Of course! Let's get you on the path to attending the legendary "Woodstock for Capitalists" in Omaha. This guide will walk you through every step of the process, whether you're a long-time shareholder or someone just looking to experience the magic.
How to Get Your Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting Credentials: A Comprehensive Guide
So, you've heard the stories, seen the videos, and now you want to be there in person. The Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting is more than just a business event; it's a pilgrimage for investors, a celebration of capitalism, and a chance to hear directly from the Oracle of Omaha, Warren Buffett, and his right-hand man, Charlie Munger (though Munger's presence will be deeply missed, his spirit and wisdom live on).
But before you pack your bags for Omaha, you need one crucial thing: a meeting credential. Without it, you won't be able to access the CHI Health Center and participate in the various shareholder events. Let's break down the process step-by-step.
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| How To Get Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting Credentials |
Step 1: Are you a shareholder? Let's find out!
The first and most direct path to getting your credentials is by being a Berkshire Hathaway shareholder. Don't worry, you don't need to own a multi-million-dollar Class A share (BRK.A) to attend. Owning even a single, much more affordable Class B share (BRK.B) is enough to qualify.
So, before you go any further, check your brokerage account. Do you own any BRK.A or BRK.B shares? If you do, congratulations! You have access to one of the most sought-after tickets in the financial world. If you don't, don't despair! We have a solution for you in Step 3.
Step 2: Securing Your Credentials as a Shareholder
As a shareholder, you have two primary methods to obtain your credentials, and we highly recommend the first option for a stress-free experience.
QuickTip: The more attention, the more retention.
Sub-heading: Option A: Pre-ordering via the Credential Request Form
This is the easiest and most reliable way to get your credentials. Every year, a "Credential Request Form" is released along with the proxy documents for the annual meeting.
When to expect it: The form is typically released in mid-to-late March, about a month or so before the meeting.
Where to find it: You'll receive a physical copy of the annual report with a perforated card that serves as the request form. You can also often find a printable version online on the Berkshire Hathaway investor relations website.
How to fill it out:
Fill out the form legibly with your name, address, and shareholder information.
You can request up to four credentials per shareholder, which is a fantastic benefit if you're bringing family or friends.
If you're an international shareholder, be sure to include your country to ensure the credentials arrive safely.
How to send it: Mail the completed form to the address provided on the form itself. Berkshire Hathaway will then mail your credentials to you within a few weeks.
A little insider tip: Based on past information, you don't always need to provide proof of ownership when you mail in the form. Simply filling it out is often enough.
Sub-heading: Option B: On-site Pickup (Will-Call)
If you miss the pre-order window or prefer to pick up your credentials in person, the "Will-Call" option is your backup plan.
What to bring: You'll need two things:
Photo identification: A passport or driver's license will work.
Proof of ownership: This is crucial. A brokerage account statement, a screenshot from your broker's app showing your shares, or a letter from your broker are all acceptable forms of proof.
When and where to go: The Will-Call area is located in the lobby of the CHI Health Center Omaha.
It's typically open on Friday (the day before the meeting) from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This is the recommended day for pickup to avoid long lines on Saturday morning.
It's also open on Saturday (the day of the meeting) from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Be prepared for a crowd!
Step 3: Can't you just buy a share?
Yes, you absolutely can! If you don't own a share and want to attend, the simplest way to gain access is to buy at least one Class B share (BRK.B). As of the current date, these shares are significantly more affordable than the Class A shares and grant you the same access to the meeting credentials. After purchasing a share, you can follow the steps in this guide to secure your credentials for the next annual meeting.
Step 4: For Non-Shareholders: A Secret Option
Tip: Let the key ideas stand out.
Did you know you don't have to be a shareholder to get a meeting pass? It's true! The credentials are your ticket, and if you can get your hands on one, you're in. This is where the secondary market comes in.
Where to look: eBay is a well-known marketplace where shareholders who have extra credentials sometimes sell them.
When to look: Look for listings a few weeks before the annual meeting.
What to expect: Credentials typically sell for a modest fee, ranging from $10 to $25 each.
A word of caution: Be extremely careful and only purchase from reputable sellers, especially if an "official" eBay account is mentioned for the tickets. The Berkshire Hathaway official guide recommends obtaining credentials through the official channels, so this is an unofficial but often effective method.
Step 5: Understanding Your Credential
Your meeting credential is more than just a pass to the main event. It's your "ticket" to the entire weekend, unlocking a variety of shareholder-only benefits and discounts.
Access to the Exhibition Hall: Enjoy discount shopping at the exhibits featuring Berkshire-owned companies.
Shareholder Shopping Events: Get special pricing at places like Nebraska Furniture Mart and Borsheims.
Entry to the Main Meeting: The credential is mandatory for admission to the CHI Health Center Arena for the Q&A session with Warren Buffett.
Discounts and Freebies: Your credential might also get you discounts at local attractions and restaurants in Omaha.
10 Related FAQ Subheadings (Starting with 'How to')
How to find the Credential Request Form?
You can find the Credential Request Form either as a perforated card in the back of the physical annual report you receive as a shareholder or on the Berkshire Hathaway investor relations website in the proxy documents.
How to prove stock ownership for Will-Call pickup?
QuickTip: Read section by section for better flow.
To prove stock ownership at the Will-Call area, you can bring a recent brokerage account statement, a printed screenshot from your online brokerage account, or even just show your broker's app on your phone that displays your holdings. A valid photo ID is also required.
How to attend if I don't own any shares?
You can either purchase at least one Class B share (BRK.B) to become a shareholder and request a credential, or you can check the secondary market, such as eBay, for available credentials being sold by shareholders who have extras.
How to get discounted shopping with the credential?
Your meeting credential is your key to special shareholder pricing at various Berkshire-owned businesses, including Nebraska Furniture Mart and Borsheims, during the annual meeting weekend. Just show your credential at the register.
How to submit a question for the Q&A session?
In-person shareholders are selected randomly to ask questions from 11 microphone locations. For non-attending shareholders, CNBC's Becky Quick curates questions submitted via email. You can submit your question to berkshirequestions@cnbc.com.
QuickTip: Use posts like this as quick references.
How to make travel and accommodation arrangements?
Plan your travel and accommodation in Omaha well in advance, as tens of thousands of people descend on the city for the meeting. Hotels and flights can book up months ahead. The official Shareholders' Guide often lists recommended hotels.
How to find out about shareholder-only events?
The official Berkshire Hathaway Shareholders' Guide, which you can find on the company's website, provides a detailed schedule of all shareholder-only events, including shopping nights, picnics, and exhibitions.
How to pick up my credentials if they don't arrive by mail?
If your pre-ordered credentials don't arrive, you can always use the Will-Call option at the CHI Health Center. Just bring your photo ID and proof of ownership.
How to find the Will-Call area at the CHI Health Center?
The Will-Call area is located in the lobby of the CHI Health Center in Omaha, typically near the 10th Street Arena Entrance. Signs will direct you to the correct location.
How to watch the meeting if I can't attend in person?
The annual meeting is typically live-streamed on the internet, allowing you to watch the entire Q&A session with Warren Buffett from the comfort of your own home. Check the Berkshire Hathaway website for streaming details closer to the date.
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