First up, Greg Abel. He’s the quiet, numbers-obsessed Canadian who spent decades running Berkshire’s energy business. Think of him as the spreadsheet whisperer—a guy who probably dreams in compound interest and wakes up craving synergies. He’s the one who will actually, you know, run the company.
Then there’s Howard Buffett, Warren’s eldest son. He’s not a finance guy. He’s a farmer, a photographer, and a philanthropist who once arrested a poacher in Africa. His official job? To protect Berkshire’s "culture and values." In other words, he’s the company conscience—with a side of shotgun diplomacy.
Why This Is Like a Rock Band That Lost Its Lead Singer
Imagine U2 without Bono. That’s Berkshire without Warren. Greg Abel is The Edge—brilliant, technical, and happy to stay in the shadows. Howard is… well, the guy who makes sure the tour bus doesn’t run over a kitten. Neither can be the new Bono, but together, they might keep the music playing.
Here’s the weird part: Howard has zero power to fire Greg. None. Zilch. His role is purely as a non-executive chairman. He can complain about a deal, but Greg can still sign the check. It’s like giving your teenager a credit card with a "please don’t buy candy" note.
Who is Greg Abel? Meet the man set to succeed Warren Buffett as CEO of
