Charlie Munger, legendary investor and Warren Buffett’s close associate, dies at 99

Munger passes away a few weeks before turning 100

The Berkshire Hathaway vice-chairman died peacefully in a California hospital on Tuesday. He’d have turned 100 on New Year’s Day.

Buffett’s tribute

The Berkshire chairman said: “Berkshire Hathaway couldn’t have been built to its present status without Charlie’s inspiration, wisdom and participation.”

End of an era

Under Buffett-Munger management, Berkshire grew 20% annually between 1965 and 2022 – double the pace of the S&P 500 Index.

Buffett’s friend, philosopher, guide

Munger broadened Buffett’s investing approach, shifting focus from troubled, underpriced companies to higher-quality, underpriced companies.

Munger’s wit and philosophy

His humour, coupled with razor-sharp insights, made him a darling in the investing world. One time, he called out adjusted EBITDA as “bullshit earnings”.

Loss to the world

The world will mourn Munger’s demise. But his investment philosophies will remain etched in golden letters for coming generations.

Munger’s mental models

He is said to have the best 30-second mind in the world because he built several mental models that could simplify a problem’s complexity.