Warren Buffett Excludes Gates Foundation from Annual Charity Donation

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Warren Buffett, a billionaire investor, chose to exclude the Gates Foundation from his annual charity donations this year. This decision follows revelations about Bill Gates’ connections to Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. Buffett announced a donation of approximately $6 billion to four foundations linked to his family.

Future Stock Donations

Buffett addressed his intention to donate all his remaining Berkshire Hathaway stock, valued over $140 billion, to charity by the end of 2034. He previously planned for his three children to manage his fortune distribution within ten years of his passing at age 95.

Buffett emphasized that his remaining shares will be given to the four foundations by December 31, 2034. He aims for annual grant increases to the three foundations managed by his children and a higher growth rate for the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation.

Lack of Immediate Response

Buffett did not answer questions on Tuesday, but CNBC reported that he would give an exclusive interview on the topic the following morning.

The Gates Foundation expressed gratitude for Buffett’s long-term support. Thanks to Gates’ pledge to donate 99% of his fortune, the foundation maintains strong financial health, planning to close in 2045 after distributing its resources.

The Gates Foundation has received more than $47 billion from Buffett over the years, aiding global health and opportunity improvements.

Donation Distribution

Buffett’s latest contributions match last year’s donations. His gifts exceed $61 billion to the Gates Foundation since announcing his plan to give away his fortune in 2006. This year, Buffett will allocate roughly $4.5 billion in stock to the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation and $500 million each to foundations run by his children.

Bill Gates’ Denial of Wrongdoing

Gates denied any knowledge of Epstein’s crimes and stated his interactions with Epstein aimed at fundraising for charitable causes. Epstein, accused of abusing underage girls, died by suicide in a Manhattan federal jail in August 2019.

Buffett had previously planned to end Gates Foundation donations after his death, allowing his children to distribute his wealth. His Tuesday announcement hastens this plan.

Previous Friendship with Gates

Buffett and Gates were close friends, frequently communicating, playing online bridge, and vacationing together. Gates held a board position at Buffett’s conglomerate, and Buffett served on the Gates Foundation board. Buffett told CNBC in March he hadn’t spoken to Gates for months before the Epstein disclosures, which began in December 2025.

Though Buffett defended Gates in the past, when Gates faced scrutiny during the Berkshire Hathaway shareholder meeting, recent events have shifted the relationship dynamics.

Astonishment Over Epstein’s Manipulation

Buffett expressed astonishment over Epstein’s success as a con artist, exploiting weaknesses like sex, power, and other vulnerabilities. He refrained from discussing Gates’ involvement but stated he seeks to avoid associations with potentially future investigations.

Gates recently discussed Epstein ties with foundation staff. Justice Department documents include Gates’ communications with Epstein, calendar meetings, and event photos.

The foundation hired expertise in March to review past dealings with Epstein and refine partnership assessment policies. An update is expected this summer.

Buffett commented on the widespread involvement of wealthy individuals in the Epstein scandal, puzzled by how many prominent figures got entangled.

Buffett shared relief that Epstein never visited Omaha, his home for over sixty years. Buffett is widely respected as an exceptional investor, building Berkshire Hathaway by acquiring various businesses.

Buffett retired as Berkshire CEO in January after six decades but remains chairman and major shareholder. Greg Abel now holds the CEO role.