Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Berkshire did it without computer models

Voltron says: hat tip to g-man

Messrs. Buffett and Munger made clear their complete disdain for the use of higher-order mathematics in finance.

Regarding complex calculations used to value purchases, Mr Buffet said: "If you need to use a computer or a calculator to make the calculation, you shouldn't buy it."

Said Mr. Munger: "Some of the worst business decisions I've ever seen are those with future projections and discounts back. It seems like the higher mathematics with more false precision should help you, but it doesn't. They teach that in business schools because, well, they've got to [teach] something."

Mr. Buffett said: "If you stand up in front of a business class and say a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush, you won't get tenure....Higher mathematics my be dangerous and lead you down pathways that are better left untrod."

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