Berkshire Hathaway’s $277B Cash, Taco Bell AI Drive-Thrus, Taylor Swift Super Bowl, Cameron Diaz’s home, and Harrison Butker Signs $25.6M Contract - Eps. 43

Welcome to Episode 43 of the irl Media NEWS Podcast, I'm your host Chris Thompson, and today we discuss Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway Is Sitting On Record $277 Billion Dollars, Taco Bell Is Bringing AI To Their Drive-Thrus, Celebrities Want Taylor Swift To Perform At Next Super Bowl Halftime Show, Cameron Diaz & Benji Madden Listed Beverly Hills Estate For $17.8 Million, and Harrison Butker Signs Record Contract Extension Following Sexist And Anti-LGBTQ Comments.

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Transcript

Welcome to Episode 43 of the irl Media NEWS Podcast, I'm your host Chris Thompson, and today we discuss Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway Is Sitting On Record $277 Billion Dollars, Taco Bell Is Bringing AI To Their Drive-Thrus, Celebrities Want Taylor Swift To Perform At Next Super Bowl Halftime Show, Cameron Diaz & Benji Madden Listed Beverly Hills Estate For $17.8 Million, and Harrison Butker Signs Record Contract Extension Following Sexist And Anti-LGBTQ Comments.

Business

Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway Is Sitting On Record $277 Billion Dollars

Following the sale of nearly half their stake in Apple, Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway is now sitting on approximately $277 Billion dollars!

In Q2 Berkshire Hathaway sold both Apple and Bank of America stock, for a total of $75 billion in sales for the quarter.

Berkshire Hathaway was sitting on $189 billion at the end of Q1, but now has a record $277 billion dollars in the bank.

Imagine seeing that number when you log into your bank account!

Berkshire Hathaway is still throwing off roughly $10 billion dollars a quarter in free cash flow. Combine that with anticipated future equity sales, and Berkshire Hathaway could find itself with close to $300 billion dollars in their bank account by the end of 2024.

And yet, for some reason they aren’t spending it.

I’ve previously written about Berkshire Hathaway’s giant cash horde, but I honestly thought by now they would have spent some of it, and they have a little. They continue to repurchase stock each quarter, with a recent filing that they have repurchased “$345 million worth of its own stock in the second quarter, significantly lower than the $2 billion repurchased in each of the prior two quarters.” according to an article on CNBC.

So all indications to me are they’re freeing up cash from the sale of equity holdings, they’ve cut back on the repurchase of their own stock, and they continue to build up their bank holding by saving the roughly $10 billion dollars in free cash flow they generate each quarter.

Some have speculated that Berkshire Hathaway has been saving up for a big acquisition, but quarter-after-quarter Warren Buffett continues to say that they haven’t found an acquisition target that fits their investment criteria due to the high prices of equities.

In Berkshire Hathaway’s annual meeting in May Warren Buffet said he is willing to deploy capital, but that high prices still make him pause.

“We’d love to spend it, but we won’t spend it unless we think [a business is] doing something that has very little risk and can make us a lot of money.” Warren Buffet shared.

With Berkshire Hathaway’s market cap standing close to $1 trillion dollar market cap, or $930.27 billion to be precise, that is up $29.19 billion dollars from $901.08 billion dollars they were valued at the end of Q1.

Berkshire Hathaway may be happy to just sit on all their cash instead of running out and acquiring a company. With interest rates at 5.5% right now, Berkshire Hathaway could earn an estimated $15.24 billion dollars this year from just the cash it holds in the bank.

I’ve said this before, and I’m going to say it again: Berkshire Hathaway needs to put this capital to work and make a big acquisition.

But who should they buy?

Disney!

Hear me out.

Disney has a market cap of $155.68 billion dollars, which is down from a market cap of $199.02 billion dollars at the end of Q1. bank Berkshire Hathaway could literally afford to acquire Disney in an all cash offer, even after offering to pay a 25% premium with an offer of $194.6 billion dollars.

Wall Street would love this deal, and I believe investors would be receptive because it would give Disney a safe home with a company that has strong values and is known for being a good steward of the companies in their portfolio.

Berkshire Hathaway taking Disney private right now would allow them to continue to invest in their theme parks and cruise fleet, while strategically building out their streaming services of Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN.

