Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Warren Buffett

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 31, 2026

Public opinion and media debates around Warren Buffett—discover key moments of controversy.

Warren Buffett, a highly successful American investor and philanthropist, is renowned as the chairman and former CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. His investment acumen has made him one of the world's most recognized investors. As of January 2026, his estimated net worth of $148.9 billion ranks him among the wealthiest individuals globally.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1974: SEC investigation

In 1974, the SEC opened a formal investigation into Warren Buffett and Berkshire's acquisition of Wesco Financial, although no charges were brought.

1989: Purchase of Private Jet

In 1989, Warren Buffett purchased a private jet for nearly $6.7 million of Berkshire's funds, naming it "The Indefensible", later renamed "The Indispensable".

2006: Disowning Nicole Buffett

In 2006, Warren Buffett disowned his son Peter's adopted daughter, Nicole, after she participated in a documentary about economic inequality.

2006: Comments on Tax Fairness

In 2006, Warren Buffett stated he paid 19% of his income in federal taxes ($48.1 million), while his employees paid 33%. Buffett expressed his view that the rich class is winning the class warfare.

2009: Buffett Sells Shares

On three dates between 2009 and 2012, Buffett sold shares of Johnson and Johnson, Walmart, and Wells Fargo, with the sales totaling $80 million in value (equivalent to $120,055,840 in 2025).

June 2010: Buffett Defends Credit-Rating Agencies

In June 2010, Warren Buffett defended the credit-rating agencies for their role in the U.S. financial crisis.

2012: Buffett Sells Shares

On three dates between 2009 and 2012, Buffett sold shares of Johnson and Johnson, Walmart, and Wells Fargo, with the sales totaling $80 million in value (equivalent to $120,055,840 in 2025).

December 9, 2013: Berkshire Hathaway Purchases Shares in USG Corporation

On December 9, 2013, Berkshire Hathaway purchased shares in USG Corporation, which they failed to report as required and were fined for it on August 20, 2014.

August 20, 2014: Berkshire Hathaway Fined

On August 20, 2014, Berkshire Hathaway was fined $896,000 for failing to properly report the December 9, 2013 purchase of shares in USG Corporation.

2023: ProPublica Article Alleges Conflict of Interest

In 2023, a ProPublica article based on leaked IRS data alleged that Warren Buffett made equity trades in his personal portfolio involving companies that Berkshire Hathaway bought or sold during the same or prior quarter, raising conflict of interest concerns.