OMAHA, Neb. โ The renowned billionaire Warren Buffett has disclosed his decision to attend the upcoming Berkshire Hathaway shareholder meeting next May without actively participating in the traditional question-and-answer portion. This announcement follows his unexpected declaration of retirement, marking a significant shift in the proceedings.
Greg Abel, Buffettโs chosen successor, recently shared with the Omaha World-Herald that the meeting is scheduled for the first weekend of May. It will include the customary interactive session with shareholders, a staple of the event. However, unlike previous years, Buffett, who will retain his position as chairman of Berkshire, will sit alongside the conglomerateโs board of directors instead of engaging directly with questions from the stage.
This annual gathering, often referred to as the โWoodstock for Capitalists,โ draws around 40,000 attendees to Omaha. Known for his witty remarks and self-deprecating humor, Buffettโs extensive Q&A sessions have historically been a highlight and major attraction of these meetings.
The surprise announcement of his retirement at the end of the year came as Buffett, now 94, addressed shareholders. After a five-hour question session, he made the unexpected announcement. Susie Buffett, his daughter, shared with the World-Herald that her father wishes for Greg Abel to manage the Q&A sessions moving forward, further indicating a transition in the leadership of Berkshire Hathaway.