The Essays of Warren Buffett

In "The Essays of Warren Buffett," the legendary investor distills decades of wisdom into a compelling collection of insights on investing, business, and life. Through a series of thought-provoking essays, Buffett shares his unique perspective on risk, value, and the importance of patience in the tumultuous world of finance. His distinctive voice combines humor with profound lessons, making complex concepts accessible to both novice investors and seasoned pros. As you delve into his reflections, you'll uncover the principles that have guided his success and how they can be applied to your own financial journey. Prepare to be inspired and challenged to rethink your approach to investing and wealth-building!

By Lawrence A. Cunningham, Warren E. Buffett

Published: 2013

"Risk arises from not knowing what you’re doing."

The Essays of Warren BuffettBook binding

Start Listening

0:000:00

What Readers Say About This Book

In the third edition of this international best seller, Lawrence Cunningham brings you the latest wisdom from Warren Buffett’s annual letters to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders. New material addresses: the financial crisis and its continuing implications for investors, managers and society; the housing bubble at the bottom of that crisis; the debt and derivatives excesses that fueled the crisis and how to deal with them; controlling risk and protecting reputation in corporate governance; Berkshire’s acquisition and operation of Burlington Northern Santa Fe; the role of oversight in heavily regulated industries; investment possibilities today; and weaknesses of popular option valuation models. Some other material has been rearranged to deepen the themes and lessons that the collection has always produced: Buffett’s “owner-related business principles” are in the prologue as a separate subject and valuation and accounting topics are spread over four instead of two sections and reordered to sharpen their payoff. Media coverage is available at the following links: Interviews/Podcasts: Motley Fool, click here. Money, Riches and Wealth, click here. Manual of Ideas, click here. Corporate Counsel, click here. Reviews: William J. Taylor, ABA Banking Journal, click here. Bob Morris, Blogging on Business, click here. Pamela Holmes, Saturday Evening Post, click here. Kevin M. LaCroix, D&O Diary, click here. Blog Posts: On Finance issues (Columbia University), click here. On Berkshire post-Buffett (Manual of Ideas), click here. On Publishing the book (Value Walk), click here. On Governance issues (Harvard University blog), click here. Featured Stories/Recommended Reading: Motley Fool, click here. Stock Market Blog, click here. Motley Fool Interviews with LAC at Berkshire's 2013 Annual Meeting Berkshire Businesses: Vastly Different, Same DNA, click here. Is Berkshire's Fat Wallet an Enemy to Its Success?, click here. Post-Buffett Berkshire: Same Question, Same Answer, click here. How a Disciplined Value Approach Works Across the Decades, click here. Through the Years: Constant Themes in Buffett's Letters, click here. Buffett's Single Greatest Accomplishment, click here. Where Buffett Is Finding Moats These Days, click here. How Buffett Has Changed Through the Years, click here. Speculating on Buffett's Next Acquisition, click here. Buffett Says “Chief Risk Officers” Are a Terrible Mistake, click here. Berkshire Without Buffett, click here.

Mike & Casey Show Logo

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Key Points from The Essays of Warren Buffett

About the Authors

L

Lawrence A. Cunningham

Lawrence A. Cunningham is an acclaimed author and professor known for his expertise in finance, investment, and the intersection of literature and business. He is the author of several notable works, including "The Essays of Warren Buffett: Lessons for Corporate America," which has garnered widespread recognition for its insightful compilation of Buffett's thoughts on investing and corporate governance. Cunningham is also the author of "Value: The Four Cornerstones of Corporate Finance" and "The Intelligent Investor: A Guide to Value Investing," which reflects his commitment to making complex financial concepts accessible to a broader audience.

Cunningham’s writing style is characterized by clarity and pragmatism, blending analytical rigor with engaging narratives that appeal to both seasoned investors and novices alike. As a professor at George Washington University Law School and a sought-after speaker, he continues to influence the fields of finance and business through his compelling writing and teaching. His work not only educates but also inspires readers to think critically about investment strategies and corporate ethics in the modern economy.

W

Warren E. Buffett

Warren E. Buffett is a distinguished American investor, business tycoon, and philanthropist, widely regarded as one of the most successful investors in history. Born on August 30, 1930, in Omaha, Nebraska, Buffett is the chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, a multinational conglomerate holding company. He is known for his value investing philosophy, which emphasizes long-term investments in undervalued companies with strong fundamentals.

Buffett's notable works include his annual letters to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders, which have become essential reading for investors and provide insights into his investment strategies and economic outlook. These letters are characterized by their clarity, wit, and profound insights into market behavior and corporate governance. Additionally, his co-authored book, The Intelligent Investor (with Benjamin Graham), remains a classic in investment literature, promoting the principles of value investing.

