tax gains of $38 million in the corresponding 2023 period. Pre-tax underwriting losses before foreign currency effects were $498 million in the first nine months of 2024 compared to $622 million in 2023. The decline was primarily attributable to net reductions in estimated ultimate claim liabilities for contracts written in prior years.

Previous wording

Unpaid losses assumed under retroactive reinsurance contracts were $33.5 billion at June 30, 2024, a decline of $1.2 billion since December 31, 2023. Unamortized deferred charges on retroactive reinsurance contracts were $9.1 billion at June 30, 2024, a decline of $431 million since December 31, 2023. Deferred charge amortization is included in underwriting earnings over the expected remaining claims settlement periods.

Current wording

Unpaid losses assumed under retroactive reinsurance contracts declined $1.6 billion in the first nine months of 2024 to $33.1 billion at September 30, 2024, primarily due to loss payments. Deferred charges on retroactive reinsurance contracts declined $610 million in the first nine months of 2024 to $8.9 billion at September 30, primarily due to periodic amortization. Deferred charge amortization is included in underwriting earnings over the expected remaining claims settlement periods.

Previous wording

Periodic payment annuity business is price and demand-sensitive and the supply of available business is affected by the timing of underlying legal claim settlements. In 2023 and through the first six months of 2024, prices for new business were at unacceptable levels and we wrote no new business in either period.

Current wording

Periodic payment annuity business is price and demand-sensitive and the supply of available business is affected by the timing of underlying legal claim settlements. In 2023 and through the first nine months of 2024, prices for new business were at unacceptable levels and we wrote no new business in either period.

Previous wording

Pre-tax underwriting losses from periodic payment annuity contracts in each period were attributable to the accretion of time-value discounted liabilities, which included liabilities for contracts without life contingencies, and to foreign currency exchange gains and losses on non-U.S. Dollar denominated contracts. Pre-tax underwriting losses before foreign currency exchange effects in the first six months were $299 million in 2024 and $292 million in 2023. Discounted periodic payment annuity liabilities were $14.4 billion at June 30, 2024 and included liabilities of $4.0 billion for contracts without life contingencies, as well as the effects of the quarterly discount rate changes on contracts with life-contingent liabilities recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income.

Current wording

Pre-tax underwriting losses from periodic payment annuity contracts in each period were attributable to the accretion of time-value discounted liabilities, including liabilities for contracts without life contingencies, and to foreign currency exchange gains and losses on non-U.S. Dollar denominated contracts. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates produced pre-tax losses of $96 million in the first nine months of 2024 compared to $27 million in 2023. Pre-tax underwriting losses before foreign currency effects in the first nine months were $447 million in 2024 and $439 million in 2023. Discounted periodic payment annuity liabilities were $15.1 billion at September 30, 2024, including liabilities of $4.0 billion for contracts without life contingencies, as well as the effects of the quarterly discount rate changes on contracts with life-contingent liabilities recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income.

Previous wording

The runoff of our variable annuity guarantee reinsurance contracts produced pre-tax earnings of $11 million in the second quarter and $105 million in the first six months of 2024 and $130 million in the second quarter and $193 million in the first six months of 2023. Earnings are affected by changes in securities markets, interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates. These contracts have been in run-off for many years.

Current wording

Our variable annuity guarantee reinsurance contracts produced pre-tax losses of $75 million in the third quarter and earnings of $30 million in the first nine months of 2024. Pre-tax earnings were $116 million in the third quarter and $309 million in the first nine months of 2023. Earnings are affected by changes in securities markets, interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates. These contracts have been in run-off for many years.

Previous wording

Dividend income declined $53 million (3.5%) in the second quarter and $76 million (2.7%) in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023. The reductions reflected the impact of changes in our equity security holdings, partially offset by higher dividend rates on certain of our holdings. Dividend income also varies from period to period due to the frequency and timing of dividends from certain investees.

Current wording

Dividend income declined $131 million (10.7%) in the third quarter and $207 million (5.2%) in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023. The reductions reflected the impact of changes in our equity security holdings, partially offset by higher dividend rates on certain of our holdings. Dividend income also varies from period to period due to the frequency and timing of dividends from certain investees.

