Berkshire Hathaway: Should You Buy, Sell, or Hold?

2025-04-11 16:29:52 By James Williams

Warren Buffett's investment firm has amassed incredible wealth over the years. Nevertheless, the argument for purchasing shares at this moment is not as clear-cut.

Warren Buffett, the famed investor and one of the world's wealthiest individuals, built his fortune primarily through his holding company, Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.A -2.20%) (BRK.B -2.03%). Today, Berkshire Hathaway is worth nearly $1 trillion; its success is the culmination of a buy-and-hold strategy for numerous private businesses and stakes in public corporations.

Holding shares of Berkshire Hathaway is the nearest way to invest in tandem with Buffett.

Valuations play a crucial role in every investment decision. Warren Buffett, known for his emphasis on value, would likely argue that no stock is worth purchasing at any price. This principle is vital when determining whether to buy, sell, or retain shares of Berkshire Hathaway at this moment.

So, what’s the answer? Here’s the information you need to be aware of.

One thing is certain: Berkshire Hathaway delivers value to its shareholders.

The inner workings of Berkshire Hathaway or any other holding company can seem like murky waters. There are so many moving parts that your head might spin. But if you think about it, a holding company is a business that owns other businesses.

Berkshire Hathaway owns dozens of private businesses, including railroads, GEICO insurance, Dairy Queen, See's Candies, and more. They operate independently, and their profits go to Berkshire (parent company). If Berkshire Hathaway's stakes in public companies happen to pay dividends, they go to Berkshire's balance sheet in the same way. Some of Berkshire Hathaway's notable investments include stakes in Apple, Bank of America, American Express, and Coca-Cola.

In a sense, we investors function as our own personal holding companies.

At that point, Buffett and the other members of Berkshire Hathaway's management team determine the best strategies for utilizing the funds to enhance shareholder value. This might include acquiring or investing in other businesses, buying back Berkshire Hathaway shares, or exploring alternative options.

The Berkshire Hathaway team has created immense value for its shareholders. You can see this reflected in the company's book value over the years below:

BRK.B Book Value (Per Share) Chart

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BRK.B Book Value (Per Share) information sourced from YCharts.

In conclusion, this graph illustrates the reasons behind the impressive performance of Buffett and other long-term shareholders of Berkshire Hathaway. While it doesn't assure future victories for the company, it provides investors with reassurance regarding its capacity to navigate economic fluctuations and adapt to an evolving landscape.

Currently, there are some concerns regarding Berkshire Hathaway's stock performance.

What's the problem, then? You might guess Buffett's age. Sure, he's in his 90s, something worth considering if you're thinking decades into the future. But that's been thought of already. Buffett's successor has spent years at the company and probably deserves the benefit of the doubt, especially given how financially equipped Berkshire Hathaway is. The company is currently sitting on roughly $325 billion in cash, a financial armory ready for the right opportunities.

My main concern can be summarized by what is arguably Warren Buffett's primary investment philosophy: value.

When assessed using book value, the same metric we utilize to evaluate Berkshire's growth, the stock is currently approaching its highest valuation in the past ten years.

BRK.B Price to Book Value Chart

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BRK.B Price to Book Value information sourced from YCharts.

Not to lean too heavily on what someone else does (or doesn't do), but Berkshire Hathaway didn't repurchase any of its class A or B shares in the third quarter of 2024. Perhaps that will change when the company reports fourth-quarter results, but it doesn't look like Buffett and Co. see much value at these prices. On the other hand, Berkshire Hathaway has primarily sold stocks to increase its cash holdings over the past few quarters.

Should you purchase, divest, or maintain your position?

It may not come as a surprise, but labeling Berkshire Hathaway as a buy at this moment is challenging. Buffett's hesitance to buy back shares is significant, and the company's elevated valuation compared to historical averages raises concerns. Nevertheless, Berkshire Hathaway remains a standout performer and a solid choice for a buy-and-hold strategy within a diversified investment portfolio. Investors should be cautious about letting go of such valuable stocks and carefully consider their decision before selling if they are already shareholders.

Should Berkshire Hathaway's valuation return to its historical norms or if the company undertakes a significant acquisition using its cash reserves, the stock could quickly find itself back in favorable buying range. For the time being, it's best to remain patient and ride out the current situation.

