Berkshire Hathaway’s New CEO Greg Abel Identifies Core ’Forever’ Holdings in First Shareholder Letter

Greg Abel, the newly appointed CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, has outlined his long-term investment strategy in his inaugural shareholder letter. Apple (AAPL), American Express (AXP), Coca-Cola, and Moody's (MCO) were named as permanent holdings—businesses Berkshire "understands well" with enduring growth potential. These four stocks, alongside stakes in five Japanese trading firms, constitute approximately two-thirds of Berkshire's $200 billion equity portfolio.

The letter reaffirmed Abel's commitment to Warren Buffett's value investing principles, emphasizing a "fortress-like balance sheet." Notably absent from the Core list were Bank of America and Chevron, despite their prominence in Berkshire's top holdings. The transition comes as Berkshire reported a 29% year-over-year decline in Q4 operating earnings to $10.2 billion, attributed partly to insurance sector volatility.

Buffett, who stepped down as CEO in early 2026 but remains chairman, continues to advise daily. Abel's strategy signals continuity: adjustments will occur only if a holding's fundamental outlook shifts. The market now watches whether this legacy approach will adapt to evolving macroeconomic currents.