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Famous Quote
We would rather avoid risk than collect a premium for taking it.
Year: 1990Source: 1990 Berkshire Hathaway Annual Letter

Context

Describing Berkshire's insurance underwriting philosophy, which applies broadly to investing.

Topics

risk management investing insurance discipline

About This Quote

This quote from Warren Buffett encapsulates a core principle of his investment and business philosophy. Spoken in 1990, it continues to resonate with investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders around the world.

Buffett's ability to distill complex financial and business concepts into memorable, quotable wisdom is one reason his annual letters and speeches are studied so widely. This particular quote touches on themes including risk management, investing, insurance, demonstrating the interconnected nature of his thinking across investing, business management, and life.

For more Buffett wisdom on related topics, explore our collection of quotes, shareholder letters, and recommended books.