The Buffett Trade Is Back: Is Cash Flow Replacing AI Beta?
As tech sold off, investors rotated into defensives: PG gained 5.58%, Coca-Cola 2.87%, Eli Lilly 2.83%, Walmart 2.82%, Costco 1.99%, and Berkshire 1.32%. Bulls cite steadier earnings and stronger balance sheets as AI valuations compress. Berkshire’s roughly $360B cash position and renewed buybacks, Taylor Morrison deal, and larger Alphabet stake signal capital deployment. Bears warn defensives are extended and could reverse if tech rebounds. What would confirm a lasting shift rather than a brief flight to safety?