Warren Edward Buffett is a highly successful American businessman, investor, and philanthropist. He is the co-founder, chairman, and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. His remarkable investment achievements have earned him global recognition as one of the world's most prominent investors. As of April 2024, his net worth reached $139 billion, ranking him as the ninth wealthiest person globally.
August 30, 1930: Birth of Warren Buffett
Warren Edward Buffett was born on August 30, 1930, in Omaha, Nebraska.
1942: Howard Buffett's Congressional Election
In 1942, Warren Buffett's father, Howard Buffett, was elected to the United States Congress, prompting the family to relocate to Washington, D.C.
1944: First Income Tax Return
Warren Buffett filed his first income tax return in 1944, showcasing his early entrepreneurial spirit.
1945: Pinball Machine Business Venture
In 1945, Warren Buffett, still a high school student, ventured into the pinball machine business, buying and selling machines for a profit.
1947: Enrollment at Wharton School
Despite his desire to pursue business ventures, Warren Buffett enrolled at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania in 1947 due to his father's wishes.
1947: Entry into Wharton and Graduation from High School
In 1947, Warren Buffett graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School and enrolled at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
1947: Graduation from Woodrow Wilson High School
Warren Buffett graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1947, with his yearbook noting his interest in becoming a stockbroker.
1949: Buffett Learns Ukulele
In 1949, Warren Buffett developed a crush on a young woman whose boyfriend had a ukulele. Trying to compete, Buffett bought a ukulele and has been playing it ever since. Although the attempt to win her attention failed, his interest in the instrument played a key role in his relationship with Susan Thompson, whom he later married.
1951: Meeting Lorimer Davidson at GEICO
In 1951, Warren Buffett, drawn by Benjamin Graham's involvement with GEICO, met Lorimer Davidson, GEICO's vice president, sparking a lifelong friendship and professional influence.
1951: Graduation from Columbia Business School
Warren Buffett earned a Master of Science in economics from Columbia Business School in 1951, where he was deeply influenced by Benjamin Graham's value investing philosophy.
1951: Start of Career at Buffett-Falk & Co.
Warren Buffett's career in finance began in 1951 as an investment salesman at Buffett-Falk & Co.
1952: Warren Marries Susan Thompson
In 1952, Warren Buffett married Susan Thompson. The couple had three children: Susie, Howard, and Peter. Despite living separately from 1977, they remained married until Susan's death in July 2004.
1952: Marriage to Susan Thompson
Warren Buffett married Susan Thompson at Dundee Presbyterian Church in 1952.
1954: Working with Walter Schloss at Graham-Newman Corp.
During his time at Graham-Newman Corp. in 1954, Warren Buffett worked alongside Walter Schloss, another prominent figure in the world of value investing.
1954: Joining Graham-Newman Corp.
In 1954, Warren Buffett joined Benjamin Graham's partnership, Graham-Newman Corp., as a securities analyst.
1956: Benjamin Graham's Retirement and Closure of Partnership
In 1956, a pivotal year for Warren Buffett, Benjamin Graham retired and closed his partnership, leading Buffett to found his own firm.
1956: Establishment of Buffett Partnership Ltd.
In 1956, after Benjamin Graham retired, Warren Buffett founded his own investment firm, Buffett Partnership Ltd.
1956: Founding of Buffett Partnership, Ltd.
With significant personal savings, Warren Buffett founded Buffett Partnership, Ltd. in 1956, marking a pivotal step in his investment journey.
1957: Purchase of Omaha Residence
In 1957, Warren Buffett bought a five-bedroom house in Omaha for $31,500, a property he still resides in today.
1958: Birth of Peter Andrew Buffett
The Buffetts welcomed their third child, Peter Andrew Buffett, in 1958.
1958: Buffett Recognizes Undervalued Sanborn Map Company
In 1958, Warren Buffett spotted an investment opportunity in the Sanborn Map Company, noticing its stock price was significantly lower than the value of its investment portfolio.
1958: Buffett Buys House in Omaha
In 1958, Warren Buffett bought a house in the central Dundee neighborhood of Omaha for $31,500. He continues to live in this house, which has significantly appreciated in value.
1959: Meeting Charlie Munger
Warren Buffett's meeting with Charlie Munger in 1959 marked the beginning of a long-lasting and successful business partnership.
1960: Expansion of Investment Partnerships
By 1960, Warren Buffett was managing seven investment partnerships, demonstrating his growing influence in the financial world.
