^{Source: Market Insider}

A Grand Kickoff to Berkshire Hathaway’s 60th Anniversary Celebration

OMAHA, Nebraska — Berkshire Hathaway’s annual shareholder weekend has evolved far beyond an investor gathering — it’s now a full-blown festival of capitalism, collectibles, and community. Kicking off Friday morning, over 40,000 shareholders descended on the CHI Health Center in downtown Omaha for a unique event that combined finance with fun: the Berkshire Bazaar of Bargains.

Spanning more than 20,000 square feet of exhibit space, the exclusive shopping event showcased goods from dozens of Berkshire-owned companies, with thousands of fans lining up to grab limited-edition merchandise and once-a-year experiences.

Squishmallow Craze: Buffett and Munger Plushies Fly Off Shelves

One of the event’s hottest commodities? Buffett- and Munger-themed Squishmallows. The collectible plush toys, produced by Jazwares (acquired via Berkshire’s 2022 purchase of Alleghany), drew enormous crowds. Over 1,000 units per hour were being scooped up during peak hours.

This year also introduced a brand-new character: “Omaha” the dog, a tribute to the city that hosts the event and Buffett’s hometown.

Background: Squishmallows have become a pop culture phenomenon, especially during the pandemic, with more than 100 million units sold in 2022 alone. Prices range from $5 to $30, with rare editions commanding even higher resale values online.

From Chocolate Coins to Custom Sneakers: What’s Selling at the Bazaar

Berkshire’s iconic brands used the event to spotlight themed products:

• See’s Candies offered a camping-themed box of toasted marshmallow chocolates, complete with Buffett roasting marshmallows on the box art. Their famous chocolate coins and peanut brittle were top sellers.
• Brooks Running released a limited 2025 edition running shoe emblazoned with “Berkshire Hathaway” logos on the soles. The brand also sponsored the “Invest in Yourself” 5K fun run and walk, happening Sunday morning post-meeting.
• Dairy Queen, a Berkshire subsidiary since 1998, provided sweet relief: Dilly Bars for $1 and Buster Bars for $2.

New Attractions and Interactive Installations

A Giant Claw Machine for a Cause

A new crowd favorite was the 10-foot-tall claw machine, where attendees paid $10 per try to grab Berkshire-themed prizes. All proceeds went to the Hope Center for Kids, a local nonprofit focused on after-school and summer programs for youth.

NetJets’ Private Jet Experience

NetJets, another Berkshire asset since 1998, offered attendees a chance to tour a luxury private jet. Branded gear and apparel were available for purchase, drawing in aviation and business enthusiasts.

Exclusive Book Launch: 60 Years of Berkshire

The event also saw the launch of a commemorative hardcover:
“60 Years of Berkshire Hathaway.”
Only 5,000 copies are available, and a select number are being auctioned — signed by Buffett himself and author Carrie Sova. Proceeds will benefit the Stephen Center, a South Omaha charity supporting homeless individuals and families.

Luxury Shopping for Shareholders

Those seeking luxury weren’t left out. At Borsheims Fine Jewelry & Gifts, a Berkshire-owned store located 14 miles from the CHI Center, shareholders browsed exclusive, discounted pieces. Standouts included:

• A 24-carat black diamond necklace from Ruchi New York, retailing at approximately $25,000.
• Designer watches and custom engagement rings, many offered at exclusive shareholder pricing.

Thoughtful Amenities for Travelers

With attendees traveling from all over the globe, AIT Worldwide Logistics provided a packing and shipping service for bulky purchases — a necessity, considering some Squishmallow plushies were nearly the size of toddlers. Shareholders could enjoy the event without worrying about fitting souvenirs into their suitcases.

Live Media Coverage & Shareholder Engagement

CNBC maintained an active presence, broadcasting live from the event with anchors like Becky Quick and Mike Santoli on-site. Shareholders queued up to snap selfies with the set in the background, while others tuned in via CNBC’s live stream in English and Mandarin.

Looking Ahead: Buffett Takes the Stage

On Saturday at 9 AM ET, Warren Buffett, now 94 years old, will once again address his loyal shareholder base. He’ll be joined by Greg Abel, his hand-picked successor, and Ajit Jain, head of Berkshire’s insurance businesses. Together, they’ll tackle questions on:

• Market volatility
• Tariff and trade issues
• Long-term economic outlook
• Berkshire’s investment strategy moving forward

This year’s annual meeting carries even more weight as it celebrates six decades since Buffett transformed a failing textile firm into one of the world’s most powerful conglomerates, now worth over $850 billion.

Final Thoughts

Berkshire Hathaway’s 2025 shareholder weekend is more than an investment convention — it’s a celebration of brand loyalty, business legacy, and Buffett’s enduring influence. With its carnival-like atmosphere, exclusive product drops, and charitable initiatives, the event continues to bridge Wall Street with Main Street in the most human and heartfelt way possible.

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