The National Center for Public Policy Research (NCPPR) submitted a shareholder proposal to Berkshire Hathaway requesting a report detailing the return-on-investment (ROI) of the company’s sustainability commitments. The proposal specifically targets the billions invested by Berkshire Hathaway Energy (BHE) in renewable energy projects. It seeks greater transparency through cash flow models and formal ROI analysis.
Berkshire Hathaway reportedly plans to exclude the proposal from its proxy statement, according to an opinion piece published in RealClearMarkets. The company argues the request interferes with "ordinary business" and attempts to "micromanage" operations.
BRK utilizes a recent shift in SEC procedure that allows corporations to more easily block shareholder proposals without requiring a formal SEC response. The situation highlights ongoing debates regarding ESG-related disclosures and shareholder rights within major corporations. No market reaction to the proposal is currently available, and the reporting does not reflect a direct announcement from Berkshire Hathaway.