In the first quarter of 2025, global financial markets experienced significant turmoil due to unexpected trade tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. These measures led to a sharp decline in stock indices, particularly the S&P 500, which plunged by 11%, resulting in total losses of $5 trillion.
As a result, the ten richest people in the world lost a total of $172 billion in three days. The largest losses were suffered by Elon Musk, whose fortune decreased by $35 billion during this period, and by $135 billion since the beginning of the year, falling below $300 billion. Jeff Bezos lost $21 billion, while Mark Zuckerberg lost $24 billion.
Against this backdrop, Warren Buffett became an exception. His fortune increased by $12 billion in 2025, attributed to a cautious investment strategy and substantial cash reserves of Berkshire Hathaway. The company finished 2024 with $321 billion in liquid assets, accounting for a third of its market capitalization. Buffett sold shares worth $143 billion, including a significant reduction of his stake in Apple and Bank of America, and paid a record tax of $26.8 billion.
These events underscore the importance of a balanced approach to investing and having substantial cash reserves to protect against market upheavals.
