Warren Buffett Releases Final 2025 Thanksgiving Letter to Shareholders

Warren Buffett has officially concluded his remarkable era at Berkshire Hathaway. At the age of 95, the renowned investor released a letter to shareholders, communicating significant changes within the company.

Buffett Passes CEO Role to Greg Abel

In his letter, dated November 10, Buffett announced his departure as CEO, with Greg Abel stepping into the role at the end of this year. Abel has been Buffett’s trusted lieutenant for years, and his promotion signals a new chapter for the $1 trillion conglomerate.

The End of Annual Reports

Buffett’s letter marks a notable shift in his communication style. He stated, “I will no longer be writing Berkshire’s annual report or talking endlessly at the annual meeting.” This ends a long-standing tradition that has guided investors through financial landscapes.

Thanksgiving Message as Continued Communication

Despite stepping back, Buffett will maintain a connection with shareholders through an annual Thanksgiving message. He expressed gratitude for Berkshire’s shareholders, highlights their generosity, and his enjoyment of keeping in touch.

Philanthropic Gesture

As part of his ongoing commitment to philanthropy, Buffett announced he has converted 1,800 Class A shares into 2.7 million Class B shares, valued at approximately $1.35 billion. These shares will be donated to four family foundations:

• The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation
• The Sherwood Foundation
• The Howard G. Buffett Foundation
• The NoVo Foundation

Legacy Reflections and Future Outlook

Within the letter, Buffett praised Abel’s management capabilities and communicated confidence in the company’s future. He noted, “He is a great manager, a tireless worker and an honest communicator.”

Buffett’s reflections also touched on his friendship with the late Charlie Munger and the fortunate circumstances of his life in Nebraska. He attributed much of his success to the “magic ingredient in Omaha’s water” and the opportunities afforded by being born in America.

Final Thoughts from a Legendary Investor

For investors, Buffett’s letter serves as a concluding guide from a figure who has navigated market ups and downs for over seven decades. His enduring messages emphasize trust in America, the power of compounding, and the importance of learning from mistakes.

Buffett’s influence will certainly be missed as Greg Abel assumes leadership. The next spring will bring a quieter atmosphere in Omaha without the customary annual report and extensive Q&A sessions, marking a significant transition in the investment community.