Warren Buffett, the legendary CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, clearly spoke out against tariffs at the company’s recent annual meeting. This stance is noteworthy, as Buffett has generally refrained from addressing political issues directly in the past to keep his employees and subsidiary companies out of political discussions. Nevertheless, he decided to express his opinion in this case, as tariff policy has already impacted Berkshire Hathaway.
Criticism of Tariff Policy
Buffett criticized the tariff policy, which is often associated with the administration of Donald Trump, without mentioning the former president directly. He emphasized that trade should not be a weapon and that the current trade policy has led to negative attitudes and consequences. Buffett argued that the United States has benefited by focusing on its economic strength and that relying on protectionism is unwise.
Praise for Apple CEO Tim Cook
In addition to his criticism of the tariff policy, Buffett also highlighted the achievements of Apple CEO Tim Cook. This recognition underscores Buffett’s appreciation for effective corporate management and strategic decisions that positively impact the market.
Market Volatility
Buffett also addressed the volatility in the markets, which is crucial for investors. He downplayed the volatility, suggesting he remains optimistic in the long term and does not view short-term fluctuations as threatening to long-term investment strategies.
Financial Situation of Berkshire Hathaway
Berkshire Hathaway experienced a profit drop in the first quarter of 2025. Net income fell to $4.672 billion, compared to $12.832 billion in the previous year. Additionally, the company had to endure substantial investment losses amounting to $5.038 billion, marking a significant deterioration compared to the previous year.
Overall, Buffett’s positioning at the annual meeting indicates his support for an open and cooperative trade policy while emphasizing the importance of long-term investment strategies.