I also really think Disney should revisit the idea of spinning off ESPN and ABC, which would free up further cash flow for investments in the parts of their business that are seeing slower growth rates.

As always, WTF do I know. These are my own thoughts, but if Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway does acquire Disney just remember where you heard it first!

Tech

Taco Bell Is Bringing AI To Their Drive-Thrus

Taco Bell, the beloved fast-food chain known for its inventive take on Mexican cuisine, is once again making headlines - this time for its groundbreaking use of artificial intelligence in their drive-thrus. This innovation aims to streamline operations, cut costs, and enhance the customer experience, continuing a legacy of pioneering moves that have shaped its journey from a single stand to an international phenomenon.

Founded in 1962 by Glen Bell in Downey, California, Taco Bell began as a modest taco stand named Taco Tia. Glen Bell's simple vision - to offer tasty, affordable Mexican-inspired food—quickly resonated with customers. By 1964, Bell had rebranded to Taco Bell, opening his first restaurant and refining the menu to include items like the now-iconic Taco. The chain’s success led to rapid expansion, and by the late 1970s, Taco Bell was a major player in the fast-food industry, becoming a subsidiary of PepsiCo in 1978. Its ability to innovate, with items like the Crunchwrap Supreme and Doritos Locos Tacos, helped Taco Bell remain relevant and popular through the decades.

Taco Bell recently secured the trademark for "Taco Tuesday" in the United States. This iconic phrase, which has become synonymous with discounted taco nights across the country, now officially belongs to Taco Bell. The trademark victory not only solidifies the chain's place in American pop culture, but also reinforces its commitment to bringing unique and engaging promotions to its customers.

Now, Taco Bell is pushing the envelope once again by integrating AI technology into its drive-thru operations. The chain is expanding its use of AI-driven ordering systems, a move that promises to transform the fast-food experience. Taco Bell's AI drive-thru systems are designed to enhance efficiency, reduce wait times, and improve order accuracy. Talk about a win-win for all of mankind and taco lovers around the world.

The AI technology at Taco Bell's drive-thrus uses advanced voice recognition and machine learning to understand and process customer orders. This system can handle a variety of accents and speech patterns, ensuring that orders are correctly interpreted and fulfilled. Additionally, the AI system is capable of making personalized recommendations based on customer preferences and order history, creating a more tailored experience.

The benefits of this technology are multifaceted. For customers, the integration of AI means faster service and reduced likelihood of errors in their orders. The technology can process orders more quickly than human employees, reducing wait times and minimizing the chance of miscommunication. For Taco Bell, AI drive-thrus can significantly cut operational costs. By automating order taking, the chain can reduce labor costs and allocate resources more effectively.

Through the use of AI, Taco Bell is able to gain valuable data insights that can help them to refine its menu and marketing strategies. By analyzing patterns in customer orders, Taco Bell can identify popular items, optimize inventory management, and launch targeted promotions that resonate with its audience.

Taco Bell’s adoption of AI in its drive-thrus represents a significant leap forward in the fast-food industry, blending technological innovation with the company’s long-standing commitment to customer satisfaction. This move aligns with Taco Bell’s history of daring and inventive approaches, from its early days as a taco stand to its current position as a global fast-food leader. As the chain continues to leverage AI to improve efficiency and enhance the customer experience, it reaffirms its role as a trailblazer in the industry, setting new standards for service and innovation in not only the fast food industry but also the growing field of AI.

Entertainment

Celebrities Want Taylor Swift To Perform At Next Super Bowl Halftime Show

Erin Andrews, the renowned sports broadcaster, has recently joined the chorus of voices who want to see Taylor Swift headline the next Super Bowl halftime show. During a conversation on her "Calm Down with Erin and Charissa" podcast, Erin Andrews expressed her strong desire to see Taylor Swift take the stage at one of the most-watched events in the world. Alongside her co-host Charissa Thompson, Erin Andrews humorously implored NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to make it happen, saying, "Roger, fix this, make it happen, we need Taylor Swift!"