With a writing style that is both accessible and engaging, Buffett speaks directly to his audience, breaking down complex financial concepts into understandable terms, making him a respected figure not just in finance but also in the realm of literature related to business and investing. His ability to distill wisdom from decades of market experience continues to inspire investors worldwide.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Lawrence A. Cunningham, Warren E. Buffett
Published
March 2013
Publisher
Carolina Academic Press
ISBN
1611634474
Language
English
Pages
281
Genres
FinanceBusiness and EconomicsBehavioral FinanceSuccess StoriesPersonal FinanceInvesting Basics

Purchase Options

Amazon logoBuy on Amazon
BookShop logoBuy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

MONEY Master the GameBook binding

MONEY Master the Game

Anthony Robbins, Tony Robbins

The Money Book for the Young, Fabulous & BrokeBook binding

The Money Book for the Young, Fabulous & Broke

Suze Orman

Save More TomorrowBook binding

Save More Tomorrow

Shlomo Benartzi

The Total Money Makeover WorkbookBook binding

The Total Money Makeover Workbook

Dave Ramsey

Dave Ramsey's Complete Guide to MoneyBook binding

Dave Ramsey's Complete Guide to Money

Dave Ramsey

The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday MachineBook binding

The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine

Michael Lewis

Liar's PokerBook binding

Liar's Poker

Michael Lewis

Black EdgeBook binding

Black Edge

Sheelah Kolhatkar

When Genius FailedBook binding

When Genius Failed

Roger Lowenstein

A Random Walk Down Wall Street: The Time-Tested Strategy for Successful Investing (Ninth Edition)Book binding

A Random Walk Down Wall Street: The Time-Tested Strategy for Successful Investing (Ninth Edition)

Burton G. Malkiel

FiascoBook binding

Fiasco

Frank Partnoy

The Total Money MakeoverBook binding

The Total Money Makeover

Dave Ramsey

The Big ShortBook binding

The Big Short

Michael Lewis

Dollars and SenseBook binding

Dollars and Sense

Dr. Dan Ariely, Jeff Kreisler

Crush It!Book binding

Crush It!

Gary Vaynerchuk

An Empire of WealthBook binding

An Empire of Wealth

John Steele Gordon

Profit FirstBook binding

Profit First

Mike Michalowicz

Just Keep BuyingBook binding

Just Keep Buying

Nick Maggiulli

A Piece of the ActionBook binding

A Piece of the Action

Joe Nocera

Take on the StreetBook binding

Take on the Street

Arthur Levitt

Financial DerivativesBook binding

Financial Derivatives

Jamil Baz, George Chacko

No BullBook binding

No Bull

Michael Steinhardt

The New Financial OrderBook binding

The New Financial Order

Robert J. Shiller

When the Wolves BiteBook binding

When the Wolves Bite

Scott Wapner

Mastering the Market CycleBook binding

Mastering the Market Cycle

Howard Marks

100 Minds That Made the MarketBook binding

100 Minds That Made the Market

Kenneth L. Fisher

Grow Rich!Book binding

Grow Rich!

Napoleon Hill

A Short History of Financial EuphoriaBook binding

A Short History of Financial Euphoria

John Kenneth Galbraith

Angel InvestingBook binding

Angel Investing

David S. Rose

Creating WealthBook binding

Creating Wealth

Robert G. Allen

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Download on the App Store

Book Collections you might like →

Shane Parrish's Book Recommendations

Shane Parrish's Book Recommendations

Shane Parrish is a renowned author and the founder of Farnam Street, a popular blog dedicated to personal development and decision-making. His insightful writings delve into mental models, critical thinking, and learning strategies, earning him a significant following among intellectuals and professionals alike. Parrish's work emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and thinking differently to achieve success. He is also the host of "The Knowledge Project" podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers to uncover their wisdom. His contributions have made a substantial impact on how readers approach problem-solving and personal growth.

View Collection
Jan Losert's Book Recommendations

Jan Losert's Book Recommendations

Jan Losert is a visionary author and digital design expert, renowned for his contributions to the intersection of technology and creativity. His most significant work includes co-authoring "Design Systems Handbook," which has become a seminal guide for creating cohesive and efficient design frameworks. Losert's expertise extends to his role as a speaker and educator, where he passionately shares his insights on user experience and interface design. In addition to his literary achievements, he co-founded several successful startups, leveraging his deep understanding of design to drive innovation. His work continues to influence and inspire both emerging and established designers worldwide.

