Charlie Munger – the architect of Berkshire Hathaway

Berkshire Hathaway vice-chairman Charlie Munger died on November 28, 2023, just 33 days before his 100th birthday.

Charlie Munger, a lawyer by training, had been Warren Buffett’s right-hand man at Berkshire Hathaway.

Bloomberg called Mr Charlie Munger “the alter ego, sidekick and foil to billionaire investor Warren Buffett for almost 60 years”. Together, “they transformed Berkshire Hathaway from a failing textile maker into an empire”.

“In reality, Charlie was the “architect” of the present Berkshire, and I acted as the “general contractor” to carry out the day-by-day construction of his vision,” Warren Buffett said in a tribute to him in his FY2023 letter dated February 24, 2024 to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders.

“Charlie never sought to take credit for his role as creator but instead let me take the bows and receive the accolades. In a way his relationship with me was part
older brother, part loving father,” Warren Buffett added.

“Even when he knew he was right, he gave me the reins, and when I blundered he never – never –reminded me of my mistake.

“In the physical world, great buildings are linked to their architect while those
who had poured the concrete or installed the windows are soon forgotten. Berkshire
has become a great company. Though I have long been in charge of the construction
crew; Charlie should forever be credited with being the architect.”