Are you ready to join the "Woodstock for Capitalists"? The Berkshire Hathaway Annual Shareholders Meeting is one of the most anticipated events in the financial world, drawing tens of thousands of investors to Omaha, Nebraska, to hear from the legendary Warren Buffett and his team. Getting a ticket, or "credential," is the first step on this pilgrimage.
Let's embark on this journey together.
Step 1: The Golden Ticket - Are You a Shareholder?
First things first, let's address the most common question: do you have to be a shareholder to get a ticket? The answer is a resounding yes and no. While the meeting is primarily for shareholders, having a ticket is the ultimate requirement.
For Shareholders: If you own even a single share of Berkshire Hathaway stock, either Class A (BRK.A) or the more affordable Class B (BRK.B), you're in the club! Your stock ownership is your key to requesting a credential. Each shareholder can typically request up to four credentials for themselves and their guests.
For Non-Shareholders: Don't own a share? Don't despair! It is possible to attend. Many shareholders don't use all their allocated tickets, and these can sometimes be found on the secondary market. eBay is a well-known marketplace where these passes pop up in the weeks leading up to the event.
So, take a moment. Are you a shareholder? If so, get ready to follow the official path. If not, you'll need to explore the secondary market, but keep in mind that prices can fluctuate.
Step 2: The Official Path - Requesting Your Credentials
This is the most reliable way to secure your tickets, and it's free. The process is straightforward, but requires attention to detail and timing.
Sub-heading 2.1: The Annual Report and Proxy Statement
Look out for your mail: If you are a registered shareholder, you will receive the annual report and proxy statement in the mail. This package is your lifeline.
Find the credential order form: Inside this mailing, there will be a specific "Annual Meeting Credential Request Form" or a perforated card from the annual report. This form is your official application.
Fill it out clearly: Print clearly! This is crucial. Fill in your name, address, and the number of credentials you are requesting (up to the maximum of four).
Address it correctly: The form will provide the exact mailing address in Omaha, Nebraska. Be sure to address the envelope precisely as instructed to avoid any delays.
Mail it in a timely manner: Berkshire Hathaway specifies a mailing deadline. For international shareholders, it is critical to mail the form well in advance to account for shipping time.
Sub-heading 2.2: Will Call - The Last-Minute Option
If you are a shareholder and you don't receive your credentials in the mail, or if you forget to bring them, you can still get in.
Visit the Will Call area: The Will Call desk is located in the lobby of the CHI Health Center Omaha, the meeting site.
Bring your proof of ownership: You will need to show a brokerage account statement or a screenshot from your broker's app that clearly shows you own Berkshire Hathaway shares.
Have your ID ready: A government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or driver's license, is also required for verification.
Check the hours: Will Call operates on specific days and times leading up to the meeting. Check the official Berkshire Hathaway shareholder guide for the exact hours to avoid disappointment.
Step 3: The Secondary Market - Finding Tickets for Non-Shareholders
If you're not a shareholder, this is your route to the meeting. It requires a bit more vigilance and is not guaranteed.
Sub-heading 3.1: Searching on eBay
Be vigilant in the weeks before the event: Look for listings for "Berkshire Hathaway credential," "meeting pass," or "ticket" on platforms like eBay.
Check the seller's reputation: Be sure to check the seller's feedback and ratings to ensure they are reputable.
Expect a nominal price: These tickets are typically sold for a small fee, often between $10 and $25 each. This is to cover the shareholder's time and effort, not to make a significant profit.
Verify authenticity: While most sellers are genuine, be cautious. A legitimate ticket will be the official physical credential sent by Berkshire Hathaway.
Sub-heading 3.2: Connecting with the Investor Community
Join online forums and groups: There are many online forums and social media groups dedicated to value investing and Berkshire Hathaway.
Network and inquire: Some shareholders who cannot attend or have extra tickets may offer them to fellow enthusiasts in these communities.
Attend ancillary events: Many investor groups host meetups and conferences in Omaha around the same time. These events can be a great way to network and potentially connect with someone who has a spare credential.
Step 4: The Ultimate Preparation - Planning Your Trip to Omaha
Once you have your ticket secured, the real planning begins. Omaha during the Berkshire Hathaway weekend is a high-demand destination.
Sub-heading 4.1: Book Accommodation and Flights Early
Think months in advance: Hotels in Omaha sell out months before the meeting. Rooms are not cheap and can be priced several times higher than their usual rate.
Consider all options: Look at hotels, but also check for Airbnbs or other rental properties.
Book flights early: Airfare to Omaha also increases significantly as the date approaches. Secure your flights as soon as your tickets are confirmed.
Sub-heading 4.2: Know the Schedule and What to Expect
Review the Shareholder Guide: Berkshire Hathaway releases a detailed guide for the weekend. It includes the schedule of events, exhibit hall hours, and other useful information.
Dress comfortably: The dress code is casual. You will be doing a lot of walking and standing, so prioritize comfort.
Arrive early for the meeting: To get a good seat in the main arena, you will need to arrive very early, even hours before the doors open. Many people line up in the wee hours of the morning. However, there are also overflow rooms with comfortable seating and live streams.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some quick answers to frequently asked questions about attending the Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting:
How to get a ticket without owning a share? You can purchase a credential from a shareholder on the secondary market, such as eBay, in the weeks leading up to the event.
How to prove I am a shareholder if I don't have the mailed form? Bring a recent brokerage account statement or a screenshot from your online brokerage app showing your ownership of BRK.A or BRK.B shares, along with a photo ID, to the Will Call desk.
How to get a good seat at the meeting? Arrive extremely early on the day of the meeting, even before dawn, to queue up for a prime spot in the main arena.
How to submit a question to Warren Buffett? Shareholders can be randomly selected from microphone locations in the arena to ask questions. You can also submit questions to a designated CNBC email address in advance.
How to get a lanyard for my credential? Lanyards are typically available for free at the Will Call desk and various points throughout the CHI Health Center.
How to find a hotel in Omaha for the meeting? Book your accommodation at least six months in advance as hotels sell out quickly and rates are significantly higher during the meeting weekend.
How to get around Omaha during the event? Many hotels offer shuttle services, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available. The CHI Health Center is also within walking distance of many downtown hotels.
How to experience the shareholder shopping day? Your credential is your admission to the exhibit hall, which features booths from many Berkshire Hathaway subsidiaries offering discounted merchandise.
How to get a copy of the annual report at the meeting? Annual reports are not typically distributed at the meeting. It is recommended to download a digital copy from the Berkshire Hathaway website.
How to save a seat for my group? While saving a few seats is generally acceptable, blocking off entire rows is discouraged and security may intervene. It's best to arrive as a group to secure seats together.
