Undoubtedly, Warren Buffett, a renowned investor in the world, is a familiar name to many. Equally renowned is his longtime partner, Charlie Munger. Today, various online medias bring forth a sorrowful piece of news – the passing of Munger at the age of 99.
According to a press release from Berkshire Hathaway Inc., Munger peacefully departed this world on Tuesday, November 28th, in a California hospital, as conveyed by his family.
Charles Thomas Munger, born on January 1, 1924, in Omaha, was not only a key figure in investment but also shared an intriguing connection with Buffett. Munger’s father was a lawyer, and his mother hailed from an affluent family. Like Buffett, Munger worked at Buffett's grandfather's grocery store during his youth, though their partnership only materialized many years later.
According to Wikipedia, Munger was a real estate lawyer, the chairman and publisher of the Daily Journal Corporation, a member of the Costco board of directors, a philanthropist, and an architect. As of early 2023, his estimated fortune is around $2.3 billion, an impressive sum but significantly smaller compared to Buffett's anticipated wealth exceeding $100 billion.
Munger, often seen wearing thick glasses, lost his left eye in 1980 due to complications from cataract surgery. From 1984 to 2011, he served as the chairman and CEO of Wesco Financial Corporation, a California-based insurance and investment company later acquired by Berkshire Hathaway.
Interestingly, Munger played a pivotal role in convincing Buffett to acquire See's Candies in 1972 for $25 million, an early example of transformative decision-making. Despite the candy manufacturer's modest annual pre-tax earnings of around $4 million, the company went on to generate over $2 billion in sales for Berkshire Hathaway.
Munger, a mentor and friend to Buffett, influenced the Oracle of Omaha in rethinking his approach to purchasing companies at very low prices. In a CNBC interview, Buffett acknowledged, "He made me give up the idea of buying ordinary companies at very cheap prices, although he knew there was some meager profit in it, and instead, to look for truly outstanding businesses that we could buy at a fair price."
Munger's achievements are numerous and noteworthy, and though not detailed here, they stand as a testament to his impactful legacy. In conclusion, while Munger may have departed this world, his investment philosophy remains deeply etched in our minds. Once again, we bid farewell to the legendary figure in our investment world, Charlie Munger, and wish him a peaceful journey.
Created by LV Trading Diary | Jul 28, 2024
Created by LV Trading Diary | Jun 08, 2024