“SWOT is an acronym for the internal Strengths and Weaknesses of a firm and the environmental Opportunities and Threats facing that firm. SWOT analysis is a widely used technique through which managers create a quick overview of a company’s strategic situation. The technique is based on the assumption that an effective strategy derives from a sound “fit” between a firm’s internal resources (strengths and weaknesses) and its external situation (opportunities and threats). A good fit maximizes a firm’s strengths and opportunities and minimizes its weaknesses and threats. Accurately applied, this simple assumption has powerful implications for the design of a successful strategy.”

Berkshire Hathaway 

Berkshire Hathaway (Berkshire) is a holding company that engages in a number of diverse business activities through its subsidiaries. The group's business activities primarily comprise insurance and reinsurance operations. Additionally, the group is also engaged in non insurance businesses including building products, finance and financial products, flight services, retail, and apparel production. A strong capital position together with strong credit ratings enhances its bargaining power in the debt markets and gives it a competitive advantage. However, Europe's Solvency II project may put pressure on its profitability in Western Europe.