Warren Buffett: Age, Date of Birth & other info
Warren Buffett, one of the most iconic investors of all time, is celebrated not only for his extraordinary wealth but also for his astute investment strategies, philanthropy, and unique lifestyle. Known as the “Oracle of Omaha,” Buffett has become a household name synonymous with financial success and ethical business practices.
Date of Birth and Age
Warren Edward Buffett was born on August 30, 1930, in Omaha, Nebraska, USA. As of today, he is 94 years old, a testament to his enduring energy and vitality, even as he remains active in the business world.
- Age: 94 Years
- Date of Birth: August 30, 1930
- Birth place: Omaha, Nebraska, USA
- Weight: 65 kilograms.
- Height: 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 meters),
- Net Worth: approximately $141.8 billion,
Early Life and Background
Warren Buffett was the second of three children and the only son of Howard and Leila Buffett. His father, Howard Buffett, was a stockbroker and later a U.S. Congressman, a career that likely influenced Warren’s early exposure to the world of finance. His mother, Leila Stahl Buffett, was a homemaker who played a significant role in his upbringing.
From an early age, Buffett displayed an uncanny knack for numbers and an entrepreneurial spirit. He was known to be a mathematical prodigy, often amazing adults with his ability to calculate large sums in his head. By the age of 10, he had already developed an interest in the stock market, visiting the New York Stock Exchange during a family trip.
Education and Early Career
Educational Background
Buffett’s academic journey was marked by a blend of curiosity and pragmatism. He attended Rose Hill Elementary School in Omaha and later enrolled at Alice Deal Junior High School in Washington, D.C., following his father’s election to Congress. Warren completed high school at Woodrow Wilson High School in 1947.
He initially enrolled at the University of Pennsylvania at the age of 16 to study business but later transferred to the University of Nebraska, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Buffett’s academic pursuits culminated at Columbia Business School, where he earned a Master’s degree in Economics under the mentorship of Benjamin Graham, the father of value investing.
Early Ventures
Buffett’s entrepreneurial streak was evident from his teenage years. At the age of 11, he made his first stock purchase, buying shares of Cities Service Preferred for himself and his sister Doris. By the time he graduated college, he had amassed $10,000 through various ventures, including selling chewing gum, newspapers, and Coca-Cola bottles, as well as working at his grandfather’s grocery store.
After completing his education, Buffett worked briefly for Benjamin Graham at his investment firm, Graham-Newman Corp. This experience laid the foundation for his investment philosophy centered on value investing.
Rise to Prominence
Berkshire Hathaway
In 1962, Buffett began purchasing shares in a struggling textile company called Berkshire Hathaway. By 1965, he had taken control of the company and began transforming it into a holding company for a diverse range of businesses. Today, Berkshire Hathaway owns significant stakes in companies like Apple, Coca-Cola, American Express, and dozens of others, as well as wholly owning firms like GEICO, Duracell, and Dairy Queen.
Under Buffett’s leadership, Berkshire Hathaway became a powerhouse in the business world, achieving exponential growth and making him one of the wealthiest individuals globally.
Investment Philosophy
Buffett’s investment strategy is rooted in value investing—the practice of buying securities that appear underpriced by some form of fundamental analysis. He emphasizes investing in businesses with strong fundamentals, competent management, and sustainable competitive advantages. His long-term approach and patience have set him apart from other investors.
Personal Life
Marriage and Children
Warren Buffett married Susan Thompson in 1952, and the couple had three children: Susan Alice, Howard Graham, and Peter Andrew. The couple remained married until Susan’s death in 2004, though they had lived separately since the 1970s. Despite their separation, they maintained a close and amicable relationship.
In 2006, Buffett married Astrid Menks, who had been a companion to him and Susan during their later years. The trio’s unconventional relationship was widely regarded as a testament to their mutual respect and understanding.
Hobbies and Interests
Buffett is known for his modest lifestyle despite his immense wealth. He still resides in the Omaha home he purchased in 1958 for $31,500. Buffett enjoys playing bridge, reading extensively, and dining at his favorite fast-food restaurants. His unpretentious demeanor and frugality have endeared him to millions worldwide.
Philanthropy
The Giving Pledge
Warren Buffett is one of the most generous philanthropists in history. In 2006, he pledged to give away 99% of his fortune, primarily through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Alongside Bill and Melinda Gates, Buffett co-founded The Giving Pledge, a commitment by the world’s wealthiest individuals to donate the majority of their wealth to philanthropic causes.
Areas of Focus
Buffett’s philanthropic efforts have focused on health, education, and poverty alleviation. His contributions have had a transformative impact on global initiatives, including efforts to eradicate diseases and improve education systems in underprivileged regions.
Net Worth
Current Wealth
As of 2024, Warren Buffett’s net worth is estimated to be around $118 billion, making him one of the richest individuals in the world. Most of his wealth is tied to his holdings in Berkshire Hathaway.
Income Sources
Buffett’s wealth primarily stems from his role as chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. The company’s diverse portfolio and consistent performance have been key to his financial success. Additionally, Buffett earns income from dividends, investments, and his occasional ventures into writing and public speaking.
Legacy
Influence on Finance
Buffett’s contributions to the field of investing are unparalleled. His annual letters to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders are considered must-reads for investors, filled with wisdom, humor, and insights into his strategies.
Cultural Icon
Beyond finance, Buffett has become a cultural icon, representing ethical capitalism and the potential for success without compromising one’s values. His life story has inspired countless books, documentaries, and even a cartoon series aimed at teaching children financial literacy.
Mentorship
Warren Buffett has mentored numerous individuals and continues to inspire a new generation of investors. His partnerships with contemporaries like Charlie Munger and protégés like Bill Gates highlight his role as a mentor and collaborator.
Conclusion
Warren Buffett’s life is a remarkable tale of success achieved through intelligence, hard work, and integrity. From his humble beginnings in Omaha to becoming a global financial titan, Buffett’s journey is a beacon of inspiration. At 94 years old, he remains active and engaged, proving that age is no barrier to influence or impact. As a philanthropist, mentor, and investor, Warren Buffett’s legacy will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
