Ready for a nostalgia-filled jaunt back to the ’90s, complete with plaid miniskirts and oversized cell phones?
This time, we’re diving into something a tad more tangible than Cher Horowitz’s enviable wardrobe: her iconic Beverly Hills mansion. Or so we thought.
Buckle up, because we’re about to spill the tea on the real location of Cher’s Beverly Hills mansion – and trust us, Alicia Silverstone’s character would definitely not be on board with the address.
Picture this: the sprawling, sun-kissed mansion where Cher and Josh shared that oh-so-sweet kiss. The kitchen where a clueless Cher attempted to bake, and the lavish pool where the gang chilled to Kids In America.
Feels like a page taken straight out of the Beverly Hills, 90210 handbook, right? Plot twist: the real deal is nestled not in the hills of Beverly but in the Valley!
That’s right, Cher’s house is actually in Encino, in the San Fernando Valley.
But here’s the kicker: the Encino location, a suburban neighborhood, is quite the departure from the Beverly Hills glam portrayed in the movie.
Not only that, but Cher would have HATED being called a Valley Girl (a term that we owe to musician Frank Zappa, btw).
In the 1995 movie, the San Fernando Valley is mentioned and featured in a few scenes, notably when Cher is robbed at gunpoint in a parking lot after mistakenly driving onto the freeway, leading to a very stressful situation for her.
This scene is one of the few direct interactions Cher has with the Valley, showcasing her sheltered Beverly Hills life clashing with the broader Los Angeles area.
The real-life ‘Clueless’ house in Encino
So first, let’s get something out of the way: while Hollywood movies have long used the San Fernando Valley / Beverly Hills divide to highlight the social and geographical contrasts within the city (first example that comes to mind is Karate Kid and the new Cobra Kai sequel series), Encino is actually a very sought-after and safe neighborhood.
In fact, the median sale price for Encino homes in early 2024 stands at a hefty $1,900,000.
While that’s considerably less than what Beverly Hills homes sell for (the median sale price for the ritzy, star-studded neighborhood is $3.7M), houses in Encino are notoriously luxurious — with significantly more square footage than their counterparts in the Hills.
And Cher’s Clueless house is no exception.
This 9,441-square-foot behemoth boasts 7 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms, and commands yearly property taxes north of $40k. Built in 1993, just a hop and a skip before Clueless hit the big screen, its fresh design had us all green with envy.
However, it’s worth noting that scenes taking place inside the house were filmed elsewhere, on a soundstage.
The house, sitting pretty at 5148 Louise Ave on a 2-acre lot, hasn’t switched hands since it was built back in 1993. The last publicly recorded sale was a land transaction in 1980 for $680,000.
Fast forward to today, and the house is pegged at a cool $7 million. Not too shabby, huh? But, surprisingly, it’s considerably cheaper than the next Clueless house on our list.
Dionne’s real Beverly Hills digs
Now, let’s dish about Dionne’s house. Unlike Cher’s Encino residence, Dionne’s Tudor-style mansion truly sits in the heart of Beverly Hills.
Boasting similar specs to Cher’s house but with a Beverly Hills zip code, this property screams luxury — and is considerably more expensive than the Horowitz residence.
Last sold in 2008 for over $10 million, its current value hovers around $17 million – making it way pricier than Cher’s home.
But it’s also worth noting that the house that sits on the lot today is completely different from the Tudor-style home that graced our screens three decades ago.
Property records show that the house at 705 N Sierra Dr in Beverly Hills sold twice since the movie’s 1995 debut: once in 1998, when it commanded a $3,350,030 sale price, and then again in 2008, when it sold for three times that amount, $10,650,000. So it does look like in between these two owners, a new house was built on the 0.51-acre lot.
Other real ‘Clueless’ filming locations
Our Clueless journey doesn’t end at Cher and Dionne’s doorstep.
Remember the fictional Bronson Alcott High? Those scenes came to life at Occidental College and Ulysses S. Grant High School.
And who could forget the Westside Pavilion mall escapades or the mugging at Circus Liquor? Not to mention Cher’s post-failed driver’s test meltdown on Rodeo Drive.
Los Angeles served as the ultimate backdrop, bringing the Clueless universe to life with its diverse filming locations.
And the most unique of them was surely the famous Spadena House — also known as the Witch’s house in Beverly Hills — a unique storybook home that was only featured on-screen for a few seconds, but that captivated movie fans for years after.
The Beverly Hills illusion
So, what’s the takeaway from our stroll down Clueless lane? First, it’s that movie magic can transform any location into a narrative’s heart and soul. Cher’s “Beverly Hills” mansion, firmly rooted in Encino, serves as a perfect example.
As we celebrate nearly three decades since Clueless graced our screens, let’s remember the film for what it truly offered: a comedic, stylish, and somewhat educational tour of Los Angeles’ diverse neighborhoods.
In the end, Cher’s house, much like the film itself, remains a beloved piece of ’90s pop culture. Its real-life Encino location only adds to the charm and intrigue of the “Clueless” legacy.
As for us? We’re totally buggin’ over the fact that movie magic can make us believe anything – even that Cher’s mansion was actually in Beverly Hills.
It wouldn’t be the first time tough. We also long thought that the Fresh Prince house is actually in Bel Air (spoiler, it’s not!).
More stories
All the Glamorous Penthouses, Suites, and Lofts in Gossip Girl
Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment in “Sex and the City” and where to find it
Is It Real? The New Girl Gang’s Quirky & Cozy L.A. Loft
Million-dollar homes are the perfect blend of form and function, setting the stage for true elegance and luxury.
Whether it’s the understated minimalism seen in Kim Kardashian’s home or the opulent maximalism of designer high-end houses, the key lies in creating spaces where functionality becomes virtually invisible, contributing to an overall aesthetic that’s both breathtaking and discreet.
You can see this in the prohibitively expensive homes from shows like Selling Sunset and Million Dollar Listing. Those million-dollar homes focus on hiding conventional features and appliances, allowing the eyes to revel in the design without distraction.
The philosophy here is simple yet profound: less is more.
Luxury design hinges on the power of illusion – making the essential elements of a home feel like an integrated, almost indistinguishable part of the overall design.
This invisible functionality transforms living spaces into masterpieces of high-end hospitality and cozy elegance, where every detail is meticulously crafted to elevate the experience of luxury living.
Blend kitchen appliances with the design
Looking at luxury homes and apartments, you won’t find their microwave, stove, or refrigerator glaring out like sore thumbs in the kitchen.
One of the best examples we’ve seen of this is in actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson’s house in Encino, a newly built contemporary house in Los Angeles with impeccable interiors.
The impressive property’s most distinctive interior traits are the warm wood tones used throughout, which serve as both décor elements and provide tons of storage space — particularly in the kitchen, which is clad in cabinets and wood paneling made out of hemlock wood.
The refrigerator is an essential appliance in any home but as we can see in the Modern Family star’s home, it is artfully hidden within the cabinetry.
It perfectly matches the surrounding cabinets, giving a unified and uninterrupted visual flow that exudes sophistication.
Similarly, the microwave is tucked away, out of the direct line of sight, allowing guests to focus on the elegant lines and luxurious finishes of the kitchen without the distraction of appliances.
Strategically concealing appliances amplifies the spaciousness and clean lines that are synonymous with luxury, making the kitchen not just a place for meal preparation but a statement of design excellence.
