Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2025	Mar. 31, 2024
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings	$ 4,672	$ 12,832
Other comprehensive income:
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments	41	(35)
Applicable income taxes	(11)	6
Foreign currency translation	482	(539)
Applicable income taxes	(2)
Long-duration insurance contract discount rate changes	39	351
Applicable income taxes	(11)	(67)
Defined benefit pension plans	(40)	6
Applicable income taxes	2	(2)
Other, net	6	(30)
Other comprehensive income, net	506	(310)
Comprehensive income	5,178	12,522
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	75	107
Comprehensive income attributable to Berkshire shareholders	$ 5,103	$ 12,415