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Gen Z Coworkers Might Find You Irritating—Here Are 4 Possible Reasons

2025-04-11 16:29:52

My previous stories at Forbes.com have shown that Gen Z are getting flak for their inability to collaborate and communicate. Many Gen Zs, feeling misunderstood and vilified, have gotten a bum rap from other generations and business leaders. Hiring managers claim Gen Zers are the worst to work with and manage. I have written about Avery Morgan’s tips that Gen Z need to follow to fit in and succeed in the traditional workplace. But there are changes companies can make as well to reshape old practices for Gen Z to thrive. Half of the younger generation admits they are facing a new challenge. Gen Z colleagues are annoyed by traditional irritating workplace jargon. Reasons Your Gen Z Colleagues Might Find You Annoying—Possibly Gen Z colleagues might be annoyed by you, and if you’re a seasoned employee, chances are you’re annoyed by them, too. Obviously, a communication barrier exists in the workplace between the generations. Gen Z’s desire for immediate feedback and flexible work environments often clashes with traditional practices. Other research explains it as Gen Zers bringing a “brat” culture—a different mindset to the workplace, challenging common stereotypes associated with their generation and remaining true to their values in both their career and learning journeys. While Gen Z mock corporate slang on TikTok, they bring their own “brat culture” jargon to work. To understand their younger colleagues, Boomers and Gen X have been googling “Gen Z dictionary,” with searches of the Gen Z “terms of endearment” up +55% this month alone. Connecting with Gen Z Authentically: Tips to Avoid Coming Off as Insincere The communication barrier isn’t just awkward—it’s killing productivity, according to Avery Morgan, chief human resources officer at EduBirdie. She shared with me four tips to help established teams understand their younger colleagues, close the gap and connect with Gen Z authentically without the corporate fluff. Cut the corporate talk. Seriously. Morgan suggests skipping what she calls the “synergy” and “ducks in a row” nonsense. “Believe me, Gen Z is sick of it (and they’re not the only ones),” she argues. “Straightforward, no-frills communication respects people’s time and keeps the office cringe-free. Morgan offers as an example, “Instead of saying, ‘Let’s circle back,’ try, ‘Can we discuss this tomorrow?’ And why say ‘touch base’ instead of ‘chat’ or ‘Let’s table this’ instead of ‘postpone?’” Morgan insists that buzzwords feel like corporate cosplay—a performance art in which people wear costumes and accessories to represent a specific character from various sources—to Gen Z and creates unnecessary barriers, especially in multicultural teams. Keep it simple, she advises, so no one has to decode your message like it's a riddle. Show your human side. “Sincerity is valued much more by Gen-Z than polished facades,” Morgan explains. “Always aim to add a personal touch to your communication to remind them that there is a genuine person behind the email or Slack chat. Use conversational language where appropriate, like ‘Hey, great job on that report!’ instead of ‘Your output meets expectations.’” Morgan calls it “acknowledging the person behind the screen” and says you can do it with a quick, genuine opener like, “Hope you’re having a productive week,” which works better than "Please submit the report by EOD." No one wants to speak to a robot, Morgan instructs, so don't act like one. “Being real does not imply oversharing or becoming overly casual if that is your main concern,” she notes. “Find a balance by recognizing their efforts, remaining genuine, and setting boundaries.” Don’t overcompensate—stay authentic. “While it’s encouraged to speak with Gen-Z at their level, please don’t push it too hard,” Morgan advises. “Trying to match Gen Z’s vibe can backfire. Don’t start sprinkling TikTok references into your emails unless that’s naturally your thing. They’ll see right through it, and it’ll appear performative. Authenticity is about being consistent and transparent, not trendy. If you don’t know what they mean by a slang term, ask instead of pretending to know.” Value their input, but avoid micromanaging. “Gen Z like to work autonomously and thrive when their ideas are heard,” Morgan states. “Therefore, the top-down approach won't work with them. Try to involve them in decision-making whenever possible. Instead of dictating tasks, ask for their perspective, like ‘How would you approach this?’ Set clear goals, then trust them to take it from there. When giving feedback, frame it as a collaboration rather than a correction. Make sure they feel supported, not just handed responsibility. Acknowledge their effort with specifics—’Your insights made a big difference in this presentation’—to build trust and motivation.” A Summary on Gen Z Colleagues Finding You Annoying Yes, Gen Z colleagues are annoyed that they are stereotyped as lazy, unmotivated, difficult and unreliable. And their values and career needs—instead of considered as different—are judged as inferior to established generations. Andrew Roth, founder and CEO of dcdx, told me that it’s not that Gen Zs don’t care about professionalism. They simply want to be met halfway and receive the same level of respect they give to their employers. Perhaps that’s the ticket to the communication barrier: that employers, seasoned employees and their younger colleagues can meet in the middle.

