Warren Buffett is widely regarded as one of the greatest investors of all time. His investment philosophy, built on patience, discipline, and value investing, has helped him amass a fortune and build Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE: BRK.B) into a global powerhouse.
For ASX share investors looking to improve their stock market success, Buffett's timeless wisdom can provide invaluable guidance. Here are five of his best quotes and how they can help you become a better investor.
Quote 1
The stock market is designed to transfer money from the Active to the Patient.
Buffett has always emphasised the importance of long-term investing. Too many investors try to time the market, buying and selling frequently in response to short-term movements. However, history shows that those who stay invested in quality ASX shares tend to see the best results over time.
Consider top ASX stocks like ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD) or Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO). Investors who held onto these companies for years, rather than reacting to market volatility, have been handsomely rewarded.
Quote 2
Price is what you pay, value is what you get.
This classic Warren Buffett quote reminds investors to focus on a company's intrinsic value rather than its share price. Just because a stock is cheap doesn't mean it is a bargain, and just because it is expensive doesn't mean it is overvalued.
For example, a high-quality business like Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME) may trade at a significant premium to market averages, but its strong management, market domination, and consistent earnings growth make it a great value. Understanding the true value of a company, rather than just its current price, is key to successful investing.
Quote 3
Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful.
The Oracle of Omaha thrives on market downturns, using them as opportunities to buy great businesses at discounted prices. When the market experiences a selloff, many investors panic and sell their shares at a loss. However, disciplined investors see these periods as buying opportunities.
Take the recent market pullback, triggered by global economic uncertainty and trade wars. Investors who recognise strong businesses with bright futures will see opportunities to buy them at lower prices, positioning themselves for long term gains.
Quote 4
It's far better to buy a wonderful company at a fair price than a fair company at a wonderful price.
Many investors fall into the trap of buying cheap stocks that have weak fundamentals. Buffett warns against this, urging investors to focus on strong businesses with sustainable competitive advantages.
Companies like Life360 Inc. (ASX: 360) and Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH) may not always be the cheapest, but their industry leadership, strong balance sheets, and consistent growth make them solid investments over the long run. It is far better buying wonderful companies like these at fair prices than a cheap looking ASX share with no moat and an uncertain future.
Quote 5
Our favourite holding period is forever.
Warren Buffett doesn't chase quick gains—he invests in companies he believes can grow and compound wealth over decades. This is an important lesson for ASX share investors who often get caught up in short-term trading.
For example, investors who bought and held TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE) or Goodman Group (ASX: GMG) for 10+ years have seen substantial returns through both capital appreciation and dividends. Patience and conviction in strong businesses are often rewarded.
Foolish takeaway
Warren Buffett's investing principles are timeless, and they apply just as well to ASX shares as they do to global markets. By focusing on long-term investing, value over price, and capitalising on market downturns, investors can significantly improve their chances of building long-term wealth.
