Warren Buffett Leads 2025 Berkshire Hathaway Shareholder Meeting
On May 3, 2025, Warren Buffett, the legendary investor known as the Oracle of Omaha, hosted his milestone 60th annual shareholder meeting for Berkshire Hathaway. Alongside top executives Greg Abel and Ajit Jain, Buffett shared insights on various pressing topics, from trade policies to investment strategies. This event comes on the heels of the multinational conglomerate reporting a decline in operating profit, primarily due to losses from insurance claims linked to wildfires and fluctuations in foreign currencies.
Key Financial Highlights
Berkshire Hathaway experienced a 14% drop in operating profit during the first quarter, falling to $9.64 billion, which translates to approximately $6,703 per Class A share. This decline is notable compared to the previous year’s figure of $11.22 billion. Additionally, the company’s net income plummeted 64%, down to $4.6 billion, or $3,200 per Class A share, largely due to unrealized losses in stock holdings, particularly in Apple.
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Operating Profit:
- 2025: $9.64 billion
- 2024: $11.22 billion
- Net Income:
- 2025: $4.6 billion
- 2024: $12.7 billion
One bright spot for the conglomerate is its cash reserves, which have surged to an impressive $347.7 billion, setting a new record.
Buffett’s Insights and Notable Quotes
During the meeting, Buffett shared several memorable thoughts, including:
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Praise for Apple’s Leadership: Buffett humorously acknowledged that Apple CEO Tim Cook has generated more profits for Berkshire Hathaway than he himself has. He stated, “I’m somewhat embarrassed to say that Tim Cook has made Berkshire a lot more money than I’ve ever made Berkshire Hathaway. Credit should be given to him.”
- Views on Trade Policies: Buffett expressed his concerns regarding tariffs and protectionism. He emphasized that “trade should not be a weapon” and advocated for the U.S. to engage in global trade effectively. “We should do what we do best, and they should do what they do best,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of international cooperation.
Looking Ahead
As Berkshire Hathaway continues to navigate complex market conditions, stakeholders are keen to see how the company will leverage its substantial cash holdings for future investments. With Buffett at the helm, investors remain optimistic about the conglomerate’s strategic direction.
Conclusion
Warren Buffett’s insights during the 2025 Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting reflect both the challenges and opportunities facing the company. With a sharp focus on trade and a commitment to fostering profitable partnerships, Berkshire Hathaway aims to sustain its legacy of success. For more on Buffett’s investment strategies and Berkshire’s financial performance, stay tuned for future updates.
