Legendary investor Warren Buffett, widely recognized as the Oracle of Omaha, has stepped down as Chief Executive Officer of Berkshire Hathaway after nearly six decades. His exit signifies the conclusion of one of the longest and most impactful leadership tenures in corporate history, reshaping modern investment philosophy.
Warren Buffett has relinquished his role as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway after leading the company since 1965. At the age of 95, he hands over executive control to Greg Abel, while continuing as chairman, ensuring continuity in leadership and investment philosophy.
Berkshire Hathaway started as a struggling textile manufacturer based in New England. Warren Buffett took control of the company in 1965, initially aiming to revive the textile business. Over time, he redirected capital into insurance and investments, laying the foundation for a diversified business empire. His long-term, value-based investing approach became the hallmark of Berkshire’s success.
Under Buffett’s leadership, Berkshire Hathaway evolved into a global conglomerate valued at over $1 trillion. The company built a powerful mix of wholly owned subsidiaries and equity investments. Buffett promoted decentralized management, allowing business heads autonomy while maintaining strict discipline in capital allocation. His annual shareholder letters and Omaha meetings became guiding references for investors worldwide.
Berkshire Hathaway holds significant equity stakes in globally recognized companies such as Apple, Coca-Cola, American Express, and Bank of America. It also fully owns businesses like BNSF Railway, GEICO, Berkshire Hathaway Energy, and several manufacturing and retail firms. This diversified structure helped Berkshire remain resilient across economic cycles.
Greg Abel, currently Vice Chairman overseeing non-insurance operations, will become CEO from January 1, 2026. Abel has played a significant role in expanding Berkshire’s energy and infrastructure businesses. His appointment reflects continuity, as he has been closely involved in strategic decisions and enjoys Buffett’s full confidence.
Q1. Why did Warren Buffett step down as CEO?
Answer: Warren Buffett stepped down to pass on the leadership of Berkshire Hathaway to Greg Abel, ensuring continuity in the company's investment philosophy at the age of 95.
Q2. What is Greg Abel's role in Berkshire Hathaway?
Answer: Greg Abel is currently the Vice Chairman overseeing non-insurance operations and will take over as CEO on January 1, 2026, reflecting a seamless leadership transition.
Q3. What impact did Buffett have on Berkshire Hathaway?
Answer: Warren Buffett transformed Berkshire Hathaway into a global conglomerate valued over $1 trillion through his long-term, value-based investing approach and decentralized management style.
Q4. What are some major investments of Berkshire Hathaway?
Answer: Berkshire Hathaway has significant stakes in companies like Apple, Coca
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