First, as noted above, the change in the inflation rate explains 76% of the variance in the rate of stock price appreciation, but that leaves 24% to be determined by assorted other factors.

FORBES: Why Stock Investors Should Root For Inflation

That same agreement also gives Mr. Scott and his related family interests the right to put their shares to the Corporation at fair market value to be determined by independent appraisal if the sellers do not agree with the price offered by the Corporation, and payable in Berkshire shares.

FORBES: Corporate Governance At Berkshire Hathaway: Maybe It's Not All That

Centrica said that "recognising the economic pressures facing many of our customers, the board has determined that any benefit arising from the exceptionally cold weather will be used to maintain our price competitiveness".

BBC: SSE profits up after cold weather