As fear of economic recession, stock market volatility and global instability dominate headlines, Warren Buffett took a calm and measured stand. He encourages investors to remain optimistic and to keep focus on long terms. Addressing shareholders at Berkshire Hathaway’s annual meeting in Omaha, the 94-year old investment titan refuted widespread market panic and reinforced his trust in the strength of the US economy.
Buffett urges patience as markets sway
Buffett acknowledged the challenging global circumstances, along with slower growth and geopolitical conflicts. Yet he downplayed concerns related to financial crashes and Berkshire’s record cash holdings, which gained to 4347 billion in the first quarter of 2025. ”People have emotions. You have got to check them at the door when you invest,” he stated as quoted by Reuters. He highlighted that volatility is a normal part of investing and not a signal to withdraw.
He also disclosed that Berkshire has recently made a $10 billion acquisition, highlighting the company’s positive approach. ”We have made a lot of money by not being fully invested at all times,” Buffett noted, indicating that by keeping patience in the market frequently yields better profit in comparison to reactionary decisions.
Buffett backs trade not tariffs
Buffett has; defended the principles of free trade and warned that tariffs should not be used as weapons. Commenting on the recent market slumps triggered by US trade policy uncertainty, he mentioned, ”Balanced trade is good for the world. Trade should not be weapon.” He further added, ‘’The more prosperous the rest of the world becomes, the more prosperous we will become.’’
Despite recording a 64% decline in quarterly net income and continued restraint on stock buybacks, Buffett continues to be unaffected. Vice Chairman Greg Abel reasserted on the company’s long-term stake in Japanese trading firms, whereas Ajit Jain emphasised Geico’s progress in using technology for smarter insurance pricing.
(With inputs from Reuters)
