As Warren Buffett steps down from Berkshire Hathaway, his last shareholder meeting in May 2025 leaves an indelible mark—a celebration of wisdom, humility, and a life well-lived.
A Historic Moment in Omaha
On May 3, 2025, the CHI Health Center in Omaha buzzed with reverence and nostalgia. Nearly 40,000 shareholders gathered for Warren Buffett’s final Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting, the “Woodstock for Capitalists.” At 94, the Oracle of Omaha, frail yet sharp, spoke for over four hours, his wit and clarity captivating the crowd. The air was electric—attendees clutched See’s Candies, swapped stories, and sensed the weight of history.
Buffett stunned the audience by announcing his retirement as CEO by year’s end, naming Greg Abel as successor. “The time has arrived for Greg to lead,” he said, his voice steady yet reflective. Promising to “hang around,” he left no doubt his spirit would linger in the $1.1 trillion conglomerate he built from a humble textile mill.
Timeless Wisdom from the Oracle
Buffett’s final meeting was a masterclass in life and investing. He tackled trade, tariffs, and the U.S. deficit, cautioning that “trade should not be a weapon.” Yet, his life lessons shone brightest: think long-term, act with integrity, embrace simplicity.
Here are his most enduring quotes:
We will make our best deals when people are the most pessimistic. I don’t have emotions about stock prices.
Warren Buffett, 2025 Shareholder Meeting
Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.
Warren Buffett, 1991 Shareholder Letter
If you aren’t willing to own a stock for 10 years, don’t think about owning it for 10 minutes.
Warren Buffett, 1996 Shareholder Letter
The sillier the market’s behavior, the greater the opportunity for the businesslike investor.
Warren Buffett, 1987 Shareholder Letter
Rule No. 1: Never lose money. Rule No. 2: Never forget Rule No. 1.
Warren Buffett, 1985 Shareholder Letter
At the 2025 meeting, Buffett downplayed market volatility as “nothing” compared to past crises, urging focus on fundamentals over fear.
The Heart of a Teacher
The meeting was deeply human. Shareholders like Haibo Liu, who camped overnight, and Linda Smith, a 20-year attendee, shared how Buffett shaped their lives. Liu said, “He has helped me a lot,” while Smith marveled at Berkshire’s value. Fans swapped stories of his letters and talks, which inspired them to invest wisely and live simply.
Attendees clutched plush toys of Buffett and Munger, shared lessons from his teachings, and celebrated a man who made wealth accessible, not elusive.
Buffett’s humility stood out. With a $150 billion net worth, he lives in the same Omaha house bought in 1958 for $31,500, sips Cherry Coke, and spends 80% of his day reading. His call to “read and think a lot” urged all to stay curious.
A Legacy That Endures
As Buffett steps back, Greg Abel takes the helm. Berkshire reported a Q1 profit dip and held a record cash pile, signaling caution amid tariff uncertainties. Yet, Buffett’s optimism endured: “We’ve gone through recessions, wars… I would not get discouraged.” His faith in America and Berkshire’s culture of trust fuels hope.
Through the Giving Pledge, Buffett will donate most of his wealth, inspiring generosity. His life asks: What trees are we planting? What legacy will we leave? As one shareholder said, “Even if he dies, these businesses will retain their value.”
It’s far better to buy a wonderful company at a fair price than a fair company at a wonderful price.
Warren Buffett, 1989 Shareholder Letter
Your Invitation to Reflect
Buffett’s retirement is a call to embrace his lessons: invest in yourself, cherish simplicity, build something lasting. At his final meeting, he said, “The more prosperous the world becomes, the more prosperous we’ll become.” Let’s carry his optimism, planting trees for future shade.
