Greg Abel: The Quiet Power Behind Berkshire {2025}
While the world has long admired Warren Buffett, few know the man quietly preparing to carry his legacy forward: Greg Abel. He isn’t a household name, and that’s exactly how he likes it. But his story—rooted in grit, focus, and quiet leadership—is one every aspiring business leader should know.
Who is Greg Abel?
Greg Abel is a Canadian-born businessman poised to become the next CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, succeeding Warren Buffett at the end of 2025.
With a career spanning over three decades, Abel has been instrumental in shaping Berkshire’s non-insurance operations and is widely respected for his strategic acumen and commitment to the company’s core values.
Early Life and Education
Greg Abel was born in Edmonton, Alberta, in 1962. Unlike many future CEOs, his childhood was grounded in middle-class values: work hard, stay disciplined, and earn your success.
He pursued higher education at the University of Alberta, earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting in 1984. Abel is also a certified public accountant, a credential that laid the foundation for his future in business.
Career at Berkshire Hathaway
Abel began his professional journey as a chartered accountant with PricewaterhouseCoopers in San Francisco. In 1992, he joined CalEnergy, a geothermal electricity producer.
When CalEnergy acquired MidAmerican Energy in 1999, Abel became CEO of the company in 2008. Under his leadership, MidAmerican was renamed Berkshire Hathaway Energy in 2014.
In January 2018, Abel was appointed vice chairman for non-insurance operations at Berkshire Hathaway and joined the company’s board of directors. He has since overseen key Berkshire businesses, including BNSF railroad, See’s Candies, and Dairy Queen.
Leadership Style and Philosophy
Known for his low-profile lifestyle, Abel resides in Des Moines, Iowa, despite his significant wealth. He is recognized for his hands-on management style and commitment to operational excellence.
Abel’s approach aligns closely with Buffett’s long-term investment philosophy and decentralized management structure.
While Abel may not possess Buffett’s charismatic public persona, his strategic thinking and business acumen have earned him the respect of peers and investors alike.
His leadership is expected to maintain Berkshire’s culture and values while navigating the company through future challenges.
Greg Abel’s Net Worth and Financial Standing
In 2022, Abel sold his 1% stake in Berkshire Hathaway Energy for $870 million. He also purchased 168 shares of Berkshire Class A stock worth approximately $68 million, demonstrating his confidence in the company’s future.
Abel’s estimated net worth in 2024 was approximately $484 million, reflecting his substantial investments and leadership roles within Berkshire Hathaway and its subsidiaries.
Investments and Assets
Unlike tech moguls with risky portfolios, Abel maintains conservative investment strategies. He holds significant equity in Berkshire Hathaway and likely has real estate and low-risk securities in his portfolio, reflecting his financial prudence.
Lifestyle Insights
Despite his wealth, Abel leads a relatively low-profile life. He avoids lavish displays of wealth and rarely appears in public events. His lifestyle mirrors that of Buffett—practical, grounded, and focused on meaningful work over material extravagance.
The Future in His Hands: What’s Next for Berkshire
Now in his early 60s, Abel oversees all of Berkshire’s non-insurance operations, from railroads to real estate. Those who know him say he’s intense, focused, and allergic to drama. Unlike flashy CEOs who dominate headlines, Abel stays in the background—delivering results.
He’s expected to continue Buffett’s long-term value philosophy but may put his own stamp on operations, especially with more focus on infrastructure, clean energy, and disciplined growth.
Greg Abel represents a new kind of power in business: one that doesn’t demand attention, but earns respect.
Final Thought: The Man Behind the Curtain
Greg Abel didn’t come from money. He didn’t build a startup or write a bestselling book. Instead, he worked, built, learned—and won the trust of one of the most legendary investors of all time.
He didn’t chase the spotlight. But now, it’s found him.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available sources. It does not constitute financial advice, nor does it reflect any official statement from Berkshire Hathaway, Greg Abel, or Warren Buffett. Readers should verify information independently and consult with a qualified professional before making any financial or investment decisions.