1961: Buffett's Sanborn Map Company Investment Yields 50% Return
By 1961, Warren Buffett had turned his investment in Sanborn Map Company into a 50% return by leveraging his shareholder position to push for a stock repurchase at fair value.
January 1962: Buffett Becomes a Millionaire, Merges Partnerships, and Invests in Berkshire Hathaway
Warren Buffett's partnerships made him a millionaire by January 1962. He merged these partnerships and began investing in Berkshire Hathaway, a textile manufacturing company, eventually gaining control.
1965: Buffett Takes Control of Berkshire Hathaway
In 1965, Warren Buffett's aggressive investment strategy allowed him to take control of Berkshire Hathaway, appointing Ken Chace as the new president.
1966: Buffett Closes Partnership, Reflects on Textile Business
Buffett closed his partnership to new money in 1966 and would later call his foray into the textile business his worst trade.
1967: Berkshire Hathaway Issues First and Only Dividend
In a notable event, Berkshire Hathaway, under Warren Buffett's leadership, issued its first and only dividend of 10 cents in 1967.
1969: Buffett Liquidates Partnership, Transfers Assets to Berkshire Hathaway
In 1969, Warren Buffett made a significant move by liquidating his partnership and transferring its assets, including shares of Berkshire Hathaway, to his partners.
1969: End of Buffett Partnership, Ltd.
Buffett Partnership, Ltd., founded by Warren Buffett, operated until 1969, achieving significant success in the investment world.
1970: Buffett's Reign at Berkshire Hathaway Begins
From 1970 onwards, Warren Buffett served as the chairman and largest shareholder of Berkshire Hathaway, solidifying his position as a leading figure in the business world.
1970: Becoming Chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway
Warren Buffett assumed the roles of chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. in 1970, leading the company to become a global conglomerate.
1970: Buffett Becomes Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway
Warren Buffett emerged as the chairman and majority shareholder of Berkshire Hathaway in 1970, marking a significant turning point in his career.
1970: Buffett Begins Writing Annual Letters to Shareholders
Warren Buffett started a tradition in 1970 that would become highly anticipated in the financial world: writing his annual letters to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders.
1971: Buffett Buys Vacation Home
In 1971, Warren Buffett purchased a vacation home in Laguna Beach, California for $150,000. He later sold this property for $7.5 million in 2018.
1973: Berkshire Hathaway Invests in Washington Post Company
In 1973, Berkshire Hathaway began acquiring stock in the Washington Post Company, marking the start of Warren Buffett's relationship with Katharine Graham and his foray into media investments.
1974: SEC Investigates Buffett and Berkshire's Acquisition of Wesco Financial
The SEC launched a formal investigation into Warren Buffett and Berkshire Hathaway's acquisition of Wesco Financial in 1974 due to potential conflicts of interest, though no charges were filed.
1977: Buffett's Investment Insights
In 1977, Warren Buffett shared his insights on various asset classes, including stocks, gold, farmland, and inflation, providing valuable perspectives on long-term investment strategies.
1977: Berkshire Hathaway Acquires Buffalo Evening News, Faces Antitrust Charges
Berkshire Hathaway's indirect purchase of the Buffalo Evening News for $32.5 million in 1977 sparked antitrust charges from its competitor, the Buffalo Courier-Express.
1977: Buffett and Susan Begin Living Separately
In 1977, Warren Buffett and his wife Susan began living separately. Despite this, they remained married until Susan's death in July 2004.
1978: Charlie Munger Joins Berkshire Hathaway
In 1978, Charlie Munger, a long-time business associate of Warren Buffett, joined Berkshire Hathaway as vice-chairman.
1979: Berkshire Hathaway Starts Acquiring ABC Stock
Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway initiated its investment in the media industry by starting to acquire stock in ABC in 1979.
1982: Buffalo Courier-Express Folds
The Buffalo Courier-Express, rival to the Berkshire Hathaway-owned Buffalo Evening News, folded in 1982 after both papers had experienced financial losses.
March 18, 1985: Capital Cities Acquires ABC with Buffett's Backing
In a major media deal, Capital Cities purchased ABC for $3.5 billion on March 18, 1985, with financial backing from Warren Buffett, who acquired a 25% stake in the merged company.
1985: Berkshire Hathaway Exits Textile Business
Berkshire Hathaway completed its shift away from its origins in 1985 when it sold off the last of its textile mills.
