Warren Buffett has taken another step back from Berkshire Hathaway. The company named him chairman emeritus on September 18, 2026. He will remain on Berkshire’s board and continue providing advice. The leadership change follows Buffett’s earlier decision to leave his CEO role. Greg Abel, his longtime deputy, became Berkshire’s chief executive earlier this year. Howard Buffett, Warren Buffett’s son, has now become chairman.
Warren Buffett Becomes Chairman Emeritus
Berkshire Hathaway said the new chairman emeritus role takes effect immediately. Buffett, who is 96, will continue serving as a board member. In a letter to shareholders, Buffett reflected on his long career. He also acknowledged the effects of age and time. The change marks another major transition for Berkshire. Buffett had led the company for decades.
During his tenure, Berkshire grew from a struggling textile company into a major investment group. Its value has now surpassed $1 trillion.
Howard Buffett Takes the Chairman Role
Howard Buffett has served on Berkshire Hathaway’s board since 1993. He will now oversee the board as chairman. The company said Warren Buffett will continue offering his judgment and perspective. This allows him to remain involved without holding the chairman position. Greg Abel also commented on the leadership change. He said Berkshire’s culture and values will remain important under Howard Buffett’s leadership.
Greg Abel Leads Berkshire Hathaway
Greg Abel now manages Berkshire Hathaway as CEO. He previously worked closely with Buffett on major business decisions. Abel has already outlined several areas for Berkshire’s future growth. These include artificial intelligence, energy, housing, and international investments.
Berkshire recently increased its investment in Alphabet. The company sees opportunities linked to artificial intelligence infrastructure. Abel also highlighted the growing demand for electricity from data centers. This could create opportunities for Berkshire Hathaway Energy.
Berkshire also continues to hold major investments in Japan. Its portfolio includes stakes in several large Japanese trading companies.
Buffett’s Investment Legacy
Warren Buffett built his reputation through long-term investing. His approach focused on buying strong businesses at reasonable prices. He also became known for careful capital allocation. His leadership helped turn Berkshire into a diversified business group. The company now owns businesses across several industries. These include railroads, insurance, energy, manufacturing, and retail. Major Berkshire businesses include BNSF Railway and GEICO. The group also owns brands such as Dairy Queen and See’s. The latest leadership change does not remove Buffett from Berkshire completely. He will continue serving on the board. His new position also keeps his experience available to the company. However, day-to-day leadership now rests with Greg Abel.
The transition represents a new phase for Berkshire Hathaway. It also keeps Buffett connected to the company he transformed over many decades.
Read more about Elizabeth Holmes, Theranos, her trial, prison sentence, and latest news.