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Business

$697 Direct Deposit Payments: Essential Information on Eligibility and Distribution

2025-04-11 16:29:52

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Recently, there has been considerable discussion surrounding the $697 direct deposit checks that are reportedly accessible to all U.S. residents. Although this assertion has garnered significant interest, it's crucial to distinguish between reality and misinformation. Here’s the essential information regarding these supposed payments and the current situation. What Lies Beneath the Speculation? Claims circulating online suggest that $697 direct deposit checks are being issued to all U.S. citizens as part of a new financial relief program. Unfortunately, this information is not true. Following a thorough investigation, no proof has been found to substantiate the existence of such a program. The Social Security Administration (SSA) and other governmental bodies have not made any announcements regarding universal payments of $697. What Should You Know About SSA Payments? Although $697 isn't a universal payment, there are valid programs within the SSA that offer financial support to qualified individuals: Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Helps low-income individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Supports individuals with disabilities who have worked and paid into the Social Security system. Qualification for these programs is based on particular criteria such as income level, disability status, and employment history. The payment amounts differ and are determined on a case-by-case basis. Ways to Keep Yourself Updated To prevent the spread of misinformation and guarantee that you receive precise information regarding government payments: Check Official Sources: Always refer to the Social Security Administration’s official website for verified information. Be Wary of Rumors: Avoid relying on social media or unverified websites for news about financial relief programs. Contact the SSA: If you’re unsure about your eligibility for benefits, contact the SSA directly through their official channels.

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Business

US sanctions on Russian oil are expected to significantly impact China and India.

2025-04-11 16:29:52

Sign up for Semafor Business:The stories (& the scoops) from Wall Street.Read it now. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Lehtikuva/Antti Aimo-Koivisto通过路透社 Analysts have stated that the latest US sanctions targeting Moscow's oil industry will significantly restrict Russian fossil fuel exports to both India and China. Beijing and New Delhi became the largest buyers of Russian crude after the European Union pulled back following the invasion of Ukraine. The new sanctions — Washington’s toughest yet — will likely force New Delhi and Beijing to look to the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas for alternatives, Reuters reported: One Singapore-based trader said Russian crude shipments to China are “going to drop off a cliff.” The impending scramble will almost certainly push up both oil and shipping prices, Russian economy outlet The Bell wrote, as the outgoing Biden administration has “nothing to lose” politically from the fallout.

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Declining birth rates attributed to 'economic challenges'

2025-04-11 16:29:52

BBC View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Rachel May underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF) prior to welcoming her daughter into the world. An expert has indicated that the decline in birth rates in the South West can be attributed to the prevailing economic conditions. Dr. Alexander Haupt, an economics professor at the University of Plymouth, stated that financial uncertainty has led to a decrease in the birth rate in Devon. Rachel May, a mother from Devon, shared that she spent four and a half years undergoing In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) before welcoming her daughter. She noted that the financial burden of having a child, combined with the challenges of living on maternity pay, made the journey particularly tough. A representative from the government stated that maternity pay is merely "one aspect of the assistance offered to expectant mothers and new parents, who might also qualify for universal credit or child benefit." View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Emma Gould expressed that she would struggle to cover the costs of sending both of her children to nursery. Ms. May described maternity pay as being incredibly inadequate. "She mentioned that she's heard numerous individuals express their uncertainty about managing things once they leave their jobs to welcome a child." Emma Gould, a mother of two kids aged two and six, expressed that she couldn't manage the expenses of sending both of her children to nursery simultaneously. According to the Office for National Statistics, fertility rates in England and Wales have been consistently decreasing since 2010. Between 2022 and 2023, it was reported that the total fertility rate (TFR) for England and Wales fell from an average of 1.49 children per woman throughout their lifetime to 1.44, marking the lowest rate ever recorded. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Laura Gilbert mentioned that she had observed a decrease in attendance at Moo Music in Plymouth. Laura Gilbert, the proprietor of Moo Music, an early learning center located in Plymouth, mentioned that she has observed a decrease in attendance for the sessions aimed at younger children. She mentioned, "Reaching out to parents with just one child is more challenging. However, when we have a parent who has already been involved, they are familiar with us." Professor Haupt noted that the university had witnessed a decrease in fertility rates following the onset of the cost of living crisis. "It has fallen to quite a concerning level," remarked Prof Haupt. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Dr. Alexander Haupt from Plymouth stated that it is essential for the government to create a stable economic climate. "One significant concern is economic instability, which I believe has contributed to the drop in fertility rates following the financial crisis." "Deciding to have children is a commitment that spans many years, and individuals tend to value the opportunity to make this choice in a stable economic climate." He mentioned that a significant consequence of the declining birth rate might be "shortages in the labor force" down the line. He stated, "When examining the South West industries or sectors related to tourism or agriculture, especially since they are characterized by low wages, they struggle to secure enough labor." He emphasized that the key priority for the government should be to establish a "stable economic climate." Evaluation of Parental Leave Policies "He further suggested that implementing regulations for the labor market, maternity leave, and addressing the housing market could prove beneficial." A representative from the government stated that anyone wishing to have children should not feel discouraged from pursuing that goal. "In line with our ongoing efforts to provide optimal support for working families and enhance economic growth, we will be conducting a comprehensive review of the existing statutory parental leave policies," they announced. Details regarding the review of an expanded statutory parental leave will be revealed in "due course."

