Why Berkshire Hathaway Reports Q3 While Indian Firms Report Q2 — And What Its Record Cash Reserves Signal?
Understanding the Difference in Financial Quarters
Berkshire Hathaway, based in the United States, follows a calendar-year financial system — where the financial year starts in January and ends in December. Therefore, its Q3 results correspond to the July–September 2025 quarter.
In contrast, Indian companies operate on an April–March fiscal year. Hence, their Q2 FY26 (April 2025–March 2026) also covers the July–September 2025 quarter. The difference lies purely in the accounting period nomenclature — Q3 FY25 for Berkshire equals Q2 FY26 for India.
This distinction is important for global investors comparing financial performance across geographies. It ensures quarter-on-quarter alignment while maintaining compliance with respective national accounting cycles.
Berkshire Hathaway – Q3 FY25 Highlights
| Metric | Q3 FY25 | YoY | QoQ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating Earnings | $13.5B | +33.6% | — |
| Net Earnings | $30.8B | +17.3% | — |
| Cash Reserves | $381.6B | Record Level | +10.9% |
| Insurance Float | $176B | +2B QoQ | Steady |
| Buybacks | $0B | Paused for 5th Quarter | — |
Operating Earnings $13.5B highlight solid performance in insurance and manufacturing operations, showing Buffett’s core strength in diversified cash-generating businesses.
Net Earnings $30.8B reflect robust investment gains from portfolio holdings like Apple and American Express, though Buffett continues to avoid aggressive reinvestment amid high market valuations.
Cash Reserves $381.6B — the highest ever — demonstrate Berkshire’s readiness to deploy funds when markets turn favorable. This liquidity cushion provides unmatched strategic flexibility.
For investors analyzing macro liquidity cues, similar capital-preservation strategies can be applied via tactical trades using the Swing Trading Tip and F&O Tip.
Financial Cycle Comparison — India vs U.S.
| Region | Fiscal Year Period | Example Quarter (Jul–Sep 2025) | Reporting Term |
|---|---|---|---|
| India | April – March | Q2 FY26 | Fiscal-Year Based |
| United States | January – December | Q3 FY25 | Calendar-Year Based |
Thus, while both Indian and U.S. companies report results for the same time period (July–September), the difference in fiscal calendars causes the quarter naming variance.
SWOT Analysis — Berkshire Hathaway
Strengths
|
Weaknesses
|
Berkshire’s capital discipline remains unmatched, though limited reinvestment highlights its cautious valuation outlook.
Opportunities
|
Threats
|
Berkshire’s patient, data-driven deployment strategy serves as a reminder that liquidity and timing discipline remain critical in uncertain global cycles.
Investor Takeaway
Derivatives and Nifty Expert Gulshan Khera, CFP®, who is also a SEBI Registered Investment Adviser, explains that India’s Q2 FY26 and Berkshire’s Q3 FY25 cover the same July–September quarter, differing only by fiscal nomenclature. Berkshire’s record cash position reflects patience and strategic readiness — a valuable lesson for Indian investors emphasizing liquidity and valuation discipline.
Related Queries on Berkshire Hathaway and Fiscal Calendars
- Why Does Berkshire Report Q3 While Indian Companies Report Q2?
- How Does Fiscal Year Structure Affect Market Comparisons?
- What Lessons Can Indian Investors Learn From Berkshire’s Cash Strategy?
SEBI Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. Readers must perform their own due diligence and consult a registered investment advisor before making any investment decisions. The views expressed are general in nature and may not suit individual investment objectives or financial situations.
