At Barron's Is this Company a 'Little Berkshire Hathaway'? Its CEO Weighs In.
16 snips
Aug 21, 2025 
Tom Gayner, CEO of Markel Group and a proponent of long-term investing, shares insights into how his company mirrors Berkshire Hathaway's strategies. He discusses the value of patience and rationality in investing, learned from years of observing legendary investors Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger. Gayner also explores the complexities of the insurance industry, emphasizing the need for a balance between understanding intricate details and maintaining a simple strategic vision. His mission focuses on building a resilient company through disciplined risk management and adaptability.
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Markel's Origin And Evolution
- Tom Gayner recounts Markel's history from 1930 and its evolution into an insurance-based holding company.
- He describes moving from public equity investing to buying wholly owned businesses about 20 years ago.
Studied Berkshire As A Playbook
- Gayner says he studied Berkshire Hathaway's playbook and saw a similar specialty-insurance holding company opportunity.
- He viewed Markel as a chance to recreate Berkshire's long-term investment and insurance model locally.
Learn From Better Practitioners
- Study and emulate the behaviors and techniques of top performers even if you won't match their results exactly.
- Use those practices as a 'coaching tree' to improve team building and management.
