Major shareholder 'approves of InBev takeover'

June 19, 2008: Berkshire Hathaway, the second largest shareholder in Anheuser-Busch, has given its approval to the proposed takeover bid by InBev industry sources suggest.

Belgian newspaper De Standaard reported the Berkshire Hathaway owner Warren Buffett was behind the merger. His company has a 5% stake in Anheuser-Busch. Buffet would make a $600 million profit on his shares if the takeover went ahead.

Industry analyst Datamonitor said: "It remains to be seen whether Buffett's enthusiasm is the result of a noticed opportunity in the off-trade market, or whether the deal offers a profitable opt out at a time of economic uncertainty."