Buffett reassures Berkshire investors on succession planning after underperformance

100% prepared

David Brenchley
clock • 3 min read

Warren Buffett assured Berkshire Hathaway investors the firm was “100% prepared” for his and deputy Charlie Munger’s departure at the weekend, as his annual letter noted 2019 was the company’s worst year for underperformance since 2009.

Buffet noted he, 89, and Munger, 96, "long ago entered the urgent zone", adding this was "not exactly great news for us, but Berkshire Hathaway shareholders need not worry". The reasons for this were largely due to its strong portfolio of businesses, but also because of the "skilled and devoted top managers" it employs, "for whom running Berkshire is far more than simply having a high-paying and/or prestigious job". Berkshire Hathaway lags as cash pile continues to grow "Finally, Berkshire's directors - your guardians - are constantly focused on both the welfare of owners and the n...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Your profession

Professional Adviser TV: Tackling 'horrendous' letter of authority delays

Professional Adviser TV: Tackling 'horrendous' letter of authority delays

‘LOAs could be really magical’

Professional Adviser
clock 29 August 2025 • 2 min read
How Parmenion is fuelling platform growth amid adviser fragmentation

How Parmenion is fuelling platform growth amid adviser fragmentation

Platform's soft skills training, switch service and Consumer Duty alignment cited as key drivers of adviser engagement

Sahar Nazir
clock 28 August 2025 • 3 min read
Former Titan Wealth employee convicted of harassing senior staff

Former Titan Wealth employee convicted of harassing senior staff

Judge orders mental health assessment ahead of sentencing next month

Sahar Nazir
clock 28 August 2025 • 3 min read