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. He is the Chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, a conglomerate holding company. His exceptional investment acumen has made him one of the most renowned investors globally. As of May 2025, Buffett's estimated net worth is approximately $160.2 billion, ranking him among the wealthiest individuals in the world. He is widely respected for his value investing philosophy and long-term investment strategies.

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 with the success of his partnerships.

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

In April 2006, Warren Buffett's total gain on forward contracts to deliver U.S. dollars against other currencies 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: Report on Books with Buffett's Name

In October 2008, USA Today reported that at least 47 books were in print with Warren Buffett's name in the title. Buffett's personal favorite is The Essays of Warren Buffett.

October 2008: Investment in BYD Company

In October 2008, Warren Buffett invested $230 million for 10% of battery maker BYD Company, which also operates an electric automobile manufacturing subsidiary, and reaped over 500% return in less than one year.

2008: Richest person in the world

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

2009: Gates regains top position

In 2009, Bill Gates regained the top position on the Forbes list, while Warren Buffett shifted to second place, with his value dropping to $37 billion.

2009: Honorary Assistant Coach

In 2009, Warren Buffett watched the game against Oklahoma from the Nebraska sideline, after being named an honorary assistant coach. 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.

2010: Most Influential Global Thinker

In 2010, Warren Buffett, along with Bill Gates, was named the most influential global thinker in Foreign Policy's report.

2011: Presidential Medal of Freedom

In 2011, President Barack Obama awarded Warren Buffett the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

September 15, 2012: Completion of Radiation Treatment

On September 15, 2012, Warren Buffett announced that he had completed the full 44-day radiation treatment cycle, saying "it's a great day for me" and "I am so glad to say that's over".