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Walmart's weekend sale is underway – check out these 27 clearance bargains that I would grab before they disappear!

2025-04-11 16:29:52

Browse affordable TVs, robotic vacuum cleaners, AirPods, coffee machines, and much more! View pictures in App save up to 80% data. (Images courtesy of Future) Get ready for Walmart's weekend blowout! The retailer is launching an exciting sale featuring clearance discounts on a wide range of products, including TVs, Apple gadgets, laptops, air fryers, robot vacuums, and coffee machines. As the deals editor at TechRadar, I frequently report on Walmart's sales, and I've taken the time to sift through this weekend's offers to curate a list of the 27 top deals I would personally invest in. Even though we’re in a lull between holiday sales, it’s an excellent opportunity to snag some great bargains, particularly with clearance items from last year's most popular products. You can discover unprecedented low prices on brands like Apple, Bissell, Ninja, Samsung, and Dyson. A few highlights include the popular Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 on sale for $199.99, this 65-inch 4K Roku TV from Onn. on sale for $298 and this handy towel warmer on sale for just $59. Explore more of Walmart's top weekend specials listed below and remember that these offers are available for a limited time only. Some products may be older models, so this could be your final opportunity to purchase them at a reduced price. Walmart weekend promotions - fast access links Walmart weekend discounts – 27 bargains I’d personally invest in Ninja Blast Portable Blender: was $59.99 now $44.88 at Walmart Take advantage of Walmart's winter sale and grab the top-rated compact, single-serve blender for only $44.88. It's perfect for whipping up your daily smoothie or protein shake. Featuring a convenient built-in handle and a sippy cup lid, you can easily prepare your favorite beverage right before heading out the door. SLF Luxury Towel Warmer: was $119 now $59 at Walmart I have my eye on this towel warmer for the winter season, and I just spotted a highly-rated model from SLF at Walmart for an amazing price of $59. It boasts a 20L capacity and comes with an adjustable heating timer that offers three settings, ensuring that you can enjoy cozy, warm towels whenever you need them. Ninja Grand Kitchen System: was $169 now $128 at Walmart Kick off your New Year's resolution early with the Ninja Grand Kitchen blender, available for just $128. This deal includes a spacious 72-ounce blender, an 18-ounce Nutri Ninja Cup complete with a convenient to-go lid for your smoothies, and an eight-cup food processor bowl to simplify meal prep. Keurig K-Elite Single Serve Coffee Maker: was $189.99 now $119 at Walmart Prepare a delicious cup of coffee in under two minutes using the popular K-Elite from Keurig, currently available for just $119. With five different brew sizes to choose from, you can customize your coffee quantity. Plus, the Strong brew and Iced options allow you to savor a rich morning drink or a cool afternoon pick-me-up effortlessly at the press of a button. Acer Chromebook 315: was $179 now $139 at Walmart The Acer Chromebook 315 features a spacious 15.6-inch Full HD touchscreen, making it an excellent choice for those who require ample screen real estate for tasks such as extensive spreadsheets or school projects. Powered by an Intel Celeron processor, it delivers smooth performance with ChromeOS, while the integrated parental controls ensure a safe browsing experience for younger users. Apple AirPods Pro 2: was $249 now $189.99 at Walmart Apple's best-selling AirPods Pro 2 are some of the best earbuds on the market, and you can find them in stock and on sale for $189.99 at Walmart. The AirPods Pro 2 feature active noise cancellation, an improved audio quality, and a wireless charging case that provides more than 24 hours of battery life. Apple Watch SE, 40mm: was $249 now $199 at Walmart Although the $199 price isn't the most competitive we've encountered, it remains the lowest available option for an Apple Watch. The Apple Watch SE may not include all the advanced features of the Apple Watch 10, but it does offer a speedy processor, impressive battery longevity, and a variety of health and fitness functionalities. Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 with Stand: was $234.99 now $199.99 at Walmart The best-selling Solo Stove makes a great addition for the colder season, and Walmart's winter sale includes the Ranger 2.0 model for $199.99 – a record-low price. The smokeless, portable Solo Stove includes a stand, a removable base plate, and an ash pan, making cleaning easier. Dyson V8 Absolute Cordless Vacuum: was $519.99 now $349.99 at Walmart For those looking to save money without sacrificing quality, the Dyso V8 Absolute is an excellent choice at only $349.99. Ideal for pet owners, this vacuum boasts a de-tangling motor bar suitable for both hardwood and carpeted surfaces, and it easily converts into a handheld vacuum for swift and effortless cleaning. Apple iPad 10.9 (2022): was $349 now $299 at Walmart Walmart has Apple's best-selling 10.9 iPad on sale for $299 - $20 more than the record-low price. In our iPad 10.9 (2022) review, we said Apple's latest base-level tablet is a big upgrade over the previous generation model, offering a larger Liquid Retina display, a new A14 Bionic chip, improved cameras, USB-C support, and a sleek design. Onn 65-inch 4K UHD Roku Smart TV: was $348 now $298 at Walmart In search of an affordable large-screen television? Check out this 65-inch model from Onn., currently priced at just $298. It features stunning 4K UHD resolution and a sleek frameless design that provides an immersive edge-to-edge viewing experience. Additionally, the Onn. TV includes the Roku platform for seamless streaming and a user-friendly app that lets you use voice commands to start shows, explore movies, and control the volume. iRobot Roomba Combo j5: was $529 now $299 at Walmart Check out this amazing offer on the Roomba robot vacuum mop combo, now available at its lowest price ever! The j5 model utilizes the iRobot Home App to set up no-mop zones, allowing it to vacuum your hard surfaces while simultaneously mopping, all while steering clear of your carpets. Vizio 75-inch 4K UHD HDR Smart TV: was $598 now $498 at Walmart This television deal was completely sold out on Black Friday, but it's now available again at an amazing price of $498. The 2024 model boasts 4K UHD resolution, Dolby Vision HDR, and HDR10, along with smart features powered by a voice-activated remote, making it a fantastic buy. Apple MacBook Air M1: was $999 now $649 at Walmart While we've seen the Air M1 go for as little as $699 previously, Walmart has beaten that already excellent discount by a whole $100. Not only is this an outstanding price for such a powerful laptop that still holds up great for 2024, but this could be the last chance to pick one up now that it's officially discontinued. Don't miss this incredible deal if you're looking for a great bang for the buck MacBook. Samsung 55-inch The Frame QLED TV (2024): was $1,499.99 now $897 at Walmart The Frame TV by Samsung is my ideal display for 2025, and right now, the 55-inch version is available at an all-time low price of $897. The 2024 model boasts Pantone art-validated colors, ensuring stunningly realistic visuals. Additionally, it now includes Streams, a free collection of artwork that can be streamed directly from the Samsung Art Store. Samsung S90C 55-inch OLED TV: was $2,499 now $1,279 at Walmart Whatever you need, the Samsung S90C has got you covered. Featuring HDR OLED technology, it meticulously analyzes every scene to deliver vibrant and precise Pantone-validated colors consistently. The picture quality is impressive for films, series, and gaming, while the audio performance exceeds expectations for built-in TV speakers. Additionally, the Samsung S90C is equipped with four HDMI 2.1 ports, making it an ideal choice for gaming consoles. Currently, Walmart is offering a fantastic deal on the 55-inch model, priced at just $1,279.

