Overview
- Abel, 63, formally became CEO on January 1, 2026, succeeding Warren Buffett after roughly six decades of Buffett’s leadership.
- He has told shareholders the investment philosophy will remain focused on durable, cash‑generating businesses with a long‑term horizon.
- Berkshire enters the transition with more than $350 billion in cash and short‑term Treasurys and about $283 billion in publicly traded equities.
- Recent moves include a first‑ever $4.3 billion stake in Alphabet and early organizational changes such as adding a new CFO, appointing the company’s first general counsel, and promoting the NetJets chief to oversee 32 consumer, retail, and services businesses.
- Buffett says he will keep an advisory role and remain board chair but plans a quieter public profile, including skipping the stage at this year’s annual meeting, as Berkshire shares have slipped early in 2026.