Buffett Bets on Bright U.S. Economic Future With Burlington Acquisition

Warren Buffett believes in the United States' economic future, and yesterday (Tuesday) he put his money where his mouth is.

Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE: BRK.A, BRK.B) acquired railroad Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corp. (NYSE: BNI) in a deal valued at $44 billion, the largest in Berkshire's history.

Berkshire, which already owns 22.6% of the company, will pay $100 per share in cash and stock for the remainder of Burlington's business. The offer values Burlington stock at a 31.5% premium to its Monday close. The deal, expected to close in the first quarter of next year, includes $10 billion in Burlington debt.