1987: Berkshire Hathaway Becomes Largest Shareholder in Salomon Inc.
Berkshire Hathaway, under Warren Buffett's guidance, made a significant investment in 1987 by acquiring a 12% stake in Salomon Inc., becoming its largest shareholder.
1987: Buffett's Advice During RJR Nabisco Takeover
During the intense RJR Nabisco takeover battle in 1987, Warren Buffett provided counsel to John Gutfreund, highlighting his involvement in major financial events.
1988: Buffett Begins Purchasing Coca-Cola Company Stock
In 1988, Warren Buffett made a move that would become legendary in the investment world: he started purchasing stock in The Coca-Cola Company, eventually owning up to 7% of the company.
1989: Buffett Buys Private Jet
In 1989, Warren Buffett spent nearly $6.7 million of Berkshire Hathaway's funds on a private jet, naming it 'The Indefensible', later renamed 'The Indispensable'. This act was contrary to his past criticism of extravagant spending by CEOs.
1990: Salomon Inc. Rocked by Trading Scandal
A scandal involving rogue trader Paul Mozer emerged at Salomon Inc. in 1990, leading to the departure of CEO John Gutfreund and raising concerns about regulatory violations.
August 1991: Buffett Takes Helm at Salomon Inc. Amidst Crisis
Following the resignation of John Gutfreund, Warren Buffett stepped in as chairman of Salomon Inc. in August 1991 to steer the company through the crisis.
1994: Buffett's Stance on Tobacco Investments
During Berkshire Hathaway's 1994 annual meeting, Warren Buffett expressed his views on tobacco investments, sparking discussions about ethical considerations in investment decisions.
1998: Berkshire Hathaway Acquires General Re, Faces Challenges
Berkshire Hathaway's acquisition of General Re (Gen Re) in 1998, while a significant move, presented unexpected difficulties related to underwriting standards and derivatives.
1998: Buffett's Critique of Gold at Harvard
During a 1998 address at Harvard University, Warren Buffett articulated his skepticism towards gold as an investment, emphasizing its unproductive nature and challenging conventional financial wisdom.
1998: Coca-Cola's Stock Peaks
The Coca-Cola Company's stock reached its peak price of $86 in 1998.
November 1999: Buffett Challenges Efficient-Market Hypothesis, Warns of Unrealistic Expectations
In a November 1999 Fortune article, Warren Buffett challenged the efficient-market hypothesis, arguing that outperforming the S&P 500 wasn't solely due to chance. He cited the success of investors using the value investing principles of Graham and Dodd. He also cautioned investors against harboring unrealistic expectations.
1999: Buffett Named Top Money Manager
In 1999, Warren Buffett was named the Top Money Manager of the Twentieth Century in a survey by the Carson Group, surpassing notable figures like Peter Lynch and John Templeton.
1999: Buffett Sells Private Jet
By mid-1999, Warren Buffett sold his private jet, which he had purchased in 1989 and named 'The Indispensable'. Since then, he has usually flown with Berkshire's flight services businesses.
2000: Buffett's Analogy for Inheritance Tax
In 2000, Warren Buffett used a compelling analogy to advocate for the inheritance tax, comparing its repeal to selecting Olympic athletes based on lineage rather than merit.
2002: Buffett Enters Foreign Currency Market
Driven by the US trade deficit, Warren Buffett made his first foray into the foreign currency market in 2002, demonstrating his adaptability to changing economic landscapes.
2002: Buffett and Gen Re Involved with AIG
Following the acquisition, Gen Re, a Berkshire Hathaway subsidiary, became involved with Maurice R. Greenberg at AIG in 2002, providing reinsurance.
2002: Contribution to Nuclear Threat Initiative and Advisory Role
In 2002, Warren Buffett committed $50 million to the Nuclear Threat Initiative based in Washington, D.C., and assumed the role of an advisor to the organization.
2002: Buffett Makes Billion-Dollar Bet on US Dollar
Warren Buffett made a significant move in 2002, entering into $11 billion worth of forward contracts betting on the US dollar against other currencies.
2003: Financial Advisor to Arnold Schwarzenegger
In 2003, Warren Buffett took on the role of a financial advisor to Arnold Schwarzenegger during his successful campaign for Governor of California.
July 2004: Susan Buffett Passes Away
In July 2004, Susan Buffett, Warren Buffett's wife, passed away. Despite living separately since 1977, the couple remained married until her death.