Previous wording

Interest and other investment income increased $1.2 billion (87.0%) in the second quarter and $2.0 billion (79.0%) in the first six months of 2024 over 2023. The increases were attributable to an increase in short-term investments in U.S. Treasury Bills and higher interest rates. We continue to believe that maintaining ample liquidity is paramount and we insist on safety over yield with respect to short-term investments.

Current wording

Interest and other investment income increased $1.8 billion in the third quarter and $3.8 billion in the first nine months of 2024 over 2023. The increases were attributable to increased short-term investments, including U.S. Treasury Bills. We continue to believe that maintaining ample liquidity is paramount and we insist on safety over yield with respect to short-term investments.

Previous wording

Invested assets of our insurance businesses derive from shareholder capital and net liabilities assumed under insurance and reinsurance contracts or “float.” The major components of float are unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses, liabilities under retroactive reinsurance contracts, life, annuity and health benefit liabilities, unearned premiums and other liabilities due to policyholders, which are reduced by insurance premiums receivable, reinsurance receivables, deferred charges on retroactive reinsurance contracts and deferred policy acquisition costs. The effects of discount rate changes recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income for long-duration insurance contracts are excluded from float, as such amounts are not included in underwriting earnings. Float was approximately $169 billion at June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

Current wording

Invested assets of our insurance businesses derive from shareholder capital and net liabilities assumed under insurance and reinsurance contracts or “float.” The major components of float are unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses, liabilities under retroactive reinsurance contracts, life, annuity and health benefit liabilities, unearned premiums and other liabilities due to policyholders, which are reduced by insurance premiums receivable, reinsurance receivables, deferred charges on retroactive reinsurance contracts and deferred policy acquisition costs. The effects of discount rate changes recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income for long-duration insurance contracts are excluded from float, as such amounts are not included in underwriting earnings. Float approximated $174 billion at September 30, 2024 and $169 billion at December 31, 2023.

Previous wording

A summary of cash and investments held in our insurance businesses as of June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 follows (in millions).

Current wording

A summary of cash and investments held by our insurance businesses as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 follows (in millions).

Previous wording

U.S. government obligations are rated AA+ or Aaa by the major rating agencies. Approximately 95% of our foreign government obligations were rated AA or higher by at least one of the major rating agencies. Foreign government securities include obligations issued or unconditionally guaranteed by national or provincial government entities.

Current wording

U.S. government obligations are rated AA+ or Aaa by the major rating agencies. Approximately 94% of our foreign government obligations were rated AA or higher by at least one of the major rating agencies. Foreign government securities include obligations issued or unconditionally guaranteed by national or provincial government entities.

Previous wording

Railroad operating revenues were relatively unchanged in the second quarter and decreased 2.0% in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023. Average revenue per car/unit declined 3.7% in the second quarter and 6.8% in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023, resulting from lower fuel surcharge revenue and business mix changes. Car/unit volumes increased 4.2% in the second quarter and 5.4% in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023. Pre-tax earnings increased 0.4% in the second quarter and decreased 3.8% in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023. Operating earnings in the second quarter and first six months of 2024 were negatively affected by litigation accruals and otherwise benefited from improved productivity and lower operating costs.

Current wording

Railroad operating revenues increased 2.8% in the third quarter and decreased slightly in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023. Average revenue per car/unit declined 5.2% in the third quarter and 6.3% in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023, resulting from lower fuel surcharge revenue and business mix changes. Car/unit volumes increased 8.3% in the third quarter and 6.4% in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023. Pre-tax earnings increased 14.8% in the third quarter and 2.4% in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023. Railroad operating earnings in the first nine months of 2024 increased as a result of volume growth, improved productivity, and lower operating costs, partially offset by increased litigation accruals.

Previous wording

Operating revenues from consumer products were $2.1 billion in the second quarter and $4.1 billion in the first six months of 2024, increases of 12.0% and 8.8%, respectively, from 2023. The revenue increases were attributable to higher volumes of 15.0% in the second quarter and 17.0% in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023, partially offset by lower average revenue per car/unit. The volume increases were primarily due to higher intermodal shipments from West Coast imports and volumes from a new intermodal customer.

