Stocks

Michael Burry Invests in Warner Bros. Discovery and Diverse Companies Amidst Market Movements

Published February 14, 2024

Michael Burry, the hedge fund guru famed for his accurate prediction of the 2008 housing market collapse, has set his sights on Warner Bros. Discovery and a collection of other companies in the recent quarter. Notorious for his strategic market movements, Burry, through his Scion Asset Management firm, took a notable position in the media giant, boosting his portfolio with 375,000 shares.

But his interests didn't end there. The fund expanded its diversity by purchasing shares across different sectors. This included garnering stakes in toasty investment options such as Toast Inc., a company serving up software for restaurants, and plating up a decent serving of 200,000 shares. They also saw value in finding discounts, scooping up 225,000 shares in the retail chain Big Lots, known for budget-friendly shopping experiences. Additionally, the fund sampled 154,142 shares of Gen Restaurant Group, adding flavor to its varied investment platter.

The filings reveal more than new acquisitions; they show Burry's fund exiting from significant positions. Notably, it sold off its put option position on the iShares Semiconductor ETF, a bet which would have paid off if semiconductor stocks had fallen. Instead, the ETF saw an 8.7% increase during the quarter. This shift away from semiconductors also saw the closing of a put position on Bookings Holdings and the sale of a large stake in automotive manufacturer Stellantis.

While the insights from the 13-F filings don't provide the entirety of Scion Asset Management's strategies or its current positions, they do give a rare glimpse into the fund's direction. Known for his contrarian views, Burry's latest moves might signify a broader perspective on potential growth areas or perhaps a hedging strategy in a volatile market.

As the market watches Burry's latest bets, it's clear his top holdings still lie with Chinese giants Alibaba Group Holdings and JD.com, despite both facing headwinds with year-to-date dips. Yet, as always with investments, past performance may not be indicative of future results, and the ripples from Burry's latest picks are sure to be watched with interest.

Burry, Investment, Discovery