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Lemonade's Tech Edge Shakes Up Auto Insurance as Berkshire Hathaway Lags

A scrappy insurtech is outpacing giants with AI and agility. Can Warren Buffett's empire catch up before it's too late?

The image shows a blue background with the words "Millions of Americans are Saving an Average of...
The image shows a blue background with the words "Millions of Americans are Saving an Average of $800 a Year on Health Insurance Premiums Under the Inflation Reduction Act" in the center, accompanied by a logo.

Lemonade's Tech Edge Shakes Up Auto Insurance as Berkshire Hathaway Lags

Lemonade, a fast-growing digital auto insurance company, is making waves in a sector long dominated by traditional firms. Its tech-driven approach has caught the attention of investors, with projections now pointing to profitability this year. Meanwhile, industry giant Berkshire Hathaway faces questions about keeping pace with digital innovation.

Lemonade's business model relies on a connected, agile platform that sets it apart from older insurers. In the last quarter of 2025, its in-force premiums jumped by 31% compared to the previous year. The company also narrowed its adjusted EBITDA loss to just $5 million, signalling stronger financial health.

Analysts expect Lemonade to turn profitable on an adjusted EBITDA basis in 2026, with net income profitability forecast for 2027. This shift comes as the company continues disrupting an industry known for slow-moving, paperwork-heavy processes.

Berkshire Hathaway, one of the world's largest companies with a market value exceeding $1 trillion, has built its empire largely on car insurance. Brands like GEICO sit alongside over 190 other businesses in its portfolio, backed by a $320 billion equity investment fund. Yet even a firm of this scale has faced warnings about digital lag. Warren Buffett and his deputy Ajit Jain have openly admitted concerns that Berkshire could fall behind in the race to modernise insurance.

Lemonade's growth and narrowing losses highlight its potential as a disruptor in progressive insurance. For investors, the company's path to profitability may offer opportunities—though risk levels will vary. Berkshire Hathaway, despite its size, now faces pressure to adapt as digital-first competitors gain ground.

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