That’s not because the owners don’t own any and eat out for every meal but because their appliances are expertly designed to be hidden away when they are not needed.
Luxury designs do not break the viewer’s experience of ah and wonderment with the typical microwave or fridge sticking out.
Hide air vents in plain sight with frameless diffusers
When it comes to the interiors of the most coveted million-dollar listings, the devil is in the details—or perhaps, it’s the lack thereof. The luxurious spaces you see have a secret: the art of concealment.
This is particularly true when it comes to the mechanics of comfort, like HVAC air diffusers, which are essential yet often an eyesore.
But not in these homes. Here, they’re incorporated with such finesse that they’re almost invisible, represented by the hardly visible lines blending into the ceilings and walls as seen in the image below.
These aren’t your standard vents; they’re design statements in their own right, albeit in the most understated way.
Frameless diffusers like the ones from Invi Air are installed into the drywall and colored to match the room’s palettes for a nearly invisible finished look flush with the wall or ceiling.
They don’t demand attention. Instead, they support the room’s ambiance in quiet anonymity, allowing the stunning vistas outside the window or the curated art pieces to hold the gaze. Invi Air diffusers are easily customizable with any type of paint, allowing them to blend seamlessly with the color and texture of the surrounding surface.
The TV is almost always out of sight
In the modern luxury home, the television—once the centerpiece of every living room—has found a new role as the hidden gem of the room.
The trend in million-dollar homes is clear: the TV should be felt, not seen until it’s time for it to shine.
This philosophy has created creative solutions that make the TV almost magically appear when needed and disappear when not, maintaining the room’s sleek, elegant aesthetic.
Take Samsung’s Frame TV, for example. This ingenious device takes the concept of ‘hidden in plain sight’ to new heights, doubling as a digital art display when not in use.
It sits flush with the wall, encased in a stylish frame that one might mistake for an actual painting or photograph.
It’s a perfect fit for spaces where the presence of technology needs to blend with the strokes of interior design finesse.
Take this one step further with LG’s latest technological innovation: the transparent TV.
The TV becomes practically invisible when not in use and can even blend itself to look like a live fish tank or fireplace to disguise itself further.
When the TV is revealed, it’s not just about catching up on the latest series or movie; it’s an event. The act of the screen coming to life from its artistic camouflage adds a layer of luxury and technical prowess to the space. It’s a conversation starter, a nod to the homeowner’s taste for elegance and their flair for the dramatic.
The TV in a luxury home is no longer just a piece of technology; it’s part of the home’s dynamic, an indulgent experience that’s there when you want it without compromising the minimalist ethos of the space.
This approach to home entertainment design is yet another detail that sets high-end homes apart, offering a seamless blend of lifestyle and luxury.
As all the posh houses seen on Selling Sunset prove time and time again, a million-dollar home’s aesthetic is a symphony of design and technology where every note is perfectly pitched for an experience that’s both sumptuous and smart.
These homes aren’t just living spaces but canvases for expressing the height of personal luxury, where every hidden feature is a brushstroke in a masterpiece of modern living. And we don’t find it fair that they’re reserved for luxury homeowners, so we hope the above tips might inspire you and you’ll end up implementing them in your own home.
*Featured image credit: R ARCHITECTURE on Unsplash
More stories
Ultra-luxury rentals: What you need to know about renting million-dollar homes
What are spec homes? A recent history & the biggest, boldest spec mansions to come to life
What is biophilic design in architecture and home building? Definition and examples
In today’s rapidly changing technology landscape, businesses in the title insurance, mortgage and real estate industries must prioritize cybersecurity response planning and business continuity. The second in our “Reducing Risk” series, this month’s article provides practical strategies for safeguarding your enterprise to ensure its resilience against cyber threats.
By breaking down complex concepts into bite-sized pieces, we’ll equip you with the information you need to protect your digital assets. Read on to learn how to create a strong shield against risk through the development of an effective cyber response plan and solid business continuity measures.
Understanding cybersecurity response planning and business continuity
Cybersecurity response planning involves creating a plan that outlines how your business will respond to cyber incidents. It’s like having a superhero team ready to jump into action whenever trouble strikes.
On the other hand, business continuity planning focuses on preparing for potential disruptions to your business operations. It’s like having a backup generator to ensure the lights stay on even during a power outage.
The importance of response plans and business continuity
Now that we know what response plans and business continuity are and how they differ, let’s talk about why they matter for your business:
Minimizing Downtime: By having a response plan in place, you can quickly recover from cyber incidents and get back to business as usual. It’s like having a spare key to your office when you accidentally lock yourself out.
Protecting Your Reputation: A well-prepared response plan helps you maintain customer trust and protect your brand. It’s like being known as the go-to real estate agent who consistently delivers results and closes deals on time, ensuring your clients have unwavering faith in your abilities.
Reducing Financial Loss: In the realm of cyber resilience, crafting a response strategy and maintaining business continuity measures is like building a financial fortress. This proactive defense serves as a vigilant sentinel, defending against cyber threats and safeguarding your company’s treasury. It’s the difference between just weathering a storm and strengthening your position, ensuring financial security and operational continuity.
Creating your cybersecurity response plan
Now that we understand the benefits of having a response plan, let’s talk about how to create one that’s tailored to your unique business:
Identify Potential Risks: Start by identifying the cybersecurity risks that could affect your operations. These could include data breaches, phishing attacks, ransomware threats, and more. In much the same way that a seasoned mariner watches the sky to foresee an impending storm, preparing your cyber defenses requires a perceptive eye to detect the subtle signs of digital tempests. Failing to identify and prepare for cybersecurity risks is like ignoring darkening clouds on the horizon. By keeping a vigilant watch and using sophisticated forecasting tools, just as a meteorologist uses radar, we can navigate safely through the turbulent waters of cyber risk.
Establish Roles and Responsibilities: Clearly define roles and responsibilities for your team members so they know how and when to respond in the event of a cyber incident. It’s critical to have a game plan in place in which everyone on your team knows their position and play. Like a well-coordinated football team, in which each player has a specific role that is crucial for the team’s defensive and offensive strategies, clearly defining roles and responsibilities enables your team members to execute a seamless response during a cyber incident.
Document Incident Response Procedures: Create step-by-step guidelines for responding to different types of incidents. These procedures may involve isolating affected systems, contacting law enforcement if necessary, and notifying affected parties. It’s like having a well-drawn map guiding you through a labyrinth. With a clear roadmap in place, you can effectively navigate the complexities of incident response, ensuring a swift and effective resolution.
Building business continuity measures
Creating a response plan is just the first step. Let’s also discuss business continuity measures to ensure your operations stay up and running:
Identify Critical Systems: Determine which systems and services are critical for your business operations. Like a bustling metropolis, where data flows like traffic through its streets, your customer database, transactional infrastructure, and communication platforms serve as critical arteries that keep your business traffic flowing smoothly. By identifying these critical systems, you can put safeguards in place to ensure that information flows freely and that your operations remain uninterrupted.
Develop Backup Strategies: Implement robust backup solutions to ensure the availability and integrity of your important data. Robust backup strategies are analogous to an impenetrable digital safe protecting your most valuable documents. Crafting a multi-faceted backup plan is crucial, as it ensures that in the event of a digital disaster, your critical data is retrievable and safe.
Test and Conduct Regular Reviews: Regularly test your response plan and business continuity measures to ensure they’re effective and up to date. Like a top-ranking sports team, success hinges on both strategy and practice. Frequently running through your emergency protocols is similar to holding scrimmages before the championship. It enables your team to address weaknesses and enhance performance prior to an actual cyber threat.
