Warren Buffett Stepped Down as Berkshire Hathaway Chairman
The 96-year-old billionaire transitioned to a new role as Chairman Emeritus.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Public Companies
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Warren Buffett has officially stepped down as Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, concluding a leadership era that began after he acquired the company in 1965. The board has appointed Howard Buffett to serve as the new Chairman of the organization.
Why it matters
This leadership transition marks a significant milestone in the history of the Omaha-based conglomerate. Howard Buffett brings continuity to the role, having served as a director since 1993, while the company continues its operations under the leadership of CEO Greg Abel.
Warren Buffett, who is 96, has served in leadership since acquiring a majority share of the textile firm in 1965. Howard Buffett has served as a director since 1993, and Greg Abel assumed the CEO role in 2025.
The players
Warren Buffett
He is the long-time leader of Berkshire Hathaway who successfully transformed the company into a massive conglomerate.
Howard Buffett
He is the newly appointed Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway who has served as a board director since 1993.
Greg Abel
He is the current CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, having taken over the role in 2025.
The details
Warren Buffett remains a member of the company board while transitioning to the title of Chairman Emeritus. Howard Buffett was appointed to his new position as Chairman following the departure of his father from the post.
Timeline
1965: Warren Buffett acquired a majority share of Berkshire Hathaway.
1993: Howard Buffett began his tenure as a director.
2025: Greg Abel became CEO of the company.
September 18, 2026: Warren Buffett stepped down as chairman.
Market Landscape
This transition marks the conclusion of the most significant leadership era in corporate history. The shift formalizes a succession process that aligns the firm with its established leadership hierarchy under CEO Greg Abel.
The transition to a new Chairman and the continued leadership of CEO Greg Abel signal continuity for shareholders and investors. Customers and stakeholders should not expect immediate operational changes as the company maintains its established strategic direction.
The takeaway
The move formalizes the succession plan for one of the most influential holding companies in the world. Investors and observers should note that board continuity remains high despite the change in the chairmanship.
Further reading
For more information on the firm's organizational structure, visit Public Companies.
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