2004: Buffett's Advocacy for Stock Option Expensing
At Berkshire Hathaway's 2004 annual meeting, Warren Buffett strongly advocated for the expensing of stock options on corporate income statements, highlighting his commitment to financial transparency and accounting accuracy.
2004: Buffett Discusses Challenges of Selling Holdings
In Berkshire Hathaway's 2004 annual report, Warren Buffett addressed the complexities of timing stock sales, highlighting the difficulty in knowing the optimal time to exit investments.
2004: Passing of Wife and Donation to Buffett Foundation
Following the death of his wife in 2004, the majority of her estate, valued at $2.6 billion, was transferred to the Buffett Foundation, as per Warren Buffett's earlier declarations.
March 15, 2005: AIG's Greenberg Resigns Amidst Accounting Fraud Investigation
The AIG accounting fraud investigation in 2005 implicated Gen Re executives and led to the resignation of AIG's chairman and CEO, Maurice R. Greenberg, on March 15, 2005.
2005: Buffett Adjusts Foreign Currency Holdings
In 2005, Warren Buffett significantly reduced his position in the foreign currency market in response to shifting interest rates, highlighting his disciplined approach to risk management.
February 9, 2006: AIG Agrees to $1.6 Billion Fine
After being embroiled in an accounting scandal, AIG agreed to a $1.6 billion fine on February 9, 2006.
April 2006: Buffett's Currency Contracts Yield Over $2 Billion in Profit
By April 2006, Warren Buffett's forward contracts on the US dollar had yielded a profit exceeding $2 billion.
June 2006: Pledging the Majority of Wealth to Charity
In June 2006, Warren Buffett revealed his plan to donate 83% of his wealth to charity, primarily to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. This decision signified a change from his prior intention to bequeath most of his fortune to the Buffett Foundation.
June 2006: Buffett Announces Plan to Donate Majority of Wealth
In June 2006, Warren Buffett made a landmark announcement, revealing his plan to donate 85% of his Berkshire Hathaway holdings to five foundations, including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
June 23, 2006: Largest Charitable Donation in History
On June 23, 2006, Warren Buffett made history by pledging the equivalent of 10 million Berkshire Hathaway Class B shares (worth about $30.7 billion) to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, marking the largest single charitable act ever.
July 2006: Buffett Begins Donating Berkshire Hathaway Stock
Warren Buffett's philanthropic endeavors commenced in July 2006 when he began donating his Berkshire Hathaway stock to select foundations.
December 2006: Buffett's Simple Lifestyle
In December 2006, it was reported that Warren Buffett did not carry a mobile phone, did not have a computer at his desk, and drove his own car, a Cadillac DTS. Despite his immense wealth, Buffett maintained a simple lifestyle.
2006: Buffett Marries Astrid Menks
On his 76th birthday in 2006, Warren Buffett married his longtime companion, Astrid Menks, who had been living with him since 1977. Susan Buffett had arranged for them to meet before she left Omaha to pursue her singing career.
2006: Buffett's Modest Salary
In 2006, Warren Buffett's annual salary was about $100,000, which is modest compared to other senior executives. He continued to live in the house he bought in 1958 for $31,500, a fraction of its current value.
2006: Buffett's Tax Commentary Sparks Debate
In 2006, Warren Buffett ignited controversy by revealing that he paid a lower effective tax rate than his employees, despite his significantly higher income. This sparked a national conversation about tax fairness and economic inequality.
2006: Buffett Disowns Granddaughter
In 2006, Warren Buffett disowned his son Peter's adopted daughter, Nicole, after she participated in the documentary 'The One Percent,' which highlighted economic inequality. He wrote her a letter stating that he had not emotionally or legally adopted her as a grandchild.
2006: Charity Auction for Girls, Inc.
Demonstrating his dedication to philanthropy, Warren Buffett auctioned off his 2001 Lincoln Town Car on eBay in 2006, with the proceeds going to support Girls, Inc.
2006: Buffett Cup Bridge Match
In 2006, Warren Buffett, an avid bridge player, sponsored a bridge match known as the Buffett Cup. Modeled after the Ryder Cup in golf, the teams were chosen by invitation, with both male and female teams from each country.
2007: Buffett Listed Among Time's 100 Most Influential People
In 2007, Warren Buffett was listed among Time's 100 Most Influential People in the world, recognizing his impact on finance and philanthropy.
