Individuals across the country have been waiting to see what comes of investigations related to the Epstein files, and billionaire Warren Buffett is no exception. The Berkshire Hathaway chairman plans to delay his midyear donation, for the first time in 20 years, to the Gates Foundation amid Bill Gates’ potential involvement, Forbes reports.
The Gates Foundation did not release a statement concerning Buffett’s lack of donation but did comment earlier on the documents released concerning the deceased sex offender in a statement.
“On the basis of Epstein’s claims that he could mobilize significant philanthropic resources for global health and development, a small number of foundation employees interacted with Epstein to try to secure this potential funding,” the statement said. “Ultimately, the foundation did not pursue any collaboration with Epstein and no fund was ever created. At no time were financial payments made by the foundation to Epstein, nor was he employed by the foundation at any time.”
In a later statement, the organization said, “With the support of our Chair, Bill Gates, and our independent Governing Board members, Gates Foundation CEO Mark Suzman commissioned an external review to assess past foundation engagement with Epstein, and our current policies for vetting and developing new philanthropic partnerships. That review is underway, and we expect the board and management will receive an update this summer.”
How much was donated to this point?
Buffett, the 10th richest person in the world with a net worth of around $147 billion, has donated a sizable sum to the philanthropic organization. Over 20 years, his donations total to $48 billion.
Forbes reports Buffett made a record $6 billion donation last June in the form of Berkshire Hathaway shares to five charities, the greater portion going to the Gates Foundation.
Buffett acknowledged he believes the resources are going to noble causes but fears the government may go after organizations with tax-exempt status and impose penalties, according to Moneywise.
“Congress will want to look like they’re doing something about it,” he said. “Once public opinion changes, Congress changes.”
A donation may be delayed until his Thanksgiving letter, The Wall Street Journal reports.
Radio silence between Gates and Buffett
Buffett said his relationship with Gates has been radio silent.
“I haven’t talked to him at all since the whole thing was unveiled,” he said, per Moneywise. “I don’t want to be in a position where I know things … to be called as a witness.”
A spokesperson for Bill Gates gave the following statement after an inquiry from Moneywise:
“Gates has acknowledged it was a serious error in judgment to meet with Epstein. As he’s stated before, he is committed to answering all questions and demonstrating that he was never a part of Epstein’s criminal activity.”
Until the investigation gives more answers, Gates likely won’t hear from Buffett.
“I think until it gets cleared up, it doesn’t make sense to do a lot of talking,” Buffett said.