I wonder if quitting did him in. I listen to the McAlvany commentary podcast (gold discussion) and the host talked about an old guy who was a well-respected gold trader whose doctor advised him NOT to quit smoking. The doctor feared that cutting off the nicotine would kill the guy faster than his smoking would.
Agreed. Although as with Buffet it's the case he faced a comparatively easier environment back when he started out, i.e. he was in the right place at the right time, on the other hand the novelty of what he did is astounding.
If you ever smoked cigarettes you know they are extremely difficult to put down. I know. Jim had class.
Wouldnt be surprised if thats the case. Similar with alcohol,stopping can kill you and I personally believe that stopping and starting alcohol intake is harder on the body than daily,moderate consumption.