Oracle of Omaha: Value or Commodity?

After picking it up in direct and indirect parts through other sources, it's clear that Warren Buffett's three-hour gabfest on CNBC this morning accomplished at least one of two things. First it continued his longly held perceived love affair with hearing himself talk to Rebecca Quick, a former Wall Street Journal print reporter turned broadcasting maven. No one can argue with the Oracle of Omaha's legendary investing record; that speaks for itself and always will. But from a branding perspective, Buffett has grown to resemble an over-exposed talking head. From the public rescue of Goldman Sachs back during the Crash to last year's infusion to Bank of America -- interceded by becoming best known business pals with President Obama, the mystique that gave rise to Buffett's fame now has been eroded. His latest announcement that he's chosen a successor but will not name him or her is downright kooky considering current public profile. Then again when you're rich and don't answer to anyone these things don't matter much. At least he's intellectually honest, which is more than what can be said about leaders in other sectors.

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