Activist investors push for AI oversight at Berkshire Hathaway

A significant development has emerged within Berkshire Hathaway, the multinational conglomerate helmed by Warren Buffett, as an activist investor group is pushing for greater accountability in relation to artificial intelligence (AI) risks. Tulipshare, based in London, announced on Tuesday that it has submitted a shareholder resolution advocating for the establishment of a committee of independent directors tasked with overseeing AI-related risks across the myriad companies under Berkshire Hathaway’s umbrella. The resolution is set to be presented at the company’s annual meeting scheduled for May 3.

Tulipshare articulated concerns regarding the improper use of AI technologies, citing potential risks such as data leaks, privacy intrusions, business disruptions, and human rights abuses. The group underscored Berkshire Hathaway’s substantial influence across various industries, positing that the conglomerate is uniquely positioned to take a leading role in AI governance.

Warren Buffett, speaking at the previous annual meeting in May, acknowledged the pivotal role of AI in modern business, noting his limited knowledge about the technology. He remarked on its “enormous potential for good and enormous potential for harm”, indicating a recognition of both the advantageous and perilous aspects of AI deployment in business practices.

Despite its substantial shareholder base, Berkshire’s corporate governance challenges are evident, as Buffett, who holds approximately 14.4% of the company’s stock, wields control over 30.2% of its voting power. This dynamic complicates the potential for shareholder proposals to gain traction without Buffett’s endorsement. Historically, Buffett and the board have expressed opposition to the formation of independent committees that would review operational aspects of Berkshire’s various businesses. For instance, a proposal from the previous year aimed at establishing independent directors to oversee safety protocols at Berkshire’s BNSF Railway garnered only 3.6% shareholder support.

Berkshire Hathaway, headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, manages a diverse range of businesses, including Geico car insurance, Berkshire Hathaway Energy, Brooks running shoes, and See’s Candies, alongside significant investments in well-known companies such as Apple and Amazon.

Buffett, now 94, has been at the helm of Berkshire Hathaway since 1965 and remains a crucial figure in the company’s strategic direction. The forthcoming resolution by Tulipshare reflects an increasing trend among corporate shareholders advocating for robust oversight in the face of emerging technologies, particularly as businesses navigate the complexities introduced by AI developments. As industry forecasts continue to highlight the transformative potential of AI, the discussions within Berkshire Hathaway may serve as a bellwether for broader corporate governance trends regarding technological influences.

Source: Noah Wire Services