Will Alphabet Break Warren Buffett's Cardinal Rule of Investing?
Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.A, BRK.B) increased its stake in Alphabet (GOOGL, GOOG) from $5.6B to $37.8B. Alphabet's ROIC declined from 58% in 2024 to 42% in 2025, with analysts expecting further declines. The decline is due to increased capex for AI infrastructure, guided at $200B this year. Buffett and Abel likely believe in Alphabet's long-term prospects despite near-term trends.
How this was made

The 30-second read
Why it matters
The stake growth underscores Berkshire's long‑term view on Alphabet despite short‑term ROIC pressure from high capex.
Market read
The disclosed stake increase is material for traders monitoring institutional flows into tech stocks.
What to watch
Alphabet's rising capex may pressure margins, offsetting the positive signal from Berkshire's investment.
Background
Berkshire Hathaway, led by Warren Buffett and new CEO Greg Abel, has been expanding its position in Alphabet, a leading hyperscaler investing heavily in AI infrastructure.
Ticker impact
Berkshire Hathaway increased its Alphabet stake from $5.6B to $37.8B, making it one of its largest holdings.
Potential modest upside as the market digests the new ownership level.
Berkshire's moves are closely watched; a 6‑fold increase is material but not a catalyst that forces immediate trading.
Market effects
Highlights continued institutional confidence in large‑cap tech, may buoy other hyperscalers.
U.S. equity markets may see slight positive bias toward tech sector.
Berkshire's global stature gives the news worldwide attention.
Counterpoint
The stake increase could be a defensive move, not a growth bet, limiting upside.
Key entities
- Institutional InvestorBerkshire Hathaway
Holding company increasing its Alphabet stake.
- CompanyAlphabet
Parent of Google, subject of the stake increase.



