Warren Buffett Retires as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway at 95
Warren Buffett, one of the world’s most famous investors, has announced he will step down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway at the end of this year. After more than 60 years of leading the company, this marks the end of an important era in the financial world.
Buffett took control of Berkshire in 1965, when it was just a textile company. Under his leadership, it grew into a giant conglomerate worth over $870 billion. His departure was expected, but it still brings big changes to both Berkshire and global markets.
The next CEO will be Greg Abel, who has long been prepared as Buffett’s successor. Still, many believe Buffett’s personal wisdom, discipline, and reputation cannot be replaced.
Buffett’s Legacy
Buffett is admired for his simple but powerful investment style:
- Buying good companies at fair prices and holding them long term.
- Allowing Berkshire’s many subsidiaries to manage themselves.
- Delivering amazing results: from 1965 to 2023, Berkshire’s stock returned an average of +19.8% per year, compared to +9.9% for the S&P 500.
- Maintaining an image of honesty and clear financial education, with annual shareholder letters read worldwide.
His Investment Philosophy
Even at 95, Buffett reminds people of his core principles:
- Don’t try to predict short-term market moves.
- Avoid panic when prices fall or excitement when they rise.
- Focus on understanding businesses, their leaders, and long-term value.
A famous example was his 2016 investment in Apple. Many doubted him, but it became one of his best decisions, earning over $100 billion.
Buffett also proved his courage during the 2008 financial crisis, when he invested in companies like Goldman Sachs and General Electric to help them survive.
The Future Without Buffett
Although Berkshire will likely keep the culture he built, the world is watching to see how it performs without its legendary leader.
Today’s markets are shaped by AI, crypto, and ETFs, yet Buffett’s focus on patience, value, and emotional control continues to inspire both traditional and modern investors.
His departure doesn’t just close a chapter—it reminds everyone that strong, sensible investing can survive any trend or market cycle.
