From Victoria to Omaha: Warren Buffett’s Wisdom
At Sather Financial Group, we travel to Omaha, Nebraska each year for the Berkshire Hathaway Annual Shareholders Meeting. Let’s be honest, 99% of attendees don’t go to hear about quarterly performance. They go to see Warren Buffett, to soak up his wisdom.
The weekend is a mix of professional and do-it-yourself investors from all over the world, with value investing events held before and after the main attraction: the Oracle of Omaha himself.
As a first-time attendee, I was excited to network with like-minded investors and take notes—but I didn’t expect Buffett to announce he was stepping down as CEO by the end of the year. The rumors had been swirling, but hearing it in person was bittersweet. I realized I was witnessing history.
There were three major takeaways I wanted to share, not just because they were insightful, but because they’re timely. First, Buffett’s love for America and acknowledgment of how fortunate he was to be born here, a fitting reflection as Independence Day approaches. Second, his advice to young people entering the workforce, which is timely as millions of Americans graduated from high school and college last month. And third, his perspective on America’s role in the world, not just as an economic superpower, but as a steward of global cooperation.
The Luckiest Day of My Life
Answering a question about the state of the country, Buffett said, “The luckiest day in my life was the day I was born, because I was born in the United States.”
Born in 1930, he noted that only 3% of global births occurred in the U.S. back then. He was candid, not only about his fortune being born in America, but being born white during a time of rising prosperity.
Buffett reminded us that while America still faces serious challenges, it has changed dramatically over his lifetime, from world wars to the atomic age to recessions. “If you don’t think the United States has changed,” he said, “you’re not paying attention.”
He wasn’t celebrating perfection, he was expressing gratitude. “If I were born today,” he joked, “I’d negotiate in the womb to be born in the U.S.” It was funny, but pointed. As July 4th approaches, it’s a reminder that we’ve inherited something extraordinary, and we’re responsible for preserving it, improving it, and passing it on.
Be Careful Who You Work For
When offering advice to young people, Buffett didn’t mention salaries or degrees. Instead, he said, “Be very careful who you work for, because you will take on the habits of the people around you.” Some jobs, even well-paid ones, aren’t worth it if they compromise your values.
He encouraged graduates to find people they admire and go work for them, even if that means earning less at first. Buffett’s point was clear: your early career should be about building character, not just a résumé.
He shared the story of jazz musician Glenn Miller, who wandered for 15 years before he “found the sound.” Buffett compared that to finding a career aligned with your passions and principles. If you’re lucky, you find it early. If not, keep looking.
With so many young Americans entering the workforce this summer, Buffett’s message was timely: character compounds like capital. Choose mentors, not just paychecks.
Trade Should Not Be a Weapon
Responding to a question about tariffs, Buffett was direct: “Trade should not be a weapon.” He warned that it’s unwise, and unfair, for a nation of 300 million to “crow” about its success while 7.5 billion others feel left behind.
His point wasn’t about globalism for its own sake, it was about long-term stability. He argued that when the rest of the world becomes more prosperous, America doesn’t lose, it becomes safer and stronger. Prosperity isn’t a zero-sum game.
“I don’t think it’s right, and I don’t think it’s wise,” he added. He reminded us that America’s greatness lies not just in its wealth, but in its ability to build bridges, not burn them.
At a time when geopolitical tensions and trade wars dominate headlines, Buffett’s message was clear: humility matters. Global cooperation isn’t charity, it’s strategy. As investors and citizens, we all benefit when the world works together.
Joe Olive is a 10-year Air Force veteran who currently works as a Financial Advisor for the Sather Financial Group, a fee-only strategic planning and investment management firm. He holds a master’s degree from Columbia University.