Greg Abel isn’t a household name like Warren Buffett, but that’s about to change. As the man tapped to take over Berkshire Hathaway, Abel is stepping into one of the most high-profile roles in finance, and his story is every bit as fascinating as the Oracle of Omaha’s—just without the folksy charm and cherry Coke habit. Abel’s rise to the top of Berkshire is a tale of quiet competence, strategic dealmaking, and a fortune that, while not in Buffett’s league, still puts him firmly in the ultra-rich category.
What Is Greg Abel’s Net Worth and Salary in 2025?
Let’s start with the money, because let’s face it, that’s what everyone wants to know. Abel’s net worth is estimated at around $484 million, which might seem modest compared to Buffett’s $168 billion, but it’s nothing to scoff at. A big chunk of that comes from his time running Berkshire Hathaway Energy, where he owned a 1% stake worth roughly $480 million before selling it back to Berkshire in 2022 for a cool $870 million.
That sale alone would be enough to set anyone up for life, but Abel didn’t stop there. He also holds 228 Class A shares of Berkshire Hathaway, each worth about $600,000, plus a few thousand Class B shares. Add it all up, and you’ve got a man who’s very comfortable financially, even if he’s not buying private islands on a whim.
Then there’s the salary. In 2023, Abel pulled in $20 million as Berkshire’s vice chairman of non-insurance operations. That’s a hefty paycheck by any standard, though it pales next to the eye-popping sums some Wall Street CEOs rake in. What’s interesting is how his pay has climbed over the years, reflecting his growing role in the company. Back in 2022, he made $19 million, and before that, it was less. The raises aren’t just about inflation—they’re a sign that Buffett and the board have been grooming him for this moment.
Compare that to Buffett himself, who famously takes just $100,000 a year in salary, and you see the difference in their approaches. Buffett doesn’t need the money, but Abel’s compensation reflects the value Berkshire places on his leadership.
Now, the Big News: Abel Is Officially Taking Over as CEO
Warren Buffett made the announcement in May 2025, finally putting an end to years of speculation about who would succeed him. The transition has been smooth, with Buffett staying on as chairman but handing over the day-to-day reins to Greg Abel. The market loved the news, sending Berkshire’s stock to record highs. Investors see Abel as a safe pair of hands, someone who understands Berkshire’s unique culture and won’t rock the boat too much. But don’t mistake his low-key demeanor for a lack of ambition. Abel has been the driving force behind some of Berkshire’s biggest energy deals, like the acquisition of NV Energy, and he’s known for his sharp eye when it comes to allocating capital.
What’s next for Abel and Berkshire? That’s the billion-dollar question—or more accurately, the $347 billion question, since that’s how much cash Berkshire has sitting around. One of Abel’s biggest challenges will be figuring out what to do with that mountain of money. Buffett has always been patient, waiting for the perfect deal, but the pressure is on for Abel to put that cash to work.
There’s also the issue of modernizing Berkshire without losing its soul. Shareholders are increasingly focused on things like climate change and diversity, and while Abel isn’t known for being a flashy reformer, he’ll have to navigate those demands while keeping Berkshire’s traditional investors happy.
The other thing to watch is how Greg Abel handles the spotlight. Buffett has spent decades cultivating his image as the wise, approachable billionaire next door. Abel, by contrast, is more reserved. He doesn’t do many interviews, and when he does, he’s all business. That might change now that he’s stepping into Buffett’s shoes, but don’t expect him to start doing TV interviews over cheeseburgers anytime soon.