Final Thoughts on Creating Cyber Resilience
Congratulations on reaching the end of our cyber resilience journey! By creating response plans for cyber incidents and implementing business continuity measures, you can reduce risk and protect your title insurance, mortgage or real estate business. Remember to identify potential risks, establish clear roles and responsibilities, and document incident response procedures. And don’t forget to develop backup strategies, test them regularly, and keep everything up to date. With these steps in place, you’re ready to face any cyber challenges that come your way. Stay cyber-resilient, my friends, and protect your digital kingdom!
Bruce Phillips is Senior Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer for MyHome, a Williston Financial Group Company.
Inside: Explore top high income skills that don’t require a degree. From AI to Cybersecurity to copywriting, learn how to earn big and without a traditional education.
In today’s rapidly changing economy, traditional educational paths such as acquiring a master’s degree are no longer the sole route to a lucrative career.
In my own journey, I discovered that mastering certain high-income skills (stock trading) can lead to financial success that outpaces even those with advanced degrees. This revelation underscores the value of investing time and effort into developing marketable abilities that align with industry demands.
These high-paying skills, often honed through online platforms, specialized training, and real-world experience, provide a level of flexibility. Plus an earning potential that can exceed the prospects of conventional academic education.
As such, they represent a powerful, alternate paradigm for career advancement and personal growth that you may want to check out.
Quick Answer
Typically, these are based on online jobs that include expertise in certain fields. These roles leverage the digital space to generate significant income and careers are in demand into the foreseeable future.
You can learn and develop these skills through online educational platforms, which can open up a plethora of high-paying job opportunities without the need for traditional college credentials.
High Income Skills for Tech and Digital Domination
In case you haven’t heard, AI and the tech world are the focus of most high paying jobs.
In fact, Microsoft, Google, and Apple recently stated they will take certification over a college degree.1
Now, let’s explore the various high-income skills that are currently shaping the technology sector and will move to making over six figures.
AI and machine learning
AI and machine learning are not just buzzwords! These fields represent some of the most lucrative areas in tech. As businesses seek ways to make sense of big data, professionals who can design intelligent systems and algorithms are in high regard.
The beauty is that many resources exist to self-educate in this domain, such as online courses, bootcamps, and certifications, making the path accessible for those without a formal business degree.
Best for: This field is ideal for individuals who have a strong aptitude for mathematics, statistics, and programming, and who are passionate about tech and innovation.
Mastering SEO
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) has become a coveted skill in the arsenal of every digital strategist. Why is it so invaluable? Because it acts as the linchpin for visibility in the digital space.
SEO isn’t just about playing with keywords; it’s about understanding the user’s intent, the algorithms of search engines, and the technical makeup of websites to ensure they’re discoverable.
Mastering SEO involves a cocktail of abilities: from understanding meta tags and crafting content that resonates with both humans and search engines, to building a robust backlink portfolio.
Best for: SEO is suited for those who enjoy both the analytical and creative sides of digital marketing and are interested in a dynamic, ever-evolving field.
Cybersecurity
In the digital age, cybersecurity is not just important—it’s essential. Protecting sensitive data and maintaining the integrity of computer systems against threats can be the difference between a thriving business and one that’s exposed to potentially catastrophic breaches.
Notably, cybersecurity proficiency can often be achieved through specialized certifications, bootcamps, or practical experience rather than a traditional degree. Those who commit to ongoing education and remain vigilant of the industry’s pulse become indispensable assets in any organization.
Best for: Perfect for individuals who have a knack for problem-solving, are detail-oriented, and enjoy learning about technology’s cutting edge.
Software Development
As the pillars of our increasingly digital world, software developers write the code that powers everything from mobile applications to global banking systems. The lure of software development as a high-paying skill is evident.
It’s foundational to virtually every industry, offers diverse opportunities for specialization, and provides the satisfaction of building something tangible.
With abundant online resources like coding bootcamps and tutorials, passionate learners can bypass the traditional degree route and directly jump into this lucrative and fulfilling career.
Best for: Individuals who are logical, detail-oriented, and have a strong interest in technology and its potential applications will find a career in software development both rewarding and profitable.
Mobile app development
Mobile App Development is your ticket into the heart of the booming app economy. As smartphone ubiquity grows, so does the need for innovative apps that simplify life—whether that’s for banking, shopping, or entertainment.
Given the high demand for mobile experiences, companies are willing to pay top dollar for developers who can craft intuitive and effective mobile applications. The best part is that this skill can be honed through free courses or even app-building software for those with limited coding knowledge.
Best for: Perfect for those who are not only passionate about coding but also keen on understanding and improving how users interact with technology.
Blockchain Expertise
The field of blockchain has transcended its association purely with cryptocurrencies to become a high-value asset in various sectors. Businesses seek talented individuals who can leverage this technology for secure, decentralized solutions.
Unlike many traditional roles, the burgeoning blockchain field offers the chance for self-taught experts to demonstrate their value based on their skills, portfolio, and understanding of blockchain’s practical applications.
Best for: Blockchain expertise is a high-income skill ideal for individuals who have a strong foundation in technology and an interest in how it can be used to innovate traditional business practices.
Creativity Pays Off with These High Income Skills
Graphic Design
Embarking on a career in graphic design could very well be your gateway to a creatively fulfilling and financially rewarding job market. By marrying aesthetics with functionality, you bring concepts to life, whether it’s through website visuals, logos, or digital media.
The journey to mastering graphic design can be self-directed—you can learn the principles online, through software tutorials, and practice them into existence.
Best for: Individuals with a flair for the arts who enjoy thinking creatively to solve visual challenges and like the aspect of using technology.
Video Production & Editing
In a content-driven era, where video is king, mastery in this field could land you lucrative gigs across various platforms and industries.
Whether it’s for digital marketing, entertainment, or online education, the demand is high, and the barrier to entry is lower than ever—thanks to a plethora of self-teaching resources and accessible technology.
Best for: Those who have a keen eye for detail and a passion for creating engaging, high-quality video content that tells a story.
Professional Photography
Photography captures more than images; it encapsulates emotions, stories, and moments. With the advent of high-quality smartphone cameras and affordable DSLRs, the skill of professional photography is more accessible than ever.
Whether for stock photography, events, or branding, your keen eye for composition and lighting can open doors to a rewarding career without the need for a degree.
Best for: Individuals with a passion for visual arts, a creative mindset, and a strong sense of detail are often the best fit for a high-income career in professional photography.
Copywriting
The pen (or keyboard) can indeed be mightier than the sword in today’s digital-driven world through copywriting.
Articulating compelling narratives that resonate with audiences can catapult brands to new heights, making this skill a valuable asset. The best part? You can cultivate your copywriting prowess from anywhere, thanks to online courses, ebooks, and practice platforms.
All you need is a sharp mind, a clear writing style, and a grasp of persuasive techniques.
Best for: Copywriting is a top choice for those who love writing and are curious about a multitude of topics, with an interest in marketing principles and audience engagement.
Voiceover Artistry or Podcast Production
Unlock the power of your voice and make money – a skill set that’s becoming increasingly profitable. Whether you’re voicing animated characters or hosting a thought-provoking podcast series, the audio medium is a bustling marketplace.
Podcasting, it’s about creating a compelling narrative that listeners can’t resist. While for voiceovers, it’s about bringing scripts to life. Both can be learned through online tutorials, training programs, and practice.
