Warren Buffett's Success and Achievements in Timeline

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

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

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

1962: Became a millionaire

In 1962, Warren Buffett became a millionaire due to the success of his partnerships, which held nearly $7.2 million, with more than $1,025,000 belonging to Buffett.

1988: Buffett Buys Coca-Cola Stock

In 1988, Warren Buffett began investing in The Coca-Cola Company, eventually acquiring 7% of the company's stock for $1.02 billion, which proved to be one of Berkshire Hathaway's most successful and enduring 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 currency contracts exceeded $2 billion.

2007: Time's 100 Most Influential People

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

October 2008: Investment in BYD Company

In October 2008, Warren Buffett invested $230 million for 10% of battery and electric vehicle maker BYD Company. This investment reaped over a 500% return in less than a year.

2008: Buffett Becomes World's Richest Person

In 2008, Warren Buffett became the richest person in the world, with an estimated net worth of $62 billion according to Forbes.

2008: Richest Person in the World

In 2008, Warren Buffett was ranked by Forbes as the richest person in the world with an estimated net worth of approximately $62 billion.

2009: Honorary Assistant Coach

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

2009: Second Richest Man in the United States

In 2009, after donating billions of dollars to charity, Warren Buffett was ranked as the second richest man in the United States with a net worth of $37 billion.