2007: Subprime Mortgage Crisis Begins, Impacting Financial Markets
The subprime mortgage crisis, a harbinger of the impending Great Recession, began unfolding in 2007, impacting the global financial landscape.
2007: Buffett's PacifiCorp Cancels Coal-Fired Plants
In 2007, Warren Buffett's company, PacifiCorp, decided to cancel several proposed coal-fired power plants, reflecting a growing awareness of environmental concerns and a shift towards more sustainable practices.
2007: Charity Luncheon Auctions
In 2007, Warren Buffett initiated a series of charity auctions where the winning bid earned a luncheon with him. The inaugural event garnered $650,100 for the Glide Foundation, with subsequent auctions raising millions for the organization.
2007: Buffett Testifies Before Senate on Estate Tax
In 2007, Warren Buffett testified before the United States Senate, urging them to maintain the estate tax to prevent the concentration of wealth and the emergence of a plutocracy. His testimony ignited a debate about wealth inequality and the role of taxation in a fair society.
2007: Buffett Bets on S&P 500 Index Fund
In 2007, Warren Buffett made a bet with multiple managers that a simple S&P 500 index fund would outperform hedge funds that charge high fees. This bet reflected his belief in the efficacy of low-cost index funds over actively managed funds. By 2017, Buffett's bet proved successful as the index fund outperformed every hedge fund that took the bet against him.
2007: Buffett Supports Bo Pelini's Hire
Following the 2007 season, Warren Buffett supported the hiring of Bo Pelini as Nebraska's football coach, stating, 'It was getting kind of desperate around here.' Buffett is a dedicated follower of Nebraska football.
2007: Buffett Seeks Successor for Berkshire Hathaway
Acknowledging the importance of succession planning, Warren Buffett announced in 2007 that he was actively searching for a younger successor, or a team of successors, to lead Berkshire Hathaway.
July 2, 2008: Support for Barack Obama's Campaign
On July 2, 2008, Warren Buffett demonstrated his support for Barack Obama's presidential campaign by attending a high-priced fundraiser in Chicago. He expressed his contrasting views with John McCain, particularly on social justice. During the presidential debates, both Obama and McCain saw Buffett as a potential Treasury Secretary, while Obama also considered him as an economic advisor.
October 2008: Buffett Invests in BYD
In October 2008, Warren Buffett made a significant investment in BYD Company, a Chinese battery and electric vehicle manufacturer, demonstrating his forward-thinking approach and confidence in emerging technologies.
October 2008: Buffett Invests in General Electric
In October 2008, Warren Buffett agreed to purchase preferred stock in General Electric (GE), a deal that included an option to buy three billion shares at a fixed price and a 10% dividend.
October 2008: Buffett's Literary Influence
By October 2008, numerous books featuring Warren Buffett's name in their titles had been published, underscoring his significant influence on the world of finance and investment.
2008: Berkshire Hathaway Invests in Goldman Sachs, Buffett Supports Dow Chemical Deal
In the throes of the 2008 financial crisis, Berkshire Hathaway acquired preferred stock in Goldman Sachs and provided financial backing for Dow Chemical's acquisition of Rohm & Haas, highlighting Buffett's influential role in stabilizing markets.
2008: Buffett Faces Criticism During Financial Crisis
Warren Buffett's investment strategy came under scrutiny during the financial crisis of 2008, with critics suggesting early capital allocation led to less favorable deals. Despite challenges, he urged support for American businesses.
2008: Buffett Ranked Richest Person
In 2008, Warren Buffett was ranked by Forbes as the richest person in the world with an estimated net worth of $62 billion.
2008: Buffett's PetroChina Investment and Divestment
In 2008, Warren Buffett invested in PetroChina despite its controversial involvement in Sudan, defending his decision publicly. He later divested from the company, strategically avoiding significant losses during an oil price decline.
2008: Buffett's 2008 Compensation
In 2008, Warren Buffett earned a total compensation of $175,000, including a base salary of $100,000. He maintained his modest lifestyle, continuing to live in the same house he bought in 1958.
2008: Buffett Becomes World's Richest Person
In 2008, Warren Buffett's net worth, estimated at $62 billion by Forbes, propelled him to the title of the world's richest person, surpassing Bill Gates, who had held the position for 13 years.
February 2009: Buffett Sells Shares in Procter & Gamble and Johnson & Johnson
Warren Buffett sold shares of Procter & Gamble and Johnson & Johnson from his personal portfolio in February 2009.
