On December 31, 2025, Warren Buffett formally stepped down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway after more than five decades at the helm. The company has initiated a multi-year succession plan, elevating Greg Abel, former vice chairman of non-insurance operations, to lead day-to-day management. This marks the first time in Berkshire’s history that an executive outside the Buffett family will oversee the conglomerate’s diverse portfolio, which spans railroads, utilities, insurance and manufacturing.

In the first six weeks of 2026, Berkshire Hathaway Class A shares have declined 0.6%, underperforming the wider U.S. equity market. Over the trailing 52 weeks, however, shares have gained 6.3%. The company’s total return for calendar 2025 stood at 11.5%, lagging the S&P 500’s 16.6% gain. Long-term investors will note that this underperformance breaks a string of years in which Berkshire outpaced the benchmark index.

As of early February 2026, Berkshire Hathaway’s market capitalization reached approximately $1.06 trillion, maintaining its position among the world’s 15 most valuable public companies. While two firms now exceed $4 trillion in value and five more top $2 trillion, Berkshire remains the second‐largest U.S. company outside the technology sector. Its scale continues to provide significant strategic advantages in capital allocation and deal sourcing across sectors.