Warren Buffett, the legendary “Oracle of Omaha,” has announced he is stepping down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway at age 94. His surprise announcement came just hours after issuing a sharp critique of Donald Trump’s tariff policies.
Key Facts:
- Warren Buffett announced at Berkshire Hathaway’s annual shareholder meeting that he will step down as CEO at the end of the year.
- Buffett named Greg Abel, his longtime successor, to take over leadership of the company.
- The announcement was unexpected, even to Abel, and known only to Buffett’s two children on the board.
- Buffett criticized Donald Trump’s tariff policies, calling trade a potential act of war.
- He pledged to keep all of his Berkshire shares and continue supporting the company financially.
The Rest of The Story:
Warren Buffett made the stunning announcement during Berkshire Hathaway’s annual meeting in Omaha, Nebraska.
After decades of saying he had no plans to retire, Buffett revealed his intention to step down and recommended Greg Abel as his successor.
The news shocked the crowd and even Abel himself, who had no advance notice.
Buffett said he would still remain involved in some capacity, though the final decision-making authority will rest with Abel.
The two planned to discuss Buffett’s formal role in the company the following day.
While Buffett retains his shares and full faith in Berkshire’s future, the leadership change marks a new chapter in one of America’s most storied companies.
His remarks weren’t limited to succession.
Buffett used the platform to criticize former President Trump’s approach to trade policy, warning of increased global instability and calling tariffs a dangerous weapon in international relations.
BREAKING: Warren Buffett is RETIRING!
He just received a 10 MINUTE LONG standing ovation after announcing his retirement. pic.twitter.com/NR8Ba1ZmyP
— Russell Brand (@rustyrockets) May 3, 2025
Commentary:
Buffett has long stood as a towering figure in the American financial world—an icon of steady investing and measured business judgment.
His decision to step aside at 94 is both historic and emotional, marking the end of an era for Berkshire Hathaway and the investment world at large.
While Buffett’s comments on global trade veered into political territory, his long-term record as a value investor speaks volumes.
Over the years, Buffett’s politics have shifted, and he’s become more outspoken in criticizing Republicans like Trump.
Still, his legacy is defined not by his politics but by his unmatched ability to grow shareholder wealth.
That said, his criticism of tariffs may soon face a real-world test.
Trump’s policies were designed to protect American industry and reduce dependency on foreign competitors—especially China.
Whether that approach proves beneficial or harmful in the long run is a debate far from settled.
Buffett’s clear faith in Greg Abel is reassuring for shareholders.
Abel has run Berkshire’s non-insurance operations for years and earned Buffett’s trust.
But investing is where Buffett truly excelled.
Whether Abel can replicate that remains uncertain.
Buffett’s pledge not to sell any shares—and to keep his fortune locked into the company—sends a powerful message of confidence.
It also means the transition is more than symbolic; it’s strategic.
He’s betting that Berkshire’s best days are still ahead, even without him at the helm.
The Bottom Line:
Warren Buffett’s decision to step down as CEO marks the end of an extraordinary leadership era at Berkshire Hathaway.
While his departure was sudden, his chosen successor, Greg Abel, is well positioned to lead.
Buffett’s criticisms of Trump’s trade policies may draw headlines, but his lasting legacy will be defined by his financial wisdom, not his political views.
The markets—and the world—will be watching what comes next.
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