Warren Buffett told shareholders and partners that the top rule to follow is the Golden Rule, treating others as you would like to be treated.
This emphasis on ethical behavior comes as the Berkshire Hathaway chair connects timeless moral principles to long-term success in the current market environment.
Speaking during the Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting in Omaha, Nebraska, on May 2, 2026 [1], Buffett discussed the importance of interpersonal conduct in business. During an interview with Becky Quick, he said the Golden Rule is a guiding principle for both professional and personal interactions.
"Treat people the way you want to be treated," Buffett said [2].
Buffett described the principle as a timeless standard for ethical behavior. He said that the simplicity of the rule is what makes it effective across different eras and industries.
"There has never been a better message spoken in a couple thousand years than that," Buffett said [2].
The meeting served as a forum for the chair to address partners and shareholders on the values that drive the company. While some of his previous guidance has focused on risk management and protecting the downside, this specific message centered on the human element of commerce.
Buffett said the Golden Rule remains relevant in today's market, suggesting that integrity, and fairness are essential components of sustainable growth.
“Treat people the way you want to be treated.”
By prioritizing the Golden Rule over specific financial tactics, Buffett is reinforcing a corporate philosophy where reputation and ethics are viewed as tangible assets. In a volatile market, this approach suggests that trust and fair dealing are the most reliable hedges against long-term instability.