March 2009: Buffett Expresses Economic Concerns
During a televised interview in March 2009, Warren Buffett voiced his concerns about the state of the economy, stating that it had "fallen off a cliff." He also expressed apprehension about a potential resurgence of inflation.
June 2009: Berkshire Hathaway Ranks High in Global 500
In June 2009, based on market capitalization, Berkshire Hathaway secured the eighteenth position among the world's largest corporations in the Financial Times Global 500 ranking.
2009: Buffett Divests from ConocoPhillips
Warren Buffett decided to divest from his investment in ConocoPhillips in 2009, acknowledging it as a failed investment to Berkshire Hathaway's investors.
2009: Ralph Nader's Novel and Buffett's Philanthropic Vision
Published in 2009, Ralph Nader's fictional work "Only the Super Rich Can Save Us" depicted a movement of billionaires, spearheaded by Warren Buffett, utilizing their wealth for societal betterment. Buffett, intrigued by the concept, discussed his vision of inspiring billionaires globally to donate 50% of their estates to charity with Nader.
2009: Buffett Ranked Second Richest
In 2009, after donating billions to charity, Warren Buffett was ranked as the second richest man in the United States with a net worth of $37 billion, following Bill Gates.
2009: Buffett Elected to American Philosophical Society
In 2009, Warren Buffett was elected to the American Philosophical Society, recognizing his contributions to philosophy and thought leadership.
2009: Buffett's Personal Stock Sales
In 2009, Warren Buffett sold shares of Johnson & Johnson as part of personal stock sales totaling $80 million in value between 2009 and 2012, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest with Berkshire Hathaway's dealings.
2009: Concerns about U.S. Medical Industry Incentives and Overutilization
In 2009, Warren Buffett raised concerns about the U.S. medical industry's emphasis on fee-for-service reimbursement, leading to unnecessary procedures and overutilization. He highlighted Atul Gawande's work as a compelling illustration of the issue and criticized lobbying efforts by the medical industry to protect their revenue streams.
2009: Meeting of Billionaires to Discuss Population Growth
In 2009, Warren Buffett participated in a gathering of billionaires, dubbed "The Good Club," to discuss pressing global issues such as healthcare, education, and population control. This meeting attracted criticism from certain right-wing groups, who perceived it as an attempt to promote sterilization.
2009: Buffett's Net Worth Drops, Gates Reclaims Top Spot
In 2009, Bill Gates regained his position as the world's richest person, with Warren Buffett moving to second place. Both experienced significant drops in their net worth, with Buffett losing $25 billion between 2008 and 2009.
June 2010: Buffett Defends Credit-Rating Agencies
In June 2010, Warren Buffett publicly defended the role of credit-rating agencies during the US financial crisis, arguing against excessive blame for their part in the events.
December 9, 2010: Gates-Buffett Giving Pledge
On December 9, 2010, Warren Buffett, Bill Gates, and Mark Zuckerberg unveiled the "Gates-Buffett Giving Pledge." This pledge formalized their commitment to donate a minimum of half their wealth to charitable causes and encouraged other affluent individuals to follow suit.
2010: Critique of U.S. Healthcare Costs
While acknowledging the goal of expanded coverage in President Obama's healthcare reform, Warren Buffett voiced his concerns in 2010 regarding its limitations in addressing the escalating healthcare expenses in the U.S. He compared these costs to a "tapeworm" that hinders economic competitiveness by inflating manufacturing costs and pointed out the disparity in healthcare spending and outcomes between the U.S. and other nations.
2010: Founding of the Giving Pledge
In 2010, Warren Buffett, along with Bill Gates, founded the Giving Pledge, encouraging billionaires to donate a significant portion of their wealth to philanthropy.
2010: Gen Re Settles with US Government, Avoids Prosecution in AIG Case
General Re, a Berkshire Hathaway subsidiary, settled with the US government for $92 million in 2010, escaping prosecution in the AIG accounting fraud case but agreeing to corporate governance changes.
2010: Buffett's Cameo in "Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps"
In 2010, Warren Buffet made a cameo appearance in the film "Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps," showcasing his presence in popular culture.
2010: Buffett Named Most Influential Global Thinker
In 2010, Foreign Policy named Warren Buffett, alongside Bill Gates, as the most influential global thinker in its annual report.
