Charles Munger
Charles Munger is a renowned American businessman, investor, philanthropist, and the longtime vice chairman of the world-renowned Berkshire Hathaway Corporation. Born in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1924, he worked briefly as a lawyer before teaming up with Warren Buffett, who he met in 1959, to form the Berkshire Hathaway Corporation. As the longtime vice-chairman and one of the foremost engineering minds of the company, he has provided integral guidance in its rise to global corporative fame.
Munger has been credited with contributing to the success of Berkshire Hathaway and the establishment of its reputation as a leading investment firm. Under his guidance, the firm was able to increase its value from $45 million in 1976 to over $80.5 billion in 2017. He is also credited with helping to create a culture of responsibility, integrity, and efficiency at Berkshire Hathaway.
Munger is a self-taught investor who has been praised for his insights on how to capitalize on momentary weaknesses in the stock market. He has also authored several books, providing detailed insights and advice on the world of investment, including works such as Poor Charlie’s Almanack and The Playbook. His writings often focus on topics ranging from diversification and the ability to spot a good investment, to deal structures and the psychology surrounding investments.
Munger is also noted as a philanthropist and has contributed to numerous charities throughout his life. His alma mater, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), has received more than $134 million in philanthropic donations from him, which goes towards helping the school's teaching hospital, medical research, and patient care. He has also made 15-figure donations to his former law school, Harvard University, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology. He also makes frequent donations to numerous other charities, including the Sierra Club, the Bronx Zoo, and the National Geographic Society.
Charles Munger is a legend in his own right and is admired for his business acumen, investment and philanthropic efforts. His wisdom, experience, and knowledge of the stock market have provided invaluable guidance for future generations of investors. Munger has demonstrated the ability to spot mistakes made by the market and to capitalize on opportunities quickly and efficiently. Furthermore, he believes in the importance of diversification and doesn’t let emotions take over the decision-making process. His books have provided many with useful tips and strategies to navigate the stock market, while his philanthropic efforts have made a significant difference to people in need around the world. Charles Munger is without a doubt, one of the world’s most influential individuals.