Berkshire Hathaway’s record $382 billion cash position and Brooks Running’s ninth consecutive quarter of double-digit growth highlight an expanding footprint in the sporting goods sector through direct and indirect holdings.
The US investment group reported third-quarter operating earnings of $13.49 billion, up 33 percent year over year, and a record cash pile of $382 billion, according to its earnings release and 10-Q filing.
Exposure to the sporting goods market
While Berkshire’s performance is relevant primarily to financial markets, the group’s direct and indirect exposure to footwear and leisure brands makes its latest results noteworthy for the sporting goods industry.
Among Berkshire’s subsidiaries is Brooks Sports, the Seattle-based running footwear and apparel brand, which has contributed to the group’s revenue growth in recent years. According to industry reports, Brooks Running recorded 17 percent revenue growth in Q3 FY25, its ninth consecutive quarter of year-over-year gains, with double‑digit increases in all regions and channels. The running brand saw particularly strong international momentum, with sales up 23 percent in EMEA and 82 percent in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, reinforcing its position as a leading global player in performance running footwear.
Expanding reach across sports and leisure brands
Additional holdings of Berkshire Hathaway include Forest River, one of the largest US manufacturers of recreational vehicles, and Russell Athletic. In 2023, Berkshire acquired a minority stake in the Atlanta Braves baseball team. The group also owns Spalding through Fruit of the Loom, which is part of its broader apparel portfolio. The group also retains ownership of Berkshire Hathaway Shoe Holdings, which encompasses Justin Brands (Western boots), Carolina (work and hiking boots), Align (weatherproof leather footwear) and several work shoe labels, as well as online footwear retail platforms like Super Shoes.
