Warren Buffett concluded his tenure as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway on December 31, 2025, after an impressive 60-year journey that transformed the company into a global powerhouse. Known for his insightful investing principles, Buffett remains the chairman while handing over the reins to Greg Abel. The transition marks a significant moment in the financial world, as Buffett has been a guiding force for many investors.
Buffett’s investment philosophy is encapsulated in his famous advice: “Be fearful when others are greedy, and greedy when others are fearful.” This mantra has resonated with both seasoned investors and newcomers alike, drawing thousands to his annual meetings in Omaha. He has consistently emphasized the importance of integrity, advising employees to act in ways they would be comfortable seeing reported on the front page of their local newspaper.
Public Domain Milestone for Iconic Characters
In a notable cultural shift, characters such as Betty Boop and Blondie are set to enter the public domain in 2026. Both characters first appeared in 1930, and with the expiration of their U.S. copyrights, they will join a growing roster of works available to the public. This transition also includes significant literary titles like William Faulkner‘s “As I Lay Dying” and Dashiell Hammett‘s “The Maltese Falcon.” Additionally, classic films such as the Marx Brothers’ “Animal Crackers” will be accessible, paving the way for new interpretations and adaptations.
Farmers Anticipate Aid Package from Trump Administration
Farmers in the United States are now receiving details regarding a $12 billion aid package announced by President Donald Trump earlier this month. The U.S. Department of Agriculture disclosed the expected aid per acre for various row crops, which arrives at a crucial time for farmers who are finalizing financing and input orders for the upcoming planting season. Although the aid is welcomed, many farmers express concerns that it will not fully address the challenges posed by rising operational costs.
The year 2025 proved challenging for journalists, with heightened risks to press freedom globally. Reportedly, it is on track to be one of the deadliest years for media workers, exacerbated by a climate of hostility towards the press, particularly from political figures including President Trump, who has often targeted reporters with personal attacks.
On the financial front, Wall Street experienced a downturn on the final trading day of 2025. The S&P 500 index fell by 0.7%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Nasdaq composite declined by 0.6% and 0.8%, respectively. Despite this drop, the S&P 500 rose over 16% throughout the year, driven by optimism around advancements in technology, particularly artificial intelligence.
In an unexpected move, the Trump administration mandated the continued operation of the Craig Station, a coal-fired power plant in Colorado. This directive reflects the administration’s broader efforts to bolster the coal industry, despite many utilities shifting towards cleaner energy alternatives.
China’s Manufacturing Sector Shows Signs of Recovery
In international news, China’s manufacturing sector showed positive signs in December, with the official purchasing managers index rising to 50.1, just above the threshold for expansion. This growth is attributed to increased orders ahead of the holiday season and a temporary easing of trade tensions with the United States. The Lunar New Year, occurring in mid-February, is expected to further stimulate production as many companies prepare for extended closures.
Meanwhile, Bulgaria is poised to adopt the euro on January 1, 2026, becoming the 21st country to join the shared currency. While some citizens express apprehension about price increases, economists assure that the transition is unlikely to be as disruptive as feared, given Bulgaria’s established currency peg to the euro since 1999.
As the world enters 2026, these developments highlight a period of significant change across various sectors, from finance and agriculture to media and culture. The impact of these shifts will continue to unfold in the months ahead, shaping the economic and social landscape globally.