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IRS Set to Issue Unexpected Stimulus Payments in 2025: Discover Eligibility Criteria!

2025-04-11 16:29:52

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. The IRS has recently revealed plans to distribute an impressive $2.4 billion in stimulus payments in 2025, providing much-needed relief to approximately one million Americans. These funds are aimed at individuals who may have missed out on a specific tax credit during their filings. If you happen to fall into this category, you could be in for an unexpected financial boost! Who Qualifies for the Stimulus Payments? The main recipients of these payments are individuals who did not apply for the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) while submitting their 2021 tax returns. To be eligible, taxpayers must have completed their 2021 return but might have either omitted the RRC section or entered a zero amount. IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel emphasized that this initiative aims to guarantee that eligible individuals obtain the funds they are entitled to, without the necessity of filing an amended return. What is the Maximum Amount of Money You Can Obtain? If you qualify, the highest payment available to you is $1,400. It's important to recognize that the actual amount you receive may differ based on various factors, including your income and the number of dependents in your household. Nevertheless, numerous families may receive an amount close to this maximum based on their individual situations. Eligible taxpayers do not need to take any action. The great news is that you won't have to do anything to get your payment! The IRS will automatically distribute the funds through direct deposit or checks to qualified individuals. Most taxpayers should receive their payments by the end of January 2025. Just ensure that your tax return is current and your banking details are correct. How Can You Determine Your Eligibility? Taxpayers who qualify will get a notification letter from the IRS that confirms their eligibility and specifies the payment amount. This letter aims to address any questions you may have regarding your funds and to provide clarity on what to anticipate in the upcoming months. Should you have any inquiries or concerns, feel free to visit the IRS website for useful information about eligibility and how payments are calculated. Grasping the Recovery Rebate Credit The Recovery Rebate Credit was established for those who might not have received one or more Economic Impact Payments, commonly referred to as stimulus checks, during the difficult period of the pandemic. Essentially, it serves as a refund for individuals who did not get the complete amount they were supposed to receive when the payments were first issued. This automatic payment mechanism is intended to rectify that situation for qualified individuals. Payment Schedule As we approach the conclusion of 2024 and transition into 2025, there is a growing anticipation for the distribution of these funds. IRS representatives are hopeful that by the end of January 2025, the majority of eligible recipients will have received their payments. We advise everyone to monitor their mailboxes or bank accounts closely during this time. Concluding Remarks for Residents of Maryland For the residents of Maryland, this announcement offers a ray of optimism. As the holiday season draws near and financial struggles continue, this extra financial aid can truly have a meaningful impact. Whether it assists in managing bills, preparing for educational expenses, or simply provides some much-needed relief, the IRS's initiative to issue these stimulus payments is a positive move forward.

