Warren Buffett Officially Steps Down As The CEO Of Berkshire Hathaway From December 31, 2025

After a historic 60-year tenure, Warren Buffett is officially stepping down as the CEO of Berkshire Hathaway today, December 31, 2025.

Succession Details

New CEO: Greg Abel, who has overseen Berkshire’s non-insurance operations since 2018, will formally take over as CEO on January 1, 2026.

Buffett's Future Role: Buffett, now 95, will remain Chairman of the Board. He has indicated he plans to continue visiting the office and contributing investment ideas.

Leadership Team: To manage his increased responsibilities, Abel has promoted NetJets CEO Adam Johnson to oversee all consumer, service, and retail businesses, while Abel continues to supervise the energy, industrial, and manufacturing units.

Legacy and State of the Company

Performance: Under Buffett’s leadership since 1965, Berkshire’s Class A shares saw a cumulative return of approximately 6,060,000% (as of late December 2025).

Financial Position: Buffett leaves the company with a record cash reserve of $382 billion, providing significant capital for future acquisitions under Abel’s leadership.

Recent Shifts: Ahead of the transition, the firm significantly trimmed its core positions in Apple and Bank of America throughout 2025.

Key Executive Departures

As part of the broader leadership transition:

Todd Combs, a top investment lieutenant and CEO of Geico, is leaving to join JPMorgan.

Marc Hamburg, the longtime Chief Financial Officer, will retire in June 2027 and be succeeded by Charles Chang.

Nancy Pierce has been named the new CEO of Geico, effective immediately.

CapitaLAnd India Trust To Divest 20.2% Stake In Three Data Centres Under Development

Strategic divestment is in line with the Trustee-Manager’s continued portfolio reconstitution strategy to drive growth and performance

Divestment unlocks value of CLINT’s data centre developments and enhances financial agility

CapitaLand India Trust has entered into definitive agreements for the divestment of 20.2% stakes in three data centre assets under development to CapitaLand India Data Centre Fund (CIDCF) for an estimated total purchase consideration of INR 7.02 billion (S$99.73 million).

The total purchase consideration of the three data centres is based on 20.2% of the total enterprise value of INR 51.97 billion (S$738.2 million) as of 31 December 2025 which will be adjusted for liabilities, working capital, capital expenditure, and is subject to post-completion adjustments. The enterprise value, negotiated on a willing-buyer and willing-seller basis, is at a premium to the independent valuation of INR 45.70 billion (S$649 million) as at 31 December 2025.

In September 2025, CLINT had divested CyberVale in Chennai and CyberPearl in Hyderabad, the Trust’s first divestment since its listing in 2007. The divestment of the partial stake in CLINT’s data centre portfolio further reinforces the Trust’s commitment to unlock value by monetising and realising the value of its developments to strengthen its balance sheet.

Mr Gauri Shankar Nagabhushanam, Chief Executive Officer of CapitaLand India Trust Management Pte. Ltd. (the Trustee-Manager of CLINT), said: “The partial divestment reflects continued execution of our portfolio reconstitution strategy. By unlocking value earlier in the development cycle, while retaining a significant stake in the assets, we are able to support our development pipeline and enhance financial flexibility.”

“We are pleased to be partnering with CIDCF and remain invested in the future growth of India’s data centre sector through our remaining stake in the portfolio. The partnership with CIDCF also provides CLINT the right to participate in a partial stake in future data centre developments by our sponsor and potentially buy back the assets or explore exit options such as an initial public offering of the assets. Post-transaction, CLINT remains well-positioned to pursue accretive and higher yielding investment growth opportunities in key India cities to create value for our Unitholders.”

About CapitaLand India Trust (www.clint.com.sg)

CapitaLand India Trust (CLINT) was listed on the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (SGX-ST) in August 2007 as the first Indian property trust in Asia. Its principal objective is to own income-producing real estate used primarily as business space in India. CLINT may also develop and acquire land or uncompleted developments primarily to be used as business space, with the objective of holding the properties upon completion. As at 30 June 2025, CLINT’s assets under management stood at S$3.7 billion.

