Francis Chou - Chou Associates Management Investment Strategy (Sep 30, 2025)


As of Sep 30, 2025, the Chou Associates Management portfolio managed by Francis Chou demonstrates a sophisticated investment approach with 26 positions and an average holding period of 630 quarters. The strategy focuses on Communication Services, Consumer Cyclical, Consumer Discretionary, Energy, Financial Services, Healthcare, Industrials, Technology sectors with a typical position size of 7.2% of the portfolio.


The portfolio's risk management approach includes a maximum position size of 7.17% and sector diversification of 8%, exemplified by the case study of BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY INC DEL (BRK-A). This strategic framework provides insights into Francis Chou's investment philosophy, risk management practices, and long-term value creation approach.

Investment Strategy Metrics

Key metrics revealing investment style, risk management, and performance characteristics

MetricValueCategoryDescription
Holding Period1.7 yearsStyleAverage duration positions are maintained
Position Count26StyleNumber of active positions in portfolio
Position Size7.2%RiskTypical allocation per position
Win Rate62.6%PerformancePercentage of profitable positions
Average Return12.0%PerformanceMean return across positions
Sharpe Ratio0.30PerformanceReturn per unit of risk taken

Investment Case Study: BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY INC DEL (BRK-A)

6/30/2013 - 12/27/2025

Performance Metrics

Total Return: 92,087.47%

Holding Period: 4563 days

Max Position Size: $58,559,098.00

Position Weight: 30.06%

Key Events

6/30/2013: ENTRY(300.00 shares) @ $168.60
3/31/2016: DECREASE(-150.00 shares) @ $213.73
6/30/2020: DECREASE(-50.00 shares) @ $257.86
3/31/2021: INCREASE(50.00 shares) @ $272.00
6/30/2021: DECREASE(-50.00 shares) @ $418.60
12/31/2022: DECREASE(-20.00 shares) @ $468,710.73
6/30/2024: INCREASE(10.00 shares) @ $612,240.73
12/31/2024: DECREASE(-4.00 shares) @ $680,919.74

Investment Thesis

Entry Context: Initial position established based on fundamental analysis

Sector Conditions: Favorable market conditions in the sector

Risk Factors:
  • Market volatility
  • Sector-specific risks

Key Learnings

  • Position sizing is critical for portfolio management
  • Important to monitor sector exposure

Sector Allocations