How much of Coca-Cola does Buffett own?

Warren Buffett’s Sweet Stake in Coca-Cola

When it comes to long-term investing, few names are as iconic as Warren Buffett. And few bets have been as enduring as his love affair with Coca-Cola. Berkshire Hathaway, Buffett’s investment empire, owns a staggering 400 million shares of the soda giant—amounting to 10.20% of its entire portfolio.

This isn’t a recent fling. Buffett began buying Coca-Cola stock in the late 1980s, drawn by its powerful brand, global reach, and consistent cash flow. Over decades, it’s become one of his most celebrated holdings. Even now, decades later, Coca-Cola remains a cornerstone of Berkshire’s strategy—a symbol of Buffett’s "buy it for the long haul" philosophy.

While 10.20% represents the portion of Berkshire’s portfolio dedicated to KO stock, it’s important to clarify: this doesn’t mean Buffett owns 10.2% of the entire company. Berkshire actually owns roughly 9.3% of Coca-Cola’s outstanding shares, making it one of the largest single shareholders.

Still, that near-billion-dollar commitment speaks volumes. In a world of fast trades and fleeting trends, Buffett’s patience with Coca-Cola stands out. The stock pays a reliable dividend, too—funneling billions back into Berkshire over the years, helping fund other ventures and acquisitions.

Even as tastes shift and soda consumption evolves, Buffett hasn’t wavered. His loyalty to Coca-Cola reflects more than just financial logic—it’s a testament to trusting simple, durable businesses. As Buffett once said, “If you can’t see the future of a business clearly, move on.” With Coca-Cola, he clearly saw something lasting.