CLINT’s portfolio includes eight world-class IT business parks, three industrial facilities, one logistics park and four data centre developments in India, with total completed floor area of 21.7 million square feet spread across Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune and Mumbai. CLINT is focused on capitalising on the fast-growing IT industry and logistics/industrial asset classes in India, as well as proactively diversifying into other asset classes such as data centres.

CLINT is structured as a business trust, offering stable income distributions similar to a real estate investment trust. CLINT focuses on enhancing shareholder value by actively managing existing properties, developing vacant land in its portfolio, and acquiring new properties. CLINT is managed by CapitaLand India Trust Management Pte. Ltd. The Trustee-Manager is a wholly owned subsidiary of Singapore-listed CapitaLand Investment Limited, a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold.

About CapitaLand Investment Limited (www.capitalandinvest.com)

Headquartered and listed in Singapore in 2021, CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) is a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold. As at 5 November 2025, CLI had S$120 billion of funds under management held via stakes in eight listed real estate investment trusts and business trusts and a suite of private real asset vehicles that invest in demographics, disruption and digitalisation-themed strategies. Its diversified real asset classes include retail, office, lodging, industrial, logistics, business parks, wellness, self-storage, data centres and private credit.

CLI aims to scale its fund management, lodging management and commercial management businesses globally and maintain effective capital management. As the investment management arm of CapitaLand Group, CLI has access to the development capabilities of and pipeline investment opportunities from CapitaLand Group’s development arm.

CLI is committed to growing in a responsible manner, delivering long-term economic value and contributing to the environmental and social well-being of its communities.

Sunburn Festival 2025 Reinforced Its Legacy As India’s Ultimate Year-End Cultural Pilgrimage With 40% Fans Journey From Outside Mumbai

Widely regarded as India’s final cultural crescendo to the calendar year, Sunburn Festival made its much-anticipated shift to Mumbai reinforcing its position as the country’s year-end cultural magnet. What began as a space for music lovers to celebrate the closing of the year has now evolved into a national pilgrimage for fans across genres, cities and age groups. The move to Mumbai marked more than a change in venue; it signifies a surge in cultural travel, city-wide economic energy and a shared desire for collective celebration.

Over the years, Sunburn Festival has expanded from being a hub for electronic music lovers into something far larger - a cultural emotion. Fans come for the acts, the artists and the music, but they stay for what only Sunburn Festival has managed to build at this scale: the energy, the people, the collective pulsing of thousands under one sky and the indescribable warmth of a community that returns year after year. That is the legacy of Sunburn Festival - not just a lineup, but a cultural homecoming.

The shift to Mumbai in 2025 reflects what Sunburn Festival has always represented - an influx of music travellers bringing incredible energy and economic movement wherever it goes. According to Sunburn Festival 2025 data, this edition witnessed strong interest from audiences beyond Mumbai, with close to 40% fans traveling from outside Mumbai alone, with leading contribution from cities such as Pune, Bengaluru, Delhi-NCR, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad and Kolkata, followed by a remarkable rise in audiences from Tier-2 and emerging cultural centres including Indore, Goa, Nagpur, Vadodara and Nashik, further signalling how deep and wide the Sunburn community now runs.

For 18 years, Sunburn Festival has been the pioneer of large-scale electronic music culture in India, the one that built a scene before one existed and turned it into a movement. The Mumbai edition proved to be a reaffirmation of the cultural gravity that Sunburn Festival holds. As the city welcomed fans from across India and beyond, one truth stands unchanged - December is Sunburn Festival and the festival is how India says goodbye to the year.

