Berkshire Hathaway and GEICO: How Warren Buffett applied the G&D approach to acquire an insurance giant

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoints practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

Joseph Calandro Jr, Ranganna Dasari and Scott Lane, in their collaborative article “Berkshire Hathaway and GEICO: an M&A case study”, explain in detail the success of one of the world's great entrepreneurs: Warren Buffett. This is a study in a particular methodology of evaluation, the Graham and Dodd (G&D) valuation approach, and how it was applied by Buffett in Berkshire Hathaway's 1995 acquisition of the US insurance giant, GEICO.

Practical implications

Provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to‐digest format.

Citation

(2008), "Berkshire Hathaway and GEICO: How Warren Buffett applied the G&D approach to acquire an insurance giant", Strategic Direction, Vol. 24 No. 5, pp. 22-24. https://doi.org/10.1108/02580540810867907