Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway has sold its holdings in S&P 500 ETFs from Vanguard and State Street, marking a continued retreat from the stock market. Despite previously endorsing index funds, Buffett’s firm liquidated its roughly $44 million ETF holdings in late 2024, aligning with its broader trend of stock sell-offs and record cash reserves of $334.2 billion.
Some investors speculate Buffett is bracing for a market downturn, though he insists Berkshire remains heavily invested in equities. While reducing U.S. stock exposure, Buffett is expanding his stake in five major Japanese trading houses, which have surged following his endorsement. Analysts believe he sees them as a stable investment amid global market uncertainties.