March 18, 2011: Goldman Sachs Buys Back Berkshire's Preferred Stock
Goldman Sachs received approval from the Federal Reserve on March 18, 2011, to repurchase the preferred stock held by Berkshire Hathaway, although Buffett expressed reluctance due to the significant dividends it generated.
November 2011: Buffett Makes a Surprise Investment in IBM
Breaking from his past statements about avoiding technology investments, Warren Buffett surprised many by acquiring 64 million shares of IBM, worth $11 billion, in November 2011. He expressed admiration for IBM's ability to retain corporate clients.
2011: Buffett Acquires Omaha World Herald
In 2011, Warren Buffett's company acquired the Omaha World Herald, one of the five newspapers he reads every day.
2011: Buffett Awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom
In 2011, Warren Buffett was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama, recognizing his contributions to business and philanthropy.
April 11, 2012: Buffett Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer
On April 11, 2012, Warren Buffett was diagnosed with stage I prostate cancer during a routine test. He announced he would start two months of daily radiation treatment from mid-July.
May 2012: Buffett's Approach to Technology Investments
In May 2012, Warren Buffett explained his cautious approach to investing in high-technology companies, emphasizing the importance of understanding a business's long-term value and the risks associated with initial public offerings (IPOs).
May 2012: Buffett Acquires Media General
In May 2012, Warren Buffett expanded his media holdings by acquiring Media General, which included 63 newspapers in the southeastern United States, marking his second significant news print purchase within a year.
September 15, 2012: Buffett Completes Cancer Treatment
On September 15, 2012, Warren Buffett announced he had completed his 44-day radiation treatment cycle for stage I prostate cancer. He expressed relief and joy, stating 'it's a great day for me' and 'I am so glad to say that's over'.
2012: Buffett's Personal Stock Sales
In 2012, Warren Buffett sold shares of Walmart and Wells Fargo as part of personal stock sales totaling $80 million in value between 2009 and 2012, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest with Berkshire Hathaway's dealings.
May 2013: Buffett Discusses Newspaper Investments
At the Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting in May 2013, Warren Buffett explained his rationale behind investing in newspapers, stating that while he didn't anticipate them significantly impacting Berkshire's overall performance, he expected a 10% annual return.
July 18, 2013: Buffett Acquires The Press of Atlantic City
The Press of Atlantic City was sold to Buffett's BH Media Group on July 18, 2013, adding to his growing portfolio of newspapers.
September 2013: Buffett's Wealth Rises
As of September 2013, Warren Buffett's net worth had risen to $58.5 billion, reflecting his successful investments and business ventures.
September 2013: Buffett Compares Federal Reserve to Hedge Fund, Advocates for Wealth Equality
During a presentation at Georgetown University in September 2013, Warren Buffett drew a comparison between the U.S. Federal Reserve and a hedge fund, highlighting its revenue generation for the government. He also used the platform to advocate for addressing wealth inequality in society.
December 9, 2013: Berkshire Hathaway Acquires Shares in USG Corporation
Berkshire Hathaway acquired shares in USG Corporation on December 9, 2013, a transaction that later resulted in a fine for failing to report the purchase promptly.
2013: Buffett's Old Nokia Flip Phone
In 2013, Warren Buffett revealed he still used an old Nokia flip phone and had only ever sent one email in his entire life, highlighting his minimal use of technology.
August 14, 2014: Berkshire Hathaway's Shares Reach Record High
On August 14, 2014, Berkshire Hathaway's shares achieved a milestone, hitting $200,000 per share for the first time, giving the company a market capitalization of $328 billion.
August 20, 2014: Berkshire Hathaway Fined for Reporting Failure
Berkshire Hathaway faced a fine of $896,000 on August 20, 2014, for failing to properly disclose its purchase of shares in USG Corporation in December 2013.
2014: Berkshire Hathaway Achieves Record Profits After Recession
Following the challenges posed by the economic crisis, Warren Buffett successfully steered Berkshire Hathaway back to its pre-recession performance levels. In the second quarter of 2014, the company reported $6.4 billion in net profit, marking its highest-ever earnings in a three-month period.
December 16, 2015: Endorsement of Hillary Clinton
Warren Buffett publicly endorsed Hillary Clinton for President of the United States on December 16, 2015.
2015: Buffett's Television Appearances
In 2015, Warren Buffett made appearances in the television shows "Entourage" and "All My Children," further solidifying his status as a cultural icon.
