Warren Buffett Maintains Support for Gates Foundation Despite Epstein Questions
In his first public remarks about Bill Gates since the release of Epstein-related documents, legendary investor Warren Buffett has firmly stated he has no regrets about his massive donations to the Gates Foundation. Speaking exclusively to CNBC, the Berkshire Hathaway chairman addressed the ongoing controversy while emphasizing his continued philanthropic commitment.
"No Point Talking Until Things Are Clear"
Buffett adopted a cautious approach when questioned about the Epstein connections, telling interviewers: "I think until it gets cleared up, it doesn't make sense to do a lot of talking." He elaborated further, explaining his reluctance to become involved in legal proceedings: "I don't want to be in a position where I know things ... to be called as a witness."
When pressed specifically about whether he regretted his substantial financial contributions to the Gates Foundation—the philanthropic organization founded by Bill Gates and his former wife Melinda French Gates—Buffett responded unequivocally: he was not sorry about having donated, though he acknowledged wishing that "certain things hadn't happened."
Decades of Philanthropic Commitment
The 93-year-old investing icon has directed an astonishing more than $43 billion to the Gates Foundation since beginning his systematic giving program. His donation strategy involves:
- Annual mid-year transfers of Berkshire Hathaway stock to the Gates Foundation
- Regular contributions to four family charities throughout the year
- Additional November donations specifically to family-focused charitable organizations
In 2025 alone, Buffett's contributions to the Gates Foundation totaled approximately $4.5 billion, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to global philanthropy despite recent controversies surrounding its co-founder.
Personal Friendship and The Giving Pledge
When asked about his current relationship with Bill Gates, Buffett spoke warmly about their personal connection. The two billionaires, along with Melinda French Gates, co-founded The Giving Pledge—a landmark initiative that encourages the world's wealthiest individuals to commit the majority of their fortunes to charitable causes during their lifetimes or through their wills.
This philanthropic partnership has created one of the most significant charitable movements in modern history, with hundreds of billionaires worldwide pledging to redistribute their wealth to address global challenges.
Buffett's Market Insights and Investment Moves
Apple Stock Regrets and Current Strategy
Beyond philanthropy, Buffett shared candid reflections on his investment decisions, particularly regarding technology giant Apple. "I sold it too soon. But, I bought it even sooner, so," he admitted with characteristic honesty. Despite trimming Berkshire's position, Apple remains the conglomerate's largest holding at $61.96 billion as of year-end 2023, according to InsiderScore data.
Buffett indicated he would consider buying more Apple shares, though not under current market conditions, suggesting he's waiting for more favorable entry points.
Perspective on Market Volatility
The "Oracle of Omaha" downplayed recent market fluctuations, putting them in historical context: "Three times since I took over, for sure it's gone down more than 50%. ... This is nothing to make you get excited." He emphasized that current conditions don't compare to past periods that created major buying opportunities for value investors.
Berkshire's Treasury Bill Purchases
In a revealing disclosure about Berkshire Hathaway's recent moves, Buffett confirmed the company purchased $17 billion worth of Treasury bills at a weekly auction. This substantial investment comes as Berkshire reported holding more than $370 billion in cash equivalents on its books at year-end, maintaining significant liquidity for future opportunities.
Buffett's comments provide rare insight into both his philanthropic philosophy and investment thinking at a time when both his charitable partnerships and market strategies face increased scrutiny. His steadfast support for the Gates Foundation, combined with pragmatic investment observations, underscores the consistent principles that have guided his remarkable nine-decade career.