Current wording

Operating revenues from consumer products were $2.1 billion in the third quarter and $6.2 billion in the first nine months of 2024, increases of 7.0% and 8.2%, respectively, from 2023. The revenue increases were attributable to higher volumes of 16.7% in the third quarter and 16.9% in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023, partially offset by lower average revenue per car/unit. The volume increases were primarily due to higher intermodal shipments from west coast imports and volumes from a new intermodal customer.

Previous wording

Operating revenues from industrial products were $1.4 billion in the second quarter and $2.8 billion in the first six months of 2024, decreases of 0.4% and 0.9%, respectively, from 2023. The second quarter revenue decline was attributable to reduced volumes of 1.5%, partially offset by higher average revenue per car/unit. The revenue decline in the first six months was primarily due to slightly lower revenue per car/unit and a 0.9% reduction in volumes. The volume declines in each period were primarily due to lower aggregates, taconite, minerals and waste shipments, partially offset by higher volumes in petroleum products and plastics.

Current wording

Operating revenues from industrial products were $1.4 billion in the third quarter and $4.2 billion in the first nine months of 2024, decreases of 1.6% and 1.1%, respectively, from 2023. The revenue declines were attributable to lower volumes of 1.9% and 1.2% in the third quarter and the first nine months of 2024, respectively, compared to 2023, partially offset by slightly higher average revenue per car/unit. The volume decreases were primarily attributable to lower aggregates, taconite, minerals, and waste shipments, partially offset by higher volumes in petroleum products.

Previous wording

Operating revenues from agricultural products were $1.4 billion in the second quarter and $2.9 billion in the first six months of 2024, increases of 10.1% and 3.1%, respectively, compared to 2023. The revenue increases were attributable to higher volumes of 10.8% in the second quarter and 7.1% in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023, partially offset by lower average revenue per car/unit. The volume increases were primarily due to higher grain exports, renewable fuels and fertilizer shipments, partially offset by lower domestic grain volumes.

Current wording

Operating revenues from agricultural products were $1.4 billion in the third quarter and $4.2 billion in the first nine months of 2024, increases of 14.1% and 6.5%, respectively, compared to 2023. The revenue increases were attributable to higher volumes of 14.9% in the third quarter and 9.6% in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023, partially offset by lower average revenue per car/unit. The volume increase during the third quarter was primarily due to higher volumes of grain shipments. The volume increase during the first nine months was primarily due to higher grain, renewable fuels, and fertilizer shipments.

Previous wording

Operating revenues from coal were $608 million in the second quarter and $1.4 billion in the first six months of 2024, declines of 35.0% and 30.1%, respectively, from 2023. The revenue declines were attributable to reduced volumes of 28.9% in the second quarter and 24.7% in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023 and lower average revenue per car/unit. The volume decreases were primarily attributable to lower natural gas prices, which displaces coal as a fuel used by utilities.

Current wording

Operating revenues from coal were $795 million in the third quarter and $2.2 billion in the first nine months of 2024, declines of 14.7% and 25.2%, respectively, from 2023. The revenue declines were attributable to reduced volumes of 12.5% in the third quarter and 20.5% in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023 and lower average revenue per car/unit. The volume decreases were primarily attributable to lower natural gas prices, which displaced coal as a fuel used by utilities.

Previous wording

Railroad operating expenses were $3.9 billion in the second quarter and $7.8 billion in the first six months of 2024, a slight increase (0.2%) and a decrease of $98 million (1.2%), respectively, compared to 2023. Compensation and benefits expenses decreased $60 million (4.4%) in the second quarter and increased $34 million (1.3%) in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023. The decrease in the second quarter was primarily due to increased employee productivity, partially offset by wage inflation. The increase in the first six months of 2024 was primarily due to the increases in volumes and wage inflation, partially offset by increased employee productivity. Fuel expenses declined $11 million (1.3%) in the second quarter and $121 million (6.7%) in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023, reflecting lower average fuel prices, partially offset by higher volumes. Equipment rents, materials and other expenses increased $58 million (10.7%) in the second quarter and decreased $27 million (2.4%) in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023. Other expenses in the second quarter and first six months of 2024 included litigation costs related to the recent judgment in the ongoing legal case with the Swinomish Tribe, which BNSF has appealed. Otherwise, equipment rents, materials and other expenses in the 2024 periods declined compared to 2023, primarily due to cost reductions across various spend categories and lower property taxes.