Best for: Individuals with a strong, versatile voice and passion for storytelling will find voiceover work and podcast production both lucrative and rewarding, even without formal training.
Marketing High Income Skills Know-How
Content Creation
Content Creation has become the cornerstone of the digital marketing world, attracting not just audiences but also significant revenue streams. As a content creator, you can weave words, videos, or images to capture attention, inspire, and inform—whether it’s through social media, websites, or other digital platforms.
My path to becoming a content creator was primarily through hands-on experience as well as through consistent practice and staying up-to-date knowledge of digital trends.
Best for: Content Creation is especially suited for those with a creative mindset, who enjoy storytelling and are adept at using digital tools to craft content for an online audience.
Social Media Marketing
This is a brilliant intersection of creativity, strategy, and communication. As a social media marketer, you’ll help brands navigate the bustling social landscape, where billions of users engage daily.
You’ll be tasked with crafting campaigns, analyzing data, and connecting with audiences in a way that drives not just likes, but also leads and loyalty—all of which you can master through free online resources and real-world practice.
Best for: Those who enjoy fast-paced, dynamic environments and have a knack for engaging with people and understanding modern communicative trends.
Affiliate Marketing
Becoming an influencer and tapping into the world of affiliate marketing seems so easy but truly it is a strategy where your persuasion skills can translate into earnings—all without a formal degree.
By promoting products or services via unique affiliate links, you earn commissions on sales. Flourishing in this domain stems from understanding your audience and aligning the products you endorse with their interests.
Best for: Those who have a passion for sales and marketing, are comfortable with self-promotion, and are interested in monetizing their digital presence.
Sales Strategies
The key to unlocking staggering profit margins and business growth is sales and this doesn’t require formal education. This high-income skill revolves around understanding consumer psychology, building relationships, and convincingly presenting products or services.
Many times, those in sales have a knack for the industry. Whether refining your approach through online courses, books, or hands-on experience, excellence in sales comes down to a blend of empathy, insight, and adaptability.
Best for: Excellent fit for outgoing individuals who thrive in competitive environments and derive satisfaction from meeting and exceeding targets.
High Income Skills That Work With People
Language translation and interpretation
This is not only about converting words from one language to another; it’s about bridging cultural divides and facilitating communication. With the globalization of business and the rise of remote work, fluent speakers in multiple languages can capitalize on a multitude of high-paying roles.
And the best part? You can often get started with just bilingual proficiency, some formal certification, and a deep understanding of cultural nuances.
Best for: Ideal for multilingual individuals passionate about language and communication, with a desire to facilitate dialogue in an increasingly connected world.
Freelance consulting in various niches
These are seasoned professionals with an avenue to monetize their wealth of experience and expertise. This thriving field allows you to empower clients with your knowledge, whether it’s in marketing, finance, HR, or any other domain.
What’s more, you can kickstart this lucrative journey with minimal prerequisites—a strong track record, a portfolio of successful projects, and perhaps some industry-recognized certifications.
Best for: Experts in their respective fields who are adept at problem-solving, enjoy sharing their insights and are looking for flexible, high-income opportunities.
Coaching
This is a skill that transforms lives and careers, catapulting you into roles where you guide and motivate others to achieve their personal and professional goals.
As a coach, whether it’s in life, business, career transition, or personal development, you can create a substantial income stream. What’s particularly enticing about coaching as a high-income skill is that it often requires no formal degree—many coaches are self-taught, certified through various programs, and most importantly, driven by a passion to help others succeed.
Best for: Coaching is perfect for individuals with a strong desire to help others, who can cultivate trust, and who possess both the self-discipline and initiative to build their own coaching business.
Public Speaking
Often touted as a soft skill, public speaking has immense potential as a high-paying expertise. The ability to captivate, engage, and influence an audience is invaluable in various professional settings—from corporate presentations to motivational speaking circuits.
The good news is that you can develop this skill through local workshops, online courses, and ample practice. Perhaps even more compelling, is how public speaking bolsters other aspects of personal development, such as confidence and clarity of thought.
Best for: Individuals who enjoy expressing their ideas, exhibit strong interpersonal abilities and derive satisfaction from influencing and inspiring others.
Real Estate
A dynamic field where you can significantly profit from the buying, selling, and leasing of property.
With the right approach and knowledge, personalized by your unique sales flair, you can achieve notable success without the prerequisites of a higher degree. It’s all about your ability to network, negotiate, and understand market trends, guided by state-specific licensing requirements.
Best for: Suited to go-getters with an entrepreneurial spirit, a passion for property, and the perseverance to cultivate a strong portfolio of clients and sales.
High Income Skills for Introverts
Stock Trading
My personal gateway to the exhilarating world of finance, where the potential for high earnings exists for those with the knack and nerve for it.
This high-stress skill—often considered one of the most lucrative skills without a degree—entails buying and selling stocks or options to capitalize on daily market fluctuations. While challenging, with diligent self-education, a cool head for numbers, and a calculated risk approach, you can make stock trading a profitable venture.
Best for: Stock Trading is particularly fitting for those who exhibit patience, enjoy learning about economics and finance, and can handle significant levels of stress without clouding their judgment. Highly recommended to take an investing course.
UX/UI Design
Focusing on crafting meaningful interactions between users and products, UX/UI designers are the architects behind the intuitive use of websites and applications.
The plethora of free resources and communities available online means you can build a portfolio and learn this sought-after skill without a degree.
Best for: Creative minds who have an affinity for technology and user psychology and who enjoy the iterative process of improving product usability and appeal.
Web development and coding
Building and maintaining the structural foundation of websites offers a variety of high-income opportunities without necessarily requiring a four-year degree. Armed with the knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, which can be self-taught through platforms like Codecademy, you can create and innovate on the internet’s exciting canvas.
Best for: Analytical thinkers who also appreciate creative expression, and those willing to evolve with the digital landscape constantly.
Data Analysis
Transforming raw numbers into actionable insights, data analysts contribute significantly to strategic decision-making. Fascinatingly, this skill is achievable without a degree, thanks to a plethora of online tools and courses in Excel, SQL, and Python that are freely available.
With a logical mindset and an eagerness to decipher data stories, you could secure a high-income position in businesses of all stripes, from tech startups to major corporations.
Best for: Suitable for those who enjoy crunching numbers, identifying patterns, and have a deep curiosity about how information can influence business strategies.
Bookkeeping
A critical yet often understated skill that plays a foundational role in businesses both big and small. As a bookkeeper, you steward financial accuracy, track transactions, and ensure the book balance.
What may come as a surprise is that modern bookkeeping doesn’t always require a degree—there are online courses that can pave the way for a high-income career for detail-oriented and number-savvy individuals.
Best for: Those who appreciate routine, enjoy working with numbers and take satisfaction in playing a key support role in a business’s financial health.
Must Need High Income Soft Skills
In today’s competitive job market, possessing high-income soft skills can significantly enhance your career trajectory and boost your earning potential.
These soft skills not only complement your technical abilities but also ensure you are a valuable asset to any team, fostering seamless collaboration and leadership. As the workplace evolves, employers increasingly seek candidates who exhibit a rich blend of interpersonal and strategic skills that drive business success.
Problem-solving skills for critical situations are invaluable, and the best news? Whether it’s through active listening, analytical reasoning, assessing risks, or critical thinking, being adept at navigating complex problems can set you apart in the workforce.
