BRK-A vs SPY: Berkshire Hathaway Inc. vs SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust Historical Returns & Investment Comparison

This BRK-A vs SPY comparison analyzes the historical stock performance of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. and SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust side-by-side. Using real, adjusted market data, this tool shows how identical investments in both stocks would have performed over time—highlighting differences in returns, volatility, and consistency across market cycles.

Use the interactive calculator below to adjust the investment amount and time period, visualizing how Berkshire Hathaway Inc. and SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust have historically performed against each other.

Company Profiles

Berkshire Hathaway Inc.

BRK-A

Berkshire Hathaway Inc. is an American multinational conglomerate holding company headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska. It is known for its diverse portfolio of businesses and investments, and for being led by renowned investor Warren Buffett. The company operates in a wide array of industries, including insurance, freight rail transportation, utilities and energy, manufacturing, service, and retailing.

Key Innovations

✓A unique investment philosophy focused on acquiring and holding strong businesses with durable competitive advantages.
✓Decentralized management approach, granting significant autonomy to its subsidiary companies.

Business Segments

Insurance
Engages in primary insurance and reinsurance of property and casualty risks.
Freight Rail Transportation
Operates the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Railway, one of the largest railroad systems in North America.
Utilities and Energy
Engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity and natural gas through Berkshire Hathaway Energy.

SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust

SPY

SPY is the first exchange-traded fund (ETF) listed in the US. It is designed to track the S&P 500 Index, which measures the performance of the large-cap segment of the US equity market.

Key Innovations

✓First US-listed ETF

Business Segments

ETF
Passive investment vehicle tracking the S&P 500.

How This Comparison Works

Our stock comparison tool uses adjusted closing prices to calculate year-by-year returns for both stocks. This ensures an apples-to-apples comparison that accounts for:

✓Dividends: All dividend payments are reinvested
✓Stock splits: Historical prices are adjusted for all splits
✓Head-to-head record: Shows which stock outperformed each year
✓Statistical analysis: Average returns, best/worst years, and win rates

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Important Disclaimer

This comparison tool is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or trading advice. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Historical returns include dividends and stock splits but do not account for taxes, fees, inflation, or individual circumstances. Stock market investments carry risk, including the potential loss of principal. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The data presented is based on historical market data and may contain inaccuracies or delays.