The Globe and Mail reports in its Friday edition that Berkshire Hathaway said on Thursday it has begun repurchasing its own shares following a nearly two-year hiatus, as Greg Abel puts his stamp on the conglomerate after succeeding Warren Buffett as chief executive officer. A Reuters dispatch to The Globe says the repurchases began on Wednesday and are Berkshire's first since May, 2024. They may help Berkshire reduce its $373.3-billion year-end cash stake, which grew because Mr. Buffett struggled to find companies and stocks to buy (all figures U.S.). Mr. Abel also disclosed he bought 21 Berkshire Class A shares on Wednesday for about $14.6-million, representing the after-tax value of his $25-million salary, and planned similar purchases in the future. The 63-year-old now owns 249 Class A shares, worth about $182-million as of Wednesday. Speaking on CNBC in New York in his first televised interview as CEO, Mr. Abel said he consulted with Mr. Buffett on the buybacks and his own purchases. Thursday's disclosures may lessen concerns that Berkshire has been too cautious investing capital, and Mr. Abel should show a greater financial commitment to the more than $1-trillion conglomerate. Mr. Buffett, 95, remains chairman.