Communication skills in professional environments are the linchpin of a thriving career. Being able to articulate your thoughts and listen to others effectively means smoother collaborations and clearer negotiations.
Time Management for efficient productivity is a transformative skill that can make or break professional success. Mastering time management means accomplishing more in less time, leading to greater productivity without the need for a formal degree.
Leadership and Team Management capabilities signal an upgrade in your professional toolkit. Great leaders can marshal a group towards common goals, fostering teamwork, and eliciting the strengths of each member.
Negotiation Skills for Maximizing Value are a powerhouse in the world of commerce, crucial for deal-making and advancing business interests. Learning the art of negotiation is possible without formal education; it’s about understanding human psychology, effective communication techniques, and strategic planning.
Creative Thinking for Innovative Solutions is a valued asset in any business context, prized for driving forward unique and effective problem-solving. This type of thinking allows you to step outside traditional boundaries and generate fresh ideas.
Stepping into the entrepreneurial arena can be your ticket to independence and potential high earnings. Entrepreneurs are the trailblazers of the business world, initiating new ventures, and driving economic growth. While there’s no fixed educational path to entrepreneurship, the journey is fueled by a diverse skill set including innovation, perseverance, management, and the ability to pivot strategies as needed.
FAQs
A skill is considered ‘high-paying’ in 2024 if it is in high demand, offers significant value to employers or clients, and requires a level of expertise that’s not easily found.
These skills typically address current market needs, technological advancements, or specialized knowledge that can drive revenue, increase efficiency, or create competitive advantages. Essentially, the rarer and more necessary the skill, the higher the potential earning power becomes.
Yes, self-taught skills can compete with a traditional degree, especially in industries that prioritize practical experience and proven ability over formal education.
Personally, I can attest to this as I learned many of these high income skills long after I completed my degree.
In fields like technology, digital marketing, or creative arts, a portfolio showcasing your work often carries more weight than a degree. Furthermore, many companies adopt skills-based hiring practices, valuing competency and initiative as key indicators of a candidate’s potential.
Which High Paid Skill to Learn Will You Focus on?
In conclusion, acquiring high-income skills is a powerful strategy for advancing your career and unlocking new professional opportunities or even side hustles. In fact, many are ways to make money online.
This is a simple way to increase the amount of money you make each month.
By embracing continuous learning to hone these in-demand abilities, you can significantly enhance your earning potential and job market desirability.
Investing in the development of high-income skills will pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future. Just like finding a low stress jobs that pay well without a degree.
Don’t just read. Now, is the time to take action!
Source
Business Insider. “Microsoft doesn’t require a college degree for entry-level jobs.” https://www.businessinsider.com/microsoft-execs-no-college-degree-for-entry-level-positions-2020-2#ping-look-who-leads-microsofts-cybersecurity-detection-and-response-team-added-that-candidates-who-apply-to-jobs-without-a-college-degree-already-signal-a-level-of-determination-that-she-respects-3. Accessed February 18, 2024.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Did the post resonate with you?
More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!
Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.
Despite how modern and realistic the movies we have now are, there are still some black-and-white movies that keep stealing our hearts. Decades may have passed, but we can never get tired of them. It may be because of the strength of the characters, the plot, or the storyline that’s masterfully crafted, but between those elements there’s some magic in these movies that keeps us coming back. Here are 15 black-and-white movies that are absolutely worth watching!
1. The Third Man (1949)
One user said, “The Third Man. Still feels incredibly modern.”
Another one replied, “Best final scene of a movie ever.”
Finally, the third added, “Such a great film. The scene on the Ferris Wheel was outstanding.”
2. The Apartment (1960)
“Ohhhh, The Apartment!! I have to rewatch that! Thanks for the reminder,” said one.
“Great list. The Apartment in particular is one of my absolute favorites,” another one replied.
“I watched The Apartment for the first time last week. I was on the edge of my seat for basically the entire second half. The writing and the acting were perfect throughout. The story felt pretty timeless too,” the third added.
3. 12 Angry Men (1957)
One user said, “12 Angry Men is one of the best movies I’ve ever seen, and all they do is talk.”
“An utterly perfect film, IMO. Timeless and still relevant, tight script, and great pace even though it’s a bunch of dudes talking in a room. What a great movie,” the second person replied.
“I was in high school and we had to read the book, which I found boring, and then we watched the movie, and it blew me away. I rented it to watch again at Blockbuster, and my dad gave me the weirdest look when I handed it to him,” added another.
4. Psycho (1960)
One person stated, “This movie holds up so [dang] well it’s astounding. The performances are all decades ahead of their time.”
The second person replied, “What makes it cooler is that they didn’t have to film it in black and white since they had colored movies since the 50s but they chose to.”
5. Young Frankenstein (1974)
“Young Frankenstein, if you like Mel Brooks comedies,” somebody mentioned.
“’It’s Fronkensteen!!’” replied another.
“I cannot recommend this enough, though it’s fair to point out it’s a more modern film purposefully filmed in black and white,” the third added.
6. The Manchurian Candidate (1962)
Somebody stated, “The original Manchurian Candidate.”
Another one replied, “Oooooooh Angela Lansbury is frightening in this. RIP queen.”
Then the third added, “Scrolled for this. The garden club scene is so scary.”
7. The Philadelphia Story (1940)
One person said, “[The] Philadelphia Story and Bringing Up Baby are personal favs.”
The second replied, “Can’t go wrong with K Hepburn, Cary Grant, and Jimmy Stewart in the same film.”
Finally, the third added, “The dialogue is extremely well written in [The] Philadelphia Story and includes the GOAT (Jimmy Stewart).”
“This is one of my personal favorites. So sad and sweet,” replied another.
9. Night of the Living Dead (1968)
One user said, “Night of the Living Dead. OG.”
Another person replied, “Yes. I love that movie. The acting is great and I love the use of shadows.”
“The pacing of this movie blows my mind. I’m used to older movies being a bit more slow and methodical, which I love. But Night of the Living Dead has some really contemporary pacing IMO. It has a great escalation of danger,” added another.
10. The Thin Man (1934)
Somebody commented, “The Thin Man and its sequels. The chemistry between Powell and Loy is just exceptional.”
Another one replied, “Came here to say this! They were close friends off screen, and it showed. Also a solid example of a movie couple who genuinely like each other.”
Then the third added, “My perfect ‘binge through a cold/flu to make you feel better, series.”
11. Double Indemnity (1944)
“Double Indemnity is one of my all-time favorites,” somebody shared.
“Was scrolling to find this. Absolute classic, tight plot, razor sharp dialogue. Only issue is it can be hard selling people on a film where the premise is based on insurance policies!” The second person replied.
Then the third added, “Was hoping someone said this. Barbara Stanwyck is one of the best ever. It’s a classic story but she makes it fresh.”
12. Sunset Boulevard (1950)
“One of the greatest ever put to film,” said one.
“During COVID, we got a poster with ‘The 100 Greatest Films Ever Made’ and slowly watched all of them. I’d seen most of them before, but not all. Sunset Blvd was one that I hadn’t seen, and I blew me away. Made the whole poster worthwhile,” replied another.
13. The Elephant Man (1980)
One person stated, “The Elephant Man, a fantastic film but not sure I could watch again just so sad.”
The second person replied, “Tough watch.”
14. Nosferatu (1922)
“Nosferatu would dye the film to suggest different times of the day. Also, the use of shadow was brilliant,” commented one.
