Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Warren Buffett

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

Warren Buffett is a highly successful American investor and philanthropist, serving as the chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. Renowned for his investment acumen, Buffett is globally recognized as one of the foremost investors. As of February 17, 2025, Forbes estimates his net worth at $149.6 billion, positioning him as the seventh wealthiest person worldwide.

Sections (7)

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

1989: Purchase of "The Indefensible" Jet

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

1990: Salomon Brothers Scandal

In 1990, a scandal surfaced involving John Gutfreund and Paul Mozer at Salomon Brothers.

March 15, 2005: Greenberg Resigns from AIG

On March 15, 2005, Maurice R. Greenberg was forced to resign from his position as chairman and CEO of AIG after New York state regulators claimed that AIG had engaged in questionable transactions and improper accounting.

February 9, 2006: AIG Pays Fine

On February 9, 2006, AIG agreed to pay a $1.6 billion fine following investigations into accounting fraud.

2006: Disowning of Nicole Buffett

In 2006, Warren Buffett disowned his son Peter's adopted daughter, Nicole, after she participated in the Jamie Johnson documentary The One Percent.

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2006: Federal Taxes

In 2006, Warren Buffett stated that he only paid 19% of his income ($48.1 million) in total federal taxes while his employees paid 33% of theirs.

2007: Criticism during subprime mortgage crisis

In 2007, Warren Buffett faced criticism during the subprime mortgage crisis, part of the Great Recession, for allocating capital too early, resulting in suboptimal deals.

2007: Buffett Testifies Before Senate on Estate Tax

In 2007, Warren Buffett testified before the Senate, advocating for the preservation of the estate tax to prevent the rise of a plutocracy. Some critics argued that Berkshire Hathaway had a vested interest in the continuation of the estate tax. Buffett also stated that government should not be legalizing casinos in 2007.

2009: Sold shares of Johnson and Johnson, Walmart, and Wells Fargo

In 2009, Warren Buffett sold shares of Johnson and Johnson, Walmart, and Wells Fargo. This sale was later questioned in a 2023 ProPublica article.

2010: Settlement with Gen Re

In 2010, the U.S. government agreed to a $92 million settlement with Gen Re, allowing the Berkshire Hathaway subsidiary to avoid prosecution in the AIG case. Gen Re also made corporate governance concessions.

2012: Sold shares of Johnson and Johnson, Walmart, and Wells Fargo

In 2012, Warren Buffett sold shares of Johnson and Johnson, Walmart, and Wells Fargo. This sale was later questioned in a 2023 ProPublica article.

January 2018: Buffett on Bitcoin

In January 2018, Warren Buffett told CNBC that the craze over Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies won't end well, later calling it "rat poison squared." However, he also mentioned he would not take a short position on bitcoin futures.

2023: ProPublica article allegations

A 2023 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 quarter or the quarter before, raising concerns about conflicts of interest.