Wally Weitz Interim Commentary: Thoughts on the “Fiscal Cliff”

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Dec 17, 2012
The U.S. has significant debt and deficit problems to solve. Our take is that the solutions will come, but most likely in a series of partial remedies developed over time. Any actions that reduce the budget deficit will, by definition, remove fiscal stimulus and thus be a drag on the economy. However, deficit reduction is necessary and the negative short-term affects will be positive for long-term business values. If the specific "fiscal cliff" actions are actually triggered on January 1, we would expect squeals of outrage and market volatility, but no lasting damage. We have large cash reserves available to take advantage of any near-term weakness, and we believe our portfolios are in position to cope with any of the potential "fiscal cliff" outcomes that we can envision.

- Wally Weitz

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