“It still stands up as a horror film too. There’s something deeply unsettling about it,” replied somebody.
“What an incredible movie. I saw it for the first time just a few years ago, and while I’d previously never found monster movies frightening, that movie scared the s- out of me,” added another.
15. Paper Moon (1973)
Somebody shared, “A wonderful and timeless movie. Tatum O’Neal gives one of the greatest child actor performances in it.”
Another one replied, “Was hoping to see this. It gives the absolute best performance a child actor has ever given. Truly a great movie.”
A third commenteragreed, “Absolutely love it, literally my favorite movie of all time, and I clicked on the comments hoping to find it. Paper Moon is incredibly written, directed, and acted by all parties involved.”
Which black-and-white movie is your favorite from the list? Let us know in the comments!
And if you want more of this content, simply hit the thumbs-up button and share it with your friends and family.
Source: Reddit
10 Actors Perfectly Cast for Their Character Roles
Have you ever watched a movie or show and been completely lost in it because of how well an actor or actress became their character? Check out this article for a whole list of actors who were perfectly cast!
11 Vampire Movies That Will Make You Thirst for More
You know that feeling where you’re on a movie kick in a certain genre, but you seem to run out of good movies to watch? Well, if you’re down for a vampire movie or three, check out this article for the best ones out there!
10 Incredible Movies That People Rated 10 Out of 10
It’s pretty hard to replicate the experience of watching your favorite movie for the first time, but we’ve put together a list of movies that people have rated at a perfect 10/10. Next time you need a good movie to watch, check this out!
10 Famous People Who Canceled Themselves With Their Own Stupidity
We’ve all been there: you make a comment you haven’t thought through at all, and the whole room goes silent at what you’ve just said. But can you imagine doing that as a famous person—and getting canceled? Check out this list of celebrities who did just that!
13 Things You Shouldn’t Do When You’re in the US
Are you planning a trip to the US? Culture varies a lot between countries, even countries that share borders. So if you’re headed to the good old U. S. of A, here are a few pointers to make your travels go more smoothly!
Managing student loan payments can feel like a part-time job. It can be even more overwhelming if you’re experiencing financial trouble, whether that’s due to a job layoff, caring for a family member, or for another reason.
The good news is there are options available to those going through a rough financial patch, including the Economic Hardship Deferment program. But even then, it can be difficult to navigate all of the information on which deferment program you may be eligible to apply for based on the reason for your hardship and the type of student loans you have. So that’s what we’re going to discuss today.
Economic Hardship Deferment, also known as student loan financial hardship, is a program offered in certain cases on federal student loans for borrowers who are eligible and having an exceedingly difficult time making their student loan payments for financial reasons.
Below, we’ll discuss the Economic Hardship Deferment program and what it means for you and your loans, who qualifies to make a hardship claim for student loans, how to apply for the program, and whether it’s the right path for you. We’ll also cover alternatives to Economic Hardship Deferment.
What Is Economic Hardship Deferment?
Student loan deferment allows you to reduce or pause your student loan payments for a designated period of time. An Economic Hardship Deferment is awarded to those who are facing serious financial trouble, as determined by factors such as monthly income and family size.
Those approved for the program can take up to 36 consecutive months of deferment so long as they still meet the qualifications. All participants (except those in the Peace Corps) need to reapply each year.
An important distinction to understand is whether your loans will qualify for a deferment period where interest will accrue, or one where interest does not accrue. Generally, loans that are subsidized will not accrue interest during deferment, whereas an unsubsidized loan will.
In the event your loan qualifies for deferment but will continue to accrue interest, you’ll usually have two options: Make interest-only payments on the loan, or allow interest charges to rack up.
When you allow interest charges to accumulate on an unsubsidized loan, that interest will be tallied up and added to the balance of the loan at the end of the period. This is a process called “capitalization.”
Not only will you have a new, larger balance to pay off, but any future interest payments will be calculated on top of the new, higher balance, meaning you’re paying interest on top of interest. All else equal, the result is that your monthly payments will likely be even higher than they are now.
Which Loans Qualify for Economic Hardship Deferment?
This is a federal loan program, and not all federal loans qualify. Here are a few examples of loans that may qualify (and check the link below for a full, updated list of eligible loans):
• National Direct Student Loans (NDSL Loans)
• Federal Family Education Loans (FEEL Loans)
• Federal Stafford Loans
• Federal Perkins Loans
• Federal Supplemental Loans for Students (SLS Loans)
• Federal PLUS Loans
• Federal Consolidation Loans
• National Defense Student Loans
The Economic Hardship Deferment program is typically available for loans borrowed on or after July 1, 1993.
The Economic Hardship Deferment program is only available for federal student loans, so private loans borrowed through independent financial institutions won’t qualify. However, some private lenders offer their own hardship programs. If your lender offers such a program, they will have their own unique qualifications and application process.
It certainly doesn’t hurt to ask if you are in a difficult financial situation. Remember, lenders don’t want you to default on your loans, and are often willing to work with borrowers to find some sort of solution. With both federal and private loans, never hesitate to call the lender, discuss your situation, and explore options.
Who Qualifies for Economic Hardship Deferment?
To make a hardship claim for student loans, you will have to fill out paperwork and provide documentation proving that you are experiencing financial hardship. Some of the eligibility criteria for an Economic Hardship Deferment will depend on your income, family size, and the poverty income guidelines for your family size in the state where you live (150% of the state poverty level or less). It will also depend on what percentage your student loan payment is of your monthly adjusted gross income.
To qualify for Economic Hardship Deferment, you will need to provide personal information such as your name, Social Security number, and address. You’ll also need to know what type of loan you are requesting economic hardship deferment for.
Here are some examples of what you may need to prove to the loan servicer evaluating your eligibility for deferment:
1. You’ve already been granted Economic Hardship Deferment on loans made under another federal student loan program.
2. You’re receiving payments under a federal or state public assistance program during the time in which you request your loan deferment. Examples of such programs include Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Food Stamps/Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), or other forms of state assistance.
3. You are serving as a Peace Corp volunteer.
4. You work full-time (30 hours per week) and your monthly income does not exceed 150% of the poverty guideline for your family size and state.
Here’s how to tell if you meet this last guideline: First, determine your family size. This includes you, your spouse, any children who receive more than half of their support from you, any unborn children who are to be born during the deferment period, and anyone else living with you for whom you provide at least half of their support.
Next, find your family size on the following table, and compare it to your annual income (divide by 12 to get your average monthly income).
Family Size
Alaska
Hawaii
All Other States
1
$18,210
$16,770
$14,580
2
$24,640
$22,680
$19,720
3
$31,070
$28,590
$24,860
4
$37,500
$34,500
$30,000
5
$43,930
$40,410
$35,140
6
$50,360
$46,320
$40,280
7
$56,790
$52,230
$45,420
8
$63,220
$58,140
$50,560
Each additional person, add
$6,430
$5,910
$5,140
These figures are from 2023 and are subject to change annually.
You are likely to qualify for the student loan financial hardship program as long as you meet one of these prerequisites. If that is the case, and you would like to pursue the option, contact your lender or student loan servicer. Tell them you would like to apply for Economic Hardship Deferment. At this point, they typically ask you a series of questions and have you fill out an Economic Hardship Deferment Request form.
