Warren Buffett's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Warren Buffett.

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

1962: Buffett Becomes a Millionaire

In 1962, Warren Buffett became a millionaire due to the success of his partnerships, which held over $7,178,500. He merged his partnerships into Buffett Partnership, Ltd.

1988: Investment in The Coca-Cola Company

In 1988, Warren Buffett began buying The Coca-Cola Company stock, eventually purchasing up to 7% of the company for $1.02 billion, marking one of Berkshire's most lucrative investments.

1999: Top Money Manager of the Twentieth Century

In 1999, Warren Buffett was named the Top Money Manager of the Twentieth Century in a survey by the Carson Group.

April 2006: Gain on currency contracts

By April 2006, Warren Buffett's total gain on forward contracts to deliver U.S. dollars against other currencies was over $2 billion.

2007: Listed Among Time's 100 Most Influential People

In 2007, Warren Buffett was listed among Time's 100 Most Influential People in the world.

September 23, 2008: Acquisition of Goldman Sachs stock

On September 23, 2008, Berkshire Hathaway acquired 10 percent of perpetual preferred stock of Goldman Sachs. Also in 2008, Berkshire Hathaway provided $3 billion for Dow Chemical's takeover of Rohm & Haas, becoming the single largest shareholder in the enlarged group.

October 2008: Buffett Invests in BYD Company

In October 2008, Warren Buffett invested $230 million for 10% of battery maker BYD Company, which runs a subsidiary of electric automobile manufacturer BYD Auto. This investment reaped over 500% return in less than a year. Previously in 2008, Buffett sold his stake in PetroChina Company Limited.

2008: Richest person in the world

In 2008, Warren Buffett became the richest person in the world, with a net worth estimated at $62 billion by Forbes and $58 billion by Yahoo, surpassing Bill Gates.

2009: Honorary Assistant Coach and Election to American Philosophical Society

In 2009, Warren Buffett watched a Nebraska game against Oklahoma from the sideline as an honorary assistant coach and was elected to the American Philosophical Society.

2009: Ranked Second Richest Man in the United States

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.