It's Warren Buffett's 96th birthday. His last year was one of the most transformational yet.

Warren Buffett is Berkshire Hathaway's chairman and former CEO.

Daniel Zuchnik/WireImage Warren Buffett celebrates his 96th birthday on Sunday.

He's retired as CEO, bet big on Alphabet, and ramped up his giving over the past 12 months.

Here are the highlights from the legendary investor's landmark year.

Happy birthday, Mr.

Buffett.

Investing legend Warren Buffett turns 96 on Sunday, and the 12 months since his 95th birthday have been truly transformational, featuring a huge career move and a major new investment.

He's also accelerated his charitable giving and dispensed plenty of his trademark wit and wisdom.

Into the next chapter For his Thanksgiving message , Buffett penned a love letter to his hometown of Omaha, reflected on his good fortune, and thanked the many people who helped him throughout his life.

Buffett, who has pledged to donate virtually all of his wealth to good causes, said he would speed up his giving as he wanted his children to be the ones who distribute his fortune.

He also encouraged his followers to learn from their mistakes, choose good role models, live up to the obituaries they want for themselves, and care for others.

"When you help someone in any of thousands of ways, you help the world," he wrote.

"Kindness is costless but also priceless." Buffett retired as Berkshire Hathaway CEO at the end of December after six decades in charge.

He remains chairman of the company, which he transformed from a failing textile mill into a $1 trillion juggernaut.