Berkshire Hathaway confirmed the passing of Charlie Munger, the legendary investor and Warren Buffett’s right-hand man, on Tuesday.
Munger, known for his incisive investment wisdom and sharp wit, died at a California hospital, just shy of his 100th birthday.
A pillar of Berkshire Hathaway
Munger, whose journey in the financial world spanned over six decades, played a pivotal role in shaping Berkshire Hathaway into the conglomerate it is today.
Warren Buffett, in a heartfelt statement, acknowledged,
“Berkshire Hathaway could not have been built to its present status without Charlie’s inspiration, wisdom and participation.”
As the vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, Munger’s multifaceted career included roles as a real estate attorney, chairman, publisher, board member, philanthropist, and even an architect.
His estimated $2.3 billion fortune, although dwarfed by Buffett’s, was a testament to his savvy investment strategies and business acumen.
A legacy of investment wisdom
Despite his skepticism towards cryptocurrencies, Munger’s investment principles remain highly relevant. He significantly influenced Buffett’s shift in investment strategy, moving from buying undervalued troubled companies to focusing on high-quality, underpriced firms.
Charlie Munger’s formula for success is simple and perfect:
– Spend less than you earn
– Invest prudently
– Avoid toxic people and toxic activities
– Defer gratification
– Never stop learning pic.twitter.com/8IiJNngsdg— John LeFevre (@JohnLeFevre) November 28, 2023
This shift was notably evidenced in their 1972 purchase of See’s Candies, which has since generated over $2 billion in sales for Berkshire.
Munger’s insights often blended humor with profound wisdom, reminiscent of his hero, Benjamin Franklin.
His belief in the “lollapalooza effect,” where multiple factors converge to impact investment psychology, is one among many of his notable contributions to investment philosophy.
A life of rich experiences and contributions
Born in Omaha in 1924, Munger’s life was marked by a wide range of experiences, from working in his youth at a grocery store to serving in the Army Air Corps and graduating from Harvard Law School.
His partnership with Franklin Otis Booth in real estate and his role in founding Munger, Tolles & Olson showcased his diverse professional endeavors.
Munger’s philanthropic efforts were as notable as his business achievements.
He generously donated to institutions like the University of Michigan, Stanford University, and Harvard Law School, often influencing their architectural designs.
Remembering Charlie Munger
Reflecting on Munger’s life, Buffett shared:
“I’ve lived a better life because of Charlie.”
Their collaboration was not just a business partnership but a fusion of like minds and values. Munger’s passing marks the end of an era in the investment world, leaving behind a legacy of wisdom, integrity, and a unique approach to business and life.