But Erin Andrews is far from alone in wanting to see Taylor Swift perform at the Super Bowl half time show. Other celebrities and sports stars have also voiced their support for the idea. In fact, the Swift Super Bowl campaign has been gaining traction among high-profile names in the last few years. Retired NFL quarterback Joe Montana, a Super Bowl legend himself, previously mentioned that Taylor Swift would be a fantastic choice, highlighting her massive fanbase and electrifying performances. NBA star Kevin Durant has also thrown his weight behind the idea, pointing out how Taylor Swift's appeal transcends genres and generations, making her the perfect fit for a halftime show that aims to captivate a global audience.

Popular daytime talk show host Ellen DeGeneres has playfully suggested that Taylor Swift should not only perform, but should also bring along some surprise guest appearances to make the show unforgettable. Legendary musician Paul McCartney has hinted that a Taylor Swift performance at the Super Bowl would be iconic, considering her influence in the music industry.

Even Travis Kelce, the star tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs and year-long boyfriend of Taylor Swift, has recently added his voice to the growing list of celebrities advocating for Taylor Swift to headline the Super Bowl halftime show. Obviously Travis Kelce is a little biased on the topic, but seeing as how dominant the Kansas City Chiefs have been in recent years with both Travis Kelce and Quarterback Patrick Mahomes leading the Chiefs to multiple Super Bowl wins, just imagine if the Chiefs played in the next Super Bowl while Taylor Swift performed the halftime show!

With support from figures across the entertainment and sports worlds, the pressure is mounting for the NFL to book Taylor Swift to perform at the next Super Bowl halftime show. Fans can only hope that NFL commissioner Roger Goodell is listening.

Real Estate

Cameron Diaz & Benji Madden Listed Beverly Hills Estate For $17.8 Million

Cameron Diaz and Benji Madden have just listed their luxurious Beverly Hills estate for a cool $17.8 million dollars, marking yet another significant chapter in their real estate journey. The power couple, who married in 2015, have built an impressive portfolio of properties over the years, but this Beverly Hills gem is undoubtedly the crown jewel of their collection.

Nestled in the exclusive Hidden Valley Estates, this stunning property spans over 11,000 square feet of living space, offering a perfect blend of luxury and comfort. The estate boasts 7 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms, providing ample space for guests or a growing family. The master suite is particularly noteworthy, featuring a spacious layout, a lavish bathroom, and direct access to the outdoor terrace, allowing for serene mornings with a view.

The interior of the home is as impressive as its exterior, with a design that perfectly marries contemporary aesthetics with classic elegance. The open floor plan includes a gourmet kitchen outfitted with top-of-the-line appliances, a formal dining room, and a cozy yet expansive living area with a fireplace. Large windows and sliding glass doors throughout the home allow for an abundance of natural light and create a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience.

Outside, the estate truly shines. The backyard is a private oasis complete with a sparkling pool, a spa, and a spacious patio area perfect for entertaining. The meticulously landscaped grounds also include a guest house, a fitness studio, and a state-of-the-art home theater, ensuring that the new owners will have every amenity at their fingertips.

Cameron Diaz was born on August 30, 1972, in San Diego, and rose to fame with her breakout role in 1994 hit “The Mask” starring opposite Jim Carrey. Initially a model, Diaz quickly became a Hollywood favorite, known for her comedic talent in hits like “There's Something About Mary”, and “Charlie's Angels”. She also showcased her versatility in more serious roles in films like “Being John Malkovich” and “Gangs of New York”. One of her most beloved roles was voicing Princess Fiona in the successful “Shrek” franchise. Over the years, Cameron Diaz has received multiple award nominations and became one of the highest-paid actresses in Hollywood.

In 2014, Cameron Diaz stepped back from acting, with her last film being “Annie”. Since then, she has focused on other ventures, including writing a health and wellness book and launching her own wine brand named Avaline. Today Cameron Diaz now enjoys a quieter life with her husband Benji Madden, and their daughter, Raddix. While she hasn't officially retired, she's embraced life outside of the Hollywood spotlight.

Benji Madden was born on March 11, 1979, in Waldorf, Maryland. He’s best known as the lead guitarist for the rock band Good Charlotte, which he co-founded in 1996 with his twin brother Joel Madden. Good Charlotte gained popularity in the early 2000s with their blend of punk rock and pop, and hits like “Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous” and “Girls & Boys”.

