Global Markets Watch as Buffett Exits, Japan Tests Bonds, and Tragedy Strikes California

A series of significant events has shaken the financial world and beyond, with far-reaching implications for investors, sports fans, and the general public.

Warren Buffett, the legendary investor and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, has made a notable exit from the market, selling off $5 billion in stocks in the fourth quarter. This move reflects a bearish sentiment as he prepares to hand over the reins to Greg Abel. According to Bloomberg, Berkshire Hathaway cut its Amazon stake by 75%, with the position likely gaining 130-140% and performing broadly in line with the S&P 500. The conglomerate also increased its positions in Chevron and Chubb, among its top 10 holdings, and is building a stake in the New York Times Co.

In a separate development, Japan is set to test investor appetite for super-long bonds for the first time since the landslide victory of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi triggered a surge in buying. Thursday's sale of 20-year Japanese government bonds will be closely watched by traders, who are bracing for the outcome.

On a more somber note, tragedy struck in northern California, where eight skiers were found dead after being trapped by an avalanche in the mountains. Another skier is missing and presumed dead. The incident occurred close to Lake Tahoe, and Nevada County Sheriff Shannan Moon has been coordinating the response efforts.

In the world of sports, Madison Square Garden Sports is considering a significant move that could change the face of New York sports. The company's board of directors has approved a plan to explore splitting the NBA's New York Knicks from the NHL's New York Rangers, making each team a separate publicly traded company. This potential spin-off would have far-reaching implications for fans, investors, and the teams themselves.

As these stories unfold, investors and observers will be watching closely to see how they play out. The sale of Japanese government bonds, Buffett's exit from the market, and the potential spin-off of the Knicks and Rangers will all have significant impacts on their respective industries. Meanwhile, the people of California will be mourning the loss of life in the devastating avalanche.

Sources:

• Bloomberg: "MSG Sports Considering Spinning Off Knicks, Rangers"
• Bloomberg: "Traders Brace for Japan’s First Super-Long Bond Test After Vote"
• Bloomberg: "Eight Skiers Killed, One Missing in California Avalanche"
• Bloomberg: "Buffett Goes Out Like a Bear With $5 Billion in 4Q Sales"