Overview
- Warren Buffett retired as CEO on Dec. 31 and transferred leadership to Greg Abel on Jan. 1 after nearly six decades at the helm.
- Buffett remains chairman, chose Abel as his successor, and said he would not sell his Berkshire Hathaway shares.
- Berkshire held about $381 billion in cash and short‑term investments at the end of the third quarter of 2025, providing substantial flexibility for new decisions.
- The company’s structure blends hundreds of operating subsidiaries with a concentrated portfolio of public stocks built during Buffett’s tenure.
- Berkshire’s historical returns averaged roughly 20% annually versus about 10% for the S&P 500, and Buffett’s focus on quality businesses at reasonable prices held long term is being promoted as actionable guidance for 2026.