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Bases Quote by Warren Buffett

“Although we deal with probabilities and expectations, the actual results can deviate substantially from such expectations, particularly on a short-term basis.” quote by Warren Buffett
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“Although we deal with probabilities and expectations, the actual results can deviate substantially from such expectations, particularly on a short-term basis.”

Warren Buffett

About This Quote

Source Letter: Berkshire Hathaway Annual Shareholder Letter, 2005

Short‑term outcomes often deviate from probabilistic expectations, highlighting risk of over‑reliance on averages.

In simple terms: Short‑term can differ from expectations.

Key Takeaway

Consider variance in decisions.

Themes

finance probability risk

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

financial educational

When to use this quote

  • investment planning
  • risk assessment
  • portfolio management
  • short‑term trading

Key Concepts

expected value statistical variance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you account for short‑term variance?
  • When should you trust probabilistic models?
A Different Perspective

Long‑term trends may still align with expectations.

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