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Business

Lockheed Martin Secures a $15.5 Billion Windfall for Additional F-35s. Should Investors Consider the Stock for 2025?

2025-04-11 16:29:52

The decision to invest in Lockheed Martin shares largely hinges on the performance of its F-35 sales. Lockheed Martin's (LMT -0.17%) F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter jet is the gift that keeps on giving. Estimated to be worth $1 trillion in total lifetime value, the F-35 warplane remains easily Lockheed's most important product. And this was demonstrated once again just late last year, when the week before Christmas saw the Pentagon deliver three gifts to Lockheed Martin worth $15.5 billion in total. Two presents for Lockheed Martin. The first and by far biggest gift arrived Dec. 20, when the Pentagon's daily digest of contract awards showed Lockheed winning orders for 145 F-35 fighter jets worth $11.8 billion. Reported as a contract from the U.S. Navy, this order actually involves deliveries of F-35s for the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force, as well as for U.S. allies Italy and Japan, like so: For the Air Force: 48 conventional take-off and landing F-35As For the Marine Corps: 16 short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) F-35Bs, and five carrier-landing F-35Cs For the Navy: 14 F-35C aircraft For "non-U.S. Department of Defense program partners" that helped Lockheed develop the F-35 (in this case, Italy): 15 F-35As and one F-35B For "Foreign Military Sales" customers who are not program partners on the F-35 (namely, Japan): 39 F-35As and seven F-35Bs  The Department of Defense has indicated that all aircraft specified in this contract are expected to be delivered by June 2027. Consequently, the $11.8 billion associated with this agreement will be disbursed over the upcoming two and a half years. This translates to approximately $4.7 billion annually in extra revenue for Lockheed. However, Lockheed stands to gain even more than just this amount. On December 23, the Pentagon granted Lockheed two additional contracts, funded through the Navy, totaling $3.4 billion and $335.7 million. These contracts are intended for logistics support, which encompasses ground maintenance, supply chain management, training services, as well as various engineering services and specialized testing and tooling equipment for the F-35 program. Both contracts are set to continue until the end of 2025, contributing an overall increase of $3.7 billion in expenditures. In total, this amounts to $15.5 billion in new revenue from F-35 contracts for Lockheed, with approximately $8.4 billion expected to be realized in 2025. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Image credit: Getty Images. What is the significance of this event for Lockheed Martin's stock? So we're talking some objectively big numbers here. But let's put them in the context of the company we're talking about: Lockheed Martin, the world's largest pure-play defense contractor. How big of a deal are these contracts for a company of Lockheed's size? Referring to data provided by S&P Global Market Intelligence, the additional $8.4 billion Lockheed will receive from these contracts in 2025 amounts to 30% of the $27.8 billion that Lockheed's Aeronautics division collected in 2023, the last full year for which we have data. It amounts to only 12.4% of the $67.6 billion in revenue that all of Lockheed Martin collected that year, granted. But even that seems like a big bump in revenue for a company that, according to most stock market analysts, is only growing earnings at about 3% annually over the next five years. It is important to note that a significant portion of this extra revenue is expected to be concentrated in 2025, with the growth in F-35 revenue for 2026 and 2027 projected to be more modest. Nevertheless, this still represents nearly a 7% increase compared to the revenue in 2023, which is double what analysts had anticipated. This indicates that Wall Street's projections for Lockheed's upcoming growth could be overly cautious. Is Lockheed Martin stock a good investment in 2025? How fast Lockheed Martin stock ends up growing is a key fact investors need to consider when deciding whether to invest in the stock, which is not objectively cheap. With a valuation of 17 times its trailing earnings and a slightly higher price based on free cash flow, Lockheed Martin must demonstrate earnings growth in the mid-double-digits for me to contemplate an investment. A long-term growth rate of 3% indicates that the stock is far from being a good deal. Even assuming a 7% growth rate, it likely remains overvalued. If Lockheed can grow earnings in the 12% range, however, or ideally even a bit better than that, and paying a 2.7% dividend yield to boot, that is when things start to get a bit more interesting, and Lockheed stock starts looking more attractive as an investment. As Lockheed Martin secures more lucrative F-35 contracts, the likelihood of that occurring increases.

