Warren Buffett Excludes Bill Gates Foundation from Donations Amid Epstein Scandal

Billionaire investor Warren Buffett has excluded the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation from his annual charitable donations for the first time in two decades, reports AP. Buffett, known as the "Oracle of Omaha," announced on Tuesday that he would donate $6 billion worth of Berkshire Hathaway stock to four foundations linked to his family.

Notably absent from this year's announcement was the Gates Foundation, which has historically been a major focus of Buffett's philanthropic efforts. Over the years, Buffett has gifted tens of billions of dollars to the foundation. This year, however, he made no mention of it, signaling a significant shift in his giving strategy.

Sources suggest the decision may be connected to Bill Gates' previously disclosed ties to Jeffrey Epstein, the financier convicted of sex offenses. While Gates has expressed regret for his association with Epstein and denied any participation in his activities, he has acknowledged being aware of the sex offense charges against Epstein and stated he should have investigated them more thoroughly. Gates has also indicated that Epstein's networks were a factor in maintaining contact, as Epstein claimed he could help raise billions for Gates' health initiatives.

Buffett and Gates have long been close friends and collaborators. However, Buffett told CNBC in March that he had not spoken to Gates in months, particularly after the Epstein documents were released in late 2025. Buffett expressed surprise at the number of wealthy and influential individuals entangled with Epstein. The exclusion of the Gates Foundation could significantly impact its funding base, although Buffett had previously stated in 2024 his intention to cease donations to the foundation after his death, leaving the distribution of the remainder to his three children. Buffett reiterated his commitment to donating nearly his entire fortune to charity, having given away nearly $65 billion since 2006.