Pros and Cons of Economic Hardship Deferment
Pros
For someone who is in desperate need of reprieve from their student loan payments, the program can be a godsend. You may want to consider taking advantage of this program if the alternative is defaulting on student loans, which can have a long-lasting, detrimental effect on your credit score and history.
If your loans are subsidized, there is no cost to taking an Economic Hardship Deferment.
Periods of deferment are provided to borrowers who need time to find a job, increase their income, or recover from the many myriad of life events that could leave someone in a place of need. There is no shame in this, whatsoever, but it’s a great idea to use the deferment period to work on rebuilding.
Cons
With unsubsidized loans, taking a period of deferment will make the loans in question cost more over time. Even if you make interest payments during your deferment, you aren’t chipping away at the principal, and so all of those payments are essentially a wash. If you don’t make interest payments, the total value of those unpaid interest payments will be slapped on top of the loan balance, increasing your loan balance and the amount you’ll owe in interest, over time.
When the period of deferment ends, your monthly payment will likely be higher than it is now, which may be difficult for someone who is already experiencing financial hardship. Use the program if you need it, but know it can come with some costs in the long term.
It is also extremely difficult to qualify for Economic Hardship Deferment. The program utilizes stringent criteria to determine eligibility with income review using poverty level guidelines as noted above. (For example, a single person working full-time and earning $20,000 per year and living in California who is not already on food stamps or other forms of government assistance would probably not qualify for Economic Hardship Deferment.) This makes the program unavailable to many people who are legitimately having difficulty making their loan payments.
Alternatives to Economic Hardship Deferment
Forbearance
If you do not qualify for Economic Hardship Deferment, an option is to request forbearance. Forbearance is similar to deferment, though interest accrues in all cases, and periods of forbearance generally do not exceed 12 months (and could be shorter). You’ll need to check with your loan servicer to see if you qualify.
Income Driven Repayment Plans
There are four income-driven repayment plans, including the latest SAVE plan, that help make student loan payments more affordable by reducing them to a percentage of your discretionary income. SAVE, for example, caps your payments at 5% to 10% of your income, depending on the types of loans you have. Under other plans, your payments may be capped at anywhere from 10% to 20% of your income.
IDR plans also stretch your repayment timeline out up to 25 years. If you have any debt left over after than, it’s forgiven (though it may be subject to income taxes).
Though your monthly payments will be lower, which provides some immediate relief, you will pay significantly more in interest over time. It is possible to switch to an alternative repayment plan and back again if your financial situation improves.
Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program
With 10 years of on-time payments at a qualifying job (like a government worker, a teacher, a doctor, or nurse at a qualifying facility), it is possible to have student loans forgiven with the PSLF program. If you go this route, you’ll usually want to switch to an income-driven repayment plan.
Student Loan Refinancing
Another option to consider for both your federal and private student loans is student loan refinancing. Refinancing is the process of switching out your loan or multiple loans with one new loan at an (ideally) lower rate of interest.
The lower rate of interest could save you money on interest payments over the life of the loan. Use a student loan refinancing calculator to see how lower interest rates affect your monthly payments.
It’s important to know that if you refinance federal loans with a private lender, you will lose access to federal student loan programs such as Economic Hardship Deferment or PSLF.
With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.
SoFi Student Loan Refinance If you are a federal student loan borrower, you should consider all of your repayment opportunities including the opportunity to refinance your student loan debt at a lower APR or to extend your term to achieve a lower monthly payment. Please note that once you refinance federal student loans you will no longer be eligible for current or future flexible payment options available to federal loan borrowers, including but not limited to income-based repayment plans or extended repayment plans.
SoFi Loan Products SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.
Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
Apart from CPI and NFP there are only a handful of other reports that truly deserve to be considered supporting actors in the current bond market drama. Retail Sales is one of them. The report has generally been a thorn in the bond market’s side over the past year as it has shown a surprisingly resilient consumer in the face of higher rates. That’s why there was some concern among some bond watchers over today’s forecast of -0.1. Was this some sort of set-up? Surely, a consistently stronger data series can do better than -0.1. But it turns out economists were on to something when they agreed on the negative print. In fact, they could have been a whole lot more negative and still undershot the actual result: -0.8.
It’s no wonder that Warren Buffett’s stock picks are of interest to investors. Buffett, after all, is widely considered the most successful investor in modern history.
And since he primarily invests through his publicly traded holding company, Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.B), information about Buffett’s stock purchases, sales and holdings — or more accurately, Berkshire Hathaway’s purchases, sales and holdings — is available for free, online.
The only catch is that you have to dig through Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings to find it. Below, we’ve assembled a one-stop guide to Warren Buffett stocks — the companies Berkshire Hathaway has recently invested in or disinvested in, and the companies it’s currently holding.
Jump tolearn:
Who is Warren Buffett?
Warren Buffett is a professional investor and the chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, a conglomerate that invests in (and sometimes acquires) undervalued companies.
Born in 1930 in Omaha, Nebraska, Buffett worked as a stockbroker in his early years. One of his early-career mentors was Benjamin Graham, an investment manager who pioneered the bargain-hunting approach to stock selection known as value investing.
When Buffett started his own investment partnership in 1956, he had $174,000 to his name
The Snowball: Warren Buffett and the Business of Life. Chapter 22. Accessed Feb 6, 2024.
. Today, he’s worth more than $120 billion and is the seventh-richest person alive, largely thanks to the value investing strategies he learned from Graham .
Advertisement
Fees
$0
per trade
Fees
$0
per trade
Fees
$0
per trade
Account minimum
$0
Account minimum
$0
Account minimum
$0
Promotion
None
no promotion available at this time
Promotion
None
no promotion available at this time
Promotion
Get up to 75 free fractional shares (valued up to $3,000)
when you open and fund an account with Webull.
What is Berkshire Hathaway?
Berkshire Hathaway is Buffett’s investment company. It’s the full owner of many recognizable companies, including GEICO and Fruit of the Loom. Berkshire is also a major shareholder in many other publicly-traded companies, such as Apple (AAPL).
Berkshire Hathaway formed in 1955 through the merger of two textile companies founded in the 19th century. Buffett began buying shares in the company in 1962, believing that it was undervalued, and took full control of the company in 1965. He subsequently used it as a holding company for his other investments — first in the insurance industry, then in many others.
Berkshire has been publicly-traded since its pre-Buffett era, so it’s required to file quarterly reports with the SEC, detailing its investment activities. As a result, Buffett’s investment decisions have been a matter of public record for most of his career. Its next quarterly report is due on Feb. 26, 2024.
Berkshire Hathaway shares trade in two classes. The Class A shares have never undergone a stock split in their many decades of growth. As a result, they’re some of the highest-priced shares in the world, trading for just under $600,000 each as of Feb. 2024. That made them difficult to access for many investors before online brokers began offering fractional shares.
To mitigate this, the company also offers Class B shares that trade at a much more reasonable price — slightly less than $400 as of Feb. 2024.
In 1965, Buffett began writing an annual letter to Berkshire shareholders in which he explains the rationale behind Berkshire’s investment decisions. Those letters, along with Berkshire’s quarterly SEC filings, are the sources for much of the information in this article.
Which stocks is Warren Buffett buying?
In the most recent quarter, Berkshire Hathaway disclosed new investments in four different stocks, and they’re listed below in order of purchase value. However, two of these stocks are closely related to each other. The company did not add to any of its preexisting holdings this quarter.
Company name and symbol
Value of position
Liberty Live Group — Series C (LLYVK)
New portfolio addition. Liberty Live Group is a division of Liberty Media Corp. consisting of its investments in Live Nation (LYV).
