Does Warren Buffett still own Diageo?

Warren Buffett’s Stake in Diageo: A Small but Strategic Move

Yes, Warren Buffett still owns Diageo plc—though not directly in his name, but through Berkshire Hathaway. The legendary investor made a quiet but telling move in the first quarter of 2023 when Berkshire picked up 228,000 shares of the British spirits giant, valued at around $19.3 million at the time. While it may not rank among Buffett’s heavyweight investments, it’s a noteworthy addition to a portfolio known for its long-term, value-driven approach.

This position makes up just 0.01% of Berkshire’s total equity holdings, landing it as the 38th largest holding—tiny next to titans like Apple or Bank of America. Yet, even small bets from Buffett attract attention. Diageo, the company behind globally recognized brands like Johnnie Walker, Guinness, and Tanqueray, fits Buffett’s preference for durable businesses with strong brands and consistent cash flow.

What’s more telling is that Berkshire has held onto the shares since acquisition, with no reported sales since the initial purchase. In Buffett’s world, holding is often a silent endorsement. While this isn’t a “bet the farm” move, it signals cautious optimism in Diageo’s global reach and defensive qualities—even in uncertain markets.

Buffett has long favored companies that dominate their space and generate reliable returns. Diageo’s steady international presence, particularly in premium spirits and alcoholic beverages, may have caught the eye of Berkshire’s investment team—possibly even Buffett himself, who still guides the company’s strategy despite succession plans in motion.

At this point, it’s a modest position, but in Buffett’s playbook, even the smallest holdings can carry a message: Diageo, it seems, passes the first test—durability. Whether it grows into something bigger remains to be seen. For now, Buffett’s hands-off approach speaks volumes.