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Business

"Getting 2% cash back for three years adds up to a significant amount": A man finds out that his mother removed him from the Costco membership he funds. That's when a Costco employee intervenes.

2025-04-11 16:29:52

"I am employed at Costco, and one of the key principles we are constantly reminded of is to prioritize our members' needs above all else." View pictures in App save up to 80% data. A Costco shopper has gone viral after revealing how a Costco worker saved the day. Creator Evan Lamicella (@evanlamicella), who has 1.6 million TikTok followers, shared the story in the style of a “put your finger down” confessional. He explained how he went to get gas from Costco, but when he put his membership card in the machine, it said his membership was invalid. It then happened again, and a ticket was printed out telling him to go see the front desk. What was the reason for him to visit the desk? He then recounts his meeting with the membership clerk, where he clarified that he had paid for his membership four months prior, and thus, it should still be valid. However, the biggest surprise came when the employee scanned his membership card, only to discover that Lamicella's mother had removed him from the Costco membership that he shares with her, for which he is the one footing the bill. He mentioned that the employee later told him he was eligible for a 2 percent cashback through his membership. However, they continued to explain that his mother had been the one receiving and utilizing these checks for the last three years, rather than him. The membership clerk comes to the rescue! Lamicella recounts, “The clerk looked at me and said, ‘I’ve never encountered anything like this in all my 20 years here. I’m going to grant you a complimentary membership and revoke hers.’” She continues, “And I just sat there thinking, ‘Alright then.’” Lamichella has not yet replied to the Daily Dot's inquiry sent through a TikTok comment and a direct message on Instagram. The Costco employee received accolades from viewers. The video, with a total of 588,300 views, sparked a significant response from those who commented. For some, this response was comical. “The Costco employee said ‘Uno reverse’,” one person quipped. “The clerk had a real ‘ride at dawn’ vibe, and I appreciate that,” another commented. “Victory for Costco!” a third person exclaimed, then followed up with, “Your mom is terrible.” In other discussions, ex-Costco employees shared their perspectives, with one stating, “Having worked at Costco, we are consistently reminded to prioritize our members' needs above all else.” It was clear that this problem is quite widespread, with one user noting that this was the “third instance” they’d encountered of Costco employees assisting someone in this manner. Another user chimed in, stating, “Costco has really come through for me too in a similar situation. Go Costco!” Costco has not yet replied to the Daily Dot's inquiry submitted through the contact form. @evanlamicella Can’t say I wasn’t surprised tho #fyp ♬ original sound – Evan Lamicella Lamicella has gained popularity in the past. This isn’t the first time Lamicella has gone viral. He previously came in clutch himself for Alo T-shirt fans by revealing that they could buy essentially the same product over at Michaels. “Here’s a handy tip for all you Alo enthusiasts,” he mentioned. “Head over to Michaels and grab a Bell + Canvas t-shirt for just $7.99 instead of shelling out 70 bucks. The owners of Alo also run Bella + Canvas, so you’re basically getting the same quality T-shirts at a fraction of the price, plus there are so many colors to choose from. Enjoy!”

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Business

A small town left in disbelief after receiving a $10 million windfall from a man who had never set foot in the community.