Nethradhama In Collaboration With Karnataka And Bangalore Ophthalmology Societies To Conduct Phaco Festival 2026

* India’s Premier International Ophthalmology Conference

* The 10th edition of the immersive three-day conference will take place from January 16 to 18, 2026, in Bengaluru, featuring global faculty, 3D deferred live surgeries, masterclasses, and hands-on labs

Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital, Bengaluru, a pioneering institution in eye care, in collaboration with the Karnataka Ophthalmology Society (KOS) and the Bangalore Ophthalmology Society (BOS), will conduct one of India’s most prominent and highly regarded ophthalmology conferences, Phaco Festival 2026. The three-day conference, scheduled from January 16 to 18, 2026, at Nethradhama Hospitals and Conrad Bengaluru, will be conducted on the theme “Ophthalmic Innovation and Surgical Excellence.” Since its inception in 2001, the Phaco Festival has emerged as a benchmark forum for advanced surgical training and continuing ophthalmic education in India, providing ophthalmologists across the globe with structured opportunities for upskilling and exposure to emerging technologies.

The 10th edition of its flagship biennial conference will serve as a leading platform for ophthalmic innovation, surgical skill enhancement, and global clinical collaboration, bringing together national and international experts for high-impact scientific engagement.

Phaco Festival 2026 will feature a comprehensive and immersive academic experience, including 3D deferred live surgeries, wetlabs, drylabs, masterclasses, upskilling courses, clinical debates, and case-based learning sessions led by nationally and internationally acclaimed faculty. Designed as an intensive surgical learning platform, the conference integrates hospital-based hands-on training with conference-led scientific sessions to support capacity building in ophthalmic care.

A dedicated technology showcase will bring together leading ophthalmic device manufacturers, IOL innovators, digital workflow solution providers, and laser technology companies, serving as a launch platform where global partners will debut innovations expected to influence future surgical practice.

Speaking about the upcoming edition, Prof. Dr. Sri Ganesh, Founder and CMD of Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital and Organizing Chairman of Phaco Festival, said, “As we conduct the 10th edition of the Phaco Festival, our focus remains on strengthening ophthalmic education through practical surgical training. This year’s programme offers structured exposure to new techniques, and hands-on learning that will help clinicians improve surgical precision and efficiency. I am confident that delegates, especially young ophthalmologists, will benefit from the 3D deferred live surgeries, the diverse faculty, and the opportunity to learn directly from experts redefining the future of eye care.”

Dr. Supriya Sri Ganesh, Executive Director of Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital, added, “Phaco Festival has always been designed as a platform where learning, collaboration, and innovation converge. The 2026 edition builds on this vision with a comprehensive curriculum that brings together hands-on training, masterclasses, clinical debates, and technology showcases. Our focus remains rooted in fostering patient-centric excellence by equipping clinicians with practical skills and evidence-based insights that strengthen surgical outcomes. We look forward to hosting a dynamic exchange of ideas as national and international experts come together to elevate the standards of ophthalmic practice.”

The conference will feature;
Day 1: Wetlabs, Drylabs & Skill Development, Skill Transfer Courses, and Decode by Ophthalpreneurs (a curated learning module for young ophthalmic innovators)
Day 2: Core Scientific Programme, Masterclasses, Live Podcast, Clinical Debates, Dissecting Complex Cases, YOSI Sessions, Panel Discussions, and Gala Dinner (cultural networking evening)
Day 3: Surgical Excellence, 3D deferred live surgeries by national and international faculty, Inauguration Ceremony and Ophthalmology PG Quiz

Registrations for Phaco Festival 2026 are now open, and interested delegates may register by visiting Phaco Festival official website for further details and enrollment.

Whistling Woods International – IIM Mumbai Set Up High-Impact Advisory Board For Their MBA In Media & Entertainment

Whistling Woods International (WWI) & Indian Institute of Management Mumbai (IIM Mumbai), proudly announces the formation of a prestigious Advisory Board for its upcoming MBA in Media & Entertainment.

Comprising distinguished industry leaders, the Advisory Board represents a wide spectrum of stalwarts from India’s M&E industry covering all areas from Cinema, Sports, TV, OTT, Animation, Games, Music, Events, Media & Communication. This powerhouse collective will guide the programme’s curriculum development, industry integration, and strategic direction - ensuring it stays at the cutting edge of industry trends and global best practices.

Meghna Ghai Puri, President, Whistling Woods International, delightfully commented on the formation of the advisory board, “We are honoured to have assembled an Advisory Board of such exceptional calibre and diversity. These industry titans represent the very best of Indian media and entertainment. Their collective insights will be instrumental in shaping a world-class MBA programme that prepares the next generation of leaders for this dynamic sector.”

Prof Manoj Tiwari, Director of IIM Mumbai added, “The Advisory Board’s composition reflects the comprehensive nature of the MBA in Media & Entertainment programme. With leaders from every major vertical, students will gain unparalleled exposure to real-world challenges, emerging opportunities, and best practices across the media and entertainment landscape.”

Advisory Board Members

Shashikanth Someshwar, CEO, Weber Shandwick

Ashish Saksena, COO, BookMyShow

Apoorva Mehta, CEO, Dharma Productions

Ajit Andhare, COO, Producer, Viacom18 Studios

Ashish Pherwani, Partner – Media & Entertainment, Ernst & Young

Ashish Kulkarni, Founder, Punnaryug Artvision

Atul Churamani, MD, Turnkey Music and Publishing Private Limited

Akshat Rathee, Co-Founder, Nodwin Gaming

Dinesh Vijan, Founder, Maddock Films

Devraj Sanyal, Chairman & CEO India SA, SVP Strategy, Africa, M. East & Asia, Universal Music Group

Gaurav Gandhi, VP, Amazon Prime Video – APAC & ANZ

Keitan Yadav, COO, Red Chillies VFX

Manvendra Shukul, CEO, Lakshya Digital, India Head - Keywords Studios

Nitish Mittersain, CEO & MD, Nazara Technologies

Prashant Khanna, Head - Sports & Live Experiences Production Technology & Services, JioStar

Rajiv Chilaka, Founder & MD, Green Gold Animation PVT LTD

Rajan Navani, Chairman & MD, Jetline Group of Companies & CEO, Jetsynthesys

Roshan Abbas, Founder, Kommune India

Sameer Nair, MD, Applause Entertainment

Samit Garg, Co- Founder & MD, E Factor Experiences

Vinit Karnik, MD, WPP Media

The newly formed Advisory Board will meet regularly to provide strategic guidance, facilitate industry collaborations, mentor students, and ensure that the programme remains responsive to the rapidly evolving media and entertainment industry.

To know more, visit:https://www.whistlingwoods.net/programmes/mba-in-media-entertainment/

Samsung Innovation Campus Certifies 450 Youth In AI And Coding At NSIC Hyderabad

Programme strengthens future-tech talent pipeline as Samsung advances India’s digital skilling mission

Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, certified 450 students in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Coding & Programming under its flagship skilling initiative, Samsung Innovation Campus (SIC), at the NSIC Technical Service Centre, Hyderabad, reinforcing its commitment to building a future-ready digital workforce in India.

Samsung Innovation Campus is Samsung’s global skilling programme aimed at equipping youth with advanced, industry-relevant technology skills through structured training, hands-on learning and project-based outcomes, enhancing employability in the digital economy.

Hyderabad emerges as a future-tech skilling hub

The certificate felicitation ceremony was graced by Mr. Rajivnath, Centre Head, NSIC Hyderabad, who congratulated the students and highlighted the importance of sustained investments in youth skilling to support India’s digital transformation.

Of the 450 students certified at NSIC Hyderabad this year, 100 completed advanced training in Artificial Intelligence, while 350 were trained in Coding & Programming, following a structured curriculum focused on practical application and industry relevance.

Strengthening India’s future-ready workforce

The Hyderabad programme is part of Samsung’s broader commitment to skill 20,000 youth across India in 2025 under Samsung Innovation Campus. Aligned with the Government of India’s Skill India and Digital India initiatives, SIC aims to bridge critical skill gaps and foster a culture of technology-led innovation across the country.

The programme places strong emphasis on inclusivity, with 42% women participation nationally, and active outreach to tier-2, tier-3 and semi-urban regions, ensuring equitable access to high-quality technology education.

By expanding access to in-demand digital skills and nurturing job-ready talent, Samsung Innovation Campus continues to strengthen India’s future-tech talent pipeline and support the country’s journey towards a digitally empowered economy.

Samsung Newsroom India: https://news.samsung.com/in/samsung-innovation-campus-certifies-450-youth-in-ai-and-coding-at-nsic-hyderabad

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, digital signage, smartphones, wearables, tablets, home appliances and network systems, as well as memory, system LSI and foundry. Samsung is also advancing medical imaging technologies, HVAC solutions and robotics, while creating innovative automotive and audio products through Harman. With its SmartThings ecosystem, open collaboration with partners, and integration of AI across its portfolio, Samsung delivers a seamless and intelligent connected experience. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com/in/

ABD Maestro Launches AODH IRISH Whiskey, Entering One Of The Fastest Growing Segments In India

 

ABD Maestro Pvt. Ltd., the super-premium and luxury spirits subsidiary of Allied Blenders & Distillers (ABD), today launched AODH IRISH Whiskey in India, making a strong entry into the one of the fastest growing segments in the country. ABD Maestro, co-founded by Superstar Ranveer Singh, who also serves as its creative partner is focused on creating world-class brands for both Indian and global audiences.

 

Defined by taste. Crafted for stories.

 

AODH is ‘flame’ in Irish, symbolising warmth, brotherhood, continuity, and enduring stories. Crafted using a signature triple distillation, the whiskey brings to you a bright gold hue with subtle coppery glints and exceptional clarity. On the nose, it reveals notes of vanilla cream, light honey, and toffee from ex-bourbon cask maturation, leading to a smooth and silky palate with an elegant, lasting finish.

 

Bikram Basu, Managing Director, ABD Maestro, said “A truly authentic Irish expression, AODH Irish Whiskey carries centuries of distilling heritage, while resonating with contemporary palates. AODH is a strategic step forward as we shape the super-premium spirit’s portfolio. Irish whiskey has seen strong growth in recent years and a super-premium, quality product, indexed justifiably higher than the current market players should attract the knowledgeable and discerning”.

 

India has quickly emerged as a key growth market for Irish Whiskey, with exports to the country growing by 57% and India now ranking as the world’s fifth-largest market for the category according to the Drinks Ireland ‘Spirits 2024 Annual Report’. This growth signals the trend for Indian consumers towards premium, authentic products and create an alternate global provenance other than Scotch. The addition of AODH Irish Whiskey underscores ABD Maestro’s agile thinking and future-ready portfolio strategy, reinforcing its commitment to bringing world-class, premium spirits.

 

Launched in Haryana, and to be followed immediately in Maharashtra at a MRP of ₹3,950 (750ml), AODH Irish Whiskey will subsequently expand to Goa, West Bengal, Karnataka, Delhi and key markets of North India.

 

About ABD Maestro Private Limited

ABD Maestro Private Limited is a new super-premium and luxury spirits brand company and a subsidiary of ABD. The ABD Maestro portfolio include Arthaus Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, Zoya Special Batch Gin and its flavours, Rangeela Contemporary Indian Vodka, Yello Designer Whisky, Woodburns Contemporary Indian Malt Whisky, Pumori Small Batch Gin and Pink Gin, Segredo Aldeia Café and White Rums. Through its partnership with Roust Corporation, the company has introduced Russian Standard Vodka to India in three distinct segments: Original, Gold, and Platinum.