View Collection
Nathan Murphy's Book Recommendations

Nathan Murphy's Book Recommendations

Nathan Murphy is a celebrated author known for his compelling narratives and intricate character development. He gained widespread acclaim with his debut novel, "Echoes of Silence," which won the National Book Award for Fiction. Murphy's subsequent works, including "Whispers in the Wind" and "Shadows of Tomorrow," have further cemented his reputation as a master storyteller. His unique ability to blend historical contexts with contemporary issues has resonated with a diverse audience, earning him a dedicated readership. In addition to his novels, Murphy is an advocate for literacy and has contributed significantly to various educational programs aimed at promoting reading and writing skills among youth.

View Collection
Ray Dalio's Book Recommendations

Ray Dalio's Book Recommendations

Ray Dalio is the founder of Bridgewater Associates, one of the largest and most successful hedge funds in the world. He is also the author of the bestselling book Principles, where he outlines his philosophy on life, leadership, and investing. Ray is renowned for his unique approach to transparency, radical truth, and thoughtful disagreement within organizations. His insights into economics and investing have made him one of the most influential figures in the financial world. Dalio continues to be a thought leader in business, economics, and philanthropy.

View Collection
Andrew Lokenauth's Book Recommendations

Andrew Lokenauth's Book Recommendations

Andrew Lokenauth is a distinguished author and financial expert known for his insightful contributions to personal finance and investment literature. With a career spanning over a decade, he has written extensively on topics such as wealth management, financial planning, and market analysis. Lokenauth's works are celebrated for their clarity and practical advice, making complex financial concepts accessible to a broad audience. He has been featured in numerous financial publications and has established himself as a trusted voice in the industry. Beyond his writing, Lokenauth is also a sought-after speaker, sharing his expertise at various seminars and workshops.

View Collection
David Bach's Book Recommendations

David Bach's Book Recommendations

David Bach is a financial expert and bestselling author known for his Finish Rich book series, including The Automatic Millionaire. He has made a career out of teaching people how to build wealth through small, manageable financial habits like “paying yourself first” and automating savings. His approach to personal finance is accessible and focuses on helping everyday individuals achieve long-term financial security. David has appeared on numerous media platforms, advocating for financial literacy and encouraging people to take control of their financial futures.

View Collection
Sam Parr's Book Recommendations

Sam Parr's Book Recommendations

Sam Parr is an influential entrepreneur and writer, best known as the co-founder of The Hustle, a popular email newsletter providing business news and insights. As a prominent voice in the startup community, Parr has leveraged his expertise to offer valuable advice to aspiring entrepreneurs. He also co-hosts the My First Million podcast, where he discusses business ideas and strategies with industry leaders. Parr's work has significantly impacted how modern business news is consumed and has inspired a new generation of digital entrepreneurs. His innovative approach to content creation and distribution has cemented his status as a thought leader in the business world.

View Collection
Nat Eliason's Book Recommendations

Nat Eliason's Book Recommendations

Nat Eliason is an influential writer, entrepreneur, and educator known for his insightful work on personal growth, productivity, and digital marketing. He founded Growth Machine, a successful SEO and content marketing agency that has helped numerous companies expand their online presence. Eliason's thought-provoking articles on his blog cover a wide range of topics, from philosophy to health, attracting a large and engaged audience. Additionally, he authored "Effortless Output with Roam," a comprehensive guide on using the Roam Research tool for knowledge management. Through his diverse contributions, Eliason has established himself as a significant voice in the realms of self-improvement and digital strategy.

View Collection
Andrew Wilkinson's Book Recommendations

Andrew Wilkinson's Book Recommendations

Andrew Wilkinson is a distinguished author and entrepreneur, best known for his insightful business writings and contributions to the tech industry. He co-founded MetaLab, a prominent design agency that has shaped the user experience of major platforms like Slack and Coinbase. Wilkinson's entrepreneurial journey and his publications provide valuable perspectives on startup culture, innovation, and leadership. His writing, often featured in leading business magazines and his personal blog, has garnered a wide readership for its practical advice and engaging storytelling. Andrew continues to influence both literature and the business world with his unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking.

View Collection
Nick Huber's Book Recommendations

Nick Huber's Book Recommendations

Nick Huber is a renowned entrepreneur and writer, best known for his insightful contributions to the business and self-improvement literary genres. He gained widespread recognition through his practical advice and motivational content, which has empowered countless individuals to pursue personal and professional growth. Huber's notable works include a series of bestselling books that combine his entrepreneurial experience with actionable strategies for success. In addition to his writing, he is a sought-after speaker, sharing his expertise at various conferences and events. Huber's influence extends beyond literature, as he continues to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and leaders.

View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.

