Warren Buffett Announces Retirement and Historic Charitable Donation
After more than 60 years of remarkable success in finance and business, American billionaire Warren Buffett, aged 95, has declared his retirement from writing the annual report of Berkshire Hathaway. He plans to pass the reins of the company to his deputy, Greg Abel, by the end of the year.
In an unexpected and heartfelt announcement, Buffett revealed his intention to significantly increase his charitable contributions, stating he will donate all his shares in the company, valued at approximately $149 billion.
Known for his dry humor, Buffett noted in his press release dated November 10, 2025:
"I will no longer write the annual report for Berkshire or elaborate during the annual meeting. As the British say, I’m going to be quiet… sort of."
He expressed confidence in his successor, Greg Abel, highlighting his "high management capabilities, unwavering determination, and rare transparency," and expressed hope that Abel would lead the company into a prosperous future.
* A Life of Fortune and Lessons
Buffett reflected on what he described as a "journey of luck and longevity," expressing gratitude for reaching the age of ninety-five:
"When I was young, the odds were not in my favor."
He recounted memories from his childhood in Omaha, Nebraska, where he nearly lost his life to appendicitis in 1938, adding:
"I was a child dreaming of a sled, a bicycle, a baseball glove, and an electric train, and those were our big dreams back then."
* Tribute to Charlie Munger
Buffett dedicated a significant portion of his message to honoring his late friend and partner, Charlie Munger, whom he referred to as a "brother and unmatched mentor," stating:
"For over 60 years, Charlie had a profound impact on my life. We never argued to the point of fighting, and he never said, 'I told you so.'"
He also acknowledged other influential figures in his journey, such as Stan Lipsey, Walter Scott Jr., and Don Keough, asserting that his departure from Omaha was a key factor in his success and that of Berkshire:
"I have been lucky since the day I was born."
* Luck, Humility, and Humanity
Despite his sarcastic take on life’s unpredictability, Buffett emphasized the importance of luck, stating:
"Anyone who reaches an old age like mine needs massive doses of luck, surviving falls and avoiding accidents and disasters. But we must acknowledge that many leaders and wealthy individuals have had an unequal share of luck compared to others."
Regarding succession, Buffett expressed complete confidence in Greg Abel to take on the responsibility of the company and the shareholders' investments:
"I cannot find anyone I trust more to take on this responsibility."
He concluded his message with wisdom that blended human values and his trademark sarcasm:
"Greatness is not measured by wealth, fame, or power, but by your ability to help others. Kindness is free but invaluable. I wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving… yes, even to boring people; change is always possible."
