Warren Buffett steps down as Berkshire Hathaway chairman

The 96 year old is now chairman emeritus of the company.

Warren Buffett has stepped down as chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, the company announced in a statement published early on Friday, having served in the role since 1970.

Buffett, 96, is now chairman emeritus of the company and will remain a director, Berkshire Hathaway said.

His son, Howard Buffett, will take over as Berkshire Hathaway's new chairman, the statement added. Howard Buffett has been a member of the company's board since 1993.

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