2025-04-11 16:29:52

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Residents of Thiberville were astonished to learn that they would be receiving millions from an unknown benefactor. They're in the money. Local officials in an “unremarkable” small town in France were shocked to discover that a wealthy Parisian had left them a fortune — completely without warning. Roger Thiberville had never visited the Normandy burg of Thiberville, but when he died at 91 last year without an heir, he surprisingly chose to leave an estimated $10.2 million to the place — pop. 1,773 — that gave him his family last name, The Guardian reported. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. The wealthy Parisian had never visited the town, but had no trouble being generous toward it — only asking that his ashes be kept at the local cemetery. "It's an extraordinary amount of money. Clearly, the figure is beyond what anyone could fathom," exclaimed Guy Paris, the mayor of Thiberville, during an interview with a local radio station. "We are still figuring out how we might utilize it." He stated that the amount was over five times greater than the city's budget. "We won’t be using it all at once. We'll handle this dowry just like we do with our city budget – with careful consideration and accountability," the mayor promised. First on the wish list — paying off a bank loan of just over $400,000. taken out to build a new school. Paris announced that the anticipated public garden, boules court, and football pitch could now become a reality thanks to the generous donation. Thiberville, the individual, is reported to have been a meteorologist who lived a modest life in Paris, where he received a portfolio of real estate from his relatives. In addition to bequeathing his belongings to a bunch of unfamiliar faces, he requested that his ashes be interred in the nearby cemetery. "The mayor remarked, 'Monsieur Thiberville asked for nothing in exchange for his bequest, yet we at least owe him this much.'" Thiberville, a town described as “unremarkable” by The Guardian, features a now-closed ribbon factory and not much else of interest. According to French law, the town is exempt from paying inheritance tax on the substantial donation. It has been reported that two neighboring villages, which chose not to merge with Thiberville in order to enable all three municipalities to gain from federal programs available to areas with populations exceeding 2,000, will not be reaping the financial rewards. Officials from the neighboring areas of Le Planquay and La Chapelle-Haring reportedly turned down the proposal. Unusual decisions regarding inheritances are frequently in the news — like the one couple who proudly said they’d rather spend the money traveling the world than leave it to their children. Leanne and Leon Ryland of Australia made a splash after going public with their pronouncement that their two adult sons weren’t going to get a cent. So far, the Rylands have spent into the triple digits seeing the “wonders of the world” since retiring — and have even helped other couples their age figure out how to spend their money while they can still enjoy life. "Those from the Boomer generation are selfish... boasting about their extravagant trips abroad while squandering their wealth, leaving their children with nothing in terms of inheritance," a critic vented on social media.

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Business

Reasons Behind the 94.9% Surge in Trump Media Stock in 2024 and Its Continued Rise in 2025

2025-04-11 16:29:52

Trump Media (DJT 2.23%) stock recorded huge gains across 2024's trading. The company's share price ended the year up 94.9%, according to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 index's level climbed 23.3%, and the Nasdaq Composite index's level climbed 28.6%. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. DJT information provided by YCharts Trump Media stock started out this year trading under the "Digital World Acquisition Corp." name and the "DWAC" stock ticker. In addition to gains connected to the merger of Trump Media & Technology Group with the Digital World Acquisition special purpose acquisition company (SPAC), the stock also saw bullish momentum in conjunction with the presidential election and Trump's win in the race. Trump Media shares soar following SPAC merger and favorable political winds. Trump Media stock started 2024 off with some big gains following his win in the Iowa Republican caucus. At the time, the stock was still trading as Digital World Acquisition because the merger with Trump Media & Technology Group had not been completed -- but it still surged due to expectations the combination would go through. On March 25, shares experienced a significant increase following the announcement of the completion of the SPAC merger. Subsequently, the company began operating under the Trump Media name, with its shares being traded under the ticker symbol "DJT." During the summer months, Trump Media experienced a decline in its share price, but as fall approached, the stock began to recover. This resurgence was driven by growing optimism among investors and analysts regarding Donald Trump's chances of winning the presidential election. In the weeks leading up to Election Day, the company's stock experienced a significant surge and continued to climb following Trump's victory, although investors eventually cashed in their profits, leading to a pullback. Despite the valuation drop after the election, Trump Media's stock ended the previous year with substantial overall gains. What factors are contributing to the rise of Trump Media stock in 2025? Despite a pullback for the broader market, Trump Media stock has actually managed to climb higher across 2025's trading. The company's share price is up 3.5% across the stretch as of this writing. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 index is down 0.8%, and the Nasdaq Composite index is down 0.9%. Trump Media's stock is on the rise as President-elect Trump prepares for his inauguration. Investors seem to be optimistic that his presidency will create favorable opportunities for the stock's performance. Although Trump Media has experienced significant growth, investors might want to exercise caution regarding the stock, as the company's current valuation seems to be largely disconnected from its underlying fundamentals. With a market capitalization of approximately $7.7 billion, Trump Media is struggling to generate meaningful sales. In its most recent financial report, the company revealed that its primary business achieved only $1 million in sales during the third quarter. Engagement levels on the Truth Social platform have been quite modest, and the platform's attractiveness may diminish as competing social media sites implement more relaxed content moderation practices. Although there are potential growth opportunities linked to Trump's bid for the presidency and the strength of his personal brand, the stock currently appears to carry significant risk.

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