Billionaire investor Warren Buffett confirms his retirement, expressing concerns over the ongoing trade war's potential negative impact on the United States.
Rolling Back the Trade War: Buffett's Plea
Warren Buffett, the billionaire investment guru, has thrown his hat into the ring, expressing his disapproval for the ongoing trade war. Addressing thousands at the Berkshire Hathaway shareholder meeting in Omaha, Buffett declared, "Trade should not be a weapon."
The renowned CEO, now 94, urged the United States to prioritize trade with the rest of the world, encouraging cooperation and mutual benefits. His remarks elicited a wave of applause from the crowd gathered in the downtown arena.
Buffett steered clear of mentioning President Trump, whose administration's tariffs have sparked a global trade war, sent shockwaves through financial markets, and raised red flags regarding a potential recession. Nevertheless, his stance on trade clearly countered Trump's policies, sparking speculation about Buffett's views on the issue.
Many attendees at this annual "Woodstock for Capitalists" event were eagerly waiting for Buffett to voice his opinion on the tariffs. Some Wall Street analysts suggested that Buffett, like several of his peers, must be feeling frustrated with the uncertainty caused by Washington's policies.
With major corporations trimming or abandoning their financial projections for the year, citing tariffs as a primary factor, the impact of these trade policies is increasingly evident. Berkshire Hathaway itself added to these warnings, reporting a sharp decline in quarterly profits compared to the previous year, attributing some of the drop to the uncertainty caused by tariffs.
Buffett's Influence and Patriotism
As a pillar of Wall Street for over six decades, Buffett wields significant clout. His acquisition of Berkshire Hathaway back in the 60s transformed a struggling textile mill into a global powerhouse, encompassing businesses from insurance and railroads to Dairy Queen and Duracell batteries. Berkshire also boasts substantial investments in numerous other companies, including Coca-Cola, Apple, and American Express.
Given Berkshire's diverse portfolio and vast reach, the company serves as a valued barometer for the broader economy. Buffett, who is known for his folksy demeanor and fondness for the American flag, is an unabashed booster of his country and its systems.
Speaking at the meeting, Buffett emphasized that the prosperity of the rest of the world is closely tied to that of the U.S., stressing the importance of cooperative, beneficial trade relationships. He argued that promoting economic growth globally would not only benefit the U.S. but also ensure the safety and prosperity of future generations.
Buffett's Annual Spectacle
Over the course of more than four hours, Buffett regaled the audience with insights and anecdotes. His annual meeting stands out in the corporate world, offering a unique blend of educational conference, marketing event, and fan convention. The scene in Omaha's CHI Health Center was bustling, hosting thousands of visitors who flocked to exhibits featuring Berkshire-owned brands and left with bags full of memorabilia.
From finance bros in vests to young families with strollers, foreign travelers taking selfies, and retirees who have been Berkshire shareholders for decades, the crowd was diverse and passionate. Lorenzo Alaan, a retired physician who traveled from The Villages, Florida, put it succinctly when he said, "I told my kids: Do not sell it. You sell your house, your jewelry, don't sell Berkshire. It's for your children and grandchildren."
Buffett's Departure and New Era
In closing the event, Buffett announced a significant change: he would be stepping down as CEO at the end of the year, handing the reins to his long-designated successor, Greg Abel. The announcement was met with a prolonged standing ovation.
Buffett, ever the showman, quipped, "The enthusiasm from that response can be interpreted in two ways." With Abel taking over, Berkshire Hathaway is poised to enter a new era under the guidance of a seasoned executive.
References:
[1] Balasubramanyam, V. (2025, May 4). Warren Buffett Takes Aim at Trade Wars at Berkshire Hathaway Meeting [Interview transcript]. NPR. https://www.npr.org/2025/05/04/1097957967/warren-buffett-takes-aim-at-trade-wars-at-berkshire-hathaway-meeting
[2] Hecht, R. (2025, May 5). Berkshire Hathaway Warns of Adverse Consequences From U.S. Tariffs [Article]. Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/business/us-stocks/berkshire-hathaway-warns-of-possible-adverse-tariff-impact-2025-05-05/
- In the annual "Woodstock for Capitalists" event, Warren Buffett, famed investment guru and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, expressed concerns about the ongoing trade war and warned of potential adverse consequences from US tariffs.
- Buffett, known for his patriotism and significant influence in the finance world, argued for cooperative, beneficial trade relationships, stating that promoting economic growth globally is essential for the prosperity of future generations.
- Given Berkshire Hathaway's diverse portfolio and impact on the global economy, the company's sharp decline in quarterly profits, attributed to uncertainty caused by tariffs, serves as a warning of the impact of trade policies on businesses.
- Wall Street analysts speculate that Buffett and his peers may feel frustrated with the uncertainty caused by Washington's policies, as this may contribute to major corporations trimming or abandoning their financial projections for the year.
- As Someday Buffett steps down as CEO at the end of the year, there is speculation about a new era for Berkshire Hathaway under the guidance of Greg Abel, the long-designated successor.
