In a landmark decision that redefines legacy planning for the world's ultra-wealthy, legendary investor Warren Buffett has announced a profound shift in the destiny of his colossal $150 billion fortune. The 95-year-old Berkshire Hathaway chief, in his annual 'farewell' letter dated November 12, 2025, declared that the bulk of his remaining wealth will be entrusted to the charitable foundations managed by his three children.
A New Philanthropic Blueprint
Buffett candidly admitted that his initial vision for a single, unified philanthropic strategy for his fortune 'did not prove feasible.' Drawing from his vast experience, he reflected on the pitfalls he has observed in wealth transfer, noting he has watched 'ill-conceived wealth transfers by political hacks, dynastic choices and, yes, inept or quirky philanthropists.' Instead of imposing a rigid, posthumous structure, the Oracle of Omaha is placing his trust in his children—Susie, Howard, and Peter Buffett, now aged 72, 70, and 67 respectively.
Rather than ruling from the grave, a concept he explicitly rejects, Buffett wants his heirs to have the autonomy to direct their own charitable giving. This move will empower each of their foundations to distribute approximately $500 million annually, a staggering sum that will amplify their existing philanthropic work.
Trusting the Next Generation
Buffett's letter is filled with a father's confidence and a strategist's foresight. He praised his children, stating they are 'at their prime in respect to experience and wisdom' and possess the 'maturity, brains, energy and instincts to disburse a large fortune.' He acknowledged that the future is unpredictable, and his children 'may well need to adapt to a significantly changing world around them.' This flexibility is the core of his new plan.
The report from The Cool Down clarified that Buffett will retain a significant portion of his Berkshire Hathaway Class A shares until his designated successor, Greg Abel, is fully established as CEO. This ensures stability for his business empire while his philanthropic legacy is set on its new course.
A Lifetime of Giving and the Final Chapter
Warren Buffett, who co-founded The Giving Pledge with Bill and Melinda Gates in 2010, has already donated more than $60 billion in his lifetime, with the majority going to the Gates Foundation. His latest round of donations underscores his commitment to a diverse range of causes and sets the stage for his children's expanded roles.
His recent contributions include:
- $750 million in Berkshire Hathaway stock to the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation for Nebraska student scholarships.
- $250 million each to his children's organisations: The Sherwood Foundation (Susie), focusing on Nebraska communities; the Howard G Buffett Foundation, tackling global food security and conflict; and the NoVo Foundation (Peter), supporting marginalised groups.
While reiterating his lifelong commitment to philanthropy, Buffett hinted that he plans to 'go quiet' in the near future, signalling a gradual stepping back from the public eye as he prepares his final legacy—one built not on control, but on trust and the empowerment of the next generation to do immense good.
