Once at the helm of Microsoft, Bill Gates has redirected his focus towards philanthropy, leveraging his substantial wealth to tackle global challenges through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Trust. Here’s a closer look at where his investments lie:
- Microsoft as a Cornerstone: The Trust holds a substantial number of Microsoft shares, valued at approximately $14.3 billion, making it the largest investment in the portfolio. This investment capitalizes on Microsoft’s expansion into cloud computing and AI technologies, providing a stable dividend alongside substantial growth potential.
- Berkshire Hathaway Alliance: Aligning closely with fellow philanthropist Warren Buffett, the Trust owns nearly 25 million shares of Berkshire Hathaway. This stake, worth over $11 billion, benefits from the conglomerate’s diverse holdings and robust dividend income, reinforcing the foundation’s financial base for its charitable activities.
- Investment in Waste Management: Recognizing the consistent demand for waste services, the Trust invested in Waste Management, owning shares valued at $7.2 billion. The company’s focus on sustainability and recycling aligns with the foundation’s goals, while regular dividend increases bolster its financial health.
- Railroad Holdings in Canadian National Railway: The Trust’s strategy includes a significant stake in Canadian National Railway, valued at about $6.2 billion. This investment is favoured for its environmental efficiency and strong economic moat, with Canadian National being a key player in North American logistics.
The strategic composition of the Gates Foundation’s investment portfolio underscores a commitment to stable, long-term value creation, which supports its philanthropic mission to enhance global health and development. These investments provide substantial financial returns and align with broader social and environmental goals, exemplifying a philanthropic strategy that leverages large-scale corporate investments to fund global change.
