Markel Corp (NYSE:MKL)

Big one!

This is a company with an excellent business model, proven by their ability to use shareholder capital to create real economic value year after year. Merkel Corp has an excellent track record of generating returns, using its assets to earn superior returns on shareholder capital.

In the current reported year MKL earned a return on capital of 17.4%, compared to its cost of capital of 8.5%.

Consistency is also of utmost importance. Beating its peers for one or two years doesn't prove a company's business is superior to the competition; however, in MKL's case, return on capital on average is in line with the returns of its peer group for the last five years.

I like it! I'm Outperforming this stock with a time frame of 5 years.

I like the management and history

They've outperformed in the past ... they will in the future. Should have recommended down around $410, that was the right entry point, but better late than never.

Phillip has made a far better investment thesis than I can pitch here. I will say, though, if you do not read the letter to business partners (shareholders), then you have no business investing in this company. I believe this for all companies, but this letter is better than any (save Berkshire. Side note: Congrats to Warren on becoming #1 today) I have read in a long time. It gives real insight into the thinking and style of management. It is candid, for both good themes and bad, and it is written simply, which is rare in such a complex industry and company.

I am shamelessly copying a Motley Fool pick here. I think its one for the retirement fund and should rise steadily. When my riskier stocks such as VDSI top out in a few years, I will transfer the money into here.

solid investment portfolio, has its nice own little niche in the insurance sector

Not going out on a limb with this one, but if you want steady, long term returns this seems like the managememt team you want driving the bus. Don't wait for the credit crisis to pass or you will be sucking exhaust. Bear stories are from shaky short termers.

1) Excellent Management
2) Shareholder Friendly
3) Discipline in Underwriting

just like buffet

Boring company, bad logo what more can you ask for?

My family bought MKL stock when it went for about 40 bucks a share during its early venture period. Since that time, and consistently I might add, MKL has grown dramatically. Not to say it hasn't had its ups and downs as most stocks do however, the end result is always the same...always more profitable when all is said and done. Just look at today's value. Over the years whenever MKL takes a hit they consistently rebound to an even greater value. I have always had faith in MKL stock. Personally, I can't wait to see it bust 500 a share again...my guess is this will occur within the next two months or less so, buy now.

William Orsi

Richmond, Virginia

According to Motley this is the next Berkshire Hathaway. Might as well dump a few bucks on it and see what happens....

Markel Corp (MKL) recently took a dive down to the $400 price range, most notably on January 22, 2008. You remember, most stocks took a dive that day. What that did was open up a whole new set of opportunities, and this is one of them. When Merkel Corp reported 18% 5-Year compound annual growth in book value per share, and after reviewing the fundamentals and technicals of this stock, they're telling me MKL is a great buy for the next five years. And then some.

Berkshire Hathaway wannabee

Their is only one buffett this int'T IT.

Who will know better than the one working for it? Our Markel style hard work will prove its value over the coming years.

This is a great company and is an analyst favorite right now, and for good reason. Seems like a very safe bet in a very unsafe market right now.

it doesn't get too much better. think BRK way back when.