Bill Gates, the founder of Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), is a well-known billionaire who became the first centibillionaire in 1999. Despite his philanthropic efforts, Gates remains worth well over $100 billion today. He has donated billions to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which focuses on improving healthcare and reducing poverty globally.
Warren Buffett, another centibillionaire, has also contributed to the foundation since 2006. However, his donations will cease after his passing. The foundation’s equity portfolio, valued at around $46 billion, is heavily concentrated in three stocks.
1. Microsoft (37%)
As expected, Microsoft is a significant part of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Trust. Gates founded the company and remains one of its largest individual shareholders. The foundation received a substantial donation of Microsoft stock in 2022, resulting in a sizeable increase in share count. With Microsoft’s strong performance in AI and cloud computing, the trust has benefited from holding onto these shares.
2. Waste Management (16%)
Gates’ investment in Waste Management, influenced by Buffett’s strategy, has proven to be lucrative. The company’s stable revenue growth and strong market position have contributed to its success in the portfolio.
3. Berkshire Hathaway Class B shares (15%)
Buffett’s donations to the foundation include Berkshire Hathaway Class B shares. This investment has provided steady returns and is part of Buffett’s long-term philanthropic plan.
Overall, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Trust’s concentrated holdings in these three stocks have been instrumental in its success. With a focus on sustainable growth and value, these investments have contributed to the foundation’s mission of making a positive impact on society.