Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.A) Plunges 3.16% Amid Buffett's Tariff Criticism

On May 5, 2025, Berkshire Hathaway's stock price dropped by 3.16% in pre-market trading.

Warren Buffett, the CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, criticized the U.S. government's tariff policies during the company's annual shareholder meeting on May 3, 2025. He stated that trade should not be used as a weapon and that imposing punitive tariffs on other countries is a significant mistake. Buffett's comments were seen as a direct response to the Trump administration's frequent use of tariffs to pressure other nations. He emphasized the importance of free trade and warned that protectionist policies could have long-term negative impacts on the U.S. economy.

In the first quarter of 2025, Berkshire Hathaway reported that the U.S. government's tariff policies and other geopolitical risks had created an uncertain operating environment for the company. The impact of these tariffs on the company's financial performance remains uncertain.

During the shareholder meeting, Buffett announced that he would step down as CEO at the end of 2025 and recommended Greg Abel, the vice chairman, as his successor. Buffett, who has led Berkshire Hathaway for 60 years, will remain with the company in an advisory role. Abel, who has been with Berkshire Hathaway since 1992 and has extensive operational experience, is expected to continue the company's legacy of success.