Berkshire Hathaway’s Operating Earnings Fall, Buybacks Rise

Berkshire Hathaway Inc.'s operating earnings fell to $12.7 billion in the third quarter, a 5.8% decline from a year earlier, the Omaha, Nebraska-based conglomerate said Saturday. The drop reflects weaker performance across its businesses, while the company increased share buybacks, signaling confidence in its long-term value despite the quarterly setback.