Their Beverly Hills estate is just one piece of the real estate puzzle for Cameron Diaz and Benji Madden. The couple also owns a property in Montecito, California, a location known for its privacy and celebrity residents. In 2022, they purchased a 1.75-acre estate for $12.67 million, which includes a 6 bedroom, 7 bathroom main house as well as a guest house, and both sport stunning views of the ocean and mountains.

With the listing of their Beverly Hills estate, Cameron Diaz and Benji Madden are poised to make a significant profit from their real estate investments. They originally purchased the home in 2020 for $14.6 million dollars. The $17.8 million price tag reflects not only the luxurious nature of the property, but also a potential profit of $3.2 million dollars. As they continue to expand their real estate portfolio, this sale marks yet another successful transaction for the couple. Whether they're enjoying their Montecito retreat or scouting for their next investment, Diaz and Madden have proven to be as savvy in real estate as they are in their respective entertainment careers.

Sports

Harrison Butker Signs Record Contract Extension Following Sexist And Anti-LGBTQ Comments

Harrison Butker, the Kansas City Chiefs' star kicker, has just secured a spot in the NFL history books with a new, record-breaking contract. The 29-year-old has inked a contract extension deal worth $25.6 million over four years which includes $17.75 million dollars in guaranteed money. This new contract makes him the highest-paid kicker in NFL history.

Harrison Butker’s journey to this historic deal has been marked by consistent excellence since joining the Chiefs in 2017. After being drafted by the Carolina Panthers in 2017, Harrison Butker found his home in Kansas City after getting signed off of the Panthers practice squad. He quickly made a name for himself as one of the most reliable kickers in the league. His career field goal percentage stands at an impressive 89.1%, which ranks among the top in NFL history. Harrison Butker has also been a clutch performer in high-pressure situations, nailing game-winning kicks that have propelled the Chiefs to some of their biggest victories, including a crucial 45-yard field goal in the 2022 AFC Championship Game.

Beyond his accuracy, Harrison Butker has proven to be a consistent scorer. He’s scored 150 points in a single season, and has been a key contributor to the Chiefs' special teams unit, which is regarded as one of the best in the league. With over 900 points scored in his career, Harrison Butker has already etched his name in the Chiefs' record books, and his new contract ensures that he will continue to add to that legacy.

However, Harrison Butker’s on-field accomplishments have recently been overshadowed by a controversy stemming from comments he made during a commencement speech at Benedictine College, his alma mater. In May 2024, Harrison Butker was invited to address the graduating class, a moment that should have been a celebration of his success and the values instilled in him by the institution. Instead, his speech sparked a firestorm of criticism.

During the speech, Harrison Butker emphasized the importance of traditional gender roles and marriage, remarks that many perceived as sexist and anti-LGBTQ. He advised graduates to embrace "traditional family values," and his comments about the role of women and the sanctity of marriage were quickly condemned by advocacy groups and social media users. The backlash was swift and fierce, with many calling Harrison Butker’s remarks out of touch and harmful.

In response to the controversy, Harrison Butker doubled down on his stance, stating in interviews that he stands by his beliefs and encouraging others to "speak their truth." He expressed disappointment that his speech was misunderstood, but did not retract his statements. Instead, Harrison Butker framed the backlash as an example of the challenges faced by those who hold traditional values in today’s society.

Despite the controversy, the Kansas City Chiefs have shown unwavering support for their kicker. The organization’s decision to offer Butker a record-setting contract speaks volumes about their faith in his abilities and their willingness to stand by him in the face of public scrutiny. For the Kansas City Chiefs, Harrison Butker is more than just a kicker; he is a key player whose contributions have been instrumental to the team's success, including their Super Bowl LIV victory.

As Harrison Butker enters the prime of his career, his new contract shows how valuable he is to the Kansas City Chiefs. However, it also places him under a new level of scrutiny, not just for his performance on the field but for his actions and statements off it. How Harrison Butker navigates this dual pressure will be watched closely by both fans and critics alike. As the Kansas City Chiefs look to continue their dominance in the NFL, all eyes will be on Harrison Butker to see if he can rise to the occasion and justify his place as the league’s highest-paid kicker.