Warren Buffett Remains Active at Berkshire Hathaway Despite Leadership Transition
In a recent interview with CNBC’s Becky Quick, Warren Buffett, the 95-year-old chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, confirmed that he is not stepping back fully from his responsibilities within the company. Despite officially entrusting the leadership to Greg Abel at the end of the previous year, Buffett remains actively involved in investment decisions at the financial conglomerate he co-founded with the late Charlie Munger.
Buffett, known as the "Oracle of Omaha," expressed that he continues to go to the office daily and is still making investment choices, albeit on a smaller scale. He disclosed that he recently made a "tiny" new investment, although further details were not provided.
Since his announcement in May to step down as chief executive, Berkshire Hathaway’s stock has seen a decline of approximately 11%, contrasting with a 13% rise in the S&P 500 during the same timeframe. Nevertheless, Buffett confirmed that the company has recently invested $17 billion in US Treasury bills, contributing to a significant cash equivalent balance exceeding $370 million held mostly in Treasury bills.
In November 2025, Buffett relayed that he would cease speaking at Berkshire Hathaway’s annual meetings after decades of participation. Following this, Greg Abel authored the firm’s annual letter to shareholders, released at the end of February, explaining the company’s performance and forecasts.
Under Buffett’s leadership during his final quarter as CEO, Berkshire Hathaway sold more stocks than it purchased, reducing its stakes in major companies like Apple and Bank of America while also scaling back on Amazon shares. As of last year’s end, Apple remained the largest holding, valued at approximately $62 billion.
Reflecting on past decisions, Buffett acknowledged he may have trimmed Berkshire’s Apple stake too early but stated he does not regret those actions. He remains optimistic about the company’s future, mentioning increased investments in Chevron and Chubb, along with a new, modest position in the New York Times.
Looking back, Buffett remarked that he could have retired sooner, suggesting that Abel could have led the company effectively in his stead. He praised his successor, saying, “Greg covers more ground in a day than I would in a week, even at my peak,” indicating high confidence in Abel’s capabilities.
As the transition unfolds, Buffett’s continued enthusiasm for investing and his involvement at Berkshire Hathaway exemplify his dedication to the company that has defined his career.
By David Hollerith, covering the financial sector, including banks, private equity, and cryptocurrency.
