No. of Recommendations: 29
We often discuss other firms that might offer a business model similar to Berkshire. Or value oriented firms which are seemingly undervalued and might offer superior returns.
But here's a question for you, that I haven't really heard discussed as such---
Ignoring the likely forward returns, and also ignoring current valuation levels, what other firms are run with a similar "style" of management?
Not "ethical" in terms of innocent-sounding business activities, though I do like a firm that won't get into a business they find odious.
I'm thinking more of the anomalous and good things about Berkshire. CEO communicates frankly and clearly and honestly, not over reliant on financial complexity or financial engineering or gearing, no stock options, patience, executive team barely compensated (compared to prevailing norms) other than their returns from the stock, longevity, run for the benefit of shareholders equally, rational (though not necessarily world beating) capital allocation. Probably teamed with conservative balance sheet. Probably not run by Bruce Flatt.
It wouldn't be so bad to have money invested in a firm like that, even if it didn't actually grow in value rapidly. Plugging away can be OK, if it's along with someone you trust.
Jim