Liberty Live Group — Series A (LLYVA)
New portfolio addition.
Sirius XM Holdings (SIRI)
New portfolio addition.
Atlanta Braves Holdings Inc. — Series C (BATRK)
New portfolio addition.
Source: 13F.info. Data is current as of Feb. 6, 2024 and for informational purposes only.
It’s worth clarifying some potential points of confusion here: Liberty Media Corp. is itself a holding company, much like Berkshire Hathaway. It has few operations of its own, and primarily makes money by investing in other companies.
Liberty is split into multiple divisions, each of which mainly consists of an investment interest in a specific company. Liberty Live Group, for example, consists of shares of Live Nation and a few other minor investments.
Each of Liberty’s divisions has also issued several different “series” of stock, and each of these series trades separately under a different ticker symbol. Berkshire bought two different stock series of Liberty Live Group last quarter.
Berkshire also bought two different series of a different Liberty division, Liberty SiriusXM Group (LSXMA and LSXMK), but it did so after selling the same number of shares of each series — meaning that its net share count for its two Liberty SiriusXM Group series did not change. Those investment positions are detailed in the “holdings” table below.
Atlanta Braves Holdings, another new Berkshire Hathaway purchase last quarter, also uses a multiple-series trading structure, although Berkshire only bought one series of that stock.
Which stocks is Warren Buffett selling?
Berkshire Hathaway sold all of its shares in seven companies last quarter, and reduced its share count for another six stocks. They’re listed below in order of percentage sold and value sold.
Company name and symbol
Value sold
Percentage of shares sold
Activision Blizzard (ATVI)
General Motors (GM)
Celanese Corp. (CE)
Johnson & Johnson (JNJ)
Procter & Gamble (PG)
Mondelez International (MDLZ)
United Parcel Service (UPS)
Globe Life (GL)
Markel Corp. (MKL)
HP Inc. (HPQ)
Chevron Corp. (CVX)
Aon plc (AON)
Source: 13F.info. Data is current as of Feb. 6, 2024 and for informational purposes only.
What are Berkshire Hathaway’s holdings?
After those purchases and sales, Berkshire Hathaway has a total of 45 stocks in its portfolio. They’re listed below in order of the dollar value of Berkshire’s holdings.
Company name and symbol
Bank of America (BAC)
American Express (AXP)
Coca-Cola Co. (KO)
Chevron Corp. (CVX)
Last quarter, Berkshire Hathaway reduced its share count by 10%.
Occidental Petroleum Corp. (OXY)
Kraft Heinz (KHC)
Moody’s Corp. (MCO)
Davita Inc. (DVA)
HP Inc. (HPQ)
Last quarter, Berkshire Hathaway reduced its share count by 15%.
VeriSign Inc. (VRSN)
Citigroup Inc. (C)
Kroger Co. (KR)
Visa Inc. (V)
Charter Communications (CHTR)
Mastercard Inc. (MA)
Aon plc (AON)
Last quarter, Berkshire Hathaway reduced its share count by 5%.
Last quarter, Berkshire Hathaway reduced its share count by 5%.
Capital One (COF)
Paramount Global (PARA)
Liberty SiriusXM Group — Series C (LSXMK)
Last quarter, Berkshire Hathaway sold its previous position of 43M shares for $1.4B, but then bought the same number of shares for $1.1B, for a net decrease of $314M and zero shares. Liberty SiriusXM Group is a division of Liberty Media Corp. consisting of Liberty’s investments in SiriusXM (SIRI).
Snowflake Inc. (SNOW)
Nu Holdings (NU)
Ally Financial (ALLY)
T-Mobile US (TMUS)
D.R. Horton (DHI)
Liberty SiriusXM Group — Series A (LSXMA)
Last quarter, Berkshire Hathaway sold its previous position of 20M shares for $663M, but then bought the same number of shares for $514M, for a net decrease of $149M and zero shares.
Liberty Formula One Group — Series C (FWONK)
Liberty Formula One Group is a division of Liberty Media Corp. consisting of Liberty’s stake in F1 and Quint, along with several other minor investments.
Floor & Decor (FND)
Louisiana-Pacific Corp. (LPX)
Liberty Live Group — Series C (LLYVK)
New portfolio addition.
Markel Corp. (MKL)
Last quarter, Berkshire Hathaway reduced its share count by 66%.
Liberty Live Group — Series A (LLYVA)
New portfolio addition.
StoneCo Ltd. (STNE)
Globe Life (GL)
Last quarter, Berkshire Hathaway reduced its share count by 67%.
NVR Inc. (NVR)
Sirius XM Holdings (SIRI)
New portfolio addition.
Diageo plc (DEO)
Liberty Latin America — Class A (LILA)
Liberty Latin America is a division of Liberty Media Corp. that invests in telecommunications companies throughout Latin America and the Carribean.
Vanguard 500 Index Fund (VOO)
S&P 500 index fund.
S&P 500 index fund.
Jeffries Financial Group (JEF)
Lennar Corp. — Class B (LEN)
Liberty Latin America — Class C (LILAK)
Atlanta Braves Holdings Inc. — Series C (BATRK)
New portfolio addition.
Source: 13F.info. Data is current as of Feb. 6, 2024 and for informational purposes only.
Should you trade like Warren Buffett?
That depends on what you mean by “trading like Warren Buffett.” There’s a big difference between learning from Buffett’s methods and literally copying his trades.
Learning to invest like Warren Buffett
Almost anyone can imitate Buffett’s methodology, which is rooted in value investing. Value investors look for undervalued stocks whose price-to-earnings (PE) ratio, or other valuation ratios, are lower than those of their peers (implying that these stocks are trading at a discount to their true value).
Buffett famously remarked in his 1989 letter to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders that “it’s far better to buy a wonderful company at a fair price than a fair company at a wonderful price
.”
History seems to vindicate Buffett’s bargain-hunting approach — especially during periods of high interest rates. A 2020 paper by economists at Dartmouth College and the University of Chicago compared value stock returns with benchmark stock market returns between 1963 and 2019.
The study authors stopped short of proving a causal relationship between interest rates and value stock returns. But they did find that value stocks had a significant advantage over the market as a whole during the first half of the study period, 1963 to 1991, when the federal funds rate was higher than its long-term average
. The federal funds rate is also above-average now.
Track your finances all in one place.
Find ways to save more by tracking your income and net worth on NerdWallet.
Buffett is also an advocate for long-term investments. As he wrote in his 1988 letter to shareholders: “When we own portions of outstanding businesses with outstanding managements, our favorite holding period is forever. We are just the opposite of those who hurry to sell and book profits when companies perform well but who tenaciously hang on to businesses that disappoint
.”
Copying Warren Buffett’s trades
Buffett may be a good role model for investors, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to replicate his exact investment decisions.
“Copy trading,” as this practice is known, can be risky. The best investments for you will depend on your circumstances and goals, and may not be the same as the best investments for a famous billionaire.
Researchers are skeptical about the efficacy of copy trading. A 2020 paper published in the Management Science journal found that “copy trading leads to excessive risk taking” among investors
.
To summarize, it’s not a bad idea for investors to familiarize themselves with Buffett’s buy-and-hold value investing philosophy. But if you’re buying the exact same stocks as him, just because he did, you may be missing the point of his methods.
Neither the author nor editor owned shares in the aforementioned investments at the time of publication.