View Collection
James Clear's Book Recommendations

James Clear's Book Recommendations

James Clear is the author of the bestselling book Atomic Habits, which focuses on the power of small habits and incremental improvements to achieve significant personal and professional growth. Clear’s writing blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, and productivity to provide practical strategies for building better habits. His work has helped millions of people create positive changes in their lives by focusing on the process rather than the outcome. James’s clear, actionable advice has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field of personal development.

View Collection
Warren Buffett's Book Recommendations

Warren Buffett's Book Recommendations

Warren Buffett, known as the “Oracle of Omaha,” is one of the most successful investors of all time and the chairman of Berkshire Hathaway. His investment philosophy, centered on value investing and long-term wealth creation, has made him one of the wealthiest people in the world. Buffett is also known for his philanthropic efforts, having pledged to donate a significant portion of his wealth to charitable causes. His annual letters to shareholders are highly anticipated for their financial wisdom. Buffett remains a revered figure in business and investing circles.

View Collection
Ramit Sethi's Book Recommendations

Ramit Sethi's Book Recommendations

Ramit Sethi is a personal finance expert and the bestselling author of I Will Teach You to Be Rich, which offers a modern, no-nonsense guide to personal finance, including saving, investing, and spending on what you love. He is known for his focus on behavioral finance and psychology to help people change their money habits. Through his courses and online platform, Ramit teaches people how to manage their money effectively while still enjoying life. He advocates for conscious spending and creating systems that enable financial freedom.

View Collection
Guy Spier's Book Recommendations

Guy Spier's Book Recommendations

Guy Spier is a renowned value investor and author, best known for his influential book "The Education of a Value Investor," which offers deep insights into the principles of value investing and personal development. An alumnus of Harvard Business School and Oxford University, Spier has carved a niche in the financial world with his disciplined investment philosophy. He is the managing partner of the Aquamarine Fund, an investment partnership inspired by the principles of Warren Buffett. Spier gained widespread recognition for his charitable winning bid to have lunch with Buffett, a move that significantly bolstered his reputation in the investment community. Through his writing and public speaking, Spier continues to inspire both novice and seasoned investors with his ethical approach to investing and life.

View Collection
Tim Ferriss's Book Recommendations

Tim Ferriss's Book Recommendations

Tim Ferriss is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and podcast host, best known for his book The 4-Hour Workweek, which advocates for designing a lifestyle of financial and personal freedom through efficiency and outsourcing. He has written several other books, including Tools of Titans and Tribe of Mentors, compiling lessons from interviews with high achievers across industries. Ferriss’s podcast, The Tim Ferriss Show, is one of the most popular in the world, where he interviews leaders and influencers about their habits, strategies, and personal development. He is known for his emphasis on productivity, health, and optimizing performance.

View Collection
Brendon Burchard's Book Recommendations

Brendon Burchard's Book Recommendations

Brendon Burchard is a high-performance coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, best known for his books High Performance Habits and The Motivation Manifesto. He helps individuals and organizations achieve peak performance through strategies focused on clarity, energy, and productivity. Brendon’s work emphasizes the importance of personal growth and developing habits that lead to sustained success. He has coached Fortune 500 CEOs, Olympians, and other high-achieving individuals. Brendon is also the founder of the High Performance Academy, where he trains people to lead more impactful and successful lives.

View Collection
James Altucher's Book Recommendations

James Altucher's Book Recommendations

James Altucher is an American hedge fund manager, entrepreneur, author, and podcaster known for his candid and unconventional approach to success and self-improvement. He has authored over 20 books, including bestsellers like "Choose Yourself" and "Reinvent Yourself," which emphasize the importance of resilience and personal empowerment. Altucher is also a prolific blogger, sharing insights on various topics ranging from finance to mental health. His podcast, "The James Altucher Show," features in-depth interviews with a diverse array of influential figures, further cementing his reputation as a thought leader. Through his writing and media presence, Altucher has inspired millions to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success.

View Collection
The Barefoot Investor's Book Recommendations

The Barefoot Investor's Book Recommendations

Scott Pape, known as The Barefoot Investor, is an Australian financial advisor and author, best known for his best-selling book The Barefoot Investor: The Only Money Guide You’ll Ever Need. Pape’s simple, no-nonsense approach to personal finance has helped millions of Australians get out of debt, build savings, and invest for the future. His advice is based on practical, straightforward strategies that focus on budgeting, long-term investments, and financial independence. Pape’s work as a financial educator has made him one of the most trusted voices in personal finance, and his book has become one of the most successful financial guides in Australia.

View Collection

Risk arises from not knowing what you’re doing.

The Essays of Warren Buffett

By Lawrence A. Cunningham, Warren E. Buffett

Frequently Asked Questions