50 Facts About Warren Buffett

Early Life and Inspirations

Warren Buffett's journey to becoming one of the world's most successful investors began at a young age. His early experiences and inspirations set the foundation for his future success.

1. At age seven, Buffett borrowed "One Thousand Ways to Make $1000" from the Omaha public library, sparking his interest in business and investing.
2. By 16, he had amassed the equivalent of $53,000 through side gigs like selling used golf balls, collector stamps, and buffing cars.

Education and Career Beginnings

Buffett's educational path and early career choices were instrumental in shaping his investment philosophy and strategies.

3. He graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1947. Despite his entrepreneurial success, his father insisted he attend college.
4. Buffett graduated from the University of Nebraska in three years and applied to Harvard Business School but was rejected.
5. He later attended Columbia University, where his idols Benjamin Graham and David Dodd were professors.
6. Buffett's first job was at Buffett-Falk & Co. as an investment salesman from 1951 to 1954.
7. He then moved to Graham-Newman Corp. as a securities analyst from 1954 to 1956.
8. In 1956, he founded Buffett Partnership, Ltd., where he served as a general partner until 1969.

Berkshire Hathaway and Investment Philosophy

Buffett's leadership at Berkshire Hathaway and his unique investment philosophy have made him a legend in the world of finance.

9. In 1970, Buffett became the Chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway Inc., a position he still holds today.
10. His investment philosophy centers around value investing, focusing on well-managed, undervalued companies.
11. Buffett is known for holding onto investments indefinitely, often letting existing management teams handle day-to-day operations.
12. Some of Berkshire Hathaway's top investments include Apple, Bank of America, Coca-Cola, American Express, Kraft Heinz, and GEICO Insurance.
13. Unlike many investors, Buffett does not believe in diversification, preferring to focus on a few high-quality investments.
14. He attributes much of his success to the power of compounding, emphasizing long-term investing.

Net Worth and Philanthropy

Buffett's immense wealth and commitment to philanthropy have made a significant impact on the world.

15. As of April 2022, Warren Buffett's net worth was estimated to be over $124.3 billion.
16. In 2009, he co-founded The Giving Pledge with Bill Gates, committing to give away at least half of their wealth to charitable causes.
17. Buffett has pledged to give away 99% of his wealth to charity via the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Personal Life and Habits

Despite his wealth, Buffett leads a relatively frugal and simple life, with some unique habits and interests.

18. He still resides in the same Omaha home he purchased in 1958 for $31,500.
19. Buffett is known for his love of Coca-Cola, consuming at least five 12-ounce servings every day.
20. He frequently visits Dairy Queen for ice cream and McDonald's for breakfast.
21. Despite his wealth, he eschewed the idea of purchasing a corporate jet until later in his career, naming it the Indefensible.
22. Buffett married Susan Thompson in 1952. They separated in 1977 but remained married until her death in 2004.
23. He began living with Astrid Menks in 1978 and married her in 2006.
24. Buffett has three children: Susie, Howard, and Peter.

Wisdom and Quotes

Buffett's wisdom and quotes have inspired countless individuals in the world of investing and beyond.

25. One of his famous quotes is, “If you don’t find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die.”
26. He advises, “Be fearful when others are greedy, and be greedy when others are fearful.”
27. Buffett emphasizes long-term investing, saying, “If you aren’t willing to hold a stock for 10 years, don’t even think about holding it for 10 minutes.”

Business Ventures and Hobbies

Beyond Berkshire Hathaway, Buffett has been involved in various business ventures and has a range of hobbies.

28. He has invested in companies like See’s Candies, Fruit of the Loom, and the Pampered Chef Ltd.
29. Buffett enjoys playing bridge, reflecting his strategic thinking.
30. He also plays the ukulele, showcasing his creative side.
31. Buffett is an avid reader, spending much of his time reading books.

Awards and Recognition

Buffett's contributions to business and philanthropy have earned him numerous awards and recognition.

32. In 2011, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama.
33. In 2007, Buffett was listed among Time’s 100 Most Influential People in the World.
34. In Foreign Policy’s 2010 report, Buffett, along with Bill Gates, was named the most influential global thinker.

Berkshire Hathaway's Performance

Under Buffett's leadership, Berkshire Hathaway has achieved remarkable success.

35. The share price of Berkshire Hathaway has risen significantly, increasing from $7.60 to over $300,000 per share in 33 years.
36. Buffett's decision to avoid technology stocks during the late 1990s was criticized, but when the dotcom bubble burst, his strategy proved correct, and Berkshire Hathaway’s profits doubled.

Unique Health Habits

Buffett's approach to health is as unique as his investment strategies.

37. He checks actuarial tables and found that the lowest death rate is among 6-year-olds, leading him to eat like a 6-year-old, consuming a diet high in sugar and salt.

Legacy and Influence

Buffett's legacy extends beyond his financial success, inspiring new generations of investors and philanthropists.

38. He is a testament to the power of long-term investing and the importance of giving back to society.
39. Buffett's commitment to value investing and his unique approach to life have inspired countless individuals around the world.
40. His philanthropic efforts are extensive, pledging to give away 99% of his wealth to charity.
41. Buffett co-founded The Giving Pledge with Bill Gates, encouraging billionaires to give away at least half of their wealth to charitable causes.
42. His respect for charitable causes and commitment to making the world a better place have earned him enormous respect.

Miscellaneous Facts

Here are some additional interesting facts about Warren Buffett that highlight his diverse interests and unique personality.

43. Buffett bought his first shares of Cities Service at age 11 and filed his first income tax return by 13.
44. While still in high school, he delivered newspapers, sold golf balls and stamps, and detailed cars to earn extra money.
45. Buffett's approach to health is unique, checking actuarial tables and eating like a 6-year-old.
46. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011.
47. Buffett was listed among Time’s 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2007.
48. In Foreign Policy’s 2010 report, Buffett, along with Bill Gates, was named the most influential global thinker.
49. Under Buffett’s guidance, Berkshire Hathaway’s share price has risen significantly.
50. Buffett’s decision to avoid technology stocks during the late 1990s was criticized, but his strategy proved correct when the dotcom bubble burst.

Buffett's Enduring Legacy

Warren Buffett's life is a masterclass in value investing and philanthropy. From his early fascination with finance to leading Berkshire Hathaway, Buffett has shown the power of long-term thinking. His knack for spotting undervalued companies and letting them grow has made him one of the world's wealthiest individuals. Yet, his commitment to giving away 99% of his wealth through The Giving Pledge highlights his belief in making the world a better place. Living frugally, despite immense wealth, and his love for simple pleasures like Coca-Cola and McDonald's, make him relatable. Buffett's wisdom, like "Be fearful when others are greedy," continues to inspire investors globally. His legacy isn't just about financial success; it's about using that success to benefit society. Warren Buffett remains a beacon of smart investing and generous giving.