August 1, 2016: Challenge to Donald Trump Regarding Tax Returns
On August 1, 2016, Warren Buffett publicly challenged Donald Trump to disclose his tax returns, sparking a debate about financial transparency.
October 10, 2016: Release of Personal Tax Return
Amidst the controversy surrounding Donald Trump's refusal to release his tax information, Warren Buffett made his own 2015 tax return public on October 10, 2016. He revealed paying $1.85 million in federal income taxes on an adjusted gross income of $11.6 million and highlighted his charitable contributions exceeding $2.8 billion. Buffett refuted Trump's claim that an ongoing audit prevented disclosure, stating his own experience of transparency while being audited.
2017: Buffett's Index Fund Bet Wins
By 2017, Warren Buffett's 2007 bet that an S&P 500 index fund would outperform hedge funds over a decade proved true. The index fund outperformed all the hedge funds that took the bet against Buffett, demonstrating his belief in low-cost index funds.
2017: HBO Documentary: "Becoming Warren Buffett"
In 2017, HBO released "Becoming Warren Buffett," a documentary that offered an intimate look into Buffett's life, values, and investment strategies.
January 2018: Buffett's Skepticism Towards Cryptocurrencies
In January 2018, Warren Buffett expressed skepticism about Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, predicting a negative outcome and famously referring to Bitcoin as "rat poison squared," which ignited debates about the future of digital currencies.
2018: Buffett Uses Google
At the 2018 Berkshire Hathaway shareholder meeting, Warren Buffett stated that he uses Google as his preferred search engine. This contrasted with his earlier reported lack of technological adoption.
2018: Philanthropic Ranking by Forbes
By 2018, Warren Buffett had donated nearly $3.4 billion, earning him the third spot on Forbes' List of Billionaires for his philanthropy.
2018: Buffett Sells Vacation Home
In 2018, Warren Buffett sold his vacation home in Laguna Beach, California, which he had purchased in 1971 for $150,000, for $7.5 million.
February 2020: Buffett Switches to iPhone
In February 2020, Warren Buffett revealed in a CNBC interview that he had traded in his old Nokia flip phone for an iPhone 11, marking a significant shift in his use of technology.
2020: Criteria for Judging President Trump
In the lead-up to the 2020 presidential election, Warren Buffett stated that his decision to vote for Donald Trump would hinge on the President's performance in areas like national security, economic growth, and economic inclusivity.
2020: Buffett's Analogy for Inheritance Tax
In 2020, Warren Buffett used a compelling analogy to advocate for the inheritance tax, comparing its repeal to selecting Olympic athletes based on lineage rather than merit.
June 2021: Buffett on the Economic Impact of COVID-19
In June 2021, Warren Buffett discussed the uneven economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the struggles of small businesses and emphasizing the continued unpredictability of the markets and the economy.
June 23, 2021: Resignation from Gates Foundation Board
After years of service, Warren Buffett stepped down from his position as a trustee of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation on June 23, 2021. While he had joined the board, he hadn't been actively engaged in the foundation's investment activities.
November 2022: Donation to Family Foundations
In a notable act of familial philanthropy, Warren Buffett gifted $750 million worth of Berkshire Hathaway shares to four charitable foundations overseen by his children in November 2022. This donation included 1.5 million Class B shares to the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation and 300,000 Class B shares each to the Sherwood Foundation, the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, and the NoVo Foundation.
2022: Buffett Reconciles with Granddaughter
By 2022, Warren Buffett and his granddaughter Nicole had reconciled after their falling out in 2006.
September 2023: Jimmy Buffett's Death
In September 2023, Warren Buffett's longtime friend, singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett, passed away. The two had a close relationship and often referred to each other as 'Uncle Warren' and 'Cousin Jimmy'.
2023: Buffett's Equity Trades Raise Conflict of Interest Concerns
A 2023 ProPublica article, based on leaked IRS data, alleged that Warren Buffett engaged in equity trades involving companies that Berkshire Hathaway was simultaneously buying or selling, leading to concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
2023: Lifetime Charitable Giving Exceeds $50 Billion
As of 2023, Warren Buffett's cumulative charitable contributions have surpassed an astounding $50 billion, cementing his legacy as one of the most generous philanthropists in history.
2023: No Event
No event provided
April 2024: Warren Buffett's Net Worth Reaches $139 Billion
As of April 2024, Warren Buffett's net worth reached $139 billion, making him the ninth-richest person globally.