Warren Buffett Steps Down as Berkshire Hathaway Chairman; Son Howard to Succeed Him
Warren Buffett, the "Oracle of Omaha," is stepping down as chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, a post he held since 1970. The company announced on Friday that his son, Howard Buffett, will become the new chairman, while Greg Abel continues as…

Chattanooga, TN, September 18, 2026 —
Warren Buffett, widely known as the “Oracle of Omaha,” is stepping down from his role as chairman of Berkshire Hathaway. The influential investor, who has held the position since 1970, will transition to the role of chairman emeritus. The company made the announcement on Friday.
Following Buffett’s departure from the chairmanship, his son, Howard Buffett, is set to assume the role of chairman of Berkshire Hathaway. This leadership change marks a significant moment for the conglomerate, which Buffett has steered for over five decades.
Greg Abel will continue in his capacity as the chief executive officer (CEO) of Berkshire Hathaway. The company has not provided further details regarding the specific timeline for this transition beyond the announcement made on Friday.
Buffett’s tenure as chairman has been characterized by significant growth and investment strategies that have made Berkshire Hathaway one of the world’s largest companies. His decision to step down and take on the emeritus role signals a planned succession at the top of the storied investment firm.
Howard Buffett’s appointment as chairman follows a period of integration into the company’s leadership structure. Greg Abel, as CEO, will continue to oversee the operational management and strategic direction of Berkshire Hathaway’s diverse portfolio of businesses.
The company’s announcement did not specify additional details about the operational responsibilities associated with the chairman emeritus title or the exact date of the transition beyond the Friday announcement.
Story summarized from the original created by Associated Press on www.wdef.com, see more information here.