Current wording

Railroad operating expenses were $3.8 billion in the third quarter and $11.6 billion in the first nine months of 2024, decreases of $82 million (2.1%) and $180 million (1.5%), respectively, compared to 2023. Fuel expenses declined $64 million (7.4%) in the third quarter and $185 million (7.0%) in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023, which was primarily due to lower average fuel prices, partially offset by higher volumes. Equipment rents, materials and other expenses decreased $20 million (4.0%) in the third quarter and $47 million (2.9%) in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023. Expenses in the third quarter declined primarily due to cost reductions across various spend categories and lower property taxes, partially offset by higher casualty costs. Expenses in the first nine months of 2024 declined due to cost reductions across various spend categories and lower property taxes, partially offset by litigation costs related to the judgment in the ongoing legal case with the Swinomish Tribe, which BNSF has appealed. There were no significant changes in compensation and benefits, purchased services, or depreciation and amortization expense as increases from higher volumes and inflation were more than offset by lower costs and improved productivity.

Previous wording

We currently own 92% of Berkshire Hathaway Energy Company (“BHE”), which operates a global energy business. BHE’s domestic regulated utility interests include PacifiCorp, MidAmerican Energy Company (“MEC”) and NV Energy. BHE’s natural gas pipelines consist of five domestic regulated interstate natural gas pipeline systems and a 75% interest in a liquefied natural gas export, import and storage facility. Other energy businesses include subsidiaries that operate two regulated electricity distribution businesses in Great Britain (“Northern Powergrid”), a regulated electricity transmission-only business in Alberta, Canada, a diversified portfolio of mostly renewable independent power projects and investments and an unregulated retail energy services company. BHE also operates a residential real estate brokerage business and a large network of real estate brokerage franchises in the United States.

Current wording

Berkshire Hathaway Energy Company (“BHE”) operates a global energy business. BHE’s domestic regulated utility interests include PacifiCorp, MidAmerican Energy Company (“MEC”) and NV Energy. BHE’s natural gas pipelines consist of five domestic regulated interstate natural gas pipeline systems and a 75% interest in a liquefied natural gas export, import and storage facility (“Cove Point”). Other energy businesses include subsidiaries that operate two regulated electricity distribution businesses in Great Britain (“Northern Powergrid”), a regulated electricity transmission-only business in Alberta, Canada, a diversified portfolio of mostly renewable independent power projects and investments and an unregulated retail energy services company. BHE also operates HomeServices of America (“HomeServices”), a residential real estate brokerage business and a large network of real estate brokerage franchises in the United States.

Previous wording

The rates our regulated businesses charge customers for energy and services are largely based on the costs of business operations, including income taxes and a return on capital, and are subject to regulatory approval. To the extent such costs are not allowed in the approved rates, operating results will be adversely affected. A summary of BHE’s net earnings follows (dollars in millions).

Current wording

The rates BHE’s regulated businesses charge customers for energy and services are largely based on the costs of business operations, including income taxes and a return on capital, and are subject to regulatory approval. To the extent such costs are not allowed in the approved rates, operating results will be adversely affected. A summary of BHE’s net earnings follows (dollars in millions).

Previous wording

Our U.S. utilities operate independently in several states, including Oregon, Utah, Wyoming and other Western states (PacifiCorp), Iowa and Illinois (MEC) and Nevada (NV Energy). Net earnings declined $163 million in the second quarter and increased $50 million in the first six months of 2024 compared to 2023. Pre-tax loss accruals, net of expected insurance recoveries, for the Wildfires were $251 million in the second quarter and first six months of 2024 and $408 million in the first six months of 2023, recorded primarily in the first quarter. See Note 23 to the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the Wildfires.

Current wording

Our U.S. utilities operate independently in several states, including Oregon, Utah, Wyoming and other Western states (PacifiCorp), Iowa and Illinois (MEC) and Nevada (NV Energy). Net earnings increased $979 million in the third quarter and $1,029 million in the first nine months of 2024 compared to 2023. Pre-tax loss accruals, net of expected insurance recoveries, for the Wildfires were $251 million in the first nine months of 2024. Wildfire loss accruals were $1.3 billion in the third quarter and $1.7 billion in the first nine months of 2023. See Note 23 to the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on the Wildfires.