The size of the Berkowitz stake in Goldman Sachs depends upon where you read. StreetInsider.com called it a ‘giant stake’ in the firm. Morningstar.com noted that “details were scarce, including the type of investment taken, the size, and when Berkowitz bought shares…”
The Wall Street Journal is the one bringing up Blankfein’s future, but the article is a “What-Ifs” note discussing if Blankfein “can survive the legal and public-relations storm…” While it said that conversations are informal, there do not seem to be any imminent plans and there is some talk about splitting up the role of Chairman and CEO at Goldman.
If Blankfein left, it would be interesting to know if he bought or short-sold Goldman Sachs’ stock as the board of directors was informing him of the decision for him to go. Buffett defended Blankfein very aggressively over the weekend, and he is not exactly getting the automatic benefit of the doubt from the public.
Goldman shares closed down only $0.05 at $149.45 on a day with a horrible stock market tape. To top it off, the after-hours session as of the 8PM close out had Goldman shares trading up $0.35 at $149.80. This is what makes a ballgame. Two teams, two opposite bets. One winner, one loser.
JON C. OGG
Top Gaining Stocks
Top Losing Stocks