Warren Buffett
Warren Edward Buffett (born August 30, 1930) is an American investor and philanthropist who is the chairman and former CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. He is widely regarded as one of the most successful investors in the world and is often referred to as the "Oracle of Omaha".[1]
| Warren Buffett | |
|---|---|
| |
| Born | August 30, 1930
Omaha, Nebraska, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Investor, Businessman, Philanthropist |
| Known for | Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, Value investing |
| Net worth | US$148.9 billion (2026) |
| Spouse | Susan Buffett (m. 1952; died 2004)
Astrid Menks (m. 2006) |
As of January 2026, Buffett's estimated net worth is US$148.9 billion, making him one of the richest individuals globally. His investment success is largely attributed to his disciplined approach to value investing, a strategy influenced by economist Benjamin Graham.[2]
Early Life and Education
Buffett was born in Omaha, Nebraska, to Howard Buffett, a U.S. congressman, and Leila Buffett. He showed an early interest in business and investing, selling items like chewing gum and newspapers as a child.[3]
He studied at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania before transferring to the University of Nebraska, where he graduated at the age of 20. He later earned a Master of Science in Economics from Columbia Business School, where he studied under Benjamin Graham.
Business Career
Early Career
Buffett began his career working at his father's brokerage firm and later joined Graham-Newman Corp. as a securities analyst. In 1956, he founded Buffett Partnership Ltd., which marked the beginning of his investment career.[4]
Berkshire Hathaway
Buffett acquired a controlling stake in Berkshire Hathaway in the 1960s and transformed it from a textile manufacturing company into a diversified holding company. He became chairman in 1970.
Under his leadership, Berkshire Hathaway invested in major companies such as Coca-Cola, American Express, and Apple, generating substantial long-term returns.
Leadership Transition
In 2025, Buffett announced that Greg Abel would succeed him as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, while he would remain chairman.[5]
Investment Philosophy
Buffett follows the principles of value investing, focusing on companies with strong fundamentals, competitive advantages, and long-term growth potential. His core principles include:
- Buying undervalued stocks
- Long-term holding strategy
- Emphasis on intrinsic value
- Margin of safety
He is also known for his famous rules:
- Rule No.1: Never lose money
- Rule No.2: Never forget Rule No.1
Philanthropy
Buffett has pledged to donate 99% of his wealth to charitable causes. He is a co-founder of The Giving Pledge, alongside Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates, encouraging billionaires to give away at least half of their wealth.
He has donated tens of billions of dollars, primarily to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and other charitable organizations.
Personal Life
Buffett married Susan Thompson in 1952, and they had three children. After her death in 2004, he married Astrid Menks in 2006.
Despite his immense wealth, Buffett is known for his frugal lifestyle. He continues to live in his longtime home in Omaha, Nebraska.
Awards and Honors
- Presidential Medal of Freedom (2011)
- Named among Time's 100 Most Influential People
- Recognized as one of the greatest investors of all time
References
- ↑ https://www.ft.com/content/a18c4115-7178-456c-a7ff-4b0e7f9ec9aa?syn-25a6b1a6=1
- ↑ https://www.forbes.com/
- ↑ https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/technology/tech-news/at-berkshire-hathaways-annual-shareholders-meeting-worlds-no-1-investor-warren-buffet-thanks-apple-ceo-tim-cook-says-you-are-a-/articleshow/130730714.cms
- ↑ https://247wallst.com/investing/2026/04/28/warren-buffett-owns-3-strong-buy-dividend-aristocrat-giants-one-for-almost-40-years/
- ↑ https://www.berkshirehathaway.com/