Charlie Munger

Early Life & Education

Charles Thomas Munger was born on January 1, 1924, in Omaha, Nebraska. He attended the University of Michigan to study mathematics and later served as a meteorologist in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. After the war, he earned a degree in law from Harvard Law School and began his career as a lawyer in California before transitioning to real estate development and investing.

Partnership with Warren Buffett

Charlie Munger met Warren Buffett in 1959, and the two developed one of the most successful investing partnerships in history. Munger became Vice Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway in 1978. He brought a broader intellectual framework to Buffett’s investing strategy, emphasizing the importance of mental models and multidisciplinary thinking. Together, they shifted from buying “cigar-butt” stocks to investing in high-quality businesses with durable competitive advantages.

Investment Philosophy

• Worldly Wisdom: Use models from various disciplines to guide decision-making.
• Quality Over Cheapness: “It’s far better to buy a wonderful company at a fair price.”
• Patience & Rationality: Avoid impulsive decisions and wait for the right opportunities.
• Circle of Competence: Only invest in what you truly understand.

Key Achievements

• Vice Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway from 1978 until his death in 2023.
• Chairman of Daily Journal Corporation and longtime board member of Costco.
• Credited with reshaping Buffett’s investing framework for quality businesses.
• Known for his wit, clarity of thought, and no-nonsense commentary on life and investing.

Legacy and Influence

Charlie Munger passed away on November 28, 2023, just one month shy of his 100th birthday. He is remembered as a titan of rational thinking and integrity in the world of investing. His speeches, quotes, and wisdom continue to educate and inspire generations of investors and thinkers. Munger’s emphasis on simplicity, lifelong learning, and ethical behavior remains a blueprint for success.