Behind the Money

Dispatch from Omaha: Berkshire after Warren Buffett

May 15, 2024

Exploring the future of Berkshire Hathaway after Warren Buffett's reign, with a spotlight on Greg Abel as a potential successor. Discussions include Berkshire's dividend strategy, the EU corruption scandal, and the challenges of preserving Buffett's legacy. Delve into the aura of Buffett, the conglomerate's diverse holdings, and the upcoming leadership transition at America's 'last great' conglomerate.

23:03

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Quick takeaways

The podcast explores the critical issue of succession planning at Berkshire Hathaway post-Warren Buffett, focusing on Greg Abel as the potential successor and the challenges of leading a conglomerate valued at over $600 billion.

Through the annual meeting of Berkshire Hathaway, investors gain insights into Warren Buffett's investment strategies, the conglomerate's diverse businesses, and the need for strategic direction to navigate challenges in a mature market.

Deep dives

Succession Planning at Berkshire Hathaway

The podcast delves into the future of Berkshire Hathaway post-Warren Buffett, focusing on the critical issue of succession planning. With Buffett inching closer to 94 years old, questions arise about who will take over the reins and whether Greg Abel is the chosen successor. Abel's journey from Cal Energy to being named CEO-in-waiting highlights Berkshire's transition plan and the weight of leading a conglomerate valued at over $600 billion.

Introduction

2min

Warren Buffett's Legacy and Berkshire Hathaway

7min

Berkshire's Dividend Strategy and Succession Planning

4min

EU Corruption Scandal and Warren Buffett's Meeting Highlights

2min

The Rise of Greg Abel at Berkshire Hathaway

8min

Succession Concerns and Legacy Preservation at Berkshire Hathaway

3min

Late last year, Warren Buffett’s close business confidant Charlie Munger died at 99. Munger’s death and Buffett’s upcoming 94th birthday have renewed questions about the future of Berkshire Hathaway. What will the empire he’s built look like after he’s no longer at the helm?

Behind the Money and the FT’s senior corporate finance correspondent Eric Platt travel to Omaha, Nebraska for Berkshire Hathaway’s annual shareholder meeting, to get a better sense of how the next generation will lead America’s “last great” conglomerate.

Clips from CNBC

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For further reading:

Berkshire after Buffett: is Greg Abel up to the top job?

Berkshire after Buffett: prized energy business faces upheaval

Berkshire after Buffett: the risk ‘genius’ pulling the insurance strings

Berkshire after Buffett: can any stockpicker follow the Oracle?

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On X, follow Eric Platt (@ericgplatt) and Michela Tindera (@mtindera07), or follow Michela on LinkedIn for updates about the show and more.

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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