Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2024	Dec. 31, 2023	Dec. 31, 2022
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)	$ 89,561	$ 97,147	$ (21,998)
Other comprehensive income:
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments	(82)	477	(713)
Applicable income taxes	9	(100)	158
Foreign currency translation	(1,500)	782	(2,138)
Applicable income taxes	(36)	(7)	22
Long-duration insurance contract discount rate changes	807	(237)	7,177
Applicable income taxes	(144)	49	(1,540)
Defined benefit pension plans	1,628	578	(253)
Applicable income taxes	(350)	(123)	47
Other, net	(162)	(101)	250
Other comprehensive income, net	170	1,318	3,010
Comprehensive income	89,731	98,465	(18,988)
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	557	953	700
Comprehensive income attributable to Berkshire shareholders	$ 89,174	$ 97,512	$ (19,688)