Only a part of Buffett's market-beating performance has come from stock-picking. Even more of his edge has been generated by Berkshire's operating subsidiaries.

Latin American stock markets end mixed, closing out a grim month fueled by pressure on commodity prices and uncertainty about the future of Argentina's pension system.

Bradenton, Fla.-based Freedom Bank gets taken over, marking the 17th bank failure so far this year amid the ongoing credit crisis.

Late-traded shares edge slightly lower after U.S. stocks finishes higher for the session and for the week.