Here’s how Warren Buffett’s retirement plan is battering Berkshire stock

In contrast, Berkshire Hathaways stock has declined from its 2025 high of $539 at the time of the announcement to $470 as of press time, representing a nearly 13% drop.

The drop in Berkshires stock is notable given that, at the start of the year, it was one of the few equities outperforming the S&P 500 amid ongoing economic uncertainty.

While most stocks sank following the early April trade tariffs, the index has since rebounded to hit new record highs around 6,300.

Investor anxiety around Buffetts retirement

Berkshires decline appears driven by growing investor anxiety over succession. The has long been viewed as the companys anchor, his departure seen as a loss of strategic discipline and investor confidence.

Market watchers suggest his retirement plans have introduced uncertainty around the future of Berkshires famously conservative and disciplined investment style.

Although Greg Abel has been named as Buffetts successor, investors seem to question whether anyone can truly fill his shoes.

Adding to the pressure, Berkshires first-quarter earnings disappointed investors. Operating profit fell 14% year over year to $9.64 billion, weighed down by weaker insurance underwriting and railroad challenges.

Despite this, Berkshires cash pile grew to a record $347.7 billion from $334.2 billion as it reduced equity purchases.

The rising cash reserves have fueled speculation about potential acquisitions under new leadership, while others view them as a buffer against economic risks stemming from trade tensions.

Meanwhile, investors will be watching the next Berkshire Hathaway earnings results, with the company expected to report EPS of $5.24, down 2.6% from the prior-year quarter, on revenue of $98.5 billion.