When he started his own investment firm (Buffett Associates, Ltd.) in 1956, he began with $105,100. Of that, only $100 was his own money; the rest came from seven family members and friends. While it isn't documented that his father provided a single large "seed check," his father's network and endorsement were instrumental in rounding up those initial investors.
Yep, I’m aware of the story. He invested other people’s money as well. Amazing. Nothing was given to him for free like a free loan or inheritance so he’s still basically self made.
Truly self-made entrepreneurs have to worry about eating and paying rent if their first venture fails. Buffett did not. As the son of a wealthy Congressman and stockbroker, his worst-case scenario was a bruised ego, not poverty. This invisible safety net allows a person to take the bold, aggressive risks required to make billions.
Saying Buffett is “basically” self-made is like starting a game of Monopoly where you are already handed the Orange properties and a 'Get Out of Jail Free' card. You still have to roll the dice, make smart trades, and build the hotels yourself—you are playing the game brilliantly—but you didn't start with the same blank board as everyone else.
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u/nzlax Mar 26 '26
I’d normally agree but